Bonaventure Island Percé
Witness one of the world's largest Northern Gannet colonies and sail past the iconic Percé Rock.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gannets return for breeding season.
Bonaventure Island Percé
Best Time
Gannets return for breeding season.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness one of the world's largest Northern Gannet colonies and sail past the iconic Percé Rock.
"This is a gem and a must visit. Experience nature!"
Binoculars are a must! 🔭
Bring binoculars to get the best views of the gannets and other wildlife on the island.
Pack water & snacks 💧
While there are snack bars, bringing your own water and snacks is recommended for the hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Northern Gannet Colony
Bonaventure Island
Witness one of the world's largest and most accessible Northern Gannet colonies. A truly breathtaking spectacle of nature.
+1
Percé Rock Cruise
Offshore from Percé
Sail around the iconic Percé Rock, a majestic natural arch and symbol of the Gaspé Peninsula.
Island Hiking Trails
Bonaventure Island
Explore scenic trails offering stunning coastal views and opportunities to spot seals and diverse birdlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Boat Tour in Advance
Prepare for the Island Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Binoculars are a must! 🔭
Bring binoculars to get the best views of the gannets and other wildlife on the island.
Pack water & snacks 💧
While there are snack bars, bringing your own water and snacks is recommended for the hike.
Embrace the unique smell! 👃
Don't be deterred by the strong, fishy smell from the gannet colony; it's part of the authentic experience!
Wear comfy shoes 👟
The island trails are manageable, but comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying your hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
Binoculars are a must! 🔭
Bring binoculars to get the best views of the gannets and other wildlife on the island.
Pack water & snacks 💧
While there are snack bars, bringing your own water and snacks is recommended for the hike.
Embrace the unique smell! 👃
Don't be deterred by the strong, fishy smell from the gannet colony; it's part of the authentic experience!
Wear comfy shoes 👟
The island trails are manageable, but comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying your hike.
Check cruise schedules 🚢
Boat tours are the only way to reach the island; confirm departure times and book in advance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bonaventure Island for its incredible wildlife, particularly the massive Northern Gannet colony, and the scenic beauty of the island and surrounding Percé Rock. The hikes are described as enjoyable and accessible, offering a unique nature experience. Some minor drawbacks include the strong smell from the bird colony and the need to bring ample water and snacks.
"Excellent boat ride with tour of the rocks and Bonaventure Island. Saw many birds and some seals. The island is beautiful and the hikes are not difficult. Plan on least 2 hours for the hike.
Had a super fun visit! Restaurant at the boat drop off and a snack bar by the birds.
Make sure you have plenty of water for the hike."
Trish Sousa
"Best decision I have ever made. This is why I prefer visiting animals in their natural habitat as opposed to zoos and caged destinations. Hike is very much enjoyable with breath taking views of the horizon, the forest, and most enjoyably the birds in their natural place of living. Perfect for all ages."
Ronel Alvarez
"Loved our hike on the island, very simple hike, loved to see the Gannets nesting and see their chick, even if they are definitely not cute at that stage 🤣. Don’t be scared of fishy ammonia smell. The smell is worth the experience. Bring binoculars it’s worth it!"
Lb. rhamnosus “Cheesy”
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The only way to reach Bonaventure Island is by taking a boat tour from Percé. Several companies operate these tours, offering views of Percé Rock before landing on the island. It's advisable to book your cruise in advance, especially during peak season.
Percé is most commonly reached by car, as it's part of the scenic Gaspé Peninsula road trip. The nearest major airport is in Gaspé (YGP), but driving from Quebec City or Montreal is a popular option for experiencing the region.
Yes, there are parking areas available near the wharf in Percé where the boat tours depart. It's a good idea to arrive a bit early to find convenient parking, especially during busy periods.
No, boat tours are the exclusive method of access to Bonaventure Island. These tours are essential for experiencing the island's natural wonders and the iconic Percé Rock.
The boat trip typically includes a tour around Percé Rock and then proceeds to Bonaventure Island. The total time for the cruise and visit to the island can vary, but plan for at least 2-3 hours for the entire experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The cost for the boat tour is approximately $45 CAD for adults and $25 CAD for children aged 6 and up. Prices can vary slightly between operators.
Yes, in addition to the boat tour fee, there is an entrance fee for Parc national de l'Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé, managed by SEPAQ. This fee contributes to the park's conservation efforts.
Tickets for the boat tours can be purchased at offices located on Rue du Quai in Percé. It's recommended to buy them in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Boat tours typically operate from April to October, coinciding with the period when the Northern Gannets are present. It's best to check the specific schedules of the tour operators as they can vary.
