North America Wildlife viewing Tours & Trip Packages

North America Wildlife viewing Tours & Trips

2,801 North America trips. Tours from 388 tour companies. 3,203 reviews. 4.6/5 avg rating.

572 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
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Wildlife viewing
Isla San Jose Kayak Tour
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5/5 Excellent
31 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

La Paz, San Francisco, San José, San José del Cabo

Highlights

  • Have a chance to see giant blue whales swim by, or fin whales or orcas
  • Explore La Paz
  • Visit the beautiful Sea of Cortez island has dozens of long beaches of golden sand, perfect for beach combing.
  • Discover Isla San José

Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"When my partner and I went on a whale watching trip with Sea Kayak Adventures five years ago, we concluded that it was one of the best things we had ever done - especially the encounters with the grey whales in Magdalena Bay. I decided that I wanted an excuse to visit the whales again and I found this in a plan to go back with my family so that we could introduce them to my family and share their joy in this trip. As always, when organising such a treat, I was desperate that it would be as good a second time. I need not have worried, under the expert guidance of Monica (who amazingly had been a guide on our first trip) and Fabian our family group were wowed by whales that swam close, sky-hopped, breached and swam to our boat, rubbed against it, looked us in the eye mammal-to-mammal and then let us rub their skin. Wow oh wow! My niece even discovered that one whale had shared two of its sealice with her! Simply amazing and thanks to Monica and Fabian for sharing their knowledge, enthusiasm and expertise with us, and to Vicky for the excellent food."

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Humpback Base Camp Tour
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5/5 Excellent
31 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Highlights

  • Visit Port McNeill
  • Experience the Broughton Archipelago Marine Provincial Park
  • Enjoy first Nations culture as you slowly paddle through this pristine wilderness and go hiking through ancient island rainforests

Themes

Family Friendly, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"When my partner and I went on a whale watching trip with Sea Kayak Adventures five years ago, we concluded that it was one of the best things we had ever done - especially the encounters with the grey whales in Magdalena Bay. I decided that I wanted an excuse to visit the whales again and I found this in a plan to go back with my family so that we could introduce them to my family and share their joy in this trip. As always, when organising such a treat, I was desperate that it would be as good a second time. I need not have worried, under the expert guidance of Monica (who amazingly had been a guide on our first trip) and Fabian our family group were wowed by whales that swam close, sky-hopped, breached and swam to our boat, rubbed against it, looked us in the eye mammal-to-mammal and then let us rub their skin. Wow oh wow! My niece even discovered that one whale had shared two of its sealice with her! Simply amazing and thanks to Monica and Fabian for sharing their knowledge, enthusiasm and expertise with us, and to Vicky for the excellent food."

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Islands of Loreto Bay Kayak Tour
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5/5 Excellent
31 reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Mexico City

Highlights

  • Exceptional opportunities for viewing dolphins, sea lions and whales in the wild
  • High-flying frigate birds, blue-footed boobies and squadrons of pelicans are your companions as you kayak past manta rays and brightly colored fish
  • The warm, crystalline waters of the Sea of Cortez host a breathtaking array of tropical fish - perfect for snorkeling.
  • Each winter endangered blue whales more than five times as long as your sea kayak migrate to these waters looking for tasty crustaceans
  • Encountering the largest animal on earth is a thrilling experience. Fin, Humpback and Sei whales also frequent the area.

Themes

Family Friendly, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"When my partner and I went on a whale watching trip with Sea Kayak Adventures five years ago, we concluded that it was one of the best things we had ever done - especially the encounters with the grey whales in Magdalena Bay. I decided that I wanted an excuse to visit the whales again and I found this in a plan to go back with my family so that we could introduce them to my family and share their joy in this trip. As always, when organising such a treat, I was desperate that it would be as good a second time. I need not have worried, under the expert guidance of Monica (who amazingly had been a guide on our first trip) and Fabian our family group were wowed by whales that swam close, sky-hopped, breached and swam to our boat, rubbed against it, looked us in the eye mammal-to-mammal and then let us rub their skin. Wow oh wow! My niece even discovered that one whale had shared two of its sealice with her! Simply amazing and thanks to Monica and Fabian for sharing their knowledge, enthusiasm and expertise with us, and to Vicky for the excellent food."

