Mosaic Earth Travel
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North Island Explorer

Starts/Ends:

Duration

7 days

Tour Type

,

Dates

From

$2,745.00
Overview
Highlights
Itinerary
Inclusions
Dates & Rates

Overview

Experience the road less travelled on northern Vancouver Island with this custom self-drive tour from Campbell River to Telegraph Cove, Alert Bay, and Port Hardy.

Our North Island Explorer road trip allow you to witness British Columbia’s natural beauty and iconic wildlife, like whales and grizzly bears, while connecting to the region’s unique indigenous cultures and history.

This tour is designed by Mosaic Earth Travel in partnership with local guides and businesses across Vancouver Island. Travelling on an itinerary planned by us, you have the opportunity to deeply connect with this unique destination and the wonderful locals who make it so special.

The sample itinerary can be fully customized to your unique interests. Contact our team today to learn more & plan your next trip!

Looking for a Guided Small-Group Tour on Vancouver Island? Join us June 13-20, 2026!

North Vancouver Island Whale Watching
Black bears on northern Vancouver Island
Telegraph Cove on northern Vancouver Island
7

Highlights

  • Join local guides on a tour of the Broughton Archipelago in search of whales and grizzly bears, learning the ancient stories behind the scenery and the sustainable approach to wildlife viewing.
  • Spend an afternoon strolling the boardwalks of Telegraph Cove, a former fishing and cannery village.
  • Embrace the cultural mecca of Alert Bay with a visit to U’Mista Cultural Centre and the renowned potlatch collection.
  • Enjoy a performance by the T’sasala Cultural Group Dancers in the ‘Namgis Traditional Big House (Saturdays in July/Aug).
  • Embark on a half-day kayak excursion in the hands of expert guides, paddling through ocean coves and channels with the chance to see orca, humpback whales, sea lions, and other wildlife.
  • Experience the comfort and welcoming hospitality of the First Nations’ owned Kwa’Lilas Hotel, featuring authentic cuisine and art.
  • Journey to the north-western shores of Cape Scott Provincial Park to discover the picturesque beaches, sea stacks and caves of San Josef Bay.
  • Enjoy fresh, local seafood and cuisine.

The Route

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Preferred Arrival Date

See Mosaic Earth Travel’s Terms & Conditions for Self-Drive, Custom & Private Tours.

Quick Facts

Min. Group Size

1

Activity Level

Accommodation

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Day by Day Itinerary

Arrive to Campbell River by air or car | Optional sightseeing, local wildlife and cultural tours | Check in to hotel (1 night) | Dinner at leisure.

Accommodation: 3* Hotel (upgrade available) | Meals: n/a.

Light hike in Elk Falls Provincial Park, through old growth forest to suspension bridge | Drive to Telegraph Cove (~2.5 hours) | Free time in Telegraph Cove to explore this historic boardwalk town | Waterfront dinner featuring local seafood | Overnight in Telegraph Cove (1 night).

Accommodation: Lodge | Meals: Breakfast.

Join a half-day guided sea kayaking tour (Option to substitute with whale watching tour or upgrade to full-day sea kayaking | Paddle the Johnstone Strait and nearby islands | Travel to Port Hardy | Visit Fort Rupert and Storey's Beach | Check-in to Kwa'Lilas Hotel (2 nights) | Dinner on-site or in town.

Accommodation: Hotel | Meals: n/a.

Guided full-day tour to San Josef Bay, Cape Scott Provincial Park | Lunch and free time on the beach | Overnight in Port Hardy.

Accommodation: Hotel | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Free time in Port Hardy | Travel to Port McNeill and ferry to Alert Bay | Visit U'Mista Cultural Centre (Optional: Artist-led tour of the galleries) | Cultural dance performance in the 'Namgis Traditional Big House (Saturdays in July & Aug) | Check-in to family-run B&B (2 nights).

Accommodation: Bed & Breakfast | Meals: Breakfast.

