nj_wanders Archives - Page 7 of 10

A 3-Day Tour of the Interesting Salts Flats, Bolivia

Posted on September 28, 2020

Disclaimer: This blog contains affiliate links meaning I earn a small percentage of every purchase at no cost to you.

The salt flats are another well-known attraction to visit in South America. The nearest town to the salt flats in Bolivia is Uyuni. There are two options to choose from either coming back to Uyuni or go to San Pedro de Atacama in Chile. All the tours vary in length ranging from 1-4 days. We booked our tour in the town of Uyuni last minute. This was risky as it was a busy time and we could only book with a below-par company. To get the best experience with the most reputable company you can book online here.

Day 1 Salt Flats Tour : Uyuni – Colchani – Inca Huasi – Agua Quisa

For this tour, we were a group of four as we met up with some friends. We set off in the Toyota 4×4 that fitted 6 of us, our driver barely spoke English. You can pay extra for an English-speaking guide. Again, due to booking last minute we didn’t have an option of an English-speaking guide. The first stop of the day was the train cemetery, some abandoned trains were left behind in the middle of nowhere. It was pretty cool; we climbed over them and got some pictures.

Abandoned train carriages known as the train cemetery — The Abandoned Trains

The market town of Colchani was a quick stop off. We picked up a toy dinosaur for the pictures we were going to take. This is when you start to enter the salt flats. The landscape is now all white in all directions. Sunglasses were more or less permanently on my face as the sun bounced off the salt. Sun cream was a constant of reapplying because my nose is delicate and burns with ease.

Lunchtime…

We ate lunch at an unused salt hotel. From there, we headed out to take the iconic pictures you see all over the internet. Everyone who visits gets fun and creative with their shots. The crazy ideas people come up with are all pretty cool. There is no depth perception on the salt flats therefore you can make everyday objects bigger.

A random cacti island known as fish island in the middle of the salt plains — A Random Cacti Island

By now we were in the middle of nowhere creeping our way up to 4000 metres. I didn’t realise we climbed up so many metres when on the tour. As we approached our next stop off for the day. What we saw was unexpected. I wasn’t expecting an island (Inca Huasi/Fish Island) in the middle of the salt flats. However, here one was. A unique island made up of cacti randomly in the middle of the salt flats. The sun was setting on our way to the Salt Hotel at Agua Quisa. We pulled over to admire the sunset. Once at the hotel dinner was eventfully served. It was worth the wait.

Day 2 Salt Flats Tour: Chiguana – Lagunas – Siloil – Laguna Colorada – Sol De Manana

Me jumping for joy on the Salt Flats — Jumping for Joy

As we made our way to the 4×4 in the morning, still half asleep. It was another early morning to fit everything in. Our driver/tour guide was putting air into not one but two tyres. This was not a good sign or a great start to the day. Here, I was hoping they were slow punctures.

After a short drive, we left the salt flats behind to enter the desert. Compared to other groups… we arrived very slowly. I wonder why. It is looking like we really should have booked in advance. During that drive, we stopped once on our way to pump up those tyres… I guess not such a slow puncture with all the bumpy terrain. Not to mention the times the driver stopped to check on them.

A Day of Exploring Lakes…

The lakes were full of flamingos. All of the lakes had different colour of water to them which was pretty cool. We saw two more lakes before missing the Galaxy Cave because of our slow pace. Yes, we were that far behind the other vehicles from our tour. We had to miss a stop. I was really excited to see the Galaxy cave. Oh, well!

After, a long drive we came to Siloil to see the simple stone tree structure (Arbol De Piedra). Again, we were last to arrive and one of the first to leave. So we didn’t get much time here, unfortunately. These two deflating tyres were hampering this day.

The red lake in Bolivia — The Best Lake on The Tour

Laguna Colorada known as a red lagoon was very pink in colour when the sun poked through. There was one last stop before our hotel stay at the hot springs. Geysers (Sol De Manana). Here we were up at an altitude of an impressive 4800 metres. The hot steam shot up into the air from holes in the ground. As read you about them you are lucky that you can’t smell. The smell was a pure raw odour of sulphur which was extremely strong. At the hotel, we had dinner and watched the sunset. The stars were very pretty and many to see as light pollution wasn’t an issue.

