Victoria Butterfly Gardens | Victoria

Victoria Butterfly Gardens, located in Brentwood Bay, British Columbia, is a tropical indoor rainforest that spans over 12,000 square feet, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience with a diverse collection of animals and plants. It's situated about 15 minutes from downtown Victoria, near the Victoria International Airport, and just a short distance from the famous Butchart Gardens.

Key Features:

Butterflies:

The gardens are home to thousands of free-flying butterflies from around the world, including species from Central and South America, Asia, and Africa.

Visitors can walk among these butterflies as they flutter through the lush greenery, creating a mesmerizing and tranquil atmosphere.

Tropical Environment:

The garden replicates a vibrant tropical rainforest with lush vegetation, waterfalls, and vibrant flowers. The temperature is carefully maintained to mimic tropical climates, providing an ideal environment for the butterflies and other species.

Visitors feel as though they’ve stepped into a jungle, with abundant plant life, misting systems to replicate humidity, and serene pathways to explore.

Wildlife:

Besides butterflies, the gardens also host a variety of other creatures, including tropical birds, exotic fish, reptiles (such as turtles and lizards), and insects.

These species coexist within the environment, adding an educational and interactive element to the visit. You may spot birds perched in trees or even have a rare opportunity to interact with them.

Educational Experience:

The gardens offer a great opportunity for learning about the life cycle of butterflies. Visitors can observe butterflies at different stages, from eggs to larvae (caterpillars), pupas (chrysalises), and finally, adult butterflies.

The staff often provides talks and demonstrations to educate visitors on the ecological importance of butterflies and other tropical species.

Butterfly Release:

The gardens have an ongoing butterfly release program where visitors can witness the release of newly emerged butterflies into the environment, providing a magical and memorable experience.

Visitor Experience:

The gardens are designed to be fully accessible and offer a serene escape for individuals, families, and photographers. The atmosphere is calming and provides an opportunity for visitors to unwind while surrounded by natural beauty.

The experience is ideal for nature lovers, families, photographers, and those looking to explore the incredible diversity of tropical flora and fauna.

Operating Hours:

Winter Hours (September 2 - May 17):

Open daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Summer Hours (May 18 - September 1):

Monday to Wednesday: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Thursday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Note: The gardens are closed on Christmas Day.

Admission Fees:

Adults (18-64): CAD $16.50.

Seniors (65+): CAD $14.50.

Students (13-17): CAD $14.50.

Children (5-12): CAD $6.00.

Infants (0-4): Free.

They also offer discounts for military personnel, and it’s advisable to inquire about any promotions upon arrival.

Location:

Address: 1461 Benvenuto Avenue, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J5.

It's conveniently located near the Victoria International Airport, making it easy to access, and it’s only about a mile away from Butchart Gardens, another popular tourist destination in the area.

Visitor Tips:

Bring a Camera: The colorful butterflies and diverse tropical species provide fantastic photo opportunities, so don't forget your camera!

Wear Comfortable Shoes: Since the gardens can be a bit humid and the paths can be slippery, comfortable shoes are a must for walking around.

Time Your Visit: Plan to spend at least an hour or two to fully explore the gardens, as there is much to see and learn.

Additional Information:

If you're planning a visit, you can find more details or book tickets on the official website: Victoria Butterfly Gardens.

This enchanting garden offers a truly immersive, serene, and educational experience, making it a must-see attraction for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking to enjoy the beauty of the tropics.