Canada with Danielle and Cassie

Dates

Jul 12–17, 2024

Group Size

10–21 Travelers

Duration

6 days, 5 nights

Activity Level

Adventure

About This Trip

Explore the rugged beauty of Quebec’s wilderness on this six-day adventure through the UNESCO-designated World Biosphere Reserve, Charlevoix. Hike in two national parks, scale a via ferrata for incredible views over North America’s only fjord, and get up close and personal with whales on a kayaking trip on the St. Lawrence River. All the while visit quintessential Quebecois towns, where the French language thrives and local charm is everywhere. Please Note: This is a participatory camping trip, in which all travelers will be assisting in setting up camp and cooking meals. Guides will teach you the best methods for quick set up and take down of tents and will lead the cooking, providing clear instructions and oversight. If you’ve never set up camp or cooked outdoors before, this is the perfect opportunity to learn under expert supervision!
$2,395USD

Meet Your Host

National Park After Dark
National Park After Dark

Cassie and Danielle here, hosts of the podcast National Park After Dark. Whether you’re traveling with us or the NPAD community, we are here to support you and your relationship with adventure. Our hope is that you create new memories throughout the world in a safe and exciting way while forming lifelong friendships along the way!

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Trip Activities

  • Mont-du-Lac-des-Cygnes Hike in Grands-Jardins National Park

  • Hiking Chemin Pinède in Saguenay Fjord National Park

  • Via Ferrata over Baie Éternité

  • Scenic Drive to Tadoussac

  • Whale Watching Zodiac Excursion

  • Scenic Drive through the Charlevoix Region

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in tents

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

  • Arrival airport transfer (until 6 pm on first day)

  • Departure airport transfer (morning of last day)

  • All camping equipment (except sleeping bag and pillow)

Not Included

  • International flights

  • Food and alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas and travel insurance

  • Airport transfers outside of designated times

  • Tips for Guides

  • Sleeping bag and pillow

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Bienvenue and welcome to Canada! Your guide will meet you and your group at the airport and transfer you to your campground near Grands-Jardins National Park. This evening you’ll set up camp as a group and cook and eat your first meal together.

Airport Transfer

2 Hours

TrovaTrip will provide one transfer from Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB), between 1pm and 2 pm. Please arrive by 2pm. Exact transfer time within this window will be determined closer to your arrival based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers arriving outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own arrangements to meet the group at the campsite. Stops for bathrooms will be made along the way as needed.

dinner

7:00 PM - Welcome dinner included at camp. Your meal this evening will consist of a variety of grilled foods such as salmon, sausages, chicken, haloumi, as well as a couple sides and dessert. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Camping at Grands-Jardins Provincial Park, or similar

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Pieds-des-Monts campground - Unserviced individual site with on-site Fire Pit.

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Day 2

Info

It's your first full day in the Quebec wilderness, and you'll be spending it exploring the rugged expanse of Grands-Jardins National Park. When visitors first visited the area they were awestruck by the carpets of lichen and arctic vegetation, giving the area the french name meaning Great Gardens. With a full day in the park, you'll hit the famous Mont-du-Lac-des-Cygnes Trail or Mountain of Swan Lake.

breakfast

8:00 AM - Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

Mont-du-Lac-des-Cygnes Hike in Grands-Jardins National Park

4 Hours

10:00 AM - Today you'll tackle the Mont-du-Lac-des-Cygnes or the Mountain of Swan Lake. The mountain's summit is at the rim of the Charlevoix Meteorite Crater which gives the greater region its name. After a lively hike through the lichen and moss the region is known for, you'll reach the summit with impressive views of Lac-du-Cygnes and the Laurentian Mountains. Elevation: 1575ft gain / Distance: 5.5 miles / Duration: 3-4 hours / Difficulty: Moderate

lunch

Included pack lunch on the hike. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches or wraps, and a variety of sides like salads, dips with veggies, crackers, fruits, trail mix, granola bars, etc.

dinner

6:00 PM - Included dinner at camp. Examples of dinners include but are not limited to tacos, pastas, gyros, curries, burgers, and stir fries as a main with a side salad and dessert included. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Camping at Grands-Jardins Provincial Park, or similar

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Pieds-des-Monts campground - Unserviced individual site with on-site Fire Pit.

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Day 3

Info

Another day, another breathtaking national park. After a short drive north through the Unesco recognized Charlevoix Bio-reserve you'll reach Baie Éternité, the entrance to Saguenay Fjord National Park. The only true fjord in North America, it's lined on both sides with quaint Franco-Canadian towns, and is highly reminiscent of Europe with its mix of culture and nature. You'll spend the full day hiking in the park on two iconic trails. Both trails offer great views of the fjord.

breakfast

7:00 AM - Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

lunch

Included pack lunch on the hike. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches or wraps, and a variety of sides like salads, dips with veggies, crackers, fruits, trail mix, granola bars, etc.

Hiking Chemin Pinède in Saguenay Fjord National Park

3 Hours

Following an exceptional pine tree path, you'll hike along the fjord corridor. The cliffs are on one side, and the pine forest on the other. At the end of the trail, you'll reach a mountain top with a beautiful panoramic view of the Saguenay River and the marine park. Elevation: 636ft gain / Distance: 4.6 miles / Duration: 3hrs / Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

dinner

7:00 PM - Included dinner at camp. Examples of dinners include but are not limited to tacos, pastas, gyros, curries, burgers, and stir fries as a main with a side salad and dessert included. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Camping at Saguenay Fjord Provincial Park, or similar

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Baie Eternité campground - Unserviced individual site with on-site Fire Pit.