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Salmon River Rafting
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5/5 Excellent
81 reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’ve been recognized by major travel publications for their pioneering adventure travel expertise that spans back to their founding in 1979.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Strenuous
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Glacier National Park, Idaho, Lewiston

Highlights

  • Explore Nez Perce National Historical Park
  • Experience gorgeous scenery, sunlight and exciting Salmon river rapids on this Salmon River rafting trip
  • Adventurous explorers will have a chance to swim through a rapid as we go through Cottonwood Creek
  • Visit Green Canyon which is home of the famous Demon's Drop and Wright Way rapids

Themes

Family Friendly, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"I have travelled with ROW numerous times, including four trips on the Rogue River. Every trip has been wonderful and every person associated with ROW has been nice, knowledgeable, professional and fun. The Rogue is a great river and the trip is an excellent one for two people or a large group—and I have done both. I’ve taken both of my kids, one time each, and have organized groups of colleagues twice; most recently in 2019 when 14 of us gathered. The guides at ROW are great and help to make the trip very enjoyable. The scenery, lodging and the wonderful outdoors including warm air and refreshing water, make for a wonderful escape from the everyday routine. The fact that this trip offers beds and indoor plumbing is a nice benefit and allows those who have an aversion to camping a chance to see the wilderness. I have recommended ROW and the Rogue trip more times than I can count and my group has already reserved our trip for 2021. What are you waiting for?"

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3x3 Kayak & Whale Watching Combo
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5/5 Excellent
31 reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Mexico City

Highlights

  • You'll stay three days at our exclusive whale camp located at a remote beach on a barrier island in the heart of grey whale activity.
  • Whales, the lagoon is home to dolphins, sea lions, pelicans, and thousands of shorebirds.
  • Your guides will introduce you to the desert plants, birds and other wildlife of Bahia de Magdalena on our Baja whale watching tour.
  • Then head back over to Loreto for three days of Baja sea kayaking and camping on remote islands in Loreto Bay National Marine Park, where the surrounding water is a sanctuary for blue-footed boobies, fin and blue whales, dolphins and sea lions.
  • The Sea of Cortez is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers the perfect blend of Baja kayaking, hiking and snorkeling.
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Themes

Family Friendly, High Adventure, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"When my partner and I went on a whale watching trip with Sea Kayak Adventures five years ago, we concluded that it was one of the best things we had ever done - especially the encounters with the grey whales in Magdalena Bay. I decided that I wanted an excuse to visit the whales again and I found this in a plan to go back with my family so that we could introduce them to my family and share their joy in this trip. As always, when organising such a treat, I was desperate that it would be as good a second time. I need not have worried, under the expert guidance of Monica (who amazingly had been a guide on our first trip) and Fabian our family group were wowed by whales that swam close, sky-hopped, breached and swam to our boat, rubbed against it, looked us in the eye mammal-to-mammal and then let us rub their skin. Wow oh wow! My niece even discovered that one whale had shared two of its sealice with her! Simply amazing and thanks to Monica and Fabian for sharing their knowledge, enthusiasm and expertise with us, and to Vicky for the excellent food."

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Isla Espiritu Santo Kayak Sojourn
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4.3/5 Great
31 reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

La Paz

Highlights

  • One of the trip highlights is snorkeling with friendly sea lions at Los Islotes, volcanic islets where playful sea lion pups dive off the rocks and pirouette below you. Other activities include hiking up colorful arroyos studded with tall cactus, snorkeling amongst hundreds of tropical fish, paddling below fantastic rock formations, and enjoying margaritas on the beach as the sun sets.
  • Our motorized support boat carries all camping gear and the makings for fabulous meals prepared by your guides with a Mexican flair. Your kayaks are light and easy to paddle between camps while the accompanying motorboat provides an additional level of safety.
  • Intense natural beauty, abundant wildlife, sunny weather and warm waters make Espiritu Santo Island a world-class sea kayaking destination. Join us and discover for yourself why Espiritu Santo Island is a paddler’s paradise!
  • All tours include a snorkeling excursion with the sea lions of Los Islotes (weather dependent) as well as hotel included in the trip cost, and are motorboat-supported for easier paddling and lighter kayaks. Trip begins and ends in La Paz, Baja California Sur.

