When I think of Manitoba, I think of fields of bright yellow flowers, forests with endless lakes, and that time a beluga whale bumped my kayak then gave me a cheeky grin. Manitoba is easily Canada’s most underrated province, but secretly holds a lot of hidden treasures and beautiful locations.
Many Canadians react with surprise when I tell them that I spent several weeks in Manitoba and loved it. It’s often overshadowed by the gorgeous coastline of British Columbia, or the mountains of Alberta. It doesn’t get the love it deserves, and yet the smaller crowds there are part of what makes it so wonderful.
Manitoba boasts thousands of lakes; gorgeous provincial parks; the city of Winnipeg with a cool, hipster vibe; polar bears; and beluga whales. Plus, as a solo traveler, I found it to have some of the friendliest people in Canada, which is saying a lot since Canadians are already friendly people!
These were my favorite experiences during my three weeks in Manitoba as a solo traveler. I was able to drive to most of these spots in my rental car, which I picked up in Winnipeg.
Nopiming Provincial Park
Picture private islands, camping in the wilderness, and saying hi to several friendly beavers as they pass. Located less than three hours northeast of Winnipeg, this provincial park is easy to access and is the perfect place for a paddling adventure.
I joined a multi-day canoeing adventure with Twin River Travel and absolutely adored every gorgeous sunset and sunrise, as well as camping and swimming on islands with nobody else around. It’s the perfect summertime activity, though I imagine it’s gorgeous when the lakes thaw and spring arrives, too!