Day 1: Welcome to Victoria, BC
Your adventure begins with a guided city tour of picturesque Victoria, British Columbia. Known for its stunning harbour views, lush gardens, and historic architecture, Victoria effortlessly blends old-world charm with modern-day experiences. After settling into your hotel, get to know your travel companions during a welcome dinner.
Stay: The Victoria Marriott Inner Harbour, Victoria BC (2 nights)
Meals: D
Day 2: Butchart Gardens
After breakfast, visit the renowned Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site of Canada. This stunning garden was once a limestone quarry before being transformed into a breathtaking display of over 900 varieties of plants. One of the most iconic features of the gardens is the sunken Rose Garden, home to 280 varieties of roses, with a total of 2,500 rose plants creating a vibrant and fragrant spectacle. After exploring the beauty of Butchart Gardens, you can discover more of Victoria at your own pace for the remainder of the day. Whether you stroll through the charming downtown area, visit local shops, or relax by the harbour, there’s plenty to enjoy.
Meals: B
Day 3: Vancouver & Whistler, BC
Your adventure begins with an early morning ferry ride to the vibrant city of Vancouver. Known for its diverse culture and breathtaking landscapes, Vancouver seamlessly blends natural beauty with urban sophistication. A guided city tour will take you through some of the city’s most iconic attractions, including the historic cobblestone streets of Gastown, the lively atmosphere of Chinatown, and the serene expanses of Stanley Park, with its lush forests and scenic seawall. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic journey along the breathtaking Sea-to-Sky Highway. The drive offers awe-inspiring views of towering mountains, shimmering waters, and verdant forests, making it a truly unforgettable experience. Upon reaching Whistler, check in to your centrally located hotel, offering convenient access to the village’s vibrant shops, restaurants, and outdoor activities. The evening is yours to relax and explore at your leisure.
Stay: Delta Whistler Village Suites, Whistler, BC (2 nights)
Meals:
B
Day 4: Free Day in Whistler
Enjoy a full free day, today, to explore Whistler
at your own pace. With so much to see and do, your experienced tour director will be happy to assist you in making the most of your free time. After a day of adventure, gather for an included group dinner and share the highlights of your experiences.
Meals: B, D
Day 5: Kamloops, BC
After breakfast, get ready for breathtaking scenery as you travel through the spectacular Coast Mountains and the arid Benchlands of the Fraser River on Duffy Lake Road, en route to Historic Hat Creek Ranch.
Established in 1861 by a former Hudson’s Bay trader, Hat Creek Ranch offers a fascinating glimpse into life during the gold rush. The historic buildings, which stand as they did in the early 1900s, help tell the story of this vibrant era. Stroll along the actual dirt road once traveled by wagon trains, and visit the historic roadhouse, where costumed interpreters will guide you through a step back in time. Afterward, arrive in friendly Kamloops, where you can take in the fresh mountain air with a stroll to the casino for dinner.
Stay: Holiday Inn Express, Kamloops, BC (1 night)
Meals: B, L
Day 6: Craigellachie, Banff, AB
Today, embark on a journey through some of Canada’s most breathtaking natural wonders as you head toward Banff. Along the way, discover tranquil lakes, rushing rivers, glistening glaciers, rugged canyons, and towering mountain peaks. Your route takes you past Craigellachie, the historic site of the Last Spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway, before continuing through the majestic Columbia Mountains into the heart of Glacier National Park. Here, you'll pass through Roger’s Pass, famous for its winter snowfall, which can reach an astonishing 10 meters annually! Keep your eyes peeled for some of Canada’s most iconic wildlife, with elk and mountain goats likely to make an appearance. After a day of exploration, check in to your hotel, nestled in the heart of downtown Banff, where you can unwind and enjoy the charm of this picturesque town.
Stay: Bow View Lodge, Banff, AB (2 nights)
Meals:
B, D
Day 7: Columbia Icefields, Lake Louise
This morning, travel to the Columbia Icefields,
the largest icefield in the Rockies, for a choose-your-own adventure. Option 1 takes you on a SnoCoach ride across the vast icefield to the Athabasca Glacier, a massive tongue of ice where you can walk on a glacial river over 1,000 feet deep. Alternatively, experience the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a new feature offering stunning views of mountain vistas, waterfalls, glaciers, wildlife, and fossils, all accompanied by insightful interpretive storytelling. In the afternoon, the adventure continues to iconic Lake Louise. Then, return to Banff for a free evening to relax and explore at your own pace.
Meals:
B, L
Day 8: Hoodoo River Float, Sulphur Mountain Gondola
After breakfast, embark on a guided raft tour down the Bow River, travelling between Tunnel Mountain and Mount Rundle. The Bow River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, flows through a valley teeming with diverse wildlife. This leisurely 7 km stretch offers the perfect opportunity to capture stunning photos of the unique hoodoo rock formations. No paddling is required, so you can relax and enjoy the scenery. Next, ride the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain for a delicious lunch surrounded by panoramic views of six mountain ranges. After lunch, journey on to Calgary, home of the world-famous Stampede. Upon arrival, check in to your centrally located hotel and enjoy a free evening.
Stay:
Hilton Garden Inn, Calgary (2 nights)
Meals:
B, L
Day 9 - Heritage Park, Calgary Tower
Start your day with a guided tour of Calgary, exploring the vibrant city and its key landmarks. In the afternoon, step back in time with a private behind-the-scenes tour at Heritage Park.
This immersive experience brings the settlement of Western Canada to life, with over 200 exhibits and attractions spread across 127 acres of lush parkland. In the evening, enjoy a special farewell dinner at Sky 360,
located at the top of the Calgary Tower. Savour innovative cuisine while taking in spectacular views from 191 meters above the downtown core. As the restaurant slowly revolves, you'll experience a full rotation, offering ever-changing vistas of Calgary throughout your meal.
Meals:
B, L, D
Day 10: Return Flight Home
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight home. Hopefully, as your plane climbs into the sky, you can get one last view of Canada’s Rockies as you head home.
Meals:
B
