Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the guides and what are their qualifications?
Our guides are experienced kayakers, extensively trained with skills certification from the British Canoe Union (BCU) or Canadian Recreational Canoe Association (CRCA), certification in Wilderness First Aid, and CPR. As well our guides have many years of experience as outdoor leaders who can identify and interpret the flora, fauna and geology that surrounds you.

How many people are on the average tour?
Camping tours, never more than 8 persons, all other tours never more than 10. Usually the average is 6.

What skill level is required for my trip?;
Relax, most of our tours are for novice and intermediate paddlers, with little or no experience necessary, provided you are in good health. Tours 7 ( Pukaskwa) and Tour 9 (Sibley to Rossport) require previous experience. All tours longer than one day will include a mini course on basic paddle strokes, wet exits, and rescue techniques. As well, the pace is relaxed and easy with frequent short stops.

What kind of food should I expect on the camping trips?
Forget the diet. We provide nutritious, carefully prepared, full meals, catering to the vegetarian or non-vegetarian, with plenty of fresh meat, fruits, vegetables and snacks. If you have any dietary needs please let us know ahead of time. On some designated tours you must supply your own food and do your own cooking, but supply all of the camp cookery, stoves and fuel.

How do I get to the starting point of my tour?
When you book a tour we will be happy to provide detailed travel directions, as well as assist in any travel arrangements with flights, car rentals or shuttles.

What equipment do I need to bring?
An equipment list is provided on the website for each tour, as well as an itinerary.

Are there bears in the area?
Canada is blessed with a plethora of wildlife to enjoy, including caribou, moose, deer, fox, wolf, and bears. There is no need to worry if you are respectful and maintain safe camping practices. Caribou Expeditions encourages the continuous practice of "Leave No Trace" whenever you enjoy the outdoors.

How's the weather?
Paddling in northern begins when the ice breaks in April and continues until the snow flies in December. Temperatures average about 70F in the summer months. The evenings can be somewhat cool, and of course weather can be unpredictable. June and July are the calmest months but water temperature is cold. By August the water in the bays is usually warm enough to swim, so bring your bathing suit, but don't forget your fleece! The weather in the St Lawrence area of Quebec is similar.

How's the fishing?
Great! Please don't forget you need a non-resident fishing license. Fees may be purchased at park headquarters or many retail outlets with a Visa, MasterCard, or cash.

I don't have any camping equipment. What do you supply?
We supply all camping equipment, and fully equipped kayaks. A detailed equipment list for each tour is found on this web site, in addition to items we suggest you bring, such as sleeping bag and personal clothing.

What if for some reason I must cancel?
A full refund is given, less a $30 administration fee, provided you notify us in writing, at least 30 days prior to the trip.

Do I have to share a tent with someone I don't know ?
Of course not! If you come as a couple you are provided with a three person tent (Marmot or M.E.C.) If you are by yourself, then we give you your own two- person tent (minus the second person!)

Is there and extra charge if I am alone ?
Only on lodge-based trips where we have costed the trips on double occupancy; in that case, the single room occupancy charge is listed with the tour.

I'm concerned about my personal safety.?
Don't be. We will provide you with a wilderness adventure that is exciting, safe and educational. Our guides are thoroughly trained and experienced.

Can I get a gift certificate for my friend?
Caribou Expeditions will be happy to assist you in giving the gift of travel to your friends.

How soon do I have to pay, and what method of payment do you accept?
A deposit of $150/person is required to hold a place. We provide a full refund, less a $30/person administration fee, for cancelations at least thirty days prior to tour; otherwise, no refund is provided. For the whale watching tour, the accommodations balance is due 60 days prior to trip. Payment can be made by credit card (telephone or on-line registration), cheque (US cheques accepted) or money order. Note: taxes are included in all prices.

Are there any discounts that I should be aware of?
10% early booking, 10% former clients, 15% for groups greater than five. Please note these discounts are non-additive.

Do you give a discount for bringing personal gear or kayaks?
We provide a daily discount of $20 CDN per sea kayak. The kayak must be fully equipped to meet all coast guard regulations. We don’t provide discounts for camping equipment, except on the wilderness canoe river trips. We provide excellent quality Marmot or MEC tents, and thermarests. If you would like to bring your own equipment, please feel free to do so, but we would appreciate knowing ahead of time, as well as the make and length of your kayak.