Spot Canada's Northern Lights in the Wild Yukon – 5 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Vancouver

Welcome to Canada! Touchdown in Vancouver, western Canada's coastal metropolis, where the mountains meet the sea. Head out to explore the compact city center, wandering Gastown's cobblestone streets and trendy restaurants. You can soak up some history at Vanier Park, home to Vancouver's top museums, or immerse yourself in nature at Stanley Park, the city's lush ocean-front heart that spans 1.5 square miles (4 sq km).

An optional hop-on, hop-off bus tour is a great way to get orientated. A local guide will provide an insightful perspective on the city's history as you pass through the vibrant downtown and its must-see highlights. The sightseeing route passes through Canada Place, Coal Harbour, Chinatown, Stanley Park, the Entertainment District, and more. You can choose where to get off and how much time to spend at each attraction.

End the day in vibrant Chinatown, one of the best areas for dining. Established in the 1890s, it's the third biggest in North America after New York and San Francisco. Rich in history and architecture, the area covers six blocks filled with Asian specialty stores, dim sum restaurants, apothecaries, and a burst of modern retail thanks to some young entrepreneurs who have set up shop in the neighborhood.

Day 2: Fly to Whitehorse, City Tour & Aurora Viewing

Today starts with a flight to Whitehorse, where your adventure in Canada's wild Yukon region begins. Check into your hotel and then set out to wander the city, which is set on the Yukon River and accessed by the scenic Alaska and Klondike Highways, making it a launchpad for wilderness excursions. Traditionally a mining and forestry hub, you can explore a smattering of historic pioneer buildings downtown, as well as coffee shops and eateries. Stroll along the banks of the Yukon and take time to relax.

To delve deeper into the city, take a tour of Whitehorse, beginning on Main Street. You'll stop at the White Pass and Yukon Route train depot, a log church, and peruse the city's visitor reception center. Other highlights include a trip to the restored 1937 SS Klondike, one of the largest stern-wheelers to operate on the Yukon River. Learn about the Yukon's history at the MacBride Museum, and take in views of the Whitehorse Fish Ladder, which passes the town's hydroelectric plant.

Tonight, you'll get your first chance to see the spectacular phenomenon of the aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights. You'll be picked up at 10 pm for the five-hour tour, heading to an ideal viewing location. Although sightings aren't guaranteed, the lights are visible all year round, especially on dark, clear nights from August to April. If they appear, you'll watch the dancing green and red lights twisting through the black sky—an otherworldly sight.

Day 3: Yukon Wildlife Preserve Tour & Aurora Viewing

Visit the Yukon Wildlife Preserve today to experience the region's astounding natural wonders. Set just 18 miles (30 km) north of Whitehorse, the reserve sprawls over 250 acres (100 ha), which you can explore on a bus tour with an expert guide. Look out for animals in this protected haven, including arctic fox, Canada lynx, deer and elk, wood bison, and moose. You can also visit the reserve's wildlife research and rehabilitation center, where injured animals are cared for and re-released. Relax and have dinner before a second evening out, searching for the northern lights.

Day 4: Half-Day Dogsledding & Aurora Viewing

Enjoy an exciting dogsledding excursion today. Meet the dogs and your guide, a musher, at the kennel outside Whitehorse. Watch as the dogs are harnessed, then learn how to drive and steer your sled along well-groomed forest trails. You'll run your own dog team for around two hours, dashing through the snow, surrounded by remote forest scenery. Although you'll be holding the reins, you'll always have a guide close at hand should you need help. End the day with another northern lights viewing tour.

Day 5: Depart Whitehorse

Today your Canada adventure comes to an end. Depending on your flight time, take a final walk around Whitehorse this morning before your onward flight. Safe travels!

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