While same-day tickets might be available, it's highly recommended to book your boat tour in advance to guarantee your spot, especially during the busy summer months.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Bonaventure Island has several hiking trails, totaling about 15 km. The 'Sentier de Colonies' is a popular 45-minute to 1-hour hike to the gannet colonies, while 'Sentier Chemin-du-Roy' takes about 1.5-2 hours. The trails are generally well-maintained and offer beautiful views.
To fully enjoy the boat tour and a hike on the island, plan for at least 2 to 3 hours. Some visitors spend longer to explore multiple trails and observe the wildlife.
The island is famous for its massive colony of Northern Gannets, numbering over 100,000 birds. You can also spot seals, razorbills, murres, and other seabirds.
Yes, there are restrooms located along the trails, though their condition may vary. It's advisable to use facilities before heading to the island if possible.
Yes, the island is considered suitable for all ages. The hikes are not overly strenuous, and the opportunity to see wildlife in its natural habitat is engaging for everyone.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a restaurant at the boat drop-off point on the island and a snack bar near the bird colonies. However, many visitors prefer to bring their own snacks and water.
The snack bar typically offers basic refreshments like drinks and snacks. It's not a full-service restaurant, so don't expect extensive meal options.
Absolutely! Bringing your own water and snacks is highly recommended, as it allows you to stay hydrated and fueled during your hike without relying solely on the limited options available.
While not explicitly designated as picnic areas, visitors often find scenic spots along the trails or near the shore to enjoy their packed lunches. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Percé offers a variety of restaurants and cafes, ranging from casual eateries to more formal dining. You can find seafood specialties and other local Quebecois cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
The trails leading to the Northern Gannet colony offer incredible opportunities for bird photography. The coastal viewpoints also provide stunning vistas of the ocean and Percé Rock.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing detailed shots of the birds. A wide-angle lens is great for landscape shots of the island and the coastline. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards!
Yes, the trails allow you to get relatively close to the gannet colony, making it possible to capture impressive photos. However, always maintain a respectful distance from the birds and their nests.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting conditions for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows. This can also coincide with more active wildlife.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and the natural environment. It's best to check the official SEPAQ regulations for Parc national de l'Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé before your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing binoculars for the kids to enhance their wildlife viewing. The sheer scale of the bird colony is awe-inspiring for all ages, and it provides a fantastic opportunity to teach children about nature and conservation in a hands-on way. The boat tour also offers great views of Percé Rock, adding another layer of wonder to the outing.
🚶 Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Bring your best camera gear, especially a telephoto lens, to capture the dynamic behavior of the gannets and other seabirds. The coastal views are spectacular, and the chance to see seals adds to the wildlife encounters. Remember to respect the environment by staying on marked trails and packing out everything you pack in.
📸 Photographers
+1Key photographic subjects include the sheer density of the gannet colony, the intricate details of the birds, and the vast ocean vistas. Early morning and late afternoon light can create magical shots. Don't forget a good telephoto lens for the birds and a wide-angle lens for the landscapes. Be prepared for the unique atmospheric conditions, including sea spray and the distinct scent of the colony.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Marvel of the Northern Gannets
+2The gannets are known for their impressive diving abilities, plunging into the ocean at high speeds to catch fish. Visitors can observe this behavior from the designated trails. The unique, somewhat pungent smell of the colony, often described as ammonia-like, is a testament to the sheer number of birds and is an unforgettable sensory experience.
The breeding season, from April to October, is the best time to witness the full activity of the colony, including nesting, chick-rearing, and the adults' foraging trips. The accessibility of this colony, allowing visitors to walk among them (at a respectful distance), is what truly sets Bonaventure Island apart.
Navigating the Island's Trails
For a more comprehensive experience, consider combining trails like 'Sentier de Colonies' with 'Sentier Chemin-du-Roy.' This longer loop can take around 3 hours to complete and offers a more immersive exploration of the island, including stunning coastal views and opportunities to spot seals lounging on the rocks. The trails are generally easy to moderate, making them accessible for most visitors.
Remember to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring plenty of water, as amenities on the trails are limited. While there are restrooms, it's wise to use facilities before heading out. The trails are designed to minimize disturbance to the wildlife, so sticking to the marked paths is crucial for conservation.
The Iconic Percé Rock
The best way to appreciate the scale and grandeur of Percé Rock is from the water. Boat tours departing from Percé wharf provide an up-close perspective, allowing you to sail around the rock and witness its intricate details. These cruises often include a stop at Bonaventure Island, making it a combined excursion that showcases the region's highlights.
Beyond its visual appeal, Percé Rock holds historical and geological significance. It's a vital habitat for various seabirds and has played a role in the region's maritime history. Seeing it emerge from the mist or bathed in the golden light of sunset is a truly unforgettable experience.
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