Prince Edward Island National Park

Prince Edward Island National Park is a protected area in Canada.

Prince Edward Island National Park at a Glance

Location
Atlantic Canada & Eastern Arctic, Canada, North America
Coordinates
46.457430, -63.063500
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
June to September for wildlife viewing. Polar bear season October to November in Churchill.

Getting to Prince Edward Island National Park

Nearest airport: Charlottetown Airport (YYG), 19 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aéroport international Roméo LeBlanc / Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport (YQM), 129 km away.

Weather & Climate in Prince Edward Island National Park

The warmest temperatures in Prince Edward Island National Park occur in July, averaging 20.4°C (up to 24.4°C). The coolest conditions are in February at -5.0°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in April with average rainfall of 74.5mm. Average humidity: 75.9%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: -4.0°C (rainfall: 131.6mm)
  • February: -5.0°C (rainfall: 103.3mm)
  • March: -1.3°C (rainfall: 109.5mm)
  • April: 3.9°C (rainfall: 74.5mm)
  • May: 9.4°C (rainfall: 80.3mm)
  • June: 16.3°C (rainfall: 120.4mm)
  • July: 20.4°C (rainfall: 109.5mm)
  • August: 20.1°C (rainfall: 99.6mm)
  • September: 16.5°C (rainfall: 100.2mm)
  • October: 11.2°C (rainfall: 86.9mm)
  • November: 5.0°C (rainfall: 131.4mm)
  • December: 0.3°C (rainfall: 117.0mm)

Best Time to Visit Prince Edward Island National Park

The best months to visit Prince Edward Island National Park are April, May, June, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Poor, temperature -3.95°C, rainfall 131.6mm, sunshine 3.4 hrs, humidity 79.9%
  • February: Poor, temperature -5.02°C, rainfall 103.3mm, sunshine 5.6 hrs, humidity 77.7%
  • March: Poor, temperature -1.28°C, rainfall 109.5mm, sunshine 6.6 hrs, humidity 77.7%
  • April: Good, temperature 3.88°C, rainfall 74.5mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 75.9%
  • May: Good, temperature 9.39°C, rainfall 80.3mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 73.8%
  • June: Good, temperature 16.33°C, rainfall 120.4mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 77%
  • July: Good, temperature 20.41°C, rainfall 109.5mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 78.3%
  • August: Good, temperature 20.15°C, rainfall 99.6mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 77.6%
  • September: Good, temperature 16.53°C, rainfall 100.2mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 78.4%
  • October: Poor, temperature 11.24°C, rainfall 86.9mm, sunshine 6.8 hrs, humidity 77.9%
  • November: Poor, temperature 4.96°C, rainfall 131.4mm, sunshine 4.4 hrs, humidity 76.4%
  • December: Poor, temperature 0.31°C, rainfall 117mm, sunshine 3.4 hrs, humidity 77.7%

Wildlife in Prince Edward Island National Park

Home to 17 recorded species including 8 birds of prey, 4 waterbirds, 4 iconic birds, 1 predators.

Recommended Packing List for Prince Edward Island National Park

Based on average temperature of 7.7°C, typical conditions, humidity 77%.

  • Heavy layers & thermal clothing - temperatures around 8°C require warm insulation
  • Warm hat & gloves - critical for early morning game drives
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Prince Edward Island National Park

6 safari lodges available.

mid-range

budget

luxury

Similar Parks in Atlantic Canada & Eastern Arctic

Visitor Tips - Prince Edward Island National Park

We love the dramatic contrast of the red sandstone cliffs against the turquoise waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The coastal trails offer breathtaking views and abundant opportunities for birdwatching, making it a photographer's paradise.

Gate Times

Park gates are generally open from 8:00 AM to sunset, with specific hours varying by season and location. During peak summer months, access might extend later. A Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required for entry, which can be purchased online in advance or at park entry stations. We recommend booking your pass ahead of time, especially if visiting during July or August, to avoid queues.

Tipping

Tipping is not customary for park rangers or guides in Prince Edward Island National Park as it is a national park system. For any private tour operators or boat captains you might engage outside the park for specific activities like whale watching or deep sea fishing, a tip of 10-15% for excellent service is appreciated, though not mandatory.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Canada

Travel advisory for Canada

Prince Edward Island National Park FAQs

When is the best time to visit Prince Edward Island National Park for wildlife viewing and enjoying its natural beauty?

The ideal time to visit is from late spring to early fall (May-October), when the weather is pleasant for exploring beaches, dunes, and trails. During these months, you can spot various migratory birds, red foxes, and marine life like seals along the coastline. The park offers stunning coastal scenery, including red sandstone cliffs and expansive sandy beaches.

What unique 'safari' experiences can I expect at Prince Edward Island National Park, given its low crowding level?

While not a traditional African safari, the park offers exceptional opportunities for nature immersion and wildlife observation in a tranquil setting. You can enjoy peaceful birdwatching, explore diverse ecosystems from salt marshes to forests, and often encounter local wildlife like foxes and shorebirds without large crowds. Its 1/5 crowding level ensures a serene experience.

What are the typical entry fees and practical considerations for visiting Prince Edward Island National Park?

Entry to Prince Edward Island National Park requires a Parks Canada pass, which can be purchased daily or annually, with specific rates for individuals, families, or groups. It's advisable to check the official Parks Canada website for current fees and operating hours before your visit. Facilities like washrooms, picnic areas, and interpretive centers are available throughout the park.

What safety precautions should I take regarding wildlife and the natural environment in Prince Edward Island National Park?

While wildlife encounters are generally safe, it's crucial to maintain a respectful distance from all animals, especially red foxes and nesting birds. Stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems like dunes and avoid disturbing wildlife habitats. Always be aware of weather changes and ocean conditions if exploring beaches or water activities.

Beyond general wildlife, are there any specific or unique species I should look out for in Prince Edward Island National Park?

Keep an eye out for the endangered Piping Plover, a small shorebird that nests on the park's beaches; visitors are asked to respect their protected nesting areas. You might also spot various raptors, waterfowl, and even harbor seals basking on distant sandbars. The park's unique coastal ecosystems support a rich diversity of plant and animal life.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.