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Day 4

Info

Wake up and get pumped for an incredible adrenaline packed morning! After breakfast you’ll transfer to the check in point for the Via Ferrata. You’ll clip into your harness and begin your exhilarating climb up the rock face of the fjord and above Saguenay. After you return back to ground level you’ll have lunch as your adrenaline settles. You’ll then take a scenic drive to Tadoussac where you’ll stop at a few historic villages along the way. Today for the Via Ferrata you’ll want to wear sportswear, long soft trousers (jeans are not allowed), closed toed shoes with a rigid sole, fingerless gloves (if you have them), and bring a water bottle, a day pack, sunscreen, mosquito repellant, sunglasses, rain jacket, and a camera. If you have long hair it should be tied back. Please do not wear any jewelry

breakfast

6:30 AM - Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

Via Ferrata over Baie Éternité

4 Hours 30 Mins

8:30 AM - After a quick 10 minute transfer you'll gear up for your climb! Clip in and climb metal steps bolted into the rock as you head for the summit. This 4hr course will take you up nearly 1,000 feet as you reach higher above the fjord to the land of the falcons. Turn around for incredible views of the bay. Please Note: due to local regulations around safety, each departure can only get 8 people. In case the group size is over 8 people, there will be sub-groups with staggered departures. You will be provided with a harness, a lanyard, and a helmet. No prior experience is necessary. Disclaimer: Minimum height required is 4’3”, with a weight limit of 240 lbs. Maximum waist size for the harness is 43 inches (110 cm).

lunch

Included pack lunch on the hike. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches or wraps, and a variety of sides like salads, dips with veggies, crackers, fruits, trail mix, granola bars, etc.

Scenic Drive to Tadoussac

3 Hours

2:00 PM - On this drive along the fjord, you'll be stopping in quirky, picturesque, and historic villages thought to be the most beautiful in Quebec. Possible stops include Anse StJean, Petit Saguenay, Sagard Falls, St Siméon, and Tadoussac.

dinner

7:00 PM - Included dinner at camp. Examples of dinners include but are not limited to tacos, pastas, gyros, curries, burgers, and stir fries as a main with a side salad and dessert included. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Camping near Tadoussac, or similar

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Overnight at a campsite near Tadoussac

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Day 5

Info

Today you'll get up and close with the largest mammals in the world on a whale-watching zodiac excursion. You will embark on the "Grand Confort" Hybrid Zodiac to observe the whales on the St. Lawrence River where it meets the Gulf of St. Lawrence. After the excursion, you'll head on a scenic drive through Charlevoix as you make your way back towards Quebec City and l'Île-d'Orléans, stopping in quaint towns and seeing quintessential French Canadian sights.

breakfast

6:30 AM - Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

Whale Watching Zodiac Excursion

2 Hours

9:00 AM - Embark on a zodiac excursion on the St Lawrence River to see a dazzling array of massive whales. Humpbacks, Beluga, and Fin Whales all ply the waters and come up for air beside kayakers.

lunch

Included picnic lunch. Picnic lunches usually consist of sandwiches, wraps, a variety of salads, dips with veggies, crackers, fruits, trail mix, granola bars, etc.

Scenic Drive through the Charlevoix Region

4 Hours

1:00 PM - Your onward journey today will take you past the picturesque villages and towns that dot St. Lawrence. You'll be able to stop and stretch your legs, take photos, and practice your french in the local shops. Stops include Malbaie, Saint Iréné, Les Éboulements, and Baie-Saint-Paul, a charming village known for its art galleries and quaint boutiques.

dinner

6:00 PM - Enjoy a farewell dinner in the Middle Ages, in an atmosphere reminiscent of the New France era dating back to the 17th century. Everything is decorated as if you were in a Medieval Inn, from table setting to staff costumes. The menu is based on cooking techniques and spice blends of those days. A real royal feast is waiting for you!

Camping on Île d'Orléans, or similar

(or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/1

Camping Orleans campground - Unserviced individual site with on-site Fire Pit.

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Day 6

Info

It’s time to say goodbye for now! After breakfast, you’ll be transported to the airport with our warmest wishes for happiness and safety wherever your travels may lead.

breakfast

7:30 AM - Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea

Airport Transfer

1 Hour

TrovaTrip will provide 1 transfer to Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) on the last day. Please book your flights after 2pm. Exact transfer time will be determined closer to the trip departure based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers departing outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own transfer arrangements to the airport.

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Physical Activity Level:Adventure

These trips are great if you want to get moving. These itineraries may include scenic hikes and/or exercise. A moderate level of fitness is required to enjoy these trips.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.
$2,395USD
Jul 12–17, 2024
6 days
Trip Closed

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

How does a Trova Trip actually work? Who's involved?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your trip to life:

  • The Host is your community leader—the person who brings the group together, sets the vibe, and curates the overall experience. They may lead a workshop or activity during the trip, but their main focus is connection and community, not logistics.
  • The Operator is the certified, independent company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle the logistics like accommodations, transportation, Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to ensure a high-quality travel experience.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform that powers it all. We connect Hosts with trusted Operators, provide the tools to design and manage trips, and support Travelers before and during their journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host shapes the experience and brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Does my Host make money from hosting?

TL;DR: Sometimes! Many Hosts earn income from leading trips, but not always.

Every trip on Trova is uniquely shaped by the Host. They choose the destination, curate the itinerary, and rally their community to come along for the adventure. It’s a big effort (and a rewarding one, or so we hear!).

A Host’s earnings depend on the trip price they set and how many Travelers join. Trova provides the tools, support, and platform—but ultimately, income isn’t guaranteed.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.