Canada is home to some of the most varied landscapes and spectacular wildlife in the world. There are endless sights to see in the major cities like Ontario, Vancouver and Montreal but if you have children (of any age), the Canadian wilderness is a must. These landscapes turn from icy backdrops to lush green fields of tulips as the seasons change, giving you the option to choose a summer or winter vacation.
If you’re looking to experience all that the country has to offer before making plans to immigrate there or you’re simply seeking a memorable family holiday in Canada, you can start by applying for a Canadian tourist visa. The federal government has announced their goal to welcome over a million immigrants into the workforce within the next three years which makes Canada an important option to consider in the immediate future.
A visitors visa will allow you to tour the country for a set amount of time, giving you a taste of what life is like from coast to coast. Depending on your country of origin, you’ll only need a valid passport, proof of funds and documents stating your itinerary, accommodation and return flights.
The destinations in Canada that we’ve compiled for you below are ideal for families because of the activities they offer. These experiences will provide you with ways to connect with nature as well as each other and every member of the family is sure to find something on this list that appeals to their sense of adventure. Immerse yourself in a journey through the great outdoors or glittering cities - an unforgettable feat that Canada surely does best.
Coastal Wonders at Vancouver Island
Head to the spectacular Vancouver Island, a hidden gem of sorts when it comes to the amount of wildlife you can witness here. From March to April, venture out on a boat cruise where you’ll spot Pacific grey whales surfacing on their migration through the chilly waters. To see pods of orcas and humpback whales, you can visit between May and October.
On land there are dense forests that dot the interior of the island while large stones crumble outwards into the waters. Explore Tofino from April to October to encounter black bears and their cubs - with an experienced guide of course. Other creatures you can spot include moose, coyotes and even mountain goats. If you have smaller children, they will love clambering over the mossy outcrops while learning a thing or two about the indigenous animals from the local rangers.
Thunderous Mist at Niagara Falls
Take your entire family on a boat cruise under the Niagara Falls which consists of three different waterfalls. You can explore the ancient tunnels behind the falls on your way to the viewing deck where you can see other spectators through the mists.
Other activities in this region include a visit to the Niagara Aquarium (which houses penguins, seals and sea lions alike) and the Discovery Center from where hiking trails leave through to marvellous attractions dotted throughout the surrounding landscape.
Tunnels through the Canadian Rockies
The Rockies, filled with pine forests and crystalline fjords, are one of the greatest mountain ranges in the world. Take a train ride on the magical Rocky Mountaineer which winds through the mountain tunnels, showing you breathtaking views of the scenes below while providing a fully catered service.
If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, take your family on a once-in-a-lifetime camping experience. The wilderness here is utterly quiet and untouched, giving you room to bond with your family in this serene setting. Other activities include kayaking and hiking through the canyons.
Fresh Powder in Alberta
Returning from a trip out to the Canadian Rockies, you’ll be delighted by the skiing found in Alberta’s Banff National Park. Apart from the interesting animals you’re sure to see in this area, its also the epitome of Canada’s picturesque slopes with plenty of trails and lessons for children to try out.
Visit Canada between November and April to get the most out of this region where the resorts are affordable and the snow falls as a light, dry powder - perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Don’t be ashamed to do all the tourist musts, including drinking a cup of hot cocoa while enjoying a stack of maple syrup pancakes, a welcome reprieve from the cold weather outside.
A History Lesson in Québec City
The province of Québec is known for retaining its colonial history with strong French roots still apparent in daily life, especially in Old Québec. Leave the children to ice-skate while you roam the narrow cobbled streets in search of French pastries and coffee. The city is extremely safe, allowing for children and parents to gain varying experiences all around the city.
The city is designed in French architectural fashion, reminiscent of certain Parisian corners and shopfronts. Here there many fascinating stops to make, including museums about indigenous history, photo-ops at the Chateau Frontenac Hotel and tobogganing rides a little ways outside of the city center.
How Can We Help?
Whether it’s immigration or a Canadian tourist visa that you need, it can be tricky to make sure you have all the right documentation together to apply for the correct program.
We make use of three Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants who know all there is to know about the over 70 immigration programs on offer, as well as the ever-changing policies issued by the federal government. If you’re starting with a visitors visa but you’d like to take it a step further and look into immigrating with your family, we are more than capable of assisting you.
We take into account your background and family members to give you the best-possible assessment before you make your applications. There is no room for error when submitting documents and creating your profile for immigration, so why not have our guidance on your side?
Sign up with our service today to get help applying for your Canadian tourist visa. Have a look at our blog for more reasons to visit Canada in 2019. There has never been a better time to travel to this largely untouched destination, especially if you are searching for new path for you and your family. Don’t hesitate to enquire about the different options available to you.