Day 1
Vancouver
Upon arrival at Vancouver International Airport, make your way independently to your hotel. Following a check-in with your tour director, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.
Overnight: Sheraton Wall Centre or similar
Day 2
Vancouver
Enjoy breakfast alongside your fellow travellers as you get better acquainted before embarking on a morning sightseeing adventure of Vancouver. Highlights of the tour encompass Stanley Park, English Bay, Gastown, Chinatown, the Capilano Suspension Bridge, and numerous other attractions. The afternoon presents an opportunity for independent exploration or leisurely relaxation.
Overnight: Sheraton Wall Centre or similar (Canadian breakfast included)
Day 3
Vancouver - Victoria
The day begins with a departure from Vancouver and a ferry crossing over the picturesque Strait of Georgia to Victoria. Upon arrival, delve into the exquisite Butchart Gardens, renowned for its spectacular floral exhibits. You'll have plenty of time to wander through these magnificent gardens. The rest of the day is yours to explore the city at your own pace or opt for an optional breathtaking floatplane sightseeing tour over downtown Victoria and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Overnight: Royal Scot Inn/ Best Western Plus Carlton Plaza or similar (Canadian breakfast included)
Day 4
Victoria
Today is a day for you to leisurely discover more of the wonders this coastal city has to offer. Immerse yourself in the city's natural beauty with a leisurely stroll through the trails and over the charming stone bridges of Beacon Hill Park. Indulge in waterfront exploration or consider treating yourself to an optional elegant high tea experience at the renowned Fairmont Empress Hotel.
Overnight: Royal Scot Inn/ Best Western Plus Carlton Plaza or similar (Canadian breakfast included)
Day 5
Victoria – Campbell River
Today's itinerary promises a rich experience of both contemporary and historical British Columbia culture as we journey along the picturesque coastline of Vancouver Island. Delve into the province's ancient heritage with visits to Chemainus, renowned for its breathtaking indigenous murals, and the town of Duncan. Later in the day, arrive at the serene coastal town of Campbell River, offering a blend of natural beauty and local charm.
Overnight: Coast Discovery Inn or similar (Continental breakfast included)
Day 6
Campbell River – Port Hardy
Continuing your journey north, follow the road as it veers inland for a stretch before ultimately reaching Port Hardy. An exciting highlight of the day includes an enthralling whale watching and marine wildlife tour in the picturesque Telegraph Cove. Following this adventure, take the opportunity to unwind at the hotel or venture out to independently explore the charms of this delightful seaside town.
Please note: Passengers are advised to bring an overnight bag as luggage will be loaded onto the coach on the evening of day 6 (Port Hardy) and will not be available to them again until they check into their hotel on Day 8 (Smithers).
Overnight: Kwa’Lilas Hotel or similar (Continental breakfast included)
Day 7
Port Hardy – Prince Rupert via Inside Passage Cruise on BC Ferries
This morning, we embark on an unforgettable journey aboard a magnificent BC Ferries ship for a full-day cruise along the stunning coast of British Columbia, bound for the inlet community of Prince Rupert. Renowned for its stunning beauty, the famous Inside Passage stands as one of Canada's most spectacular waterways, boasting the rugged shorelines of the Pacific Northwest.
Overnight: Pacific Inn or similar
Day 8
Prince Rupert – Smithers
Your adventure continues as you venture into the captivating British Columbia interior, tracing the scenic Yellowhead Highway that winds its way eastward along the picturesque Skeena River Valley. En route, we will pause for a captivating tour of 'Ksan Indian Village, a faithful recreation of an ancient traditional community belonging to the Gitxsan First Nation peoples. Upon reaching Smithers, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Overnight: Prestige Hudson Bay Lodge or similar (Continental breakfast included)
Day 9
Smithers – Prince George
Journey eastward along the enchanting Yellowhead Highway reveals Canada's lush, forested landscapes and rugged terrains. Delight in a visit to Fort St. James National Historic Park, where you can immerse yourself in the history of the fur trade era. Later in the day, find respite in Prince George, nestled at the edge of British Columbia's Cariboo Region, offering a tranquil setting for exploration and relaxation.
