Cariboo, Canada Travel Guide

Discover Cariboo, a historical gem in British Columbia, Canada, where nature, adventure, and history intertwine to create an unforgettable tourist destination.

Cariboo, a stunning region in British Columbia, Canada, is a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This area is rich in history, dating back to the gold rush era in the 1860s, and is characterized by its vast landscapes, including rolling hills, dense forests, and clear lakes. One of the most alluring aspects of Cariboo is its outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and even gold panning, reminiscent of the area's historic past. The Cariboo Mountains offer breathtaking views and a chance to see wildlife such as moose, bears, and eagles in their natural habitat. For those interested in history, Barkerville Historic Town & Park is a must-visit. It is a restored gold rush town that offers a glimpse into life during the 19th century with its period buildings, reenactments, and informative displays. Additionally, the Cariboo region is home to several Indigenous communities, where visitors can learn about traditional cultures and crafts. Whether you are looking to embark on an outdoor adventure, delve into the rich history, or simply relax in a serene environment, Cariboo offers a unique and memorable experience for all who visit.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cariboo.

Visit in the summer months for the best weather and access to outdoor activities.
Bring layers of clothing as temperatures can vary, especially in the mountains.
Book accommodations in advance, especially if visiting during peak tourist season.
Don't miss out on visiting Barkerville Historic Town & Park for an authentic gold rush experience.
Carry bear spray and be aware of wildlife safety guidelines when hiking.

Explore Cariboo: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Cariboo

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Mystic Lake Casino Hotel

Discover the ultimate entertainment and relaxation experience at Mystic Lake Casino Hotel, featuring gaming, luxury accommodations, and live music in Minnesota.

4.1

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

Discover the enchanting Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, a perfect fusion of vibrant gardens and fascinating wildlife in St. Paul, Minnesota.

4.6

Omega Park

Discover Omega Park, a premier wildlife park in Montebello, Quebec, where you can encounter Canadian wildlife in a breathtaking natural setting.

4.7

Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests and Pawnee National Grassland

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests, a haven for outdoor adventures and serene natural landscapes in Colorado.

4.8

Best landmarks in Cariboo

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Assiniboine Park Zoo

Discover wildlife from around the world at Winnipeg's Assiniboine Park Zoo, a center for conservation and education.

4.5

Aikens Lake

Experience world-class fishing and luxurious wilderness escape at Aikens Lake, Manitoba, accessible only by float plane in Atikaki Provincial Park.

5.0

Caddy Lake

Explore Manitoba's Caddy Lake: Canoe through historic tunnels, fish in pristine waters, and discover Whiteshell Provincial Park's beauty.

4.7

Cranberry Lakes

Discover Manitoba's Cranberry Lakes: A pristine fishing destination with abundant walleye, lake trout, and northern pike in a stunning wilderness setting.

3.0

Best restaurants in Cariboo

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Caribou Restaurant + Wine Bar

Discover exquisite dining at Caribou Restaurant + Wine Bar in Thunder Bay—where every meal is an unforgettable experience paired with exceptional wines.

4.7

Best bars in Cariboo

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Microbrasserie Pit Caribou - Pub Montréal

Explore the vibrant flavors of local craft beer at Microbrasserie Pit Caribou, a cozy brewpub in the heart of Montréal's Plateau-Mont-Royal.

4.6

Vikings Grille Topeka

Experience the vibrant and hearty flavors of Vikings Grille in Topeka, where every meal is a celebration of good food and great company.

4.4

Le P'tit Caribou

Experience the delightful flavors and cozy ambiance of Le P'tit Caribou, a must-visit bistro in the heart of Mont-Tremblant.

4.2

Caribou/Munroes Island Provincial Park

Explore breathtaking beaches and rich wildlife at Caribou/Munroes Island Provincial Park, a serene retreat in Nova Scotia's stunning landscape.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Cariboo

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Lula Lounge

Lula Lounge: A Cultural Haven of Dance, Music, and Exquisite Pan-Latin Cuisine in Toronto's Nightlife Scene.

4.1

NEST

Experience the vibrant nightlife at NEST Toronto - where delicious dining meets exhilarating dance and entertainment.

3.9

Stereo

Discover the heart of Montreal's nightlife at Stereo, a vibrant night club with an unparalleled sound system and electrifying atmosphere.

4.1

El Convento Rico

Experience the heartbeat of Toronto's nightlife at El Convento Rico, a top nightclub with lively music, dancing, and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.1

Best shops in Cariboo

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Renaud-Bray

Discover the delightful Renaud-Bray in Quebec City, your one-stop shop for books, toys, and unique gifts for everyone.

4.5

Coborn's Grocery Store New Prague

Explore local delights at Coborn's Grocery Store in New Prague – your one-stop shop for fresh produce, local brews, and Minnesota flavors.

4.3

Claw Antler & Hide Co

Explore Claw Antler & Hide Co for unique Native American crafts, jewelry, and hats in Custer, South Dakota, capturing the spirit of the West.

4.9

Hannaford

Explore Hannaford in Caribou, Maine, your go-to grocery store for fresh, local products and a taste of community spirit.

4.4

Explore Cariboo on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Cariboo, mapped for you.

