Occupying more than half of the Northern Hemisphere and stretching over six time zones, Canada happens to be the world’s second largest country that promises a wealth of experiences to suit any first-time visitor.
From snowy peaks to pristine wilderness, the country has something special to offer round the year with each season showcasing something unique and special.
Read on for the best things to do and everything from when to go, what to do and from where to start on your first visit to the Great White North.
When to visit Canada
There is no bad time to visit Canada, but the best season depends on what you want to see and do. Summer(June-August)is the peak time for wildlife watching and outdoor activities.
Autumn (September-October) is best for witnessing fall foliage and scenic drives, while winter (December-February) is the peak time for snow enthusiasts. Spring (March-May) offers unparalleled opportunities to explore Canada’s national parks without the crowds.
Explore Canada through wildlife
Experiencing the wild side of Canada can be one of the most unforgettable animal interactions. Spot black bears, elk, bighorn sheep at the legendary Banff National Park. Other top wildlife destinations include Golden, BC, Jasper National Park, Alberta, Churchill, Manitoba and Pacific Rim National Park also in British Columbia.
Moreover, the country is home to an estimated 80,000 species of flora and fauna, including blue whales, the largest animal on earth, besides a wide array of mammals which have found refuge in the 37 national parks strewn across the length and breadth of the country.
A highlight for first-time visitors to Canada are the interactions with the iconic Canadian native species which include beaver, moose, polar bear, monarch butterfly, southern resident killer whale, walrus, caribou, Atlantic puffin, Canadian lynx and beluga whale.
Experience Canada through sports
Sport is a major part of day to day life in Canada and catching a local game is considered as one of the most authentic ways to immerse in the culture of the region during your Canada adventure.
Different codes that are played across the season shows how deep-rooted are sports in the national identity of the country, especially through games like ice hockey, which is practically a rite of passage for every visitor.
Even if you are not a die-hard sports fan but are seeking new experiences, the Canadian sports will provide a wonderful insight into daily local life and provide some highly memorable moments to complement your Canada tourism journey.
Some of the top sports experiences in Canada are:
- Ice hockey (winter)
- Curling (winter)
- Basketball (winter)
- Canadian football (Autumn/Fall)
- Lacrosse(summer)
Canada is also a popular hub for online sports gaming and if you want to play you can download the wonderful Tooniebet app, whose writers cover the best moments in sports and review top casino games to enable ToonieBet players to stay as informed as possible and avoid falling into the traps of problem gaming.
Sports betting enthusiasts will find betting guides on popular events, with predictions, analysis, odds, offers and more on the ToonieBet Canada blog to enable visitors to play on the go or while relaxing in their hotel rooms.
Experience Canada through food
From the cosmopolitan cities of Vancouver and Toronto to the quaint towns of St Andrews and St John, Canada is home to a range of culinary dishes, both savoury and sweet that are more about flavor as they are about the scenery.
In Canada, there are no shortage of options for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians, such is the wealth of local produce that is available nation-wide and in the flourishing plant-based eateries in the towns and cities.
Perhaps the most famous dish for a new visitor to try is poutine, a hearty dish of hot chips smothered in gravy and topped with fresh cheese curd. While the dish has its origins in Quebec, this comfort food is readily available throughout the country and is a satisfying staple after a day in the outdoors.
Some other iconic dishes, apart from poutine, that one must try are butter tarts, beaver tails, tourtiere and Caesars.
Explore Canada by land
For the first-time visitor to Canada , there is no better way to access every nook and corner of the country than by traveling overland. This mode of travel allows visitors to curate their own itineraries and stop at the best sights and hidden gems which would not be explored otherwise.
Many of the iconic sights like Banff National Park and Moraine Lake are hundreds of miles from the nearest airport, making it impossible to fully appreciate them unless you opt for the long scenic drive.
Another rewarding way to experience the beauty of Canada is by rail, especially through the Rocky Mountaineer railway that offers passengers surreal views of the wind-swept rugged mountain landscape.
VIA Rail is another option that covers many different routes between Toronto and Vancouver and passes through stunning cityscapes and majestic mountain ranges.
That said, by road you can travel at your own pace and explore lesser-known areas on scenic detours that can eventually become the highlight of your overall Canada tour experience.
Some scenic road trips and train journeys to experience in Canada are:
The Icefields Parkway: This road trip from Banff to Jasper is said to be the most scenic in the world.
The Cabot Trail: A coastal route in Nova Scotia showcasing Canada’s most rugged landscapes
Rocky Mountaineer: A luxury train ride from Banff to Vancouver, the showpiece of Canadian tourism.
The Trans Canada Highway: Stretching from east to west, it passes through the most diverse landscapes
VIA Rail: A must-do ride for a train enthusiast as it takes visitors across the vast expanse of the country from Toronto to Vancouver.
Tips for your Canada Trip
Keep these quick tips in mind if you are visiting Canada for the first time:
# Plugs and Voltage: Standard voltage is 120V so you will need an adapter
# Public Toilets: Pubic toilets are uncommon in Canada so make use of facilities at stores and cafes
# Language: 2 official languages, English and French, especially in Montreal and Quebec City
So keeping these things and travel notes in mind, you can experience Canada to the fullest.
Jo has been putting pen to paper from an early age when she started her “Dear Diary” and letters to her pen friends across the globe.
This alongside regular visits to Indian jungles in search of the Royal Bengal Tiger, fueled her zest for adventure, nature and wildlife.
Now she is a renowned travel blogger, outreach expert and has worked with over 500 travel brands in the last 15 years.