Indigenous-led Grizzly Bears & Whale-Watching Tour in the Broughton Archipelago (full day) | Overnight in Alert Bay.

Accommodation: Bed & Breakfast | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.

Morning forest walk & free time in Alert Bay | Return ferry to Port McNeill | Travel to Campbell River | Tour ends.

Meals: Breakfast.

  • Additional nights in Campbell River, Telegraph Cove, Alert Bay, or Port Hardy. Add-on a stay in Nanaimo, Vancouver, or Victoria pre/post tour.
  • Culture & wildlife tour in Campbell River.
  • Flightseeing over the Broughton Archipelago from Port Hardy.
  • U’Mista Cultural Centre Artist-led tour.
  • Cultural dance performance in Alert Bay (Saturdays in July & Aug).
  • Ferry to/from Vancouver Island.
  • Flights to/from Campbell River or Port Hardy.

And more... there is no shortage of adventure, cultural and wellness activities on Vancouver Island!

Included/Excluded

  • All accommodation for 6 nights, including 1 night in Campbell River, 1 night in Telegraph Cove, 2 nights in Port Hardy, and 2 nights in Alert Bay. Mix of lodge, hotel and B&B.
  • 5 breakfasts & 2 lunches.
  • Sea kayaking tour from Telegraph Cove (half-day).
  • Indigenous-led wildlife-viewing tour (full-day).
  • San Josef Bay/Cape Scott Provincial Park tour (full-day).
  • U'Mista Cultural Centre entry (optional add-on: Artist-led tour of the galleries)
  • Custom itinerary design, local recommendations, and remote support during your trip.
  • Additional meals & activities not listed.
  • Flights to/from and within British Columbia.
  • Vehicle rental/usage and fuel.
  • Ferry to/from Alert Bay.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Gratuities.

Dates & Rates

Self-Drive Tours are fully customizable and available for any group size, based on availability. This itinerary includes locally-guided day tours. Your own vehicle is required for transportation.

Contact us to start planning!

We also offer guided tours on the North Island, West Chilcotin region, and Yukon Territory.

Tour Dates:

On-Request

Tour Rates (2026):

Per Person

$2,745

Based on double occupancy. Single supplement applicable. All prices are in Canadian dollars and subject to GST tax (5%).

See Mosaic Earth Travel’s Terms & Conditions for Self-Drive, Custom & Private Tours.

