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Island · Percé, Quebec
Bonaventure Island
Island in front of Percé with one of the largest colonies of black-legged kittiwakes in the world — more than 100,000 birds — reached by trails from the boat pier.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Bonaventure Island
Bonaventure Island lies about 3 km off Percé’s coast and is part of Parc national de l’Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé, managed by Sépaq. Until the mid-20th century it had residents—fishermen who lived in wooden houses, some of which have been preserved and are open to visitors.
The main reason to visit is the kittiwake colony of over 100,000 birds, located on the cliffs facing the open sea. The island’s trails lead to the edge of the colony, where you can observe up close, behind a low fence, the birds’ comings and goings, nests and chicks. There are also colonies of razorbills, black-legged kittiwakes and puffins on the cliffs.
Boats depart from Percé’s pier, circle the rock and the island’s coast, and land at the pier. The return can be on a different boat at the chosen time. The park usually opens from late May to mid-October; park entry is paid separately from the boat; check the current schedule and fees.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day, including the crossing and the trail to the colony.
Best time
From June to September, when the birds are in the colony; July and August to see the chicks.
How to get there
By the boats that leave Percé’s pier, a crossing of about 20 minutes plus the time to circle the rock. From landing to the colony, trails of around 3 to 5 km.
Tip
Choose the shortest trail on the way in and one of the longer trails on the return: they pass the old residents’ houses.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Bonaventure Island
How many razorbills live on Bonaventure Island?
More than 100,000 birds during the breeding season, one of the largest colonies in the world.
How long should you stay on Bonaventure Island?
Half a day, including the boat crossing and the trail to the colony.
When does Bonaventure Island Park open?
It usually opens from late May to mid-October. Check the exact dates.