Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the beautiful Québec region of Canada, the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park is a true gem for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Spanning over 1,245 square kilometers, this marine park offers breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and a multitude of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.
One of the main highlights of the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park is its stunning fjord, which is the southernmost in North America. Carved by glaciers millions of years ago, the Saguenay Fjord stretches for 105 kilometers, showcasing towering cliffs, deep blue waters, and lush green forests. Whether you choose to explore the fjord by boat, kayak, or hiking along its scenic trails, you will be captivated by its sheer beauty and tranquility.
The marine park is also home to a rich marine ecosystem. With its location where the cold waters of the Labrador Current meet the warmer waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the park attracts a wide variety of marine life. Whales, including belugas, minke whales, and fin whales, can often be spotted swimming gracefully in the waters. The park is also a popular destination for birdwatching, with over 200 species of birds calling it home or using it as a migratory stopover.
For those seeking adventure, the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park offers an array of activities to get your adrenaline pumping. Scuba diving and snorkeling allow you to explore the underwater world, where you can encounter colorful fish, marine plants, and maybe even a shipwreck. Kayaking along the fjord’s calm waters is another popular choice, providing a unique perspective of the park's natural wonders. Hiking trails, such as the Sentier de la Statue, offer breathtaking views and opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.
In addition to its natural attractions, the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park is also rich in cultural heritage. The region is home to several picturesque villages where you can immerse yourself in the local way of life. Visit the charming town of Tadoussac, known for its historic buildings and as a prime whale-watching spot. Explore the First Nations community of Essipit and learn about their traditions and customs.
Québec
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Fin whale
The fin whale, often referred to as the finback whale or common rorqual, is a majestic marine giant and the second-largest species on our planet, second only to the blue whale. Belonging to the baleen whale family, these impressive creatures are characterized by their...
Mammals
Blue whale
The blue whale, a marine mammal beloning to the baleen whale suborder Mysticeti, holds the distinction of being the largest animal ever known to exist. These magnificent creatures can reach lengths of up to 29.9 meters and weigh as much as 173 tonnes.
Mammals
Beluga whale
Beluga whales, often referred to as white whales, are captivating creatures residing in the Arctic and sub-Arctic regions. They are members of the Monodontidae family and are easily identified by their distinctive all-white coloration, absence of a dorsal fin, and a...
Mammals
Long-tailed duck
The long-tailed duck, once known in North America as the oldsquaw, is a fascinating medium-sized sea duck and the sole surviving member of the Clangula genus. Initially classified under Harelda, it later became the type species of its own genus.
Birds
Velvet scoter
The Velvet Scoter, also known as the Velvet Duck, is a large sea duck native to Europe and the Palearctic region, particularly west of the Yenisey basin. Its name is rooted in ancient languages: the genus name derives from the Ancient Greek words for "black duck" while...
Birds
Québec