Day 3: Dali Desert – Laguna Verde

Green algae on some rocks in the desert — Evidence of This Being Underwater

The last morning of our trip was a journey through the Dali Desert. There were some rocks covered in green algae. Evidence that this place used to be underwater. We stopped at a couple of locations along our way to Laguna Verde… just to make sure our tyre wasn’t flat. Lastly, after viewing Laguna Verde we caught the bus to San Pedro de Atacama. This was easy to arrange with the tour operator when booking. The bus was long but the views of the desert were beautiful and kept me entertained along with a much-needed nap!

Summary of the Salt Flat Tour

Overall, I would say we went with a mid-range company, all was good. The food was good. The accommodation was a nice room for two in the salt hotel on the first night. The second night was a shared room for maybe around 7/8 people. The only issue with the trip was of course the flat tyres. This was a pain as we missed out on going to places. However, there wasn’t a lot we could do about this.e. Overall, an experience I will never forget.

Want to check out other experiences in South America, Click Here!!!!!!!!

A Stunning Drive Through the Beautiful Yoho and Glacier

Posted on September 21, 2020

Disclaimer: This blog contains affiliate links meaning I earn a small percentage of every purchase at no cost to you.

This was the start of our road trip through the Canadian Rockies. We drove from Vancouver. Therefore for us, we entered Glacier National Park and then drive through Yoho National Park. Before hitting Banff and Jasper National Parks. Yes, they are all close together which is convenient. Yet, they do span a vast amount of BC and Alberta.

Rodger’s Pass Highway, Glacier National Park

I was ready to take on what is one of the most dangerous roads in North America. I suspected they are speaking about the Winter Season when it’s covered in snow. However, it was summer and the sun was shining. Rodger’s Pass winds its way through a gorgeous mountain range making this scenic drive simply magnificent. In every direction, you are surrounded by mountains.

Hemlock Grove, Yoho National Park

Hemlock Grove Glacier National Park — Boardwalk at Hemlock Grove

After a fair few hours of driving, we fancied stretching our legs. So, we stopped in at Hemlock Grove. This was a quiet boardwalk through old-growth forests. The path led us up close and personal with the soaring ancient Hemlock trees. The walk beneath the canopy is a cool relief from the sun burning down.

Rodger’s Pass Discovery Centre

I would describe the Discovery Centre as a mini-museum. To be able to enter all you do is show your park pass. It is small and informative but I find learning enjoyable. Although there was not much on display I still enjoyed it. The museum detailed the history of Rodger’s Pass and what wildlife lives in Yoho National Park.

Northern Lights Wildlife Wolf Centre, Golden, BC

I kept this stop as a surprise for my friend. Google maps was used as this place was really in the middle of nowhere. She definitely was surprised as we pulled into the car park. We went to a small unique sanctuary for wolves. We even timed it to perfection arriving at the start of the talk. The host was very knowledgeable and the talk was informative. We learnt a lot and saw wolves, therefore, it was worth a detour.

Kicking Horse River

The Kicking Horse River is very powerful and loud. However, we found a picturesque free spot for the night. It was beautiful. Nice and relaxing, a real winner in free camping spots. We left early in the morning to continue the adventure. Leaving the nature spot just as we found it.

Natural Bridge Over The Kicking Horse River, Yoho National Park

Natural Bridge Yoho National Park — Impressive Formation of a Natural Bridge

As always, we enjoy stopping off at most of the viewpoints along the highway. This breaks up the drive and we get to see the awesome natural wonders of Yoho National Park. In addition, this stop was no different. The natural bridge is a naturally shaped rock formation and extends the entire width of the Kicking Horse River. Sculpted by the erosive forces of the rushing water.

Emerald Lake, Yoho National Park

This was one lake I was really excited to see; well if I’m honest I was enthusiastic about everything. So, when I saw the deep vibrant turquoise colour as the sun peaked through the morning clouds; I was beyond ecstatic. This is a glacier-fed lake like most of them in the park. The colour forms because of the slit that streams into the lake. Well worth a stop!

Takakkaw Falls, Yoho National Park

Takakkaw Falls in Yoho National Park — Takakkaw Falls

This giant waterfall stood at 260m with a waterwheel starting the flow. A waterwheel is where the water shoots upwards before rushing back down. This was impressive to watch. The short walk from the car park led us across a bridge to the waterfall. The waterfall is in view for most of the walk. The weather wasn’t great which meant the crowds were quiet. The water pounds down leaving you covered in spray.

