Kayaking, Hiking and Whale Watching in Quebec
Just north of the New England states of Maine and Vermont lies the heart of French-speaking North America - the captivating province of Quebec. With deep cultural ties to its ancestral homeland of France, Quebec offers visitors a unique experience, blending European flair with the grand natural wonders of the Canadian landscape. Towering glaciated peaks, free-flowing rivers, and sprawling national parks characterize this rugged, yet breathtaking region.
At the center of this natural splendor is the Saguenay Fjord, a little-known gem that rivals the famous fjords of Scandinavia. Carved by ancient glaciers over 10,000 years ago, this 62-mile long waterway is one of only 38 fjords in the world that exceeds 60 miles in length. Here, abundant marine life, from beluga whales to harbor seals, thrive in the mixing of freshwater from the Saguenay River and the saltwater of the St. Lawrence Seaway.
On this 7-day lodge-based tour, you'll immerse yourself in this awe-inspiring ecosystem, gliding silently through the cobalt blue waters by kayak and gazing up at the cliffs that rise dramatically from the fjord's edge. Exploring this natural wonder is like stepping back in time, retracing the paths of early indigenous traders and French colonial fur trappers.
Complementing the region's stunning scenery is the old-world charm of Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage site perched above the St. Lawrence. From this historic launching point, you’ll embark on a unique journey - kayaking, hiking, and discovering the rich cultural heritage that defines this fascinating slice of France in North America.
Along the way, you will also have the chance to visit museums that delve into the history of the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean area, uncovering the myths and legends that have long captivated those who have traversed this rugged landscape. And no visit would be complete without exploring the quaint village of Tadoussac, the oldest French settlement in the Americas and the site of France's first trading post on the mainland of New France.
At Adventure Unbound, we are committed to ensuring that this Quebec kayaking trip has a beneficial economic impact on the local area. By staying in locally owned hotels, dining at regional restaurants, hiring local guides, and sourcing all trip provisions and food nearby, we aim to authentically engage with the people and culture of the region. This not only enhances the overall experience, but also directly supports the livelihoods of the communities that call this stunning corner of Canada home.
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Itinerary
Day 0
You may opt to arrive a day early to explore Québec City at your leisure.
We typically recommend travelers arrive to Quebec City a day early to enjoy this stunning destination. If you're looking for things to do we recommend reading our top 15 foods to try in Quebec City as well as our top 14 things to do in Quebec City blogs.
Day 1
Arrive in Quebec City + Travel to the Saguenay Region
At 1:00 PM, we will meet the driver at the designated hotel lobby before embarking on our adventure to the Saguenay region. The journey north takes us through the breathtaking Réserve faunique des Laurentides (Laurentides Wildlife Reserve).
On arrival, you'll have the opportunity to stretch your legs and delve into the natural and cultural history of the area by visiting the Fjord Museum in La Baie. Afterward, we’ll continue a few miles to spend the night at the delightful Auberge des Battures, which offers stunning views of the fjord. Dinner will feature local French cuisine, inspired by the flavors of the boreal region.
Note: Paddling and hiking distances are approximate and can vary depending on group size and weather. The itinerary may change due to reasons beyond our control, such as wind, waves or inclement weather. Although there is a very good chance we'll see belugas and other whales during the week, the frequency, proximity, and quality of sightings will be determined by their travel patterns.
Day 2
Kayak through Rivière-Éternité Bay
Today, we’ll embark on an adventure exploring the Saguenay Fjord from sea level. Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the auberge before we jump into the van for a 30-minute drive to the village of Rivière-Éternité, which translates to "Eternity River."
On arrival at Saguenay National Park, our guides will explain essential paddling techniques and safety guidelines to ensure you have a wonderful time on the water. After the briefing, you’ll be ready for your first expedition into the fjord, which will take you beneath the towering rock faces of Eternity Bay. The journey covers approximately 5 miles, and we’ll take a leisurely lunch break at Ermine Bay, where you can savor some delicious local specialties.
