Essence of the Canadian Rockies & Vancouver
CALGARY | BANFF | LAKE LOUISE | JASPER | KAMLOOPS | VANCOUVER
The Canadian Rockies are home to some of the world’s most beautiful mountain scenery, and there’s no better way to explore them than on one of the world’s best rail journeys – the Rocky Mountaineer. As you wind your way through British Columbia, you’ll be spoiled by panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, rushing rivers and you may even spot the odd bear or two. After you’ve enjoyed the journey of a lifetime spend a couple of days relaxing in Vancouver, one of the most liveable cities in the world.
Your Itinerary
-
Day 1
-
Day 2
-
Day 3
-
Day 4
-
Day 5
-
Day 6
-
Day 7
-
Day 8-9
-
Day 10-11
Day 1 : UK - Calgary
Arrive in Calgary and spend the rest of the day sightseeing in the “Stampede City”. Admission to the lookout at the top of Calgary Tower is included.
Day 2 : Calgary to Banff with Banff Sightseeing + Gondola + Cruise
Depart downtown Calgary and travel west through the rolling foothills with the Canadian Rocky Mountains in the horizon. Upon arrival into Banff you will visit such points as Bow Falls, Surprise Corner, and the Hoodoo rock formations, before a stop at the Banff Gondola. At the top of Sulphur Mountain spectacular views await from the 360 degree observation deck. Complete the day with a historical tour of Lake Minnewanka on the Lake Minnewanka Cruise. After the tour your Driver/Guide will take you to your hotel. (Lunch is included today)
Day 3 : Banff to Lake Louise
Depart Banff early afternoon for a short drive via the scenic Bow Valley to Lake Louise.
Day 4 : Lake Louise to Jasper
Travel by coach today via one of the most scenic highways in North America - the Icefields Parkway. Visit the Columbia Icefield that covers an area of nearly 125 sq. mi (325 sq. km) and reaches a depth of 1050 ft (320 m). Time allows for an Ice Explorer ride (included) on the Athabasca Glacier, then a stop at the award-winning Glacier Skywalk (included) experiencing a glass-floored observation platform 918 ft (280 m) over spectacular glacier-formed valleys and rushing waterfalls. Photo stops along the Parkway will be made at Bow & Peyto Lakes, the Crowfoot Glacier and the Athabasca Falls. This highway is renowned for sightings of bears, elk, moose & mountain sheep, so keep your camera handy. (Picnic lunch included today) Please note: Mountain lakes in this region will be frozen through to mid-June.
Day 5 : Discover Jasper and its Wildlife Tour
Today is free to explore Jasper before departing this evening to experience the environs of Jasper. As you travel through Jasper and the surrounding area in a comfortable sightseeing vehicle, not only will you be amazed at some of the beautiful scenery on this journey, but you will also learn about the ways the wildlife in the area contribute to the rich diversity of the National Park. Our knowledgeable guides are trained to seek out all the park’s most iconic creatures. Big or small, Jasper National Park provides a great opportunity to view animals in their natural habitat.
Day 6 : Jasper to Kamloops Rocky Mountaineer
All aboard Rocky Mountaineer for a scenic rail journey to Kamloops in the interior of British Columbia. Leaving Jasper National Park, travel the ‘Yellowhead’ route past the sprawling grandeur of Mount Robson ‘the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies and follow the mighty Thompson River, the route of early fur traders, before arriving in Kamloops. (breakfast & lunch is included today)
Day 7 : Kamloops to Vancouver Rocky Mountaineer
Leaving Kamloops, follow the Thompson River through Ashcroft, one of Canada’s driest towns, with an average rainfall of just 18 centimetres. Pass through Rainbow Canyon, named for its cliffs striped with pinks, greens and greys creating a stunning rainbow effect. Continue on to the Fraser Canyon, where at Hell’s Gate watch water torrent past the canyon walls at its narrowest point. The last leg of the journey takes you through the fertile farming region of the Fraser Valley to arrive in the Pacific port of Vancouver late afternoon. Upon arrival we have included a private transfer to your Vancouver hotel for a three night stay (breakfast & lunch is included today)
Day 8-9 : Vancouver
Simply a city like no other, Vancouver effortlessly combines the excitement and energy of a modern city with the invigorating appeal of the great outdoors. It’s truly a “city of nature,” with stunning views of temperate rainforest and majestic peaks reflected on glass skyscrapers, sparkling with sophistication and energy, yet relaxed and laidback. In Vancouver, you won’t have to choose between city and nature Canada’s third-largest metropolitan centre, Vancouver has a thriving multicultural ambiance. The city is located in a spectacular setting with the Coast Mountains across Burrard Inlet to the north, and the waters of the Strait of Georgia to the west. It is easy to have an authentic experience and get to the heart of what makes this city so different. With vibrant neighbourhoods it doesn’t matter where you go today – you’ll enjoy discovering the sights and simply wandering, dining and shopping. Check out neighbourhoods like the beachside West End area, Gastown’s hip streets and uber-hip Yaletown.
Day 10-11 : Vancouver- UK
Make your way to the airport in time to check in for your homeward flight.