Spiral Train Tunnels, Yoho National Park

Train Spiral Viewpoint — The Train Travelling Through The Spiral Tunnel

As we drove back down from the Takakkaw Falls to Rodgers Pass we pulled into a spot for some lunch. This spot was one of the two viewing platforms for the Spinal Tunnel. We didn’t know about this until a nice guy explained it to us. We were lucky to see the train pass through the tunnel. Trains are mostly cargo in Canada and can be up to 2 miles in length. Therefore, it did take some minutes for the whole train to pass.

What a Start to The Rockies

These two National Parks kicked started the excitement for Jasper National Park and Banff National Park. The scenery was incredible and the drive was pleasant. The breathtaking views made this trip worthwhile.

What to See in the Beautiful Town of Banff?

Posted on September 14, 2020

Disclaimer: This blog contains affiliate links meaning I earn a small percentage of every purchase at no cost to you.

The town of Banff is a very popular place to visit for tourists. Therefore, booking hotels or tours in advance is a must. This town was founded in 1883 when the Canadian Pacific Railway ran alongside the Bow River. The town is within the Banff National Park boundaries.

Therefore, you need a pass to enter. The pass costs around $10 for a day. We were on our road trip meaning we had a year pass for around $70 per person. The year pass is more cost-effective if you are visiting different National Parks and visiting for consecutive days.

Vermilion Lakes – The Lakes that Border Banff Town

Mountainous Backdrop at Vermillion Lake Outisde Banff Town — The Marshland Lakes

These lakes are a network of marshlands. They sit just outside of the town of Banff. These lakes are not glacier-fed like so many in Banff National Park. In the backdrop, you see Sulphur Mountain and Mount Rundle. Also, with the sun in the right direction, you can see the reflection of Mount Rundle on the water. This is home to a short boardwalk through some marshlands and a perfect place for a relaxing sunset.

The Historic Banff Town – Shopping and Restaurants

The town of Banff offers a range of restaurants, bars, and shops mixed with some art galleries. Also, many mountains surround the town giving you incredible views no matter which way you look. If you like a good keepsake, you can find these along Banff Avenue or Bear Street.

BeaverTails – Trying One of Canada’s Most Famous Foods

We had to try BeaverTails, a popular dessert or sweet snack. I opted for the Oreo flavour (I had an Oreo obsession at one point). If you Google foods to try in Canada, these pop up on your search. I am one for having a sweet tooth therefore I was in heaven. These were so tasty and a perfect afternoon treat. It was the sugar fix that I required. Yes… this fix is basically needed daily for me.

Cave and Basin National Historic Site – Banff Town

Sulphur Cave Basin a National Historic Site in Banff Town — The Cave Basin

The Sulphur Mountain Cave and Basin was where the National Park began. There is a mini-museum which is very informative detailing information about the area. It doesn’t take much time to wander around. This hot spring cavern is one of nine on Sulphur Mountain yet the only one that can fit people in. It’s called Sulphur Mountain for a reason so expect a smell when entering the cave.

A Short Trail Hike to Sundance Canyon

A Rocky Sundance Canyon with Flowing Water, Banff Town — The Sundance Canyon

There are many trails to do around this site. We decided on the Sundance Trail which was 4.3 km with a small elevation of 145 metres. Perfect. We didn’t want to be scaling any mountains today. The walk was causal and eventfully entered a small forest alongside the Bow River. Then you head down into the small canyon. The walk is the same way back to the car.

The walk was a good stretch of the legs. However, as we started the walk back big black clouds replaced the blue skies. We weren’t planning on going so far. So, we didn’t have our waterproofs with us. We raced back to try and beat the rain. Yep! You probably know how this ended.

We didn’t make it back to the car before the heavens opened… we got absolutely soaked. You can always count on the weather… not!

Banff Upper Hot Springs

When I think of hot springs in Canada, I am picturing a pool in the middle of nowhere. Not a ‘Spa’ facility. The Banff Upper Springs is quite small but a very popular stop with everybody. I refused to go in as it was too full but my friend did and she enjoyed the experience. The evening time was quieter and a little more relaxing (fewer people less noise). However, still, something that I wouldn’t enjoy.

