Last Updated on April 5, 2023
Disclaimer: Our visit was compliments of the Victoria Butterfly Gardens. However, our opinion is our own. This post also contains affiliate links. We receive a small commission (no extra charge to you) if you make a purchase through our links.
Victoria Butterfly Gardens
Have you ever seen a butterfly flitting through the air, its bright colors and delicate wings moving gracefully as it takes off on a journey? You won’t want to miss out visiting the tropical Butterfly Gardens in Victoria, BC to feel the magic of butterflies in flight.
Located in one of Canada’s most beautiful cities, this breathtaking attraction showcases thousands of butterflies that fly freely beneath an enchanting rainforest canopy. With its warm temperatures, lush foliage and idyllic ambience, the experience is one like no other – making it perfect for adults and children alike!
The lush climate-controlled oasis allows visitors to explore an incredible variety of butterflies native to Canada and beyond, while also outstretching its green wings to offer education and environmental sustainability. Whether you’re seeking the perfect day trip adventure, or simply something special with your family – discover everything that this captivating sanctuary offers!
You will be enchanted by the kaleidoscope of butterfly species fluttering through the air, and moreover, marvel at Caribbean flamingos, admire poison dart frogs, turtles and vibrant koi inhabiting in the serene ponds and streams.
To top it off, these captivating gardens are situated only a quick 5 minutes from the world-renowned Butchart Gardens in Brentwood Bay. This provides travelers with an unforgettable combination of experiences to explore!
Without a doubt, the Victoria Butterfly Gardens is one of the most fantastic activities to do in Victoria!
Butterfly Gardens In Victoria, BC
Victoria Butterfly Gardens is a one-of-a-kind chance for the entire family to explore and witness the captivating beauty of an exotic rainforest from up close.
Boasting a vast indoor area, nearly the size of three basketball courts, this sanctuary is home to thousands of vibrant and distinct tropical butterflies from up to 70 different species!
Where Is Victoria, BC?
Victoria, BC is the capital city of British Columbia and located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. It features a stunning harbor, a mild climate year-round and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. The city’s downtown area boasts classic Victorian architecture, countless art galleries and eateries, plus multiple parks and gardens that attract tourists from all over the world. Visitors to Victoria will be delighted by its picturesque waterfront, an abundance of cultural activities and a vibrant nightlife scene. Victoria has something for everyone!
When Should I Visit Victoria Butterfly Gardens?
These gardens are open year-round, so you can enjoy the beauty of the gardens anytime!
A Full-Fledged Rainforest Experience
Victoria Butterfly Gardens is much more than a place to see butterflies.
At the Butterfly Garden, you’re invited to explore a 3,500 square foot ecosystem filled with lush greenery and a profusion of vibrant butterflies. With access to over 20 species of exotic butterflies – including species found in the Philippines, Costa Rica, South East Asia, Mexico, and even Canada – visitors can experience a wide variety of colorful and unique butterflies up close.
Not only is the garden a great chance to admire Mother Nature’s wonders, but also includes knowledgeable staff, and even seasonal events. The Garden is fully dedicated to the conservation of its inhabitants by providing habitats that mimic their natural settings as closely as possible.
For couples, the Butterfly Garden offers an unmatched romantic experience – complete with a magical backdrop of fluttering butterflies!
Get ready to be shocked by the abundance of creatures that await you – from poison dart frogs, gigantic iguanas, flamingos and tropical birds soaring through the jungle. Embark on an exotic expedition through a luxuriant gardens, where you will discover a variety of tropical flowers, carnivorous plants and fruits from all over the globe!
Butterfly Nursery
At the Victoria Butterfly Gardens nursery, you can witness beautiful butterflies in every stage of their life – from an egg to a caterpillar, eventually emerging as stunning adults. The breathtaking cycle is on full display at the gardens’ window and if you’re fortunate enough, perhaps even have a chance to watch one emerge!