Cariboo Essentials

Cariboo is located in the central interior of British Columbia, Canada. The nearest major airport is Prince George Airport (YXS), which is about 120 kilometers away from Quesnel, one of the key towns in the Cariboo region. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to reach Cariboo. Alternatively, you can drive from Vancouver, which is about an 8-hour drive via Highway 97. There are also bus services, such as BC Bus North, that connect major towns in the region.
Transportation within Cariboo is mainly by car. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility and convenience. The major towns such as Quesnel and Williams Lake have local taxi services. Public transportation options are limited, so having your own vehicle will make it easier to explore the scenic landscapes and historic sites. There are also bike rentals available in some towns for those who prefer cycling.
The official currency in Canada is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. ATMs are available in major towns like Quesnel and Williams Lake. It’s a good idea to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions.
Cariboo is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables in your car and always lock your vehicle. Be cautious when hiking or exploring remote areas, as wildlife encounters can occur. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it’s always wise to stay vigilant, particularly at night.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Major towns like Quesnel and Williams Lake have hospitals and medical facilities. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the larger towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Always carry a basic first-aid kit if you plan to engage in outdoor activities.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can change rapidly. Avoid wearing heavy perfumes when hiking, as they can attract insects. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions; some areas may have Indigenous cultural significance. Public Transport: Do be prepared for limited public transport options and plan your travel accordingly. Don't expect frequent services like in urban areas. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' Canadians are generally polite and welcoming. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like bannock and fresh trout. Don't leave a tip less than 15% in restaurants, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Cariboo like a local, visit the local farmers' markets where you can buy fresh produce and artisan goods. Engage with locals who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region's history and culture. Don't miss visiting historic sites like Barkerville Historic Town & Park to get a glimpse of the Gold Rush era. For outdoor enthusiasts, exploring the many hiking trails and lakes is a must. Fishing, canoeing, and wildlife spotting are popular activities.

When is the best time to visit Cariboo?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Cariboo

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Cariboo. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHello
  [Heh-loh]
- GoodbyeGoodbye
  [Guhd-bye]
- YesYes
  [Yes]
- NoNo
  [No]
- Please/You're welcomePlease
  [Pleez]
- Thank youThank you
  [Thangk yoo]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me
  [Eks-kyoos mee]
- How are you?How are you?
  [How ar yoo?]
- Fine. And you?Fine. And you?
  [Fine. And yoo?]
- Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
  [Do yoo speek Ing-lish?]
- I don't understandI don't understand
  [I dont un-der-stand]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI'd like to see the menu, please
  [I'd lyk to see the men-yoo, pleez]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I dont eet meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheerz!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI would like to pay, please
  [I wud lyk to pay, pleez]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Go away!
  [Go aw-ay!]
- Call the Police!Call the Police!
  [Call the Po-lees!]
- Call a doctor!Call a doctor!
  [Call a dok-tor!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm ill
  [I'm il]
- I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
  [I'd lyk to buy...]
- I'm just lookingI'm just looking
  [I'm just luk-ing]
- How much is it?How much is it?
  [How much iz it?]
- That's too expensiveThat's too expensive
  [Thats too ik-spen-siv]
- Can you lower the price?Can you lower the price?
  [Can yoo loh-er the pryce?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What tym iz it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [Its wun o-clock]
- Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [Half past (ten)]
- MorningMorning
  [Morn-ing]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Af-ter-noon]
- EveningEvening
  [Eve-ning]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [To-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [To-mor-row]
- 11
  [One]
- 22
  [Two]
- 33
  [Three]
- 44
  [Four]
- 55
  [Five]
- 66
  [Six]
- 77
  [Seven]
- 88
  [Eight]
- 99
  [Nine]
- 1010
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [Whe-re's a/the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the ad-dress?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can yoo show mee (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A tik-et (to ....)]

History of Cariboo

The Cariboo Gold Rush, which began in 1860, was one of the most significant events in the history of British Columbia. Miners flocked to the area in search of gold, transforming the region and leading to the establishment of towns like Barkerville. The gold rush brought not only wealth but also infrastructure, including the construction of the Cariboo Wagon Road, a key route that connected the goldfields to the rest of the province.
Founded in 1862, Barkerville quickly became the epicenter of the Cariboo Gold Rush. Named after Billy Barker, whose gold strike sparked the rush, the town grew rapidly. Today, Barkerville is a well-preserved heritage site, offering visitors a glimpse into the past with restored buildings, period actors, and interactive exhibits that depict life during the gold rush era.
Long before the gold rush, the Cariboo region was home to various Indigenous groups, including the Secwepemc, Tsilhqot'in, and Dakelh (Carrier) peoples. These communities have rich cultural traditions and deep connections to the land, which they have inhabited for thousands of years. The impact of European settlement and the gold rush significantly altered their way of life, but their cultural heritage remains vibrant in the region today.
Constructed between 1862 and 1865, the Cariboo Wagon Road was an engineering marvel of its time. Stretching from Yale to Barkerville, this 650-kilometer route was built to facilitate the transport of supplies and gold. It played a crucial role in the development of the Cariboo region and is considered a key factor in the economic growth of British Columbia during the 19th century.
Quesnel, located at the confluence of the Fraser and Quesnel Rivers, served as a critical supply and transportation hub during the Cariboo Gold Rush. The town's strategic location made it a gateway to the goldfields, and it prospered as miners passed through on their way to Barkerville and other mining areas. Today, Quesnel retains its historical charm with several heritage sites and museums.
After the gold rush waned, the Cariboo region shifted its focus to other industries such as forestry, agriculture, and ranching. The establishment of the Pacific Great Eastern Railway (later BC Rail) in the early 20th century further stimulated economic growth by improving access to markets and resources. This period of diversification helped stabilize the region’s economy and laid the foundation for its modern development.