Viewing the HooDoos at Tunnel Mountain

Hoodoo's at a Tree lined Bow Rvier, — The HooDoo’s

In the end, we chose to drive up Tunnel Mountain Road to take a look at The HooDoos. Although, there is a hike you can do that takes you closer to the hoodoos. HooDoos contain sedimentary rock covered by a harder rock which makes it harder to erode. Once softer sediment erodes rock needles or tower-like natural obstacles form known as Hoodoos.

Bow River – The River Runs from Bow Lake to Calgary

The Bow River is breathtaking and a marvellous bit of nature here within the National Parks. It flows for an impressive 587 km from the source at Bow Lake to Calgary, Alberta. There are many things to do along the river such as kayaking. In the town of Banff near Fairmount Hotel, there is Bow Falls.

Bow Falls into The Bow River Which Runs To Calgary — Bow Falls, Bow River

This waterfall is short and wide yet still so powerful. From mid-summer, you can feel the mist on your face due to the high water levels. The high water level is due to all the snowmelt in the region. The undisturbed view back down the valley is breathtaking. The river winded its way into the distance. There are no words to describe the sheer beauty of the Bow River.

Summary of a Day Visit in Banff Town

Banff is well worth the visit. A day can be well spent visiting all the major spots on offer. We planned which hikes we wanted to do in advance and none of them were in Banff. There are plenty of hikes in and around Banff however you need more than one day!

A Remarkable Week in the Stunning Galapagos Islands

Posted on September 7, 2020

Disclaimer: This blog contains affiliate links meaning I earn a small percentage of every purchase at no cost to you.

So as part of our South American trip for us, the Galapagos Islands couldn’t be missed. We saved extra money especially to experience the uniqueness of these Ecuadorian Islands. The excitement was definitely reaching fever pitch. A week in nature with wildlife unique to this area. A week of being in the sea and sand between my toes. I couldn’t be happier. I grew up by the sea and it is still my favourite place. Although, The Mountains now come a very close second.

Day 1 – Galapagos Islands: A Day Spent in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island

This is was our first full day on the island of Santa Cruz… apparently, October is the cool and dry time of the year with highs of 22 degrees. Well, being from England this still felt like summer to us. We opted for day tours to see areas as the cruises didn’t have any good last-minute deals. However, October is meant to be a good time for them. Your best bet to snag one of them is at the port by the airport not down in Santa Cruz. Or you can book a cruise in advance. These are on the pricey side but perfect if you are just taking a holiday.

A Visit to The Charles Darwin Centre on The Galapagos Islands

Our first adventure for the day was to the Charles Darwin Centre. The centre showcases all the conservation work going on to preserve the endangered species on the islands. Galapagos Giant Tortoise are impressive in size and can only be found here. These islands helped shape Darwin’s Theory of Natural Selection. And you can find all the information you need here at the Charles Darwin Centre.

Las Greitas swimming gauge in the Galapagos Islands — Las Greitas

An Afternoon at the Las Grietas

Las Grietas is an unknown adventure as it isn’t advertised. However, it is worth the visit. We were shockingly surprised this wasn’t spoken about more… maybe they were hoping to leave it as a local’s spot. An afternoon of fun. First, you catch the inexpensive water taxi across the water to the other side. Although, there is a little walking involved. It is simple enough as you follow the path. The walk is a little rocky but we did it in flip-flops with no problems.

Me and my friend jumping into the Las Grietas swimming area — Swimming in a Unique Place

A pink salt flat in the Galapagos Islands — Pink Salt Flat

On the way to the final destination, we were surprised by a mini, pink salt flat. The walk is pretty with views back across the bay. We walked past the beach to the spot we were hoping to find. Las Grietas. This was an awesome unique swimming spot. It is a small channel of water between two volcanic rocks. Also, the water is turquoise in colour making it so inviting. Snorkeling is allowed and there is plenty of small fish to spot.

Day 2: A Day Boat Trip to Island Prizon

We were more than ready to be on that boat. Our first of three trips. It was a cool, windy overcast day as we set off from the dock with the tour group. We prayed that the sun came out. Along with the tour we were lent short wetsuits and snorkels.