After returning to Eternity Bay, we’ll head to the village of L’Anse-Saint-Jean, a picturesque rural community nestled along the fjord. Here, you’ll stay in a cozy local chalet or cabin, where you can also enjoy a home-cooked dinner in the evening.
Paddle Distance: Approximately 5 miles, with an estimated paddling time of 4-5 hours, depending on the wind conditions.
Accommodation Note: A variety of cabins and chalets are available for rent, and the final accommodation arrangements will be based on what’s available.
Day 3
Hike the backcountry of L'Anse-Saint-Jean
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at a crêperie named Le Café du Quai before embarking on an early morning hike through the backcountry, making our way to Montagne Blanche. This 8-mile trek begins with a breathtaking view of a waterfall and the cove of L’Anse-Saint-Jean, as well as rewarding us with sweeping vistas of the fjord and sightings of some of the wildlife that inhabits this area.
After conquering the Montagne Blanche hike, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a relaxed lunch at Anse-a-Tabatiere. In the evening, we might visit a local bistro that showcases the unique flavors of the region. Back at our lodging, you can either unwind in privacy or relax outside to gaze at the stars with your fellow adventurers.
Hiking Distance: 8 Miles
Day 4
L’Anse-Saint-Jean - Kayaking
Start your day with a hot cup of coffee and a wholesome breakfast featuring local ingredients in the village of L’Anse-Saint-Jean. Then, embark on a kayaking adventure through the fjord to marvel at the vastness of the landscape and its remarkable ecosystem. If you’re lucky, you may even be joined by seals on your scenic route through the bays.
Once you have built up an appetite, savor a lunch made from local produce in one of the fjord's secluded coves before returning to L’Anse-Saint-Jean. In the evening, we’ll gather to share stories of the day’s adventures and enjoy another meal together.
Paddling Distance: Approximately 5 to 6 miles, which translates to about 4-5 hours of paddling time—longer if the wind picks up.
Please note: Depending on the weather conditions, we may adjust the schedule for Day 3 and Day 4 to ensure the best kayaking experience.
Day 5
Petit Saguenay: Kayaking (Possible Half-Day Hike)
Today marks our last day of kayaking, providing us with one final chance to enjoy the fjord’s impressive landscapes and possibly catch a glimpse of more wildlife. If we're lucky, we might even spot a few whales in the distance. During the journey, we’ll take a break for a picnic lunch, and by late afternoon, we’ll return to our evening accommodations for a delicious BBQ.
Beluga Whales
On Day 5 of our trip, we may have the privilege of seeing beluga whales as they migrate from the St. Lawrence Seaway, swimming upstream with the rising tides to conserve energy, often accompanied by mothers and their calves. Belugas are among the smallest whale species, with adults measuring between 12-15 feet (4-5 meters) in length. At birth, they are a brownish-grey color, but by the age of 10-12, they turn white. Often called the "canaries of the sea," they are known for their rich vocalizations.
As an Arctic species, most belugas inhabit polar waters, with the St. Lawrence Seaway and Saguenay River hosting one of the southernmost populations. While the global population is estimated to be between 150,000 and 200,000, the local numbers plummeted from around 9,000 to fewer than 2,000 before a whaling ban was enacted in 1979. Fishermen once mistakenly believed that belugas were depleting Atlantic cod stocks and hunted them relentlessly, despite the fact that belugas primarily feed on smaller fish and crustaceans like clams.
Due to concerns over their declining numbers, the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park was established in 1998, protecting about 40% of the local beluga population, while the remaining 60% reside further out in the St. Lawrence and beyond the park's boundaries. Given the fragile state of their population, strict regulations govern whale watching. Boats and kayaks are prohibited from approaching within 400 meters (437 yards) of these magnificent creatures. While they might occasionally venture closer to our kayaks, this is not something we can guarantee and we always prioritize local regulations to ensure the safety of wildlife.
