WESTERN CANADA & VANCOUVER ISLAND PREMIUM
Overview
Embark on a 15-night adventure that merges the best of Interior BC, Alberta, and Vancouver Island. Explore the Canadian Rockies and stay in Whistler, Clearwater, Jasper, Banff, and Kelowna. Continue on to Vancouver Island, indulging in the historic charm of Victoria, the wild culture of Tofino, and the rugged beauty of Campbell River. This intimate blends iconic attractions and off-the-beaten-path sightseeing stops with authentically Canadian activities. Learn about Western Canada’s wonders with your experienced and knowledgeable tour guide, making this the extraordinary adventure in Canada of excellence!
COMBO TOUR: This package combines our Western Canada Iconic Sites and Vancouver Island Premium tours, including a night in Vancouver in between. Each leg is available to book separately.
Check out available optional activities to add on to your itinerary and make the most of your trip! We offer special rates if you book in advance.
Itinerary
Please note that this is a sample itinerary and is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, such as weather or road closures.
Vancouver to Whistler
- Depart from Canada Place in downtown Vancouver. Please arrive 15 minutes before your departure
- Travel along the Sea to Sky Highway. Stop at Shannon Falls and Brandywine Falls
- Arrive at Whistler Village and join a guided walking tour of the town
- Option to book additional activities like zip-trekking, e-biking, or riding the Peak 2 Peak Gondola
- Check in to your hotel in Whistler Village with free time to explore the area
- In the evening, option to go to Vallea Lumina – a multimedia night walk (additional cost)
Whistler to Clearwater
- Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, then depart Whistler
- Drive through Pemberton and by Lillooet Lake
- Join the Xwísten Experience Tour and learn about the past and present of the St’át’imc People. Visit the Bridge River Fishing Grounds, see the traditional salmon preservation methods, and enjoy a Salmon BBQ with rice, salad, bannock, and sxúsum, a traditional dessert of whipped berries
- Check in to your hotel in Clearwater
- Choose to join a canoe tour this evening (additional cost) or relax at the hotel, which offers a pool and hot tub
*Photo courtesy of ©Tourism Lillooet
Clearwater to Jasper
- Enjoy breakfast at the hotel
- Explore Wells Gray Provincial Park, and visit Helmcken Falls and Spahats Falls
- Stop at Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies
- Check in to your centrally located hotel in Jasper
- Have free time to explore the town and dine at leisure
- Optionally, visit the Jasper Planetarium in the evening (additional cost)
*Photo courtesy of ©Tourism Jasper
Jasper National Park
- Enjoy breakfast at the hotel
- Explore Maligne Canyon: stroll across scenic bridges and trails, and discover ancient fossils and waterfalls
- Visit Maligne Lake, renowned for its azure water, and admire the surrounding mountain peaks, the three glaciers visible from the lake, and Spirit Island, a frequently photographed islet
- Optionally, take a boat cruise to Spirit Island (additional cost)
- Enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore Jasper or participate in other optional activities (additional cost)
*Photos courtesy of ©Parks Canada – Ryan Bray and ©Sean Thonson via Travel Alberta
Jasper to Banff
- Enjoy breakfast at your hotel
- Travel to the Columbia Icefield and embark on the Ice Explorer Glacier Adventure. Ride an all-terrain snocoach and walk on Athabasca Glacier to taste glacier water and take photos
- Journey along the renowned Icefields Parkway, one of the world’s top 5 most scenic routes, with stops at Bow Lake and Peyto Lake (time permitting)
- Arrive in Banff and check in to your centrally located hotel for 2 nights
*Photo courtesy of ©Pursuit – Mike Seehagel
Banff
- Have breakfast at your hotel
- Ride the Banff Mountain Gondola to Sulphur Mountain’s summit and soak in breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains
- Join a tour of Banff townsite, covering Bow Falls, the HooDoos, and Banff Springs Hotel
- Have free time for shopping and sightseeing on Banff Avenue or booking an exciting activity like e-biking, horseback riding, canoeing (bow river float), and more
- Spend the evening at leisure to relax or explore the Banff nightlife on your own
*Photo courtesy of ©Pursuit – Chris Amat
Banff to Kelowna
- Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and check out
- Explore the stunning Lake Louise and journey to Moraine Lake (subject to road closures)
- Travel through the renowned Roger’s Pass
- Check in to your hotel in downtown Kelowna
- Explore the town at your own pace, with many dining options to enjoy
*Photo courtesy of ©Tourism Kelowna – Danika Lee
Kelowna to Vancouver
- Have breakfast at your hotel and depart for Vancouver
- Explore the Okanagan Valley, making a stop at a farmer’s market
- Enjoy a local a winery tour and tasting
- Arrive in Vancouver in the evening and check in to your hotel downtown
- Evening at leisure to enjoy the hotel’s amenities
Vancouver to Victoria
- Have breakfast in your hotel and meet your guide to continue the adventure on to Vancouver Island
- Take a scenic ferry ride through the Salish Sea and the Gulf Islands – keep an eye out for sea wildlife sightings!
