Have an active Canadian adventure
Activity lovers who organise an adventure in Canada will not be disappointed they decided to head north of the US border when they discover how much there is to do here. Not only will you be able to travel across the country, but you'll also have plenty of fun.
Gap years are all about visiting new places but equally important is the chance to have new experiences along the way. That's why it is vital you carefully consider where it is you would like to go, so that each day you will be able to both see and do something different.
Canada is home to bustling cities with lively bars and nightclubs, as well as national parks where the views are breathtaking and wild animals roam. Read on to find out more about a few of the adventures you can have while you're here.
Ride a zip-line through a forest
Whistler is a great place to visit no matter what the time of year as there is always something going on at this popular resort. The town in British Columbia is a popular destination among thrillseeking tourists who come here so they can indulge in the range of activities on offer.
The town is nestled in the beautiful Coast Mountains, which make for an epic sight and has helped secure its leading position among visitors. During your stay, you can ski, snowboard, climb or even play golf - depending on what time you're here.
However, perhaps the best way to take full advantage of your stunning surroundings is to go on a hike or mountain bike ride. If you're able to hire a set of wheels while you're here, you should do it, so you can ride along a singe-track path that feels as though it is at the top of the world.
Yet perhaps the most thrilling experience you can have while you're here is that of zip-lining through the treetops in a forest. In Whistler, the zip wires have been set up so that not only does your adrenalin rise, but you also get to admire some truly fantastic views as you race down them. You will be able to glide over a huge creek before speeding through a forest that is centuries old.
All you have to do is clip your harness to the cable and leap from platform to platform - a truly thrilling way to get around. Don't be surprised if you spot some local wildlife as you zip overhead!
Go caving
Another popular stop on any Canadian tour is Vancouver Island. The region is renowned for its scenery, abundance of activities and welcoming atmosphere - so you will certainly enjoy the days you spend here.
Situated on the west coast of Canada, the region is actually made up of one large and several small islands that are home to lush forests and peaceful beaches. As a result, it is no surprise the resort is a particular hit with outdoor lovers.
Again, you can spend time cycling and hiking while you're here, exploring a landscape that consists of mountains, glaciers and sparkling rivers, as well as meadows covered in wildflowers where animals large and small roam.
However, while there's plenty above ground worthy of your attention, going underground is likely to be the most thrilling experience you have here. You will get kitted up before plunging into the darkness of a huge cave system that includes an underground waterfall. The walls glitter with crystals, adding light to the shadows.
Go whale-spotting
Canada is home to some of the world's largest animals, like bears and moose. However, few creatures are as awe-inspiring in size as the whale and you'll be able to go in search of the majestic marine animal if you stop in Tofino.
The district is well-known for its rich and varied wildlife, making it something of a paradise for any eco-minded travellers. You can book a boat cruise that will take you out to the ideal viewing point for spotting grey whales and seeing them bask in the water, flipping their tails and creating an enormous splash is an image you'll never forget - so have your camera at the ready!
Other animals you could catch sight of include playful sea lions, seals and porpoises, while killer whales are also known to frequent these waters. Of course, not all the native wildlife is to be found in the sea, so it's also worth going on a tour on dry land so you can look out for bears and puffins.
