17 nights discovering the wonders of Western Canada.
Vancouver basks in a glorious natural setting, set on the water yet surrounded by the Coast Mountains. Downtown Vancouver, including historic Gastown, Chinatown and Granville Island, is compact and easily explored on foot. On the edge of the city you’ll find the huge expanse of Stanley Park with its ancient cedars and totem poles, the beaches of English Bay and Kitsilano, Grouse Mountain and the Capilano Suspension Bridge. A multi-cultural hub of the Pacific world, it has some of Canada’s finest and most varied restaurants, shops and most lively entertainment. Countless highlights include the Museum of Anthropology, renowned for its insights into First Nations culture, and the spectacular float-plane flight to Bowen Island.
Named for Queen Victoria, Victoria is a garden city situated in the south of Vancouver Island and is the capital of British Columbia. Compact and easily navigated, it lends itself to discovery on foot, in a horse-drawn carriage or, thrillingly, from a lowflying float-plane. Victoria is adorned with some lovely colonial architecture such as the Parliament Buildings while the Empress Hotel is an historic gem, an excellent place to take afternoon tea. The nearby Butchart Gardens are world-renowned, as is the Royal British Columbia Museum while other attractions include Craigdarroch Castle, the home of artist Emily Carr, and orca whales which visit the waters off the island in the summer.
At the heart of the towering mountains and turquoise lakes of Jasper National Park, the small town of Jasper lies at the confluence of the Athabasca and Miette rivers. This pleasant place can be reached by car or by rail from Prince George, Vancouver or Edmonton and is ideally located for exploring the northern regions of the Rockies and still retains a frontier feel. Though it is small enough to walk around, it offers every amenity with plenty of restaurants, bars and shops.
Enjoy the wildlife, pristine lakes, and breathtaking mountain peaks along the world famous Icefields Parkway. Visit the natural wonder of the Columbia Icefield – one of the largest expanses of ice and snow south of the Arctic Circle. Step onboard an Ice Explorer for an interpretive adventure onto the Athabasca Glacier. At the Glacier Skywalk, enjoy the unobstructed view on a glass floored observation platform extending 30 metres out over the Sunwapta Valley.
The small town of Banff is dominated by the towering mountains of Banff National Park. The town itself has plenty of shops and restaurants and is small enough to walk around, but it is the stunning beauty of the surrounding national park that captivates visitors. Created in 1887, this is Canada’s oldest national park and encompasses some of the finest scenery in North America, if not the world. For an overall view of the mountain landscape take the gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain before visiting the Cave and Basin, Lake Minnewanka and bathing in the Upper Hot Springs. Active options include walking, horse riding, mountain biking, canoeing and rafting, all of which may well provide a close sighting of the region’s abundant wildlife.
TOUR DETAILS
- 17 nights
- From Vancouver to Calgary
- £POA
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- LandSea Tour of Vancouver
- Private Walking Tour of Victoria
- Whale Watching in Tofino
- At Leisure in Parksville
- Rocky Mountaineer train to Jasper
- Icefields Parkway to Banff
- Small Group Tour of Banff
- Fly home from Calgary
ITINERARY IN BRIEF
- Fly London to Vancouver
- Vancouver x 3 nights
- Victoria x 2 nights
- Tofino x 3 nights
- Parksville x 2 nights
- Vancouver x 1 night
- Rocky Mountaineer Train x 1 night in Kamloops
- Jasper x 2 nights
- Banff x 3 nights
- Fly home from Calgary
day one
Depart UK
Depart UK and fly to Vancouver.
Vancouver, a vibrant coastal city in British Columbia, Canada, is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse culture, and high quality of life. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the towering Coast Mountains, the city offers breathtaking scenery and a mild climate, making it an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise with activities like hiking, skiing, and kayaking available year-round. Vancouver is also a global hub for technology, film, and tourism, often referred to as “Hollywood North” due to its thriving film industry. Its multicultural population contributes to a rich culinary scene, featuring world-class restaurants and a strong emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. With iconic landmarks like Stanley Park, Granville Island, and the historic Gastown district, Vancouver seamlessly blends urban sophistication with nature, making it one of the most livable cities in the world.
day TWO
Explore Vancouver with a LandSea Tour
This morning, head out on an exciting LandSea Tour of the city’s highlights.
day THREE
Vancouver Foodie Tour
Enjoy a delicious food tour around the city today.
