Active Canada: Canoeing Quebec's Rivers & Lakes - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What is the main focus of this 'Active Canada' tour?

  This tour is an authentic wilderness paddling adventure, focusing on canoeing through interconnected lakes, mastering the art of the portage, and experiencing backcountry camping in Quebec's rivers and lakes.

• What kind of wilderness experience can I expect on this trip?

  You'll be deep in the wild, following the literal wake of the La Vérendrye brothers, with nights of camping under the stars and listening to local loons. It's a true Canadian experience shaped by exploration and adventure.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Key highlights include canoeing through pristine lakes and waterways once travelled by Canada’s early explorers, experiencing true backcountry camping beneath the stars in remote wilderness settings, disconnecting and immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the Canadian wild, and relaxing at a scenic lakeside hotel after your canoe adventure.

• What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

  The tour includes 2 nights in a hotel and 5 nights of participation wilderness camping.

• What are the facilities like at the wilderness campsites?

  The campsites are remote backcountry sites with intentionally minimal facilities designed to preserve the natural environment. They may include a basic tent pad, fire ring, or outhouse, but there is no running water, electricity, or showers. This simplicity is part of the immersive experience.

• Do I need to bring my own camping equipment?

  All camping equipment, including dome tents with built-in insect nets and comfortable self-inflating mattresses (approximately 4cm thick), is supplied, with the exception of your sleeping bag and pillow. Proper sleeping bags are necessary.

• What type of sleeping bag is required for this tour?

  For spring and fall trips, your sleeping bag should be rated to -17°C, and for trips between June and September, it should be rated to 0°C.

• What is the physical rating for this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 4, indicating it is an active trip requiring a good level of fitness.

• Is client participation required for camping activities?

  Yes, client participation is an essential part of the trip. This includes putting up and packing away your tent, helping with meal preparation, and cleaning up. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will handle meal planning.

• What meals are included in the trip?

  The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 5 dinners.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size for this tour is 12 participants.

• I am a solo traveler; will I have to pay an extra cost?

  Our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip.

• If I choose the 'My Own Room' option, will I always have a single room?

  If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops.

• Who will be leading the tour group?

  The group will be led by 1 or 2 Chief Experience Officers (CEOs), depending on the group size.

• What are the guidelines for tipping on this trip?

  Tipping service providers like waiters, bartenders, and taxi drivers is customary in North America (approximately 18-20%). For local guides, a recommendation of $2-8 USD per activity is suggested. For your Chief Experience Officer (CEO), a guideline of $10-15 USD per person, per day, is appreciated if they did an outstanding job.

• Do I need to carry emergency funds?

  Yes, it is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will need to provide evidence of coverage for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000.

• What safety precautions should I be aware of during free time or water activities?

  Your CEO will accompany you on all included activities. During free time, use your own judgment for optional activities. Water-based activities should only be undertaken when accompanied by a guide. Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. It's also recommended to stay in small groups and take taxis at night in major cities.

• What modes of transportation are used on this trip?

  The primary modes of transportation on this trip are private vehicles and canoes.

• Are there any optional activities available on this trip?

  Yes, in Saint-Hippolyte, there are optional activity packages available at your hotel.