Insectarium
Immerse yourself in a captivating collection of bugs and invertebrates from different corners of the globe! Capture stunning, up-close photos of insects in a habitat that imitates their native home as you discover the ingenious methods insects employ to survive in their natural habitats.
How Long To Spend At Victoria Butterfly Gardens ?
For an optimal experience, plan to spend anywhere between 45 minutes and two hours. We enjoyed taking our time and easily spent two hours wandering and enjoying the nature around us. It was especially exciting when a bunch of butterflies would all flutter around us!
Victoria Butterfly Gardens Tickets
(2023)
- Adult (18-64) – $18.50 CAD
- Senior (65+) – $14.50 CAD
- Student (13-17) – $14.50 CAD
- Child (5-12) – $7.50 CAD
- Infant (0-4) – Free
Victoria Butterfly Gardens Hours
- Peak-season (July 1st – September 5th) – 10:00 am – 4:00 pm
- Off-season (September 6th – June 30th) – 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
*Last admission is one hour before closing
How To Get To Victoria Butterfly Gardens
The Victoria Butterfly Gardens is located in Central Saanich, about a 25 minute drive from downtown Victoria.
By Car from Downtown Victoria: Drive north on the Patricia Bay Highway #17, then turn off the highway at Keating Cross Road (Exit 18). Keating Cross Road changes into Benvenuto Avenue at West Saanich Road. FREE parking is available, including RVs.
By Bus: Take bus 75 or 70 from downtown Victoria to the Butterfly Garden.
Location: 1461 Benvenuto Avenue, Brentwood Bay BC
How Long Will You Need To Visit The Butterfly Gardens?
Your butterfly garden experience will be as long or short as you want it to be, depending on the amount of time you’d like to spend exploring and observing. While some visitors appreciate taking their time at the garden and spending hours there, others prefer a quick tour that lasts only around an hour. No matter what your preference is, you can be sure to make amazing memories and learn a lot about the creatures inhabiting the garden. To make sure you don’t miss out on any of the attractions, it’s best to plan your visit ahead and allocate enough time for yourself. Take your time in order to take it all in.
What To Bring On Your Visit
When you plan to visit the butterfly conservatory, make sure to bring a few essentials:
- Comfortable walking shoes/sandals
- Camera or smartphone to capture the magical moments and take home beautiful memories of your visit.
- A light jacket or sweater – as temperatures can vary slightly throughout the conservatory, and light layers will help you stay comfortable.
Victoria Butterfly Gardens Visitor Tips
Take A Peek At The Nursery Window!
The nursery window is a favorite spot to watch the metamorphosis of butterflies and stay mesmerized by their beauty during all stages of life. To make sure you don’t miss it, find the “Butterfly Nursery Window” on your map when you enter the conservatory.
Warm Your Camera Lens On The Hair Dryer Near The Entrance
With its kaleidoscope of verdant foliage, animals, insects and butterflies; you won’t be able to resist capturing some remarkable shots! Nevertheless, the moist atmosphere in the facility may cause sudden moisture build-up on your device’s lens – resulting in hazy or misty shots. To counteract this, blast your digital device’s lens with warm air from the hair dryer at the entrance. Also make sure to bring a cloth with you for extra help.
Butterfly Garden Victoria Scavenger Hunt
For those looking for a unique and interactive experience, the butterfly garden provides a fun scavenger hunt activity. Before entering the conservatory you can pick up a search sheet at the ticketing desk, or follow along on your phone, and use it to explore every corner of the facility. Kids love it!
Dress In Light Layers
It is warm inside, so chances are you will want to keep cool while wandering around the gardens. Dress in light layers so you can easily adjust to the temperature.
Victoria Butterfly Gardens
Victoria Butterfly Gardens is an enchanting and unforgettable place where you can marvel at nature’s beauty and learn about its most delicate creatures. If you’re looking for something truly special in Victoria – this is the place to be.
Go explore the magic of Victoria Butterfly Gardens. Dare to explore the wonders awaiting your discovery.
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