Join this small group tour along British Columbia’s remote Taku River to photograph grizzlies up close - a thrilling and unforgettable experience.
From late July through to mid-August, large numbers of grizzly bears congregate in this area to take advantage of the plentiful pink and Chinook salmon that run up the Taku River to spawn. For over 20 years these bears have been treated with total respect by the small controlled number of human visitors and consequently they are totally relaxed around people.
This, in turn, offers perhaps the most spectacular and intimate photography opportunities imaginable – the bears come so close that you will find yourself taking pictures with a wide angle lens! On a daily basis there will be numerous close encounters with the bears, and you'll get the most out of these photographic opportunities over your stay.
In addition to these magnificent grizzlies, the spawning salmon also attract other predators like bald eagles and, occasionally, even grey wolves.
Typical Itinerary
Day1: Fly to Vancouver
Depart the UK on a flight to Vancouver. Arrive in Vancouver later the same day and transfer downtown.
Accommodation: Vancouver hotel, 1-night
Day2: Fly to Whitehorse
Late morning we transfer to Vancouver airport for the flight to Whitehorse, Yukon Territories.
Accommodation: Whitehorse hotel, 1-night
Day3: Helicopter to Grizzly Camp on Taku River
In the early morning, we board our shuttle bus transfer from Whitehorse to the Atlin town helipad (2 hours). We enjoy a scenic helicopter flight (30 minutes) over the Nakina – Inklin Rivers Conservancy to the Grizzly Camp. Upon arrival and after checking in, we enjoy a relaxing lunch and briefing on bear viewing in the vicinity.
In the afternoon we head on our first bear watching and photography along the Taku River and tributaries.
Days4-8: Wildlife excursions & bear photography on Taku River
During our time at Grizzly Camp, we have a completely flexible itinerary revolving around morning and afternoon bear watching and photography. During periods of reduced bear activity there will be time to relax in camp and review images.
Day9: Bear watching and helicopter to Atlin, onward flight to Whitehorse
Today we enjoy one last bear watching in the morning before to board our helicopter and fly back to Atlin, followed by a bus ride to Whitehorse.
Accommodation: Whitehorse hotel, 1-night
Day10: Fly to Vancouver
After a leisurely morning we transfer to the airport for our flight to Vancouver and transfer to our hotel downtown. We enjoy our last evening meal in the hub of the city, reflecting on the trip and incredible encounters.
Accommodation: Vancouver hotel, 1-night
Day11: Depart Vancouver
Today we have some free time to explore the vibrant city of Vancouver before heading to the airport for our overnight flight back to the UK.
Day12: Arrive UK
Please note: There are also longer departures spending 8 nights at the Grizzly Camp are also available. Please enquire for more details.
Key info
Duration and price including flights from/to UK: 12 daysfrom £8,895 pp
Duration and price excluding international flights: 11 daysfrom £7,995 pp
Single supplement:
On request – please contact us.
Nakina – Inklin Rivers (Yáwu Yaa) Conservancy is located approximately 70 kilometres south of Atlin and encompasses protected fish and wildlife habitats. This truly wild and remote area is criss-crossed with streams heavy with spawning salmon – a magnet for the magnificent grizzly bear.
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Where: British Columbia
Ideal for viewing: brown bear, bald eagle, American beaver, grey wolf, moose
Excellent for: Wildlife photography, Photography tours With Nick Garbutt, Bear watching
The capital and largest city of the Yukon Territory, Whitehorse stands on the 2,232 kilometre-long Alaska Highway, straddling the Yukon River, which runs north from British Columbia to Alaska. It takes its name from nearby rapids which resembled the mane of a white horse.
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British Columbia’s largest city stands in a fine coastal setting, against a backdrop of lofty tree-covered peaks - a great starting point to any wildlife holiday in the province. There is plenty to see in this lively, multi-cultural city, such as exploring Stanley Park on foot or by bike.
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Where: British Columbia
Excellent for: Activity & adventure, City stopover, History & culture
Grizzly Camp offers some of the finest grizzly bear viewing in the world, with spontaneous encounters possible each day. Set in a pristine wilderness of rivers, creeks and forests, the camp accommodates up to eight guests and four staff in individual cabins, guaranteeing an intimate and exclusive experience.
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