North America still contains some of the world’s greatest untamed lands – from the vast expanse of northern tundra known as the Canadian Shield to the soaring peaks of the Rocky Mountains, and the great Alaskan wilderness in the west. The annual salmon runs of the west coast continue to draw huge gatherings of bears for this seasonal fiesta and as a result it is the best place in the world to view these magnificent creatures. Off the coast, the rich waters draw many whales, dolphins and other sea creatures; and the shores around Vancouver Island are one of the top Orca-watching destinations in the world. In the mountains and valleys Moose, Wolves, Caribou, Bald Eagles, Elk, Bighorn Sheep and Beaver can be found. We offer self-drive options or small group trips led by experienced naturalist guides - depending on your preference. Alternatively, sit back and enjoy the spectacular ride aboard the worldfamous Rocky Mountaineer train. Churchill in Canada is the one place you are guaranteed to see the magnificent Polar Bears, the largest land carnivore, as they make their annual migration north during the months of October and November. Places aboard the special tundrabuggy viewing vehicles are strictly limited so advance booking is highly recommended if you are not to be disappointed! Highlights May • The peak time to see Grey Whales off Vancouver Island’s west coast as they head north to their summer feeding grounds. • Brown Bears congregate north of Vancouver for the first time in the year to feed on succulents or fish for salmon. • Bears in the mountain areas come out of hibernation and can be found foraging throughout the summer months. The early summer is the best time to spot them lower down as they move higher up the slopes as the season progresses. June • The salmon return from the ocean to spawn in the freshwater creeks of Alaska, where ravenous Black, and Brown Bears wait to feed on them. July • The islet-dotted waters of Canada’s west coast is perhaps the best place in the world to see Orca Whales. Although some pods remain year round, the visiting migrants will remain here until early September. August • Brown Bears congregate for the second time in the year, north of Vancouver, to fish for salmon. • Eastern Canada’s Bay of Fundy is home to Northern Right, Minke, Humpback, and Fin Whales between now and the end of September. • From August to September the Gulf of St Lawrence is home to a high concentration of Blue Whales and trips with research vessels run at this time. October • Polar Bears gather in Churchill on the west coast of Hudson Bay. They pass though the area until November. Climate Long, very cold winters characterise Alaska, the Rocky Mountains, Eastern and Central Canada. The short spring, summer and autumn season brings fabulous wildlife-viewing as birds and mammals concern themselves with eating, breeding and preparing for the next harsh winter. Whilst warm in the day, temperatures often plummet at night even in high summer, and snow can fall year round. The coast of Vancouver and British Columbia is by contrast moderate year round with plenty of rainfall and warm summers. S E E U S O N T H E W E B AT wildlifeworldwide.com 119 North America / Introduction Brown Bears

F O R R E S E R V A T I O N S C A L L U S O N 0845 130 6982 USA & Canada 120 Alaskan Odyssey 13 days London to London Day 1. Depart London Depart London for Vancouver. On arrival make your own way to The Fairmont Airport Hotel, where you will spend one night. Day 2. Anchorage [B] Depart Vancouver for Anchorage. On arrival make your way to the Copper Whale Inn, where you spend one night. Days 3 to 5. Katmai National Park [B, L, D] Make your way to the airport today for your flight to King Salmon. On arrival you fly by floatplane to Brooks Lodge, overlooking the world famous Brooks River in the heart of Katmai National Park. Katmai National Park has two spectacular attractions, volcanoes and Brown Bears. Sockeye Salmon run through Brooks River in large numbers from the end of June to the end of July and from late August until the middle of September, during which time bears can be seen in great numbers. Bear-watching at Brook Falls Brown Bear