Wildlife Watching in Canada: Where to See Moose, Whales & Bears

Canada’s wild heart beats through its forests, coastlines, and mountains—and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch a glimpse of the creatures that call it home. Whether it’s the silent majesty of a moose emerging from a misty lake, the spray of a whale’s blowhole off the coast, or the awe-inspiring sight of a bear lumbering through a meadow, wildlife watching in Canada is pure magic.

If your heart races at the thought of spotting animals in their natural habitats, pack your binoculars and sense of adventure—we’re about to explore the best places in Canada to witness moose, whales, and bears in the wild.

1. Marvel at Moose in the Canadian Wilderness

Moose are practically the unofficial ambassadors of the Canadian wild. Towering, quiet, and majestic, they’re most active during the cooler parts of the day, especially at dawn and dusk. If you want to see one up close (but not too close), here’s where to look:

🦌 Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario

Algonquin is a moose haven—especially in spring and early summer when the moose venture out to lick salt from roadside puddles. Canoeing through the park’s glassy lakes might reward you with the sight of a moose wading through the shallows.

🌲 Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland

This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers jaw-dropping scenery and one of the highest moose densities in the country. Hike the trails, and don’t forget your camera—odds are, you’ll see at least one moose along the way.

2. Witness Whales Along Canada’s Spectacular Coasts

Few experiences rival the thrill of spotting a whale breaching or hearing their haunting songs through the water. Canada’s extensive coastline is one of the best places on Earth for whale watching.

🐋 Tofino & Victoria, British Columbia

The waters off Vancouver Island are alive with orcas, humpbacks, and grey whales. Join a boat tour from Tofino or Victoria between May and October for a front-row seat to the action. With rugged coastlines and rich marine life, every trip feels like a Nat Geo moment.

🐳 Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick & Nova Scotia

Known for the world’s highest tides, the Bay of Fundy is a whale hotspot. From June to October, you can spot humpbacks, finbacks, and even the rare North Atlantic right whale. The cliffs and coves here offer stunning land-based viewing too!

🛶 Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park, Quebec

Where the Saguenay River meets the St. Lawrence, nutrient-rich waters draw an incredible variety of marine mammals. Hop on a Zodiac tour or even a sea kayak to spot blue whales, belugas, and minke whales.

3. Be Bear Aware—and Amazed

From the towering grizzly to the elusive spirit bear, Canada is home to some of the most impressive bear species in the world. Seeing one in the wild is humbling, exhilarating, and unforgettable.

🐻 Great Bear Rainforest, British Columbia

This remote, misty forest is one of the only places in the world where you can see the rare white Kermode bear—better known as the "spirit bear." Indigenous-led tours offer ethical ways to explore the rainforest and learn about its unique ecosystem.

🏔️ Banff & Jasper National Parks, Alberta

These parks are prime grizzly and black bear territory. Drive the Icefields Parkway and keep your eyes peeled—you might just spot a bear foraging in the wildflowers. Visit in spring or fall for your best chances.

🌲 Manitoba’s Churchill Region

Known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World,” Churchill offers unforgettable polar bear viewing in October and November. Specialized tundra vehicles take you safely into their Arctic habitat.

4. Tips for Respectful Wildlife Watching

To make the most of your Canadian safari—and keep both you and the animals safe—remember these essentials:

• Keep your distance. Use binoculars or a zoom lens to admire without disturbing.

• Stay quiet. Loud noises can spook wildlife or provoke aggression.

• Avoid feeding. Human food is dangerous for wild animals and can disrupt their natural behavior.

• Go with a guide. Local tours often have insider knowledge and ensure ethical practices.

5. Where Wonder Meets the Wild: Travel with Roamlii

Ready to turn your wildlife dreams into a real adventure? At Roamlii, we help you connect with nature on a deeper level. From curated tours to off-the-beaten-path suggestions, we specialize in making sure your Canadian journey is both wild and wonderful.

🐾 Start planning your wildlife adventure with Roamlii today.
Explore our handpicked travel tools, guides, and local experiences at roamlii.com/discoverwithroamlli.

Because when it comes to Canada’s wildlife, seeing is believing—and you don’t want to miss a moment.