Note: If the weather doesn’t cooperate, we may decide to spend half the day hiking, covering about 3 miles along the beautiful beach of St. Etienne and the fjord. In this scenario, we’ll kayak either in the morning or afternoon, depending on the weather conditions.
Paddling Distance: 6 miles, or less if we choose to kayak for half a day and hike for the other half.
Hiking Distance: (if applicable): 3 miles
Day 6
L’Anse-Saint-Jean to Tadoussac: Whale Watching
Start your day by watching the sunrise, followed by a delicious breakfast before we set off for a whale-watching adventure by zodiac. You'll spend half the day exploring the eastern edge of the fjord and the Saint Lawrence estuary, a vital waterway that is rich with small fish and krill, brought in by the deep channel tides. When these tides meet the outgoing waters of the Saguenay River, they create a temporary haven for marine life, making it an ideal feeding ground for various species, including 12 types of whales! Many of these whales visit seasonally to feed, while the beluga whale calls this area home year-round. Other species you might encounter include fin, minke, right, humpback, and occasionally blue whales.
For lunch, we’ll head to the stunning Tadoussac dunes. Established in 1600, Tadoussac is the oldest French settlement still in existence in the Americas and flourished as France’s first trading post on the mainland of New France. We’ll take a leisurely stroll through the village, admiring the Old Chapel, which is the oldest wooden church in both Canada and the USA. Afterward, we’ll enjoy a meal at a local restaurant and you’ll also have the opportunity to visit the CIMM (Whale Museum) to deepen your understanding of these incredible ocean creatures.
Day 7
Return to Quebec City via Île d’Orléans
After enjoying a final breakfast in the beautiful Saguenay region, we’ll set off southward to Quebec City, taking a detour to visit Île d’Orléans in the St. Lawrence River. The island, which offers stunning views of Quebec City, is home to numerous local producers, including berry farms, maple syrup makers, and wineries. During our visit, you'll have the chance to taste some of the region's finest local products during lunch at the Goeliche restaurant and dessert at Cassis Mona et filles.
Your journey concludes in Quebec City around 4 PM. You can opt to spend an additional night or two in the city or catch an evening flight back home.
Dates & Rates
| Dates | Adult (USD) | Child (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | ||
| Aug 10, 2025 to Aug 17, 2025 | $3,990£0€0$0$0 | $3,990£0€0$0$0 |
| Aug 24, 2025 to Aug 31, 2025 | $3,990£0€0$0$0 | $3,990£0€0$0$0 |
Supplementary Information
Tier Pricing:
- 4-8 people: $3990 (based on double occupancy)
Single Supplement: An additional single supplement of $600 USD is required if you don't want to share a room with another traveler or we do not have anyone to match you with.
Groups of 8+ Travelers:
This trip is limited to 8 people. If you have a group of 9-12 and would like to charter a trip, this is possible. The price for a private charter of 9-12 is $3690/person based on double occupancy. Single supplements are limited due to the accommodations and are $600/person.
As an alternative way to explore Quebec and the Saguenay Fjord, we offer a Kayaking and Camping option as well.
Included:
- 6 nights’ accommodation
- Meals as described in itinerary
- Activities as described in the itinerary
- Access to the park
- Professional bilingual guides
- Luggage transportation
- Kayak equipment including tandem kayaks, kayak skirts, paddles, PFD’s, and safety gear
Not Included:
- Airfare to and from Quebec
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Hotel before and after the tour
- Items of a personal nature
- Gratuities
TIERED PRICING EXPLAINED: Our trips are budgeted for full or near full sign-ups which enables us to offer trips at the lowest possible price. Because of numerous fixed costs, it is more expensive to operate a trip for a small group. Therefore, on some of our trips, in order to avoid having to cancel a trip, we have a “tier-pricing” system to avoid canceling a trip with a low number of sign ups. We have found that most people also prefer this alternative to having a trip cancelled. Thus, you will note on our trip prices there may be different price for 4-9, versus 10-12, etc.
