Victoria's history, victoria historical tour guide, bus tours

Danda's Guided Tours are legendary . . . simply the best!

If you're looking for a unique angle on Victoria's history, Danda's tours are a must. Her energy and enthusiasm are contagious - and her knowledge of historical Victoria is second to none.

Whether it's a walking tour or bus tour, you'll be informed and entertained by Danda Humphreys - Victoria's favourite storyteller-guide!

All tours are custom-designed, according to your group's mobility needs and special-interest areas.

Danda with a group from the US on top of Mt. Tolmie

I've had the pleasure in the past few weeks of narrating a harbour tour (what a GREAT way to view our city from a new angle!), and of working with a conference group from the US ... We stopped on a local mountain-top and took a photo - there we are, in the sunlight, and that's me front and center in the red vest!

Walking Tour 1: "Victoria: A Lady With A Past"

An entertaining introduction to Victoria's earliest history, and some of our more colourful pioneers.

Starts at the Information Centre. Describes the importance of the harbour as the site for a Hudson's Bay settlement. Retraces the perimeters of old Fort Victoria, and tells stories about the fascinating people who lived and worked nearby.

Length: 60 - 75 minutes (circle tour)

Walking Tour 2: "Victoria's Old Town and Chinatown"

A peek at Victoria's past, when goldminers' boots clattered along alleyways between saloons, brothels, bawdy houses and the opium dens of Chinatown.

Starts at the Maritime Museum in Bastion Square. Follows historic alleyways through Old Town and Chinatown. Describes how the discovery of gold vaulted Victoria from a fur-trading post to a provincial capital.

Length: 75 - 90 minutes

Walking Tour 3: "The World of Small"

The life and times of Canada's national treasure, legendary artist and writer Emily Carr.

Starts at Carr House. This fascinating glimpse of artist Emily Carr's neighbourhood includes dwellings where she lived, worked and died, and the monument to her memory. (A visit to Carr House sets the scene for this neighbourhood walking tour. Call 382-8029 for information.)

Length: 60 minutes (Including Carr House: add 30 - 45 minutes)

Walking Tour 4: "The People of Pioneer Square"

A visit to The Old Burying Ground - Victoria's first cemetery.

Day or evening tour through Pioneer Square on Quadra Street. Victoria's first official cemetery (established 1855) contains the remains of more than 1000 early residents, including sea captains, surgeons, saloon-keepers, fugitives from the Fraser River goldfields . . . maybe even a ghost or two!

Length: 60 minutes

The perfect complement to your walking tour - tea, coffee, lunch, brunch or dinner at your favourite restaurant or tea room!

Bus Tour: (step-on) "Victoria: A City for All Seasons"

The City Circle Tour.

This intriguing historical and modern view of our city follows an interesting 20 mile scenic route through and around the city. Includes James Bay, the historic Inner Harbour, Old Town, Chinatown, Antique Row, Rockland and Richmond residential areas, the University of Victoria campus, Mt. Tolmie, Uplands, Beach Drive, Beacon Hill Park, Mile "O" and Ogden Point.

There are three photo and leg-stretch/lunch/tea stops along the way.

Length: 1 1/2 - 3 hours, depending on time available for the group.

See what others have to say about Danda's tours!

"What an education! We have a whole new appreciation of the history of this area."
   Elisabeth, Vernon, Jon and Shari Neppe
   Seattle, WA.

"A most entertaining description of the beginnings of Victoria. This has been the highlight of our visit!"
   George and Elizabeth Mellick,
   Queensland, Australia

"Really enjoyed the coach trip to Chemainus and Duncan. You have such an easy, entertaining style. Best day of our whole vacation!"
   C. and L. Rikkinen
   Richmond, BC

"Great bus ride. You packed so many interesting stories into one short hour!"
   Karin Towery
   Hayden Lake, Idaho

"Emily Carr really came to life . . . You sure know how to tell a good story!"
   A. L. Finkel
   Powell River, BC

Danda is also available for entertaining and informative talks at meetings, seminars and conferences.
(Check the guest speaker page for more information!)

Contact Danda today for more information.
Your group may qualify for a special Group Tour Rate!
Book Your Tour Today!

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