The First Snorkel

Our first snorkel of the day was around a shallow bay where sea lions were the entertainment. They are very playful. The visibility was good. We swam around. There was plenty of sea life such as many different varieties of fish, sea turtles, and stingrays. String-rays always give me a heart attack. I don’t like swimming near them. However, we were told these ones don’t sting. I’m not sure how true that is but I believed it at the time.

No one warned us how cold the sea was. I know we were there in October so a cooler month but it was worse than England’s sea temperature. In my eyes that is saying something. I go in the sea at home in the summer (England) in just a swimsuit. Crazy to think here the short wetsuit wasn’t enough to protect me from the freezing cold!!

A Walk Around Island Prizon

Sea Lion on Galapagos Islands — A Sea Lion Catching Some Sun

This stop was a short walk around the rocky coastline of the inhabited (well by humans) island. Island Prizon is in the middle of the sea. This island was home to the blue-footed booby. They actually get their name because they nest in the open. It was nesting season so we got to see it first-hand. Nests just lay there ready for predators to attack. Let’s hope they are good at defence.

The Second and Third Snorkel

Still freezing and no sun to warm us up yet; our guide was nice enough to combine the last two snorkels together. We opted out of the first half because around a rocky coastline to see green sea turtles. We had already seen many of them so getting warmer to enjoy the last part was our priority. With the sun breaking through we managed to warm up in time for the second part. Yes, I love it when a plan comes together. Of we jumped into the freezing sea again and caught up with the group.

This section was around a bay and the mammal we were looking for needed to be ticked off my list… White-tip Reef Sharks. Yes, that’s right… sharks. Sharks of the non-scary, non-human biting kind. I hovered still and quiet over about four or five of them. I didn’t finish counting before a member of the group who clearly lacked snorkel experience scared them all away!!

My friend who lacked speed in the water only because she was flipperless. A sore toe meant she couldn’t use them so she spent her time behind the group. This was a good thing because as she swam back to the boat. The sharks were swimming along with her. What a bonus.

Day 3: My First Ever Scuba Dive at Seymour

This nearly never happened. I went back and forth so many times. Yes, I can conquer this; actually, no I can’t. After a night of persuading me, my friend took me with her to the dive shop. Luckily, I was in luck they had a space on their beginner boat. The nerves really started to set in. I was quiet the whole boat ride out to the dive spot.

Finally, it was my turn. I don’t have a PADI so down with the instructor I went. I tried to go down once but failed. My goggles filled with water. I switched them out and down I went again. I had a session in the pool before coming but it wasn’t the same. Once under and distracted by all the awesome sea life I began to relax.

Sea lions kept me company for a couple of seconds rolling as they came past. However, the highlight was these small blue sea slugs pointing out from a rock. Only after, I discovered that these are a rare find. What a bonus to one of the most incredible experiences ever!!! I don’t know why I was so scared, to begin with. I definitely will do this again.

Day 4: Island Isabela, Galapagos Islands

Another early start like our whole trip to be fair. There was once a time when you wouldn’t have me awake so early. However, as my days are filled with new adventures and new people waking up has never been easier. I was ready and raring to go. The ferry took us to Island Isabela, more of a local island, and much less touristy than Santa Cruz. After a smooth ferry over, we found accommodation and set off to explore.

A Boardwalk Around the Mangroves

Mangrrove Boardwalk on Isabel — A Nice Walk Around Mangroves

There is a nice stroll along a boardwalk that went through the mangroves and out to an open bay. Around this beach area, sea lions were high in numbers as well as marine iguanas. This is a reptile unique to just the Galapagos Islands. The marine iguana is the only lizard that forges at sea. This is incredible and a great showcase for adapting to the environment around you.

Afternoon Spent Walking Around Island Isabela

Sunset on Island Isabel — Fabulous Sunset

After a much-needed rest and refill, we were ready to set off and find the tortoise breeding centre. This turned out to be a much longer walk than expected but with different landscapes to keep us entertained. We found the Galapagos flamingo as we strolled around the wetlands. It was a long but easy walk as it was all flat.

We made it back in time for sunset at the beach. I do love a good sunset and this one didn’t disappoint. Well, do sunsets ever!!

