Essential Rockies
Rail and independent tour
Enjoy two nights in vibrant Vancouver before embarking on the Rocky Mountaineer - First Passage to the West. Travel through the legendary Spiral Tunnels and pass by Craigellachie, the spot where the last spike on the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven. This is the only passenger rail service on this historic route, celebrated for connecting Canada from East to West. Traverse the Continental Divide and be inspired by spectacular mountains and dramatic canyons. If you’re a history buff, this route is for you
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Your Itinerary
Day 1 - 2 : UK - Vancouver
Arrive in Vancouver and take the day to explore a city like no other.
Hotel: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre (2 nights)
Day 3 : Vancouver - Kamloops
Take a shared scheduled coach transfer to the station ready to board the Rocky Mountaineer - First Passage to the West. Travel from the coastal city of Vancouver to Kamloops, in the heart of British Columbia’s interior. On today’s journey from the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley, through forests and winding river canyons surrounded by the peaks of the Coast and Cascade Mountains, to the desert-like environment of the BC Interior. Highlights include the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River. Breakfast & lunch included onboard. Your day concludes as the Rocky Mountaineer travels along the shores of Kamloops Lake into Kamloops. Spend the evening exploring the city of Kamloops or relaxing in your hotel room. All hotels in Kamloops are of moderate standard.
Day 4 - 6 : Kamloops - Banff
Board the Rocky Mountaineer train at the Kamloops Station early morning. Your journey continues eastwards to the mighty Canadian Rockies and the province of Alberta. Once again you will see a spectacular array of scenery as you travel across ranchlands, along rocky lakeshores and over high mountain passes. Today’s highlights include Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, the climb over Rogers Pass, Kicking Horse Canyon, the Spiral Tunnels and, of course, the glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Your rail journey ends this evening upon arrival in Banff. Breakfast & lunch included onboard. Arrive Banff - Rocky Mountaineer Concludes
Hotel: Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa (3 nights)
Day 7 : Depart Banff - UK
Take a shared coach transfer to Calgary Airport ready for your flight home.