Vancouver & the Rockies

Day 3 : Victoria

Depart Vancouver this morning and cruise across Georgia Strait. Arriving on Vancouver Island, tour the Butchart Gardens (admission included). Tour scenic Ocean Drive, Uplands, Oak Bay, University of Victoria as well as the Victoria City before being taken to your hotel. 

Day 4 : Victoria

This morning depart on an exhilarating, wildly authentic boat trip in search of orcas, minke whales, grey whales, porpoises, harbour seals and other marine wildlife. The afternoon is free to explore Victoria. 

Day 5 : Vancouver

Around midday depart Victoria Harbour by floatplane for an unforgettable trip over the Gulf Islands into downtown Vancouver’s Coal Harbour. Overnight in Vancouver. 

*Due to space and weight limitations on the floatplane, luggage is restricted to 25lbs per person. We suggest that you pack an overnight pack for the Victoria portion of your itinerary; your Vancouver hotel will be able to store luggage until you check in again. Transfers to & from the floatplane terminals are not included.

Day 6 : Whistler

Depart Vancouver this morning aboard the Rocky Mountaineer to Whistler and enjoy panoramic vistas of the Howe Sound and the Coastal Mountain Range. Highlights along the way include the cascading Shannon Falls and the Stawamus Chief Rock where climbers from all over the globe migrate to climb the granite cliffs. Upon arrival in Whistler you will be transferred to your hotel. 

Day 7 : Quesnel

Early this morning depart on the Rocky Mountaineer train in SilverLeaf Service through Caribou Country to Quesnel. Highlights along the way include towering views of the Fraser Canyon, Anderson and Seton Lakes. Upon arrival into Quesnel you will be transferred to your overnight accommodation. 

Day 8 : Jasper

This morning, re-board the Rocky Mountaineer for your continuing journey to Jasper. Your route today follows the famous Fraser River, keep your eyes open for grizzly bears, moose, beaver and osprey! Crossing into the province of Alberta, you will arrive by early evening in the peaceful alpine town of Jasper.

Day 9 : Jasper

This morning go to the Avis depot in Jasper to collect your rental car. The day is then free for you to explore this charming mountain village close to many terrific scenic highlights. 

Day 10 : Lake Louise (130 miles)

This morning depart on the scenic drive that takes you through the spine of the Canadian Rockies. Along the way see such sights as the Columbia Icefield and take an included Ice Explorer ride out onto the glacier, and visit the Glacier Skywalk, also included. Also watch for the Sarbach Glacier, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, with the Bow Glacier providing the backdrop, and Crowfoot Glacier before your arrival into Lake Louise. (Please note: Mountain lakes in this region will be frozen through to mid June). 

Day 11 : Emerald Lake Lodge (40 miles)

A short drive today through Majestic Mountain passes into Yoho National Park. This 1313 sq. km (507 sq. miles) National Park is filled with gem coloured glacial lakes and waterfalls, snow-covered peaks and dense forests of western red cedar  and western hemlock.This morning depart on the scenic drive that takes you through the spine of the Canadian Rockies. You view a never-ending procession of mammoth mountains, jagged peaks, over 100 glaciers and pristine emerald colour lakes. Along the way see such sights as the Columbia Icefield and take an Ice Explorer ride out onto the glacier (included). Also watch for the Sarbach Glacier, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, with the Bow Glacier providing the backdrop, and Crowfoot Glacier before your arrival into Lake Louise. (Please note: Mountain lakes in this region will be frozen through to mid June).

Day 12 : Emerald Lake - Banff (70 miles)

Enjoy the leisurely drive from Field and Lake Louise to Banff. At Lake Louise take the lovely Bow Valley Parkway, a two-lane roadway with numerous scenic outlooks and pullouts. Be sure to stop for a quick nature walk at Johnston Canyon. The rest of the day is free to explore Banff and area. 

Day 13 : Banff

A full day to explore Banff and area, in town you’ll find lots of things to do. Perhaps you’ll browse the shops along Banff Avenue, take on optional helicopter tour over the majestic Rockies, visit one of the charming local cafés, dine out, or just relax and enjoy the facilities in your hotel. If you’re feeling adventurous why not try a canoe trip on the Bow River, or for a more serene experience try a float trip and look for wildlife along the river banks. Check out the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, Banff Gondola (included) where you will see a panoramic view of the Bow Valley, or take a dip in the hot pools at the Upper Hot Springs.

Day 14 : Banff - Calgary (75 miles)

Drive to Calgary today. En-route, you may wish to stop at the historic Cochrane Ranch (admission not included) before dropping off your rental car at the Calgary Airport or downtown location, where your tour ends.

Tour also available in reverse direction from Calgary to Vancouver, please ask for prices & itinerary.

One way fee for Car Rental not included. Approx. $60 plus taxes.