5-Day Adventure from Montreal to Charlevoix & Saguenay

Day 1: Montreal to Charlevoix – Arrival & Kayaking Introduction

Morning: Depart from Montreal early and drive to Baie-Saint-Paul in Charlevoix. Stop for a coffee and quick stroll through the charming town center.

Afternoon: Enjoy a guided kayaking tour on the St. Lawrence River near Baie-Saint-Paul, learning basics and taking in the scenic river and mountain views.

Evening: Relax with dinner at a local bistro in Baie-Saint-Paul and stroll along the waterfront to watch the sunset over the river.

Day 2: Charlevoix – Hiking the Hautes-Gorges

Morning: Head to Parc national des Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie for a morning of hiking. Choose a trail such as the Acropole des Draveurs for breathtaking views.

Afternoon: Continue your hike or try a gentle canoe excursion on Malbaie River surrounded by rugged cliffs and dense forest.

Evening: Return to Baie-Saint-Paul and enjoy a peaceful evening at your accommodation or try some local craft beers at a nearby pub.

Day 3: Charlevoix to Saguenay – Scenic Drive & Whale Watching

Morning: Drive from Baie-Saint-Paul to Saguenay region, enjoying the scenic Charlevoix coastline along the Route du Fleuve.

Afternoon: Embark on a whale watching tour departing from Baie-Sainte-Catherine to spot belugas, minke whales, and humpbacks in the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park.

Evening: Overnight in Baie-Saint-Paul or nearby with a cozy dinner featuring local seafood specialties.

Day 4: Saguenay National Park – Hiking & Kayaking

Morning: Explore the Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay, hiking trails such as the Le Fjord or La Statue viewpoints to admire the dramatic fjord landscape.

Afternoon: Kayak on the Saguenay Fjord waters, paddling among cliffs and possibly spotting seals or other wildlife.

Evening: Have a relaxing dinner in La Baie or Chicoutimi, sampling regional dishes amidst local culture.

Day 5: Saguenay to Montreal – Leisure & Return

Morning: Spend a leisurely morning visiting Musée du Fjord in Rivière-Éternité, learning about local marine life and geography.

Afternoon: Begin your return drive to Montreal with optional stops at small towns along the way to explore local markets or cafes.

Evening: Arrive in Montreal, concluding the trip with dinner at one of the city's renowned restaurants or relaxing at your accommodation.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Kayaking Tour (Day 1): 3 hours, approx. $60 per person
• Hiking at Hautes-Gorges (Day 2): 4-5 hours, park entrance approx. $10 per person
• Canoe Excursion (Day 2): 2 hours, approx. $40 per person
• Whale Watching Tour (Day 3): 3-4 hours, approx. $90 per person
• Hiking Saguenay Fjord (Day 4): 3-4 hours, park entrance approx. $10 per person
• Kayaking Saguenay Fjord (Day 4): 2 hours, approx. $55 per person
• Musée du Fjord Visit (Day 5): 1-2 hours, admission approx. $12 per person

Total estimated cost: $277 per person (excluding accommodation, meals, and transport)

Tips

• To extend your trip, add extra days in Charlevoix to explore more hiking trails or visit the famous Le Massif de Charlevoix for mountain biking and panoramic views.
• For a shorter trip, focus on either Charlevoix or Saguenay to reduce driving time and streamline activities, prioritizing whale watching or hiking based on your preference.