A cultural travel guide to the world

Etiquette & taboos

Etiquette & taboos

Understanding local customs is where a journey begins. Find the topics that matter to you and feel at ease wherever you go.

Canada

2 rules found

Essential restrictionsEntryPlace-specific guidance · Canada

Canada: cannabis cannot cross the border

Do

  • Learn the different cannabis rules in each province

Don’t

  • Carrying cannabis across the border without Health Canada authorisation

Even if bought legally in Canada, taking it out of the country without authorisation will get you arrested.

Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Canada travel advice

Cultural sensitivitiesSafetyPlace-specific guidance · Canada

Canada: keep your distance from wildlife in national parks

Do

  • Follow park rules
  • Take all rubbish and food with you so you don't attract animals

Don’t

  • Approaching wildlife, including marine animals and birds

Keeping a safe distance is a basic park rule.

Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Canada travel advice

Site-specific notes 5

Taken from the "don'ts" on each site page here. Open a site for its full etiquette and background.

Old Quebec

  • Don't assume English (greeting in French first is polite)
  • don't be loud in churches
  • watch for icy pavements in winter.

Niagara Falls

  • Don't climb over railings (the current is deadly)
  • follow instructions on the boats
  • don't step onto ice in winter.

Banff National Park

  • Don't feed or approach wildlife (elk, bears)
  • don't stray from trails
  • access to Moraine Lake at sunrise is limited and requires a booked shuttle.

Poutine

  • Don't simply call it 'Canada's national dish' (some Quebecers feel this erases its Québécois identity)

Yellowknife

  • Don't photograph Indigenous ceremonies or people without consent
  • don't walk onto lake ice that hasn't been confirmed safe
  • taking cannabis across Canada's border is illegal