Traveling through Manitoba offers more than stunning landscapes; it also unlocks a window to the prehistoric world beneath our feet. The Full-Day Fossil Dig Tour at the Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre provides a rare chance to unearth fossils from the age of the dinosaurs, making it a standout experience for those interested in natural history and adventure.
What makes this tour particularly appealing is the combination of guided education, hands-on excavation, and access to fascinating marine reptiles like mosasaurs and plesiosaurs. The tour’s manageable 7-hour format makes it perfect for a day trip, especially if you’re seeking a meaningful, educational activity that’s both fun and insightful.
One potential consideration is the physical aspect — you’ll need comfortable hiking shoes, long pants, and be prepared for some dirt and outdoor conditions. For travelers with young children or mobility concerns, this might require some planning, as the tour isn’t suitable for children under five or wheelchair users.
This experience is ideal for families, fossil enthusiasts, and curious travelers eager to step back 80 million years and see Manitoba’s ancient marine life with their own eyes.
Good To Know
- Authentic Fossil Excavation: You get to dig and uncover fossils yourself, guided by knowledgeable instructors.
- Unique Marine Reptiles Collection: The Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre houses Canada’s largest marine reptile fossils, including the Guinness World Record-holding Tylosaurus.
- Educational and Fun: The tour combines a museum tour, excavation, and a behind-the-scenes look at fossil restoration and research.
- All-Inclusive Day: Lunch, transportation, and all necessary equipment are included, offering great value for a full-day experience.
- Small Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
- Flexible Booking: Reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
A Deep Dive into the Fossil Dig Experience
Starting at the Museum: Setting the Stage
The day begins at the Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre in Morden, where you’ll get a quick introduction to what you’re about to experience. Expect a tour of their extensive collection, including the notable Tylosaurus pembinensis, which impresses visitors with its size and historical significance. This initial overview helps you understand the importance of Manitoba’s fossils and sets expectations for the excavation ahead.
The Journey to the Dig Site
After the museum tour, you’ll hop into comfortable transportation, heading to the manitoba Escarpment, where the sedimentary layers from the Cretaceous period hold the fossils. The transfer is straightforward, with the drive offering a chance to ask questions and learn from your guide about the geology and history of the area. The landscape around the site is often described as scenic, with some reviews noting the stunning views of the escarpment — a fitting backdrop for a fossil hunt.
The Fossil Dig: Hands-On Discovery
Once at the site, the real fun begins. You’ll be supplied with tools and guidance from expert instructors eager to share their knowledge. This is where you can expect to uncover bones and fossils from creatures like giant mosasaurs, plesiosaurs, sharks, and enormous turtles, all buried during the late Cretaceous period.
According to reviews, the guides are very knowledgeable, helping even first-timers navigate the sediment and identify potential finds. The experience is not just about finding fossils but understanding the context of their environment millions of years ago. Some guests mention that they were surprised by how much they uncovered during the session, feeling like real paleontologists for a day.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyLunch and Relaxation
A included lunch from a local restaurant offers a chance to refuel and share discoveries with other enthusiasts. The setting at the Field & Research Station provides a comfortable space to relax, review fossils, and discuss the day’s highlights.
Afternoon Fossil Excavation
In the afternoon, you’ll return to the fossil-rich sediment to continue uncovering bones from a previously located skeleton. This stage allows for deeper engagement, as you can dig around, carefully remove fossils, and even piece together parts of the skeleton with guidance. Guests often remark that this hands-on activity makes the experience feel authentic and rewarding.
Back to the Museum: Seeing the Results
Return trips bring you back to the museum for a tour of the Collections Room and Laboratory. Here, you’ll see how fossils are cleaned, restored, and prepared for display. The museum staff also demonstrate 3D scanning and printing, giving a glimpse into modern fossil research. Meeting Bruce, the Tylosaurus pembinensis, gives a concrete example of the fossils’ significance — it’s the biggest mosasaur on public display in the world and the official emblem of Manitoba.
The Practical Side: What You Need to Know
Transportation & Group Size
Your transportation is included, and the tours are conducted in small groups of up to 10 participants. This ensures a more personalized experience and plenty of time for questions and interaction.
Duration & Timing
The tour lasts about 7 hours, usually scheduled in the morning, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing. Be sure to arrive on time, as late arrivals are not refunded — punctuality really matters when coordinating transportation and activities.
Cost & Value
At $130 per person, the tour is reasonably priced considering the comprehensive experience — museum visits, fossil digs, lunch, and expert guidance. The inclusion of transportation and all necessary equipment means you don’t need to worry about extra costs on the day.
What to Bring
Prepare for outdoor activity with comfortable shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, and clothes suitable for dirt and weather variations. Since the site involves some physical work, long pants and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Don’t forget personal medication and a signed waiver.
Suitability
While the tour is designed to be engaging and educational, it’s not suitable for children under five, wheelchair users, or those with insect allergies. Participants need to be able to handle some physical activity, including walking and digging.
Why This Tour Stands Out
Knowledgeable Guides: Multiple reviews praise the guides for their expertise and friendliness, making participants feel comfortable and well-informed. The guides’ ability to explain complex fossil details in accessible language enhances the experience.
Authentic Fossil Experience: Unlike simply viewing fossils in a museum, this tour gives you hands-on access to uncovering actual bones, which significantly boosts engagement and learning.
Unique Collection: The Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre’s collection is unmatched in Canada, especially for marine reptiles. Seeing Guinness World Record-holding mosasaurs up close adds a wow factor that appeals to kids and adults alike.
Beautiful Setting: The escarpment scenery combined with the fossil find site offers a striking backdrop, elevating the experience beyond just digging.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?
This full-day fossil dig is perfect for those with a curiosity for natural history who want more than just a museum visit. It offers a rare chance to actively participate in the world of paleontology, guided by experts who make learning fun and accessible. The inclusion of lunch, transportation, and all equipment makes it a great value for a full day of adventure.
While it isn’t suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues, for families with older kids, fossil enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a memorable, hands-on activity, this tour delivers. It’s a genuine blend of education, adventure, and discovery that turns Manitoba’s prehistoric past into an unforgettable experience.
FAQ
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a museum visit, a fossil dig at the site, transportation between the museum and dig site, lunch and beverages, and guided instruction.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, usually scheduled in the morning, providing a full yet manageable day of activity.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 5 are not able to participate, and kids 12 and under must be accompanied by a paying adult. It’s best suited for kids old enough to handle outdoor activities.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, long pants, clothes that can get dirty, personal medication, and signed waiver forms are recommended.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing some flexibility with your plans.
Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly if mobility is a concern.
In the end, this fossil dig tour offers an engaging way to connect with Manitoba’s prehistoric past, guided by passionate experts in an environment that’s both educational and fun. It’s a must for fossil lovers and families eager to turn back time and unearth history firsthand.
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