Overnight: Sandman Hotel Prince George or similar (Canadian breakfast included)
Day 10
Prince George – Jasper
Today's journey takes you to the majestic heights of the Rockies as you make your way toward the provincial border of Alberta, pausing at the Mount Robson Viewpoint for a chance to behold the splendid sight of the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. You’ll then venture into the renowned national parks that have made the province famous. In the enchanting town of Jasper, prepare to be enthralled by the celestial display at the Jasper Planetarium, a captivating experience under the starry night sky.
Overnight: Marmot Lodge/ Tonquin Inn or similar (Canadian breakfast included)
Day 11
Jasper
Today you'll have the opportunity to explore Jasper and partake in an optional rafting trip on the Athabasca River, guided by experienced professionals who will lead the group through both exhilarating rapids and serene stretches of water. Alternatively, for a more relaxed experience, consider indulging in the local culinary delights on an optional food tour, exploring the vibrant flavours offered by the area's charming restaurants. Otherwise enjoy the day at your own pace through Jasper.
Overnight: Marmot Lodge/ Tonquin Inn or similar (Canadian breakfast included)
Day 12
Jasper – Banff
Today's expedition through Jasper and Banff National Parks is set to be one of the standout experiences of your tour. The southward journey along the renowned Icefields Parkway unveils a rugged wilderness enveloped by awe-inspiring mountain ranges. At the Columbia Icefield, you'll board a specially designed Ice Explorer to traverse the ancient surface of the Athabasca Glacier. Following this exhilarating adventure, visit the striking landscapes of Lake Louise, recognized as one of the most photographed lakes in Canada, before arriving in Banff.
Overnight: Banff Ptarmigan Inn or Banff Caribou Lodge or similar (Canadian breakfast included)
Day 13
Banff
Embark on a comprehensive tour of the stunning Banff region, which was established as Canada's inaugural national park in 1885 to preserve its natural hot springs. You'll have the option to take in the breathtaking views of the eastern ranges of the Rocky Mountains with a Helicopter Sightseeing Tour. Alternatively, opt for a memorable gondola ride up the magnificent Sulphur Mountain. The remainder of the day is yours to discover the enchanting environs of Banff, take a leisurely stroll along Banff Avenue, or simply unwind and revel in the picturesque scenery.
Overnight: Banff Ptarmigan Inn or Banff Caribou Lodge or similar (Canadian breakfast included)
Day 14
Banff – Kamloops via Rocky Mountaineer Rail
Following a delightful breakfast, you will board the iconic Rocky Mountaineer train for an extraordinary day-long excursion that will take you through and over the magnificent Rockies, ultimately leading into British Columbia. Through the expansive and panoramic sightseeing windows, you'll be captivated by the sight of ancient forests and towering cliff faces, all set against the backdrop of serene azure lakes and untouched valleys below. Your journey concludes in Kamloops, with an anticipated late afternoon arrival.
Optionally, upgrade your rail to Gold Leaf where you will experience an elevated service with separate dining cart, chance to view the scenery on an open platform for undisrupted views.
Overnight: Accommodation provided by Rocky Mountaineer (Breakfast and lunch included onboard train)
Day 15
Kamloops – Vancouver via Rocky Mountaineer Rail
As you embark on the train once more in the morning, your voyage carries on towards Vancouver, offering a picturesque passage through the luxuriant valleys that boast some of the nation's most abundant fruit farms and wineries. Rocky Mountaineer train arrives into Vancouver at approx. 7:30 pm. Upon arriving in Vancouver, where you'll disembark and be transferred to the Sheraton Vancouver Centre.
Overnight: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre or similar (Breakfast and lunch included onboard train)
Day 16
Fly home from Vancouver
After a stunning and memorable trip through the Canadian Rockies, it’s time to head home. Make your way independently to Vancouver International airport for your flight home. Alternatively, make the most of your time in Western Canada and extend your stay in Vancouver to explore all it has to offer.