Themes

Family Friendly, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"When my partner and I went on a whale watching trip with Sea Kayak Adventures five years ago, we concluded that it was one of the best things we had ever done - especially the encounters with the grey whales in Magdalena Bay. I decided that I wanted an excuse to visit the whales again and I found this in a plan to go back with my family so that we could introduce them to my family and share their joy in this trip. As always, when organising such a treat, I was desperate that it would be as good a second time. I need not have worried, under the expert guidance of Monica (who amazingly had been a guide on our first trip) and Fabian our family group were wowed by whales that swam close, sky-hopped, breached and swam to our boat, rubbed against it, looked us in the eye mammal-to-mammal and then let us rub their skin. Wow oh wow! My niece even discovered that one whale had shared two of its sealice with her! Simply amazing and thanks to Monica and Fabian for sharing their knowledge, enthusiasm and expertise with us, and to Vicky for the excellent food."

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11-day Isla Carmen Circumnavigation
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5/5 Excellent
31 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Highlights

  • Baja kayaking in the crown jewel of the Sea of Cortez: Carmen Island. Cliffs of red-hued basalt rising sharply out of the sea and the bold outlines of towering cacti provide the backdrop for paddling sea kayaks 60 miles on this little known, classic 9-day circumnavigation of Baja California’s Isla Carmen, the largest island in Loreto Bay National Marine Park in the Sea of Cortez (Gulf of California).
  • While visitors frequent the southern tip of Isla Carmen, the northern part of the island is a place few humans will ever set foot. On this unique paddle, you'll have a chance to snorkel with brilliant king angelfish and lobster, watch plunge-diving blue-footed booties, and search for 60-foot whale sharks – the world’s largest fish.
  • You'll even find a historic element on this wildlife and nature tour. Mid-way around the island, you'll make a brief stop at Salinas Bay to visit an abandoned 19th century salt mine and coral chapel.
  • A two-day paddle rounding the island’s remote north shore leads to Balandra Bay, where you can hike an arroyo into the island’s desert interior past saguaro-like cardon cactus and wild figs in the company of desert iguanas and big-horned sheep.
  • From your tented camps in sheltered coves, watch vermillion skies as they illuminate the banded layers of the Sierra de la Giganta range, the plume of a whale lingering in the still air, and leaping manta rays flopping back into the glassy water as guides dish out margaritas and tasty chili rellenos.

Themes

Birding, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"When my partner and I went on a whale watching trip with Sea Kayak Adventures five years ago, we concluded that it was one of the best things we had ever done - especially the encounters with the grey whales in Magdalena Bay. I decided that I wanted an excuse to visit the whales again and I found this in a plan to go back with my family so that we could introduce them to my family and share their joy in this trip. As always, when organising such a treat, I was desperate that it would be as good a second time. I need not have worried, under the expert guidance of Monica (who amazingly had been a guide on our first trip) and Fabian our family group were wowed by whales that swam close, sky-hopped, breached and swam to our boat, rubbed against it, looked us in the eye mammal-to-mammal and then let us rub their skin. Wow oh wow! My niece even discovered that one whale had shared two of its sealice with her! Simply amazing and thanks to Monica and Fabian for sharing their knowledge, enthusiasm and expertise with us, and to Vicky for the excellent food."

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Classic Galapagos: Southern Islands (Grand Queen Beatriz)
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4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
Since their founding in 1977 by trekkers exploring Nepal, they’ve maintained a strong connection to local culture and the “traveler spirit”.
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Galapagos, Isabela Island, Isla Santa Fe, Puerto Villamil, Quito, San Cristobal, Santa Cruz, Santa Fe

Highlights

  • As you board your vessel, m/y grand queen beatriz, and follow in the footsteps of charles darwin, you will encounter nature at its finest.
  • Explore the islands from on deck, on foot and in the water, no doubt with your eyes open for your next unique sight.
  • You'll encounter giant galapagos tortoises, blue-footed and masked boobies, pelicans and frigate birds, as well as land and marine iguanas, sea lions, fur seals and perhaps dolphins, whales and sea turtles.

