One of the world's 'quietest places' is a Canadian spot with misty islands and sandy beaches

It's known as the 'Galápagos Of The North'.

A beach. Right: Someone hiking in the mountains.

Haida Gwaii. Right: Person in Haida Gwaii.

Editor

This Canadian destination is a place full of wonder, from its mist-shrouded forests to its pristine beaches — it's home to the kind of nature that's hard to believe even exists.

Haida Gwaii is a group of islands that sits in British Columbia, and has gained global attention for its unique beauty, rare wildlife, and incredible nature. It all gives way to a peacefulness that landed it a spot on the Condé Nast Traveler list of the 50 Quietest Places Around the World.

Among the ranks were destinations like Alaska's Alsek Lake in Glacier Bay National Park and the Brouq Nature Reserve in Qatar — each one offering a unique sense of peace and quiet.

There isn't a place on earth like Haida Gwaii, though. Made up of over 150 islands, the archipelago has a rugged and remote wilderness.

Roaming the serene landscapes of the islands are the diverse animals that helped it earn the nickname of "Canada's Galapagos." It's also full of unique plant life that you won't see elsewhere, adding to the rare beauty of this place.

Communities are scattered around the islands, connected by ferries, and there's local tours and accommodations to choose from. Seven towns are around the islands, and although small they're bustling with local businesses, things to do, artists, farmers markets, and attractions.

Of course, beauty is at the forefront of a visit here too. You'll find clear blue water washing up onto sandy shores, flanked by spectacular rainforests you'll want to adventure into.

To get to Haida Gwaii you can an eight-hour-long take a ferry from Prince Rupert, or there are flight options.

A significant part of a trip to this area is learning about the rich history, visiting the many heritage sites, and gaining a deeper understanding of the Haida Nation. Before travelling you should review the Haida Gwaii Visitor Orientation, sign the Haida Gwaii Visitor Pledge, and make sure to travel responsibly.

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

  • Editor

    Morgan Leet (she/her) is an Editor for Narcity Media Group. After graduating from Carleton University’s School of Journalism and Communication, she jumped into fulfilling her dream as a journalist, merging her passion for travelling with writing. She got her start working in the print media world on Canada’s East Coast, then joined Narcity with a move to B.C., leading the launch of West Coast coverage. Her focus now is managing a large group of freelance writers, bringing human-forward and opinion content to the site.

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