Parks Canada has introduced virtual tours of Sable Island National Park Reserve, offering a new way for people to explore the remote destination. 

Located approximately 190 kilometers off the Nova Scotia coast, Sable Island is a 42-kilometer stretch of shifting sand, home to wild horses and one of the world’s largest grey seal populations.

A limited number of tourists have been able to visit Sable Island in person due to its remote location and strict conservation measures. With the launch of two digital exhibits on Google Arts and Culture, Parks Canada aims to provide broader access while highlighting ongoing conservation efforts.

“For generations, the island and its iconic populations of wild horses and grey seals have captured the attention and hearts of people worldwide,” Parks Canada said, as reported by CTV News on February 18.

The virtual experience includes “A Day Trip to Sable Island,” which provides an immersive exploration through 360-degree footage and images, and “Fences in the Sand,” a digital exhibit showcasing research on how the island’s wild horse population influences its landscape and ecology.

“Parks Canada is excited to share new ways for people to experience Sable Island National Park Reserve’s unique landscape and learn about the important work being done to protect its dynamic ecosystem,” said Alannah Phillips, field unit superintendent for mainland Nova Scotia.

“Through innovative projects like this, more people will have the opportunity to connect with this extraordinary place,” Phillips added.

The initiative is part of Parks Canada’s broader digital outreach strategy, which includes an extensive collection of online resources and a new 360-degree flyover video of the island. The flyover provides a comprehensive aerial perspective of Sable Island, capturing its vast dunes and diverse wildlife.

“Through photos, artwork, and 360-degree footage, virtual visitors dive into this collaborative project between Parks Canada and the Sable Island Institute,” the release stated.