day FOUR
Drive to Victoria on Vancouver Island
Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, Canada, is a charming blend of colonial history, natural beauty, and modern sophistication. Located on Vancouver Island, it boasts a mild climate, lush gardens, and a picturesque waterfront, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The city is renowned for its historic architecture, including the grand Parliament Buildings and the stately Fairmont Empress Hotel. Victoria is also famous for its beautifully maintained parks and gardens, such as the famous Butchart Gardens, offering visitors a serene escape into nature. With a vibrant arts scene, excellent dining options, and a rich maritime heritage, Victoria provides a perfect balance of relaxation and exploration, making it one of Canada’s most beloved destinations.
day FIVE
Private Walking Tour of Victoria
Today, enjoy a private walking tour around Victoria.
day SIX
Drive to Tofino
Today, drive to Tofino.
day SEVEN
Whalewatching in Tofino!
Head out on an exciting whalewatching tour today!
day EIGHT
Day at leisure in Tofino
Spend the day at leisure.
day NINE
Continue to Parksville
Continue your journey.
day TEN
Day at leisure in Parksville
Spend the day at leisure in Parksville.
day ELEVEN
Ferry back to Vancouver
Today, take the ferry back to Vancouver.
day TWELVE
Rocky Mountaineer Train to Jasper, via Kamloops
Enjoy a wonderful train journey to Jasper aboard the Rocky Mountaineer.
The Rocky Mountaineer is a world-renowned luxury train that offers an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Western Canada and the Rocky Mountains. Known for its glass-domed coaches, exceptional service, and gourmet cuisine, the train provides a unique way to experience towering peaks, turquoise lakes, deep canyons, and cascading waterfalls from the comfort of spacious reclining seats. Unlike traditional overnight trains, the Rocky Mountaineer operates exclusively during the daytime, allowing passengers to fully take in the stunning scenery. Popular routes include Vancouver to Banff, Jasper, or Lake Louise, each offering spectacular mountain vistas and the chance to spot wildlife like bears, elk, and eagles. With its GoldLeaf and SilverLeaf service options, the Rocky Mountaineer is a bucket-list experience for those seeking a relaxing yet immersive journey through Canada’s natural wonders.
Arrive in Kamloops and spend the night in a hotel.
day THIRTEEN
Rocky Mountaineer to Jasper
Board your Rocky Mountaineer train for the rest of your journey to Jasper.
Jasper, located in the heart of Jasper National Park in Alberta, is a stunning mountain town known for its breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and outdoor adventure opportunities. As part of the Canadian Rockies, Jasper offers visitors majestic peaks, turquoise lakes, and dense forests, making it a paradise for nature lovers. The town is a gateway to famous attractions like Maligne Lake, Athabasca Falls, and the Columbia Icefield, where travelers can walk on ancient glaciers. Jasper is also one of the best places in the world for stargazing, as it sits within the Jasper Dark Sky Preserve, offering incredible night skies free of light pollution. Whether hiking in the summer, skiing in the winter, or simply enjoying the cosy mountain-town atmosphere, Jasper is an unforgettable destination for anyone seeking adventure and tranquility in Canada’s wilderness.
day FOURTEEN
Day at leisure in Jasper
Spend the day at leisure.
day FIFTEEN
Icefields Parkway to Banff
Join the Icefields Parkway Tour and spend the day exploring the incredible scenery. Step onboard an Ice Explorer for an interpretive adventure onto the Athabasca Glacier. At the Glacier Skywalk, enjoy the unobstructed view on a glass floored observation platform extending 30 metres out over the Sunwapta Valley.
day SIXTEEN
Small Group Tour of Banff
Today, join a small group tour of Banff.
Banff, nestled in the heart of Banff National Park in Alberta, is one of Canada’s most stunning and popular mountain destinations. Surrounded by the majestic Canadian Rockies, Banff offers breathtaking scenery, from turquoise glacial lakes like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake to rugged peaks and dense pine forests. The town itself is a charming alpine retreat, filled with cozy lodges, boutique shops, and world-class restaurants. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and wildlife spotting, or relax in the famous Banff Upper Hot Springs. In winter, Banff transforms into a snowy wonderland, with top ski resorts like Sunshine Village and Lake Louise Ski Resort. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Banff is a magical year-round destination that showcases the best of Canada’s natural beauty.
day SEVENTEEN
Day at leisure in Banff
Spend the day at leisure in Banff.
day EIGHTEEN
Drive to Calgary for your flight home
Today, drive to Calgary for your flight back to London.