- Arrive in Vancouver Island and visit the famous Butchart Gardens (admission included)
- Visit Sea Cider for a tour and enjoy a local cider tasting
- Check in to your centrally located hotel in Victoria
- Evening at leisure to explore the capital city
Victoria
- Enjoy a Victoria City tour this morning visiting Beacon Hill Park, Chinatown, Fan Tan Alley, Fisherman’s Wharf and Government Street
- The remainder of the day is at your leisure. You can stroll along Government Street or visit the well known Royal BC Museum. You also have the option to enjoy Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel.
Victoria to Tofino
- Early departure from your hotel and drive along the Malahat Highway where you can enjoy beautiful views over the Southern Gulf Islands
- Stop at the Malahat SkyWalk – the newest outdoor experience on Vancouver Island. Embark on a 600 metre-long elevated walkway through an expansive Arbutus and Douglas Fir forest, leading to a 10-story, architecturally-inspiring spiral tower lookout – the first of its kind in BC. Rising 250 metres above sea level, you will enjoy 360-degree views of islands, inlets, fjords, forests and mountains in two countries
- Stop in Duncan for a brief tour around the City of Totems and free time for lunch
- Arrive in Tofino in the evening and check into your hotel. Your guide will tell you about all the great onsite amenities and best places for dinner tonight.
Tofino & Pacific Rim National Park
- Today explore Tofino and its magnificent beaches including Long Beach and option to join your guide for a hike
- Take a Water Taxi trip over to Meares Island to visit the Big Tree Trail, the home to some of the largest old growth trees in British Columbia. Meares Island holds cultural and spiritual significance for the Tla-o-qui-aht people, who have inhabited the region for thousands of years. The island is known as “Waa’kas” in the Nuu-chah-nulth language, which means “mountain in the sea,” and it is considered a sacred place
- Evening at leisure
Tofino & Pacific Rim National Park
- Today you have a full day to join an activity such as taking a boat cruise to Hot Springs Cove, kayaking, surfing, hiking through one of the many rainforest trails, or simply relaxing on the beach
- The remainder of the evening is at your leisure to explore the town of Tofino
Tofino to Campbell River
- Check out of your hotel this morning and depart Tofino, traveling back towards the east coast of Vancouver Island
- Stop at Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park where you can take a walk around the old-growth Douglas Fir rainforest.
- Arrive in Coombs Market, famously known for the goat on the rooftop and today’s stop for lunch. Here you can find fresh produce, great sandwiches and the best ice cream on the Island
- Continue your drive along Coastal Highway 19A that has you travel through coastal communities and along beautiful landscapes, stopping in Comox for dinner this evening
- Arrive in Campbell River and your hotel for the night
- Evening at leisure to explore the resort, watch the sunset and enjoy the peaceful surroundings
Northern Vancouver Island
- Morning at leisure with the option to participate in many different activities including kayaking, fishing, and whale watching (Additional Cost)
- Option to go on a full day Grizzly Bear Expedition into the Toba Valley (additional cost, available from Sept. 1 – Oct. 15)
- Visit Elk Falls Provincial Park and explore the extensive network of walking and hiking trails including Elk Falls Suspension Bridge and enjoy a walk on the elevated cantilevered viewing platform that offers an amazing view of Elk Falls
- Arrive back at your hotel and free time for dinner
Campbell River to Vancouver
- Depart Campbell River in the morning
- Stop at Morningstar Farm in Parksville. Morningstar Farm is a local food hub featuring self-guided tours, a farmgate store, seasonal “calfé”, a petting farm and trails
- Stop in Nanaimo for a stroll along the Harbourfront. Don’t miss trying one of the famous Nanaimo Bars – a treat for everyone loving sweets
- Take the 3:55 pm ferry from Nanaimo to Horseshoe Bay
- Return to downtown Vancouver at approximately 6:30 pm
FAQs
Are the hiking trails on this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes. In fact, there is no hiking necessary to go on this tour. Your guide will suggest a variety of optional walking and hiking trails during your stops in several destinations. Most trails are suitable for all fitness levels, and some can be for those seeking a more adventurous experience. Our experienced guides are trained to tailor their suggestions to the group’s abilities, ensuring everyone has a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.
