Canada is the second-largest country in the world next to Russia and it does not fall short of having beautiful places to visit. The Western part, in particular, is known for having jaw-dropping sceneries in the provinces of Alberta and British Colombia.

It is the home of blue glacial lakes, pine forests, and a rich wildlife (ex. the grizzly bears). On the Pacific Ocean side, some islands have amazing sceneries with wild beaches and rainforests.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Summer is the best season to visit Western Canada, specificially mid-June to mid-September. The season’s dry weather is the best to go hiking and sightseeing. However, you should take note that this is also the season where you see large crowds of tourists which means higher accommodation rates.

If you opt to travel outside this season, accommodation rates would be much cheaper. You’ll also have higher chances of spotting some wildlife such as grizzly bears and such.

During autumn, winter and spring, British Columbia is known for having non-stop rainfall so it is best to avoid traveling during those seasons. On the other hand, you can instead go to the Rockies which is situated inland and protected from winter storms. You can come here during winter to experience some winter sports.

HOW TO GET THERE

There are 3 major airports present in West Canada:

  • Calgary International Airport (YYC) is the main entry point to the southern part of the Rockies. It is a 90 minute drive to Banff Town.
  • Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is the main entry point to British Columbia.
  • Edmonton International Airport (YEG) is the main entry point to the northern part of the Rockies.

If you want to travel to the Western region, it is best to choose Calgary as an entry point and Vancouver as the exit point or vice versa.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Requirements for entry to Canada differ per each country of origin. Before buying tickets, always check with your government and your Canadian embassy the needed documents to enter Canada. Two of the most basic documents are a valid passport and a visa/Electronic Travel Authorization.

TRAVELING AROUND THE REGION

Public transportation in the region is pretty good but not recommended for traveling from one area to another. Most of the tourists travel by renting cars and driving them. Flying is always a more convenient option when talking about time but it is an expensive alternative. You can also avail travel tours which are available in most of the accommodations in the region.

PLACES TO VISIT

Below are some of the famous sites that you should visit while in the region:

  • Icefield Parkway
  • Banff National Park
  • Jasper National Park
  • Lake O’Hara in Yoho National Park
  • Wildlife sanctuaries
  • Vancouver
  • The Inside Passage
  • Wild beaches on Vancouver Island