Canada is one of the most visited countries in North America. It’s also known for being among the friendliest countries in the world, especially for immigrants and other nationals.
Canada is worth visiting because of its breathtaking scenery, such as the Niagara Falls, and its various wildlife. These attractions offer guaranteed pleasure and entertainment to tourists and locals alike. Canada is also one of the safest places in the world for both residents and visitors.
Listed in this article are eight reasons why you should visit Canada. Read on to learn more about the top destinations and activities in Canada that will surely be worth your time.
1. Niagara Falls
You’ve probably heard of this spectacular spot located in the province of Ontario, Canada. It’s a group of three waterfalls proudly standing at a height of about 164 feet (50 meters) which flows from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario. It doesn’t only boast of its beauty but also its purpose: providing hydroelectric power to the people.
Niagara Falls crosses over into America, where two of the three waterfalls lie, namely the Bridal Veil Falls and the American Falls. The Horseshoe Falls, also called the Canadian Falls, is the most glamorous and magnificent of the three, having the highest flow rate and most unique appearance.
Horseshoe Falls has been a popular tourist destination in Canada, with thousands of people from across the globe visiting each year. Adrenaline junkies would enjoy the zipline, gliding across several meters in the air. Boat trips in the Niagara River and hiking trails are also available for those looking for less nerve-wracking activities.
The months of June-September are the best time to visit Niagara Falls as the waterfall cools off the summer heat and it’s personally my favorite time to travel.
However, this famous tourist destination is open 24 hours a day and seven days a week, all year round.
2. Diverse Wildlife
Canada is home to diverse wildlife that will definitely leave you in awe. Over 300 species of plants and animals are endemic to Canada. From bumblebees to whales, clovers to maple trees, Canada hosts large and small species of flora and fauna.
The city of Vancouver, British Columbia, prides itself on its spectacular wildlife. This is where you can enjoy whale watching, including orcas, humpbacks, and gray whales. The place also offers excellent sightings of other iconic animals, such as elks, seals, beavers, moose, and grizzly bears!
The world’s polar bear capital can also be found in Canada – specifically in the small town of Churchill in Northern Manitoba. Out of 25,000 in the world, 17,000 polar bears are located in Canada alone. Most bears migrate to the shore to feed during the autumn, which gives tourists quite an experience of seeing these majestic mammals face to face.
3. High Level of Safety
The World Population Review and Global Peace Index lists Canada as the 12th safest country in the world, from its 3rd place ranking in 2021. This is because of its low crime rates, well-compensated workers, quality of education, quick police response, and peaceful co-existence among its citizens.
Canada is a safe country to visit because it opens its doors to all nationalities without tension and bias. Canada has the 8th highest immigration rate in the world. Since Canada is underpopulated, it welcomes a growing population.
It’s a top tourist destination because of its countless noteworthy spots and attractions. Its cities are beautiful, clean, and culturally diverse.
4. World’s Largest Underground Shopping Complex
It surprises most people that Toronto – Canada’s biggest city and capital of Ontario – hosts the world’s largest underground shopping complex. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, this shopping complex has a length of 17 miles (28 kilometers) and an area of 371,600 square meters (37 hectares).
PATH is the stylized name of such an enormous establishment filled with around 1,200 shops, services, cafes, and restaurants. Aside from these, the PATH is also connected to major subway stations and transport terminals. Over 200,000 residents, workers, and commuters use the PATH system daily.
From department stores to banks to specialty boutiques, if you’re looking for a unique and world-renowned one-stop shop, the PATH is the place to go.
Suppose you’re not too familiar with the different entrances and locations within the complex. In that case, you can always book an Uber to take you to the nearest drop-off point.
5. Rat-free Cities
Aside from its large oil deposits, the cities of Calgary and Edmonton in Alberta have been known for being rat-free since the 1950s. The government spearheaded its aggressive pest control program through the Agricultural Pests Act of Alberta in 1942.
This is a plus point on why Canada is worth visiting. Alberta is the only rat-free province that humans inhabit. Inspections are done yearly, and a fine of up to $5,000 will be imposed on anyone found encouraging the spread of rats.
6. Famous Forests and Lakes
Canada contains 9% of the world’s forests, or about 362 million hectares (894.5 million acres). The country is the second biggest supplier of wood products in the world.
Among the most popular woodlands are the Douglas-Fir Forests and Great Bear Rainforest in British Columbia, Alberta’s Mountain Forests, Manitoba’s Elk Glen, Prince Edward Island (Boughton Island), and Nova Scotia’s Gaff Point. Visiting any of these spots will surely complete your Canada getaway.
Regarding lakes, Canada has a handful of absolutely picturesque lakes worthy of your time. British Columbia cradles Joffre Lake, Garibaldi Lake, and Berg Lake. These lakes have clear waters against lush greens and majestic mountain views that will take your breath away.
Peyto Lake is also famous among photographers for its deep turquoise blue waters. At the same time, Lake Minnewanka is known for its glacial blue color. Moraine Lake, on the other hand, possesses a brilliant blue-green hue. These three lakes are all located in Banff National Park in Alberta.
Based on research done by McGill University, Canada has about 879,800 lakes. Of these, 563 are larger than 100 square kilometers (10,000 hectares). Stopping by one of these lakes will give you postcard-like photos to take home and cherish.
7. Northern Lights in Yukon
One of the most outstanding sights a man may ever see is probably the northern lights, also known as the aurora borealis. You can enjoy the fantastic lights in Yukon, Canada’s smallest and least populated province.
The best time to view this extravagant display of natural celestial lights is from late August to mid-April, with January being the peak viewing season. Summertime is not advised as the nights are not dark enough to see and appreciate this heavenly display fully.
8. The Walled City
Quebec City is one of Canada’s oldest cities and the only remaining walled city in North America. It is over 400 years old and was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1985.
If you’re up for a nostalgic stroll, Quebec City will give you an old-time European feel. Most of its structures have been preserved for locals and tourists to enjoy. Quebec City has incredible landscapes as well as pristine natural attractions.
Although English is an accepted language in the region, Quebec’s official language is French, which is also spoken in many parts of Canada.
