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Khutzeymateen
BIODIVERSITY
This refuge is home to about 40 to 60 grizzly bears that permanently live here and depend on the valley for their survival. In addition to grizzlies, we also have a chance to spot black bears, wolves, eagles, otters, humpback whales, and even orcas. It is also home to more than 100 species of birds.
SANCTUARY
The area is completely uninhabitable for humans, which ensures that grizzly bears live in a pristine environment without human interference. Being here feels truly wild, which is extremely rare and unlike most other places on the planet. It’s one of the true standout arguments of the area.
THE JOURNEY
To get to the sanctuary, we will take a short charter flight on a seaplane that will drop us off at the accommodation (the Afterglow I). During transit, we will be able to enjoy BC’s breathtaking landscapes with it’s stunning natural waterfalls, mountains covered in clouds, the ocean, and more. Once on board, we will begin our private expedition on a fully equipped vessel. We will use a motorized inflatable boat to access the most remote areas, allowing us to observe these majestic animals up close and safely.
ITINERARY
DAY 1
Arrival and dinner
Arrival at the hotel in Prince Rupert, where we will check in. After settling in, we will head into town to enjoy a meal or dinner at one of the local restaurants. We will also stop by the supermarket in case anyone needs to buy anything before the expedition.
DAY 2
Departure to the charter and breakfast on board
We depart early for the charter to begin our expedition. During the journey, we will enjoy breakfast on board as we head toward Khutzeymateen Inlet. The rest of the day will be dedicated to exploring the area in search of bears and other wildlife.
DAYS 3 & 4
Exploration and wildlife observation
We will spend the days on the inflatable boat exploring the shoreline, observing a variety of animals such as grizzly and black bears, seals, coastal wolves, birds, otters, and more.
At sunset, we will return to the vessel to enjoy a hot drink and dinner while sharing the day’s experiences.
DAY 5
Farewell morning and return
After breakfast on board, we will prepare for the return to Prince Rupert.
Depending on conditions, we may have one last opportunity to observe wildlife before taking the return flight by seaplane.
ACCOMODATION
VESSEL
Upon arrival, each person will be assigned a bed. There are three double cabins with single beds and one cabin with a double (queen) bed. If you are traveling solo, you may share a cabin with another person of the same gender.
Afterglow I is a 60-foot vessel built in 1972. On the main deck, there is a large lounge, a kitchen, and a wheelhouse with large windows to enjoy the views. Below deck, at the bow, there are two bathrooms and 3.5 cabins accommodating up to seven guests. At the stern, there is a third bathroom and two double cabins - one for the crew and one for guests. Afterglow I has been updated to meet the highest safety standards of Transport Canada.
INSTRUCTORS
KAI MEYER
Kai is a wildlife filmmaker and former marine biologist. With extensive experience working on high-profile nature documentaries including Netflix’s 4x Emmy® Award-winning ‘Island of the Sea Wolves’, he knows how to read animal behavior and position teams for truly outstanding wildlife encounters. On this expedition, Kai will guide the group from a filmmaker’s perspective, ensuring we are always in the right place to safely observe and photograph the bears and other wildlife - in the same way a wildlife documentary crew would.
FRIDA ASPANI
Frida Aspani was recognized among Mexico’s Top 30 Photographers in 2023. As a National Geographic collaborator she brings a deep passion for capturing wildlife, landscapes, and humans in nature, guiding participants to see and photograph the natural world with both creativity and respect. On this expedition, Frida will help you frame and capture stunning images of both, animals and landscapes, sharing her expertise to ensure every moment is photographed thoughtfully and beautifully.
INCLUDED
NOT INCLUDED
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One night of accommodation in Prince Rupert
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Meals / dinner in Prince Rupert
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Transportation from the hotel to the charter
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Services of a fully qualified captain / bear guide and cook / crew
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Photography sessions, including instruction on the basics of photography and editing
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Round-trip air charter from Prince Rupert to the Khutzeymateen Valley
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All meals on board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner on the vessel)
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Transportation from the charter to the airport
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Tips for the crew (optional and/or discretionary, but always appreciated!)
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Transportation and flights from your home to Prince Rupert, BC
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Personal belongings and equipment as per the “Clothing and Gear List”
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Excess baggage fees
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Any additional personal expenses due to weather conditions, logistical delays, or delayed departures of charter or scheduled aircraft
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