Getting Here

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Testimonials & Reviews

What Travellers Say

Just back from a delightful tour of the Yukon with Pam of Mosaic Earth Travel. Every detail of our trip was meticulously planned, and when weather dictated some changes, Pam and her local Tour partners managed them with grace and flair. From a half day canoe trip on the Yukon river to a beautiful stay in the southern Lakes resort, to a very special Jeep ride along the Alsek River Valley, to visiting the spectacular Tombstone park in fall, the trip was terrific!
E.A.Yukon, 2024
Pam designed a perfect tour for my friend and me to see all that North Vancouver Island has to offer. We had a great time, stayed at comfortable places, and were able to experience the area's wildlife, First Nations' people, beaches, hiking, and much, much more. Couldn't have had such a great time had it not been for the work that Pam put into our trip.
S.W.North Island, 2023
I had no idea that the Yukon had so much to offer! Every day was a “wow"! This is our third trip with Mosaic Earth and I can’t say enough about this company. They go the extra mile to unlock unique, out of the way experiences that are so rich in beauty, interest, education, insight and pure enjoyment. They are extremely organized, professional, responsive, and thorough, leaving no stone unturned, allowing you to completely relax, unplug and thoroughly enjoy! I also admire the strong partnership they have developed with the local residents and indigenous communities, using local guides and supporting locally-owned businesses wherever they travel.
V.D.Yukon, 2024
Our Yukon ​tour took place in late August ​and it coincided with beautiful fall colours and the northern lights​. We had a lot of fun with the other guests and ​w​e all enjoyed hiking, canoeing, rafting and even cold dips and hot saunas. Together we all experienced frontier spirit and the wonder of the wilderness. I highly recommend this tour of Yukon for anyone who ​w​ants to travel in a small group​ off the beaten path​ and to ​learn about both the landscape and the ​local people and their cultures. Be prepared to be surprised and amazed at what's around ​t​he next corner of your tour​, thanks to the knowledge and expertise of ​engaging hosts and guides.
D.C.Yukon, 2024
Mosaic Earth and their guides were awesome! I can’t say enough about the professional, organized, guest-focused approach that this company has. Many little touches throughout every day that made us feel special, well taken care of, and allowed us to completely relax, unplug and enjoy! We have travelled all over the globe and I can truly say that this one ranks among our top experiences.
V.D.West Chilcotin, 2022
Organizing a trip was something we might have done ourselves but having Mosaic Earth do the legwork made it effortless and removed any stress. That is a very valuable service. They also found "gems" that we would not have found ourselves
B.G.West Chilcotin, 2022
Mosaic Earth Guides were fabulous! Very considerate of their guests' needs, very professional and fun! They hit the right balance in terms of the amount and nature of educational information provided at/for the sites.
G.K.North Island In-Depth, 2021
For those considering a trip in Canada, I would heartily recommend it. You will be amazed at the ‘off the beaten track’ parts of Canada and comforted by the focus that Mosaic Earth Travel has on ensuring you have a most enjoyable time.
E.J.D.North Island, 2021
A fabulous holiday! Pam worked hard and consulted me often while planning a dog-friendly holiday. The itinerary was detailed and I followed it like a map. The Sechelt Indigenous-led hike was a highlight.
N.B.Sunshine Coast, 2023
Guest Experience Specialist

Emma McLachlan

As a recent graduate with a Bachelors in Tourism Development, Emma has used her education and career opportunities to explore Canada, from coast to coast. Her previous experience in hotels, adventure guiding and travel consulting has relocated her to Lake Louise, Whistler, Montreal, Banff and Toronto.

Her exploration of the west coast ignited her love for adventure tourism, but also opened her eyes to the communities marginalized at the hands of the tourism industry. This flourished her passion for creating a more thoughtful relationship amongst tourism suppliers, local communities and tourists. With Mosaic Earth Travel, Emma is connecting her passions in regenerative tourism and travel.

​Originally from Ontario, Emma’s various relocations exposed her to her favourite activities; including back-country camping and hiking, rollerblading, snowboarding, rock climbing and dreaming of her next adventure. Emma is based in Montreal, QC.

Photographer & Guide

Josh McGarel

An avid photographer for over twelve years, Josh has gained experience with local and international businesses, world-renowned athletes, and individuals to build professional content and brand presence across a variety of platforms.

He has worked on assignment for an expedition cruise operator as Photographer in Residence along the East Coast of Canada, South Georgia, and Antarctica. Here, Josh connected with his love of travel as he documented daily excursions, wildlife, and life onboard, and shared his knowledge of photography through presentations and workshops for passengers.

Hailing from the United Kingdom, Josh has lived in BC since 2014. He spends his time exploring the area by mountain bike and dreaming up crazy photo projects with friends.
Founder & Lead Guide

Pam McGarel

With a Masters of Science in International Development and Sustainable Tourism, Pam has dedicated her career to harnessing the power of travel to support the wellbeing of our planet and its people. She is an experienced guide, planner and project manager with a knack for logistics.

Prior to launching Mosaic Earth, Pam worked in sustainable tourism consulting where she helped develop a globally-recognized certification program for tourism businesses and destinations.

She has experience in public-private partnerships with a polar expedition cruise operator where she built relationships with world-leading field scientists, conservationists, and educators to facilitate their projects alongside the traveller experience. Pam is a member of the Adventure Travel Trade Association and Women Travel Leaders, and loves to connect with values-driven tourism professionals.

​Originally from Ontario, Pam moved to BC in 2016 seeking outdoor adventure, with favourite activities including hiking, sea kayaking, snowboarding, and road trips around this beautiful province.