Day 5: A Boat Trip to the Lava Tunnels

This was our final full day here, and of course what else would we do? That’s right, we had another snorkel planned as this is a good way to see sea life. The lava tunnels are a popular choice and it only leaves from Island Isobel. Although, you can book it from Santa Cruz. This was the best one yet as luck was on our side. We were expecting penguins so when the guide told us we would be lucky if we saw one. We got a little disappointed.

As we headed to our destination, we were greeted with manta rays swimming past. They are so magnificent and graceful as they glide through the water. Also, there is something that only happens four times a year in the Galapagos Islands. A large pod of dolphins making its way through. Yes, that’s right we saw that too.

The lava tunnels were fun to snorkel around and as well as walk around. Again, this was a blue-footed boobie nesting site. The second snorkel was through quite shallow water so easy to tear up the sediment at the bottom. It did obstruct the visibility a little. Again, there was someone who couldn’t control the flippers… how annoying. Trying to get away from him and when we did.

The Amazing Wildlife…

The biggest string rays I have ever seen. I didn’t realise they could get so big. I’m talking way over 2 metres wide how impressive is that? I was nervous to swim over the top of them. As I started to swim over him he went on his merry way with such grace. Any ray swimming is incredible to witness as they make it look so effortless. Also, among this rocky bay lived some whit-tip reef sharks, again of an impressive size. Also, something I haven’t seen before… a collection of sea horses. This was fresh and exciting.

This was a day that kept on giving. From the moment we got onto the boat till the moment we docked. As we swam back to the boat this snorkel had one last surprise. Can you guess? The moment we had hoped would happen. The reason why we chose this day tour. Minding our business tired from the long snorkel suddenly the call out from our guide. There it was all alone resting at sea.

A PENGUIN!!!!!

Penguin in Galapagos Islands — The Best Moment of The Week

Just when we fought it was all over. The one animal we really wanted to see. Yes! This moment is so engrained into my memory I can picture it so clearly. We hovered in one place for what felt like ages and then suddenly the penguin dived down right in front of us. Undisturbed view of this incredible encounter. Words could not describe the happiness and excitement at that moment. WHAT A DAY!

Summary of the Best Week in the Galapagos Islands

Wow! This week left me speechless. Wildlife in its abundance. New experiences and many many vivid memories were made. This is one week I never will forget. I think you can guess what I am going to say. That’s right if you are in South America you have to make time and a budget for the Galapagos Islands. It felt like paradise every moment we were there. On every trip outside we encountered a variety of different species. What a magical week. A dream destination.

Driving Along The Attractive Highway 4 – Nanaimo to Tofino

Posted on August 31, 2020

Disclaimer: This blog contains affiliate links meaning I earn a small percentage of every purchase at no cost to you.

After getting the ferry from North Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay) to Nanaimo; we headed down to Tofino, a small surf town located on the West Coast of Vancouver Island. It is an easy drive, meaning you can’t get lost as you take Highway 4 all the way there. There are many beautiful stops along the way. So, take the whole day to do this drive instead of 3 hours. You will cover roughly 207 km.

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park – Nanaimo to Tofino

Little Qualicum Falls - Nanaimo to Tofino route — Lower Falls

This is the first stop on your way from Nanaimo to Tofino. Little Qualicum Provincial Park is about 9.3 km west of Highway 4. The trail loop is family-friendly. It has viewing points for both the lower and upper falls. These sit on either side of the Little Qualicum River. The waterfall was impressive and found by wandering through the plush forest. The crystal blue water was rapid and raged through the deep canyons. A perfect place to stretch the legs.

Nanaimo to Tofino – Cathedral Grove at MacMillan Provincial Park

Giant Red Cedar Tree on the way from Nanimo to Tofino — Me and a 800-year-old Cedar

After a short drive, you arrive at the next stop, Cathedral Grove. Cathedral Grove is home to the biggest and oldest Douglas Fir Trees and Giant Red Cedars. The trails are family-friendly and are on either side of the road. This place gets busy making it difficult to park. We arrived there around mid-morning and even that was a challenge. The parking is simply a pullover on either side of the highway. Please be aware of traffic and pedestrians especially in the summer months when crossing or driving.