Themes

Cultural, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"My first trip with this agency, and I will not hesitate to recommend it to friends and family. The right mix of planned activities and free time. Good central location of all the hotels. The only fly in the ointment was the last hotel where there were vibration and noise in several rooms and the hotel staff was extremely arrogant and rude. They blatantly asserted looking me right in the eye that they cannot hear any noise, even though more than one person from our group was complaining. However. Tucan's guide Cindy was extremely helpful and did her best to resolve the situation, in spite of the hotel staff's behaviour. On the whole, Cindy was great, very helpful and caring."

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572 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
My selections:
Wildlife viewing

North America Reviews & Ratings

4.6/5  Excellent
3,203  Reviews
See all North America tour reviews
Excellent
1,471
Great
457
Average
73
Disappointing
24
Terrible
13
B

Begum

Oct 2015

Written on

I love our tour leader Edith and

I love our tour leader Edith and the support we got from her was excellent!

I

Ida

Oct 2015

Written on

A great variety of experiences (learning about

A great variety of experiences (learning about culture, but also being in nature and doing some more physically challenging activities). Great tour leader and great ...

P

Paul

Sep 2015

Written on

I felt we covered a lot in

I felt we covered a lot in a short time and there was a flexible app...

g

geraint

Sep 2015

Written on

Great country, people, food and quality of

Great country, people, food and quality of the trip & leader

X

Xiao

Sep 2015

Written on

I thoroughly enjoyed my Intrepid tour and

I thoroughly enjoyed my Intrepid tour and all the optional activities on offer. It's great to travel with the comforts of having transport and accommodation already ...

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North America Tour Selection Trips

  • To keep your tour manageable, think regionally: the Northwestern or Southwestern U.S., the Canadian Maritimes, Canadian Rockies, etc.
  • U.S. national parks are some of the finest in the world and a good place to keep tour prices down, especially if you like camping.
  • While most of its citizens live near the U.S. border, Canada is the world’s second largest country, with vast wilderness, mountain and coastal areas awaiting exploration.
  • Greenland, one of the least visited islands in the world, is part of North America, too – and has a fascinating Arctic culture and landscape.
  • Mexico is far more diverse than you might imagine: think Mayan culture vs. modern-day Mexico City, Oaxacan marketplaces vs. Cancun party scene.

Additional details

What Countries are in North America?

North America consists of Canada, Mexico, and the United States (including the Hawaiian Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands).

What is the best time to visit North America?

The best time to visit North America will vary based on destination. 

Travelers booking a trip to Alaska or northern Canada may want to avoid the cold, dark winters as most guided tours only operate in the warmer months and transportation may be difficult to find. If you are hoping to see the Northern Lights, the “shoulder seasons” of late fall and early spring may be your best bet; the skies will be dark enough to see the beauty of the lights, but the climate won’t be as harsh. 

The best time to visit Mexico is the dry season between December and April. Temperatures are warm enough during this time to enjoy the beach and the sun while avoiding the rainy season of late summer to early fall. Keep in mind that prices peak around the holiday season. 

The southern and eastern regions of the United States can get extremely hot and humid in the summer and freezing in the winter-- avoid weather extremes by visiting in the fall or spring. The Pacific Northwest tends to be warmest and driest during the summer and fall, but don’t be surprised if you encounter rainy skies at any time of year. 

Skiers and snowboarders will naturally want to head to the mountains during winter or early spring when there is enough snow on the peaks. Hikers can avoid snow-covered or muddy trails during winter by visiting in the late summer or fall. 

Safety tips for traveling in North America

North America is generally considered a safe place to travel, although there is crime in the big cities and in some areas of Mexico. Of course, it is important to use common sense and be aware of your surroundings when traveling to any new place. 

Safety tips for traveling in North America:

  • Watch out for pickpockets. Keep your phone, wallet, and other valuables close and out of sight.
  • Don’t carry large sums of cash.
  • Use certified taxicab companies to avoid being ripped off.
  • Ask your tour guide or hotel staff about areas to avoid. 
  • When around wildlife, never get too close. Most national and state parks provide instructions online or at visitor centers on what to do if you encounter wildlife.
  • If you will be driving a car in an unfamiliar country, get familiar with the driving laws and customs of the country to avoid accidents and traffic stops.
  • When traveling alone, give a friend or family member a copy of your itinerary and don’t mention to any strangers that you are alone.

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