At the heart of the pack: our magical night at the Lupo Wolf Sanctuary

Last September, my three children and I were lucky enough to enjoy a unique experience: sleeping in the wild with Luigi’s wolves!

Open since 2023, the Lupo Wolf Sanctuary ‘s mission is to raise awareness of the wolf and its essential role in Quebec and Canadian wildlife. The goal? To change the often negative perception of this animal by raising public awareness of its relationship with the environment and the role we, as humans, have in protecting its future.

Since the summer of 2024, the sanctuary has been offering a brand-new ready-to-camp service right next to the wolves. As camping and ready-to-camp enthusiasts, we couldn’t pass it up! Looking at the list of things to bring – sleeping bags, food and personal belongings – I see that we don’t need much, as everything is already provided on site: tent, mattress, kitchen kit, fridge… and even a coffee maker!

On arrival, we are warmly greeted by Luigi, who shows us around our site. The site is perfect: a completely private living area, sheltered from everything – even mosquitoes – thanks to a covered platform surrounded by mosquito nets. Already curious, the wolves come to observe us. Luigi takes the opportunity to explain the pack’s dynamics and the sanctuary’s mission. His passion is contagious, and he generously answers all our questions. He leaves us to settle in, telling us he’ll be back later for their meal… on the other side of the glass this time!

We settle down for supper, obviously sitting facing the enclosure, in front of our “natural screen”. While we eat, the children try to memorize the names of the wolves: Akira, Résilience-Lakota, Matsi and Shadow, each one already choosing his favorite. For my part, I love Resilience-Lakota and his playful look!

Suddenly, Luigi reappears, directly in the enclosure, followed by his pack. He comes to the window to talk to us while offering them their meal. We quickly realize that he’s an integral part of the pack, and he explains the complexity of their hierarchical relationship. Not just anyone can enter this world!