Within this Provincial Park sits trees up to 800 years old. The sheer size of the Douglas Fir and Red Cedars are unbelievable and something you have to witness. The forest here is rich in different shades of green ranging from ferns, moss, and trees towering above. One of the short walks was less busy than the other. So as you strolled along the boardwalk you could hear birds chirping away. Peaceful.

Nanaimo to Tofino – A Hole in a Wall at Port Alberni

Hole in the Wall Nanaimo to Tofino — The Cool Random Hole in The Wall

The hole in the wall was our third stop as we travelled from Nanaimo to Tofino. The hole in the wall is a hidden unique stop as you enter Port Alberni. There is a dirt pull-out on the north side of the highway just before the Coombes Country Candy Store. Once parked up we crossed the highway on foot to find the hidden gravel pathway by the concrete barrier. Kind strangers have mounted small wooden signs to help you navigate the 15-minute walk to the hole in the wall.

The history goes that the locals blasted a hole for a water pipeline. Nowadays, it isn’t used and the water flows nicely over the rocks. When we were there wasn’t much water following. It now sits as a quirky photo opportunity and a peaceful stroll along the dirt path.

Wally Creek – Kennedy River Love Locks

After, we cooked our lunch at the port in Port Alberni. Also, we finished lunch just in time as the rain started to pour. We decided to continue the drive down towards Tofino. As we drove away, the mountainous rugged portion of the drive started. Following the incredible landscape for 56 km before coming to Wally Creek alongside the Kennedy River.

Wally Creek Nanaimo — The Magical Feel to Wally Creek

On a metal fence, people can leave locks for their loved ones unfortunately this wasn’t all that was left. RUBBISH or TRASH as some might call it. When adventuring and exploring these places we are entering nature, please pack out what you bring in. This fence hindered the experience.

In the other direction, away from the stupid ‘love locks’ fence, the views are amazing. Looking back up the river the views were the best we had seen on this journey. The Mountains were poking out from behind the misty backdrop. I couldn’t help but take it all for a while. The rain had stopped so the air was nice and cool. Carefully, we climbed over the rocks to get closer to the Kennedy River. Getting closer allowed us to get a sense of how powerful the water flow is.

Giant Red Cedar Trail

As we slowly edged closer to Tofino, the next stop was only 6 km from Wally Creek. Although hard to find it was worth it. Drive slowly and look for a small sign that signals the start of the trail. The dirt trail gives you a more intimate experience compared to the dug-out trail at Cathedral Grove. This particular forest lets you see the uniqueness of the Giant Red Cedars. Also, explore the river bank to take in more views of the Kennedy River.

The Forest Interpretive Trail

The pull-out for this stop is 1.5 km before the Pacific Rim Visitor Centre junction. So, if you hit the centre you have gone too far. This walk is different from the others as it educates you on the importance of rehabilitating the forests. If you are like me and love learning then this short walk is for you. As you maneuver your way along the boardwalk, you will see the importance of ensuring the health to restore old growth.

Wild Pacific Trail Ucluelet

We found a free spot to park for the night so that all could spend the day exploring Ucluelet (ukee… as locals call it). This is a small town located at the opposite end to Tofino in the Pacific Rim National Park. After filling up on a cooked breakfast at The Blue Room Cafe, we were ready for a day of hiking.

Wild Pacific Trail: Browns Beach to Rocky Bluffs

Our first trail was from Browns Beach to Artists Loop (2.75 km) which cuts through a forest including oceanside vistas. The Rocky Bluffs is a 3 km return track along the coastline with incredible views. Also, this coastal hike includes a 1 km detour around the Ancients Cedar section. We spent the whole morning exploring all these trails. A good way to burn off the big breakfast.

Wild Pacific Trail: The Lighthouse Loop

Also, we did the 2.6 km loop known as the Lighthouse Loop. The trail starts at the 100-year-old Amphitheater Lighthouse before winding north along the rugged coastline. We completed this trail in the evening light. A perfect backdrop to watch the sun go down. To break up these two hikes we spent the afternoon visiting the beaches in Ucluelet. We topped our tans at Little Beach and Terrence Beach. Both nice and quiet.

Summary of the Scenic Pacific Rim Highway

This drive from Nanaimo to Tofino is something I highly recommend. Although lots of walking these stops were a welcome break from sitting behind the wheel. Again, this route is best if you have a car or hire one. As you can stop where you like, when you want, and forever for how long you wish.