We may initially invoice you at the higher tier price, and refund the difference depending on the final group size. Trip costs quoted are based on foreign exchange rates current at the time of this printing. We reserve the right to raise the trip fee if there are exceptional cost increases beyond our control.
ALL PRICES IN US DOLLARS. We will do our best to adhere to the itineraries and trip descriptions listed on our website. However, tour itineraries or sub contractors (such as taxi, cruise boats or hotels) may change slightly due to reasons beyond our control including but not limited to Acts of God, wind, waves, inclement weather or other. We always welcome you to call us to clarify any item - often this is the best way to fully clarify expectations - call us collect or on our toll-free number. You will be sent pre-trip email with latest details within a month of your tour - it is your responsibility to check in with us prior to your trip to see if you have all the information you need. We will always do our best to provide you with the best possible tour and to fully meet your expectations to the best of our ability.
*Note on Itinerary: Approximate paddling distances listed and can vary depending on group size and weather. We will do our best to adhere to the schedule listed above. However, the itinerary may change due to reasons beyond our control such as wind, waves or inclement weather.
Reviews
FAQ & More
What's included in the tour price?
- Accommodations as described in itinerary
- Meals as described in itinerary
- Activities as described in the itinerary
- Access to the park
- Professional bilingual guides
- Luggage transportation
- Kayak equipment including tandem kayaks, kayak skirts, paddles, PFD’s, and safety gear
- Personal expenses and gratuities are not included
What is the best time of year for this trip?
Whales are present year round, but are in the highest concentrations near the end of the summer and early Autumn. We offer this trip at times that are best for viewing whales, as well as avoiding the peak tourism season.
I’ve never tried kayaking. Can I still go on this trip?
Of course! Beginners are welcome on this trip. Your guides will give you an introduction to paddling and you’ll have plenty of chance to practice. We take plenty of paddle breaks to observe the biodiversity and learn about the area from our knowledgeable guide. That said, we do recommend that you get some paddling in before your trip as kayaking uses muscles you may not know you have. Getting a little experience and building some strength will help your enjoyment of the trip.
Can I paddle a single kayak?
Due to the greater stability of tandem kayaks and the cold water temperatures in the Fjord, we only offer double kayaks on this trip.
How difficult are the hikes?
At least one hike will take place along the Fjord itself, which means that it entails quite a bit of elevation change. The trails are well-groomed with clear paths, but it can be slippery and have steep portions. We do recommend physical preparation to make the most out of your outdoor experience.
Will I have to speak French?
An English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the trip in its entirety, so you will not need to learn French prior to your trip. However, you may pick up a couple of phrases while you’re there!
What is the food like?
Quebec’s cuisine can be described as a French and Irish fusion. Some of the most notable dishes in-clude tourtieres (meat pies), baked beans, poutine (French fries with cheese curds and gravy), and maple desserts. The Saguenay Lake-Saint Jean region is famous for its cheese, wine, and salmon. If you're looking for more inspiration or ideas of what to sample while visiting Quebec, visit our Top 15 Foods to Try in Quebec Blog.
What if I have specific dietary needs?
Please indicate any allergies, dietary requirements, or medical conditions of which you’d like us to be aware on your trip application forms. We can accommodate many dietary needs on this trip.
What kind of clothing do I need?
We will provide a complete packing list for your trip.
Do you arrange international air?
We do not arrange international air travel but we do have a great air travel specialist we refer you to if you’d like.
How far in advance should I book?
There are a lot of arrangements to be made for a custom trip like this adventure and so it is helpful with our planning if you book three to eight months in advance. However, if you can’t plan that far ahead, then it’s usually not a problem to book up to about a month or two in advance. If you find yourself looking for last minute space just call us and check!