Are there opportunities for wildlife viewing during the tour?
Absolutely! On this tour, you will travel through wildlife country, with the possibility to spot elk, bears, mountain goats and even a moose in the Rockies, and whales, orcas and eagles in Vancouver Island.
Additionally, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to join wildlife viewing tours in Banff, Campbell River, and Tofino for an additional cost. Our guides are well-versed in the best practices for wildlife observation, prioritizing safety and respect for the natural environment.
How much free time is allocated for exploring on our own?
Our sample itinerary is thoughtfully designed to provide a balance between guided experiences and free time for independent exploration. You can expect to have leisure time in each destination, allowing you to wander at your own pace, discover local gems, or simply relax and soak in the surroundings.
What is the weather like in Western Canada?
Weather in both the mountains and the coastlines can vary significantly, given the diverse landscapes of interior BC, the Rockies, and Vancouver Island.
Generally, during the summer months, temperatures range from mild to warm. It’s advisable to pack light layers, including a jacket and/or windbreaker for cooler evenings and higher altitudes, and waterproof options in the event of light rain. Please check local weather forecasts closer to your travel dates for more accurate information.
How can I extend my stay in Canada before or after the tour?
If you wish to travel to Canada before your tour or to extend your stay after the trip, we can assist in arranging your flights, additional accommodations and activities, and day tours in and around Vancouver, providing you with the flexibility to explore more of Canada. Please contact one of our agents to create a custom travel experience for you.
Additionally, you can purchase travel insurance for all of our experiences through a licensed insurance specialist from Uniglobe Speciatly Travel. Please click here to request a no obligation quote.
The 2025 Earlybird Promotion only applies to 2025 tour departures. Valid until December 31, 2024.
Please contact us for assistance.
Use code EBD25 and save up to $865 CAD*!
Duration
Size
Quad
Triple
Double
Single
Highlights
- Discover the Canadian Rockies & mountain towns with premium stays in iconic towns
- Immerse in the coastal serenity of Vancouver Island, surrounded by sandy beaches and ancient rainforests
- Witness the natural splendor of Lake Louise, Maligne Lake, and the Columbia Icefield
- Navigate scenic and historic routes that reveal the treasures of Western Canada
- Enjoy a scenic ferry ride as you transition from the mountain scenery to the coastal landscapes
- Savour the journey with cider and wine tastings along the way
- Get discounted rates on optional activities when you book in advance
Inclusions
15-nights hotel accommodations- Roundtrip mini-coach transportation from downtown Vancouver
- Roundtrip BC Ferries from Vancouver to Vancouver Island
- Experienced and knowledgeable tour guide
- Daily breakfast
- Admission to:
- Indigenous experience & Salmon BBQ lunch
- Water taxi to Meares Island and Big Tree Trail
- Wine tasting at 2 wineries
- Sea cider tasting
- Scenic sightseeing stops along the way
- All park passes
- Discounted optional activities if you book in advance
15-nights hotel accommodations
Sea cider tasting
Scenic sightseeing stops along the way
All park passes
Discounted optional activities if you book in advanceWhat to Bring:
- Comfortable walking/hiking gear & footwear
- Light, layered clothing
- Waterproof raincoat and/or windbreaker (recommended)
- Bathing suit & beach towel
- Small backpack for daily excursions
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunglasss & sunscreen
- Hat (recommended)
- Camera and binoculars (recommended)
