In an age where travel destinations often suffer from overcrowding, it's more crucial than ever for adventurers to choose their journeys wisely. How can we experience new breathtaking locales while ensuring we're not part of the problem?

As a seasoned travel writer with a background in sustainability and adventure travel, I’ve learned to critically evaluate every adventure: How do my choices affect the environment? Am I traveling ethically? Are wildlife encounter regulations enforced?

Recently, I came across a unique opportunity with Canadian Geographic Adventure and Eagle-Eye Tours. After reviewing their itinerary, which prioritized small groups and less-frequented areas, I quickly realized this six-day expedition would be an enriching experience.

Traveling without a guide can feel like watching a movie on mute—it’s visually captivating, yet lacking depth. With expert guides Blair Dudeck and Arnaud Valade, I gained invaluable insights on how to appreciate wildlife without adding to the hustle and bustle.

On our fifth day at Haynes’ Lease Ecological Reserve, a pristine desert ecosystem near Osoyoos, we arrived early to explore its beauty before the sun heated the trails. We became acutely aware of our surroundings, trekking cautiously past cacti and aiming to spot the elusive rock and cactus wrens.

As we scanned the rocky cliffs, I spotted something unexpected: a big brown bear! Curious yet cautious, it ambled along the ridge, foraging for breakfast while we remained focused on our birdwatching.

Suddenly, Blair’s excited voice cut through the air: “Lazuli bunting! Over there!” For a few magical moments, we marveled at this striking bird, its vibrant blue head dazzling against the arid landscape.

We're not alone in our quest for birdwatching here— the BC Bird Trail, launched by Tourism Richmond, provides carefully curated itineraries across communities, showcasing the best spots for birding, accommodation, and dining. Since launching in 2020, this initiative has blossomed, complete with an accessibility audit and an engaging app.

According to a 2020 Grandview Research study, the global birdwatching tourism market is poised for significant growth, projected to expand at a rate of 6.2 percent annually from 2024 to 2030. The BC Bird Trail is certainly thriving, evidenced by increasing web traffic and app downloads, especially during peak spring and fall seasons.

The next day, we ventured deeper into the Okanagan Valley, discovering hidden trails and roadside spots off the beaten path. Our knowledgeable guides led us to these wildlife havens, where we encountered very few people but witnessed an astounding array of 142 bird species, including rare finds like black swifts and golden eagles.

As our journey ended by the tranquil waters of Robert Lake near Kelowna, the sun dipped low, bathing the scene in golden light. I watched a mother American coot tenderly care for her chicks, and in that moment, I recognized a familiar gift: the privilege to pause, soak in, and embrace the beauty of Canada’s stunning landscapes. Leaving, I felt we had experienced this country at its tranquil, unspoiled best.