Catch up on our Saskatchewan event

Last week, we were transported to the wilds of Saskatchewan to hear all about its national parks, cities, Indigenous culture and cuisine. What an incredible evening it was! All three of our speakers took us on a deep dive across the province, unearthing its unique charms and what lays in store for those planning a trip there.

We heard from local travel writer and photographer Ashlyn George, who introduced Saskatchewan to us before delving deeper into its national and provincial parks, its lakes, the birdwatching experiences you can do and sharing her own anecdotes. Then, Wanderlust's own Lyn Hughes lifted the lid on exploring the Indigenous culture of Saskatchewan, in particular Wanuskewin Heritage Park, a visit to Batoche National Historic Site to learn about the Métis people and a day tour with Pêmiska Tourism, before telling us about her stay at Dakota Dunes Resort. Then,  James Butler from tour operator Audley spoke about the province's dinosaur heritage, its unique cities and its welcoming guest ranches. James and the team at Audley can also plan your own trip to Saskatchewan and they have plenty of itinerary inspiration up their sleeve.

Plan your Saskatchewan adventure with Audley

If you missed the event or had to leave early, then don't worry. We have the full recording of the event plus the answers to your questions right here... 

Watch the full recording

Your questions answered

Is Saskatchewan good value for money?

James: I've travelled over other parts of Canada and when I visited Saskatchewan last year it struck me that both the cost of living in terms of meals, drinks and accommodation were less than in the most-visited parts of the country. When compared to those more popular parts of the country, it represents fabulous value for money.

What's the best time of year to visit the country for birdwatching?

It depends on what you want to see. If you're interested in spotting migratory birds like warblers, early October to December is the best time. Then there's a little lull before May is a great time to visit the migratory birds which flock to the offshore islands. Here, between May and June, it feels as if there is almost no space to walk, there are that many birds! It's a great time and you'll spot everything from laughing gulls to red-billed tropicbirds and more.

What's the best time of year to go?

Ashlyn: Winter is my favourite time of year here. I love the outdoors and in Saskatchewan you'll be able to go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, some winter hiking, snowmobiling. The best thing I recommend is dressing appropriately and layering up, as that will help you enjoy the winter and the cold weather even more.

James: We can arrange trips year-round to Saskatchewan and even though Audley aren't ski specialists, Saskatchewan is a great time to go in the winter to enjoy all the activities. The majority of our clients tend to go in the summer, when it's probably easier to access the national parks and spot the wildlife. The temperatures are obviously warmer so it's a popular time of year to go!

What would you recommend in regards to the length of trip?

James: Most of our clients would typically have two or three weeks to spend on a trip and I think that would enable people to have a comprehensive look at the province without missing out on too much. It can also be combined with another province so even if people aren't thinking of it as their first choice I would recommend adding a few days in Saskatchewan onto a trip around another province. However, from what we've shown, it's a province that absolutely deserves its own trip. As long as you have the time and budget you can go as long as you wish to. I'd recommend seven to 10 days, with two to three weeks as an ideal duration to explore Saskatchewan.

What's the one thing a visitor to Saskatchewan has got to do?

James: I've got to have two! Wanuskewin is amazing and unique. La Reata Ranch is incredible, too. They're very different, so go to both!

Jodi Holliday, Tourism Saskatchewan: You have to get out in nature and in particular I'd recommend visiting Grasslands National Park.

Ashlyn: I would say Prince Albert National Park. It's about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Saskatoon and it really gives you access to the most wonderful parts of nature we have in the province. You get forest, you get the plains, you get wildlife and you get all the outdoor activities. It's so traveller friendly, whether you're on your own, with your friends or with your family.

What did you have to say? 

Wow, Saskatchewan is home to over 100,000 lakes! Absolutely spectacular!

We visited Saskatchewan couple of years ago. We had an amazing time visiting all over from Cypress Hills to Saskatoon. It really is a province with something for everyone.

Thank you Ashlyn, that was inspiring! I can't wait to visit!

Thank you, that was a great presentation. I would love to go there, there's so much to see and do.

Thank you for that presentation. It was so interesting about the Indigenous people and their history.

Thank you all. Very informative and fantastic visuals.

A look inside the evening