7 Days / Starting From $3,895
Whales & Wildlife of the San Juan Islands
A Close-Up Guided Nature Safari through Washington's Colorful San Juan Islands
The San Juan Islands lie like a scattering of green emeralds against the sapphire waters of an inland sea. In the rain shadow of the Olympic Mountains, the archipelago is protected from heavy Pacific weather, enjoying 250 sunny days a year. One of the earth’s most aesthetic marine environments, the islands teem with wildlife. Orcas and Steller sea lions cavort in the saltwater reaches, myriad seabirds nest on rockbound shores, and black-tailed deer browse pastures of tall grass and wildflowers. Our immersion into island life happens at a peaceful rhythm, as we encounter nature on foot and at sea.
- Whale watch from our private boat as we cruise among the islands on a unique wildlife-focused itinerary
- Hike through old-growth forest and survey the North Cascades from atop Mount Constitution
- Scout for seals, otters and bald eagles on an optional sea-kayaking excursion with our expert naturalist guide
Location of Adventure
San Juan Islands, Washington
San Juan Islands, Washington
Group Size Limit
Approximately 7 travelers
A very important feature of our San Juans safari is the limited group size as nature expeditions are best experienced with smaller sized groups of travelers.
Included
Accommodations, meals from dinner on Day 1 through breakfast on final day, bottled water, services of NHA Expedition Leader and local guides, most gratuities, airport transfers on Day 1 and final day, all permits and entrance fees, all taxes.
Not Included
Travel to and from start and end point of trip, alcoholic beverages, some gratuities, passport and visa fees, optional activities, items of a personal nature (phone calls, laundry, etc.), airline baggage fees, airport and departure taxes, optional travel insurance.
Physical Requirements
Easy to Moderate/Flexible
We will take short- to medium-length walks over uneven terrain with some elevation gain. We will have the option to sea kayak, and we will be in boats on the open sea. All activities and excursions are optional.
Important Information
This unique adventure is designed to allow our guests to experience the splendors of the Pacific northwest coastal environs in an up close and personal manner. From remote trails and small boats we will immerse ourselves in this historic and visually captivating region, engaging in wildlife encounters rarely found anywhere else in the world.
This adventure involves several small boat trips, some in protected waters and some on the open sea. For groups of 3 travelers or fewer, some activities will be altered: we will depart Bellingham by public ferry on Day 2 and will not stop on Cypress Island; the whale watch and wildlife cruise on Day 4 will not be private.
Getting There & Getting Home
Arrive in Bellingham, Washington, on Day 1 of the program in time for a 6pm orientation followed by an informal welcome dinner. You are free to depart Bellingham anytime on the final day.
