Tourism in the Canadian province of
Alberta is centered on its famous Rocky Mountain region, which flanks it on its western border with
British Columbia and offers a host of alpine attractions. The northern area is a sparsely inhabited wilderness of forests, lakes and rivers; the provincial capital,
Edmonton, is in the central area, while in the east, on the border with
Saskatchewan, the atmosphere takes on a Wild West feel in the Badlands and prairies.
Even in the cities and towns visitors to Alberta can be sure that nature is never far away. Albertans love the outdoors and urban environments
are interspersed with plenty of lush river parks and greenbelts. In fact the capital, Edmonton, has more parkland per capita than any other North American city. An important aspect of Alberta's heritage is its aboriginal culture. Home to 43 First Nations this heritage has been preserved in 14 reserves and educational attractions, ranging from the world's largest tepee to native interpretive trails and exquisite handmade crafts.
The natural beauty of Alberta is world-renowned, so it is no surprise to discover that the province boasts five of
Canada's 13 World Heritage Sites: Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Banff-Jasper National Parks,
Wood Buffalo National Park and Dinosaur Provincial Park. Wood Buffalo National Park is Canada's largest national park and the second largest in the world.
