Queen Charlotte Islands, CANADA
Airing Date: Feb 28th, 2005
Haida Gwaii, or the Queen Charlotte Islands, is an archipelago 100 kilometres west of the northern coast of British Columbia, Canada. It includes an isolated group of over 200 islands, large and small, totalling approximately 3750 square miles.
The Queen Charlotte Islands are the most isolated land mass in Canada. It is sometimes referred to as the Canadian Galapagos. Because of their remoteness, the islands are a natural laboratory for studying evolution.
Flowering plants, some unique to Queen Charlotte Islands, flourish in high alpine meadows. Giant red cedars, Sitka spruce, western hemlock and yellow cypress thrive in Queen Charlotte Island's cool, moist coastal climate.
These wonders rank with the largest remaining trees on earth.
These islands support over 25 percent of all nesting seabirds in the Canadian Pacific. Preying upon this abundant food source are Peale's peregrine falcons and bald eagles, which nest in South Moresby in numbers unparalleled anywhere in Canada.
Trumpeter swans and sandhill cranes are among the endangered species which find refuge in The Queen Charlotte Islands. Whales, porpoises, seals, and over a half of British Columbia's sea lion population thrive in the plankton-rich waters.
This area can provide something of interest to everyone: history, archeology, fishing, boating, hiking, biking and more. The four main towns and numerous communities on the island all offer something unique.
It is only possible to explore the Queen Charlotte Islands on a tour group, or once permission has been sought from the local people. A fantastic way to explore this extraordinary area is on the Island Odyssey boat cruise.
The facts
Air Canada will fly you to Vancouver from $2234 ex Sydney and $2748 ex Perth. Includes taxes/charges. Subject to exchange rates. Conditions apply.
Travelworld
Tel: 13 14 35
Explore the islands on an Island Odyssey cruise with Bluewater Adventures from $3865 a person, twin cabin. This price includes all meals.
Natural Focus Safaris
Tel: 1300 363 302
Charter flights from $190 a person with South Moresby Air Charters
South Moresby Air Charters
Tel: 0011 1 250 559 4222
Suggested reading material: Lonely Planet
Prices correct at 28/02/05