Can you recommend a reading list my upcoming Quebec tour?
Yes, we recommend the following books for your upcoming tour:
- Jacques Cartier: Exploring the St. Lawrence River by Jennifer Lackey
- Attack on Montreal : Battles of the War of 1812 by Pierre Berton
- The St. Lawrence River: History, Highway and Habitat by Janice Hamilton
- Exploring Old Quebec: Walking Tours of the Historic City by Maude Bonenfant
What do I need to know about currency in Quebec?
All currency while on the trip is in Canadian dollars.
Credit Cards
Be sure to notify your bank(s) of the dates of your travel and your destinations, so their fraud programs won’t freeze your account when a foreign transaction is made. Credit cards are widely accepted in Quebec City.
Suggestions:
- Avoid carrying a lot of cash.
- Do not take your cash out in public (mostly in tourist areas).
- In case you need to carry a lot of cash, take it in different pockets or share pockets with your friends.
- If you need to make a payment of a high amount, avoid doing so in cash, use credit cards or traveler's checks.
What should we tip our guides?
Guidelines for Gratuities:
Tipping is a very personal matter and the decision to tip and how much to give is entirely yours. The following guidelines should however be of help: -It is customary to tip service people such as waiters, laundry washers, bartenders, hotel help and anyone who goes out of their way to help (usually US $1 each).
In Québec, tipping is appropriate etiquette in restaurants, bars, taxis and hair salons. The amount, which is not included in the bill, generally represents 10% to 15% of the total bill before taxes. For quick tip calculations, Québecers normally add up both taxes (GST and QST), the sum of which equals approximately 13%.
When traveling with the group, all tips at meals that are part of the itinerary are covered as well as any tips for taxi or bus drivers.
For guides we recommend between $13 - $18 per person per day. Cash Machines or ATM's- There are plenty of cash machines around the city. Simply look for the companies’ logos on bank windows and in cash machine booths. Money Exchange- US dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist areas, but the rate of exchange will likely be poor. If you plan to make purchases in cash, we recommend exchanging money at a bank.
What can I do in Quebec City before and/or after my tour?
Please visit our Top 14 Things to Do in Quebec City blog for inspiration and ideas!
What hotel should I stay at in Quebec City before or after my tour?
Hotels in Quebec City:
If you are arriving in Quebec City prior to (or staying beyond) our tour dates, we recommend staying at the Hotel Le Concorde. It is conveniently located for meeting the group, as well as extending your stay on either side of our tour. However, there are many hotel options in Quebec, some of which are located closer to Old Quebec and many of the main tourist attractions. You may elect to stay somewhere closer to Old Quebec if you are planning to extend your stay before or after the tour. Please note: hotels before and after your tour begins are not included in your trip cost and will need to be arranged on your own.
Is there a single supplement fee for solo travelers?
Our tour costs are based on double occupancy on any included hotel nights. Solo travelers who would like their own single hotel room can pay a single supplement (see "Dates & Rates" above for the single supplement price for this tour), or can be matched up with another solo traveler of the same gender if one is available and willing to share. If we are unable to pair you with another solo traveler, we must apply the single supplement charge to cover our hotel costs.
Can I bring a drone on the trip?
Due to regulations in the Saguenay Fjord, drones can only be operated by special permit. Because of this, and the potential of impacting wildlife as well as others' experiences on our trips, we ask guests not to bring drones.
Reviews
Outstanding
My wife and I recently went on a 7-day tour of the Saguenay Fjord in Quebec. Our guide, Felix, and his colleagues were excellent. We enjoyed two and a half days of kayaking and a day and a half of hiking, as well as a whale watch and a sunset cruise. We went to two good museums and ate at some really good restaurants. Almost everything about the trip was top-notch, though the quality of some of the lodging was a little below what we'd expected. Overall, though the company is outstanding, responds to feedback, and takes care of its clients.
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