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Iconic Rockies and Western Canada with Rocky Mountaineer (Silverleaf)

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AARP Members Save on select departures
SAVE UP TO $539
From $7,086
WAS $7,625
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13 Days
1 Country

Canada

12 Cities

Vancouver, Victoria, Chemainus, Squamish, Whistler, Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre, Sun Peaks, Banff, Lake Louise, Athabasca Glacier, Jasper, Kamloops

19 Meals

4 Dinners, 12 Breakfasts, 3 Lunchs

Comfortable

Mainly 2 and 3 night stays in each location. Comfortable travel days with numerous stops. Requires walking to participate in top sites.

Average group size average 48-52
Tour brand Trafalgar

Best Value Tours by Trafalgar

If you like hassle free travel with everything handled for you – looking to meet great people, eat great food, enjoy great sightseeing, and have immersive experiences, Trafalgar is for you.  From the iconic not-to-be-missed to one-of-a-kind local experiences, including Be-my-Guest dining and stays with stories, you’ll connect deeper to your destination, and every tour has at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER immersive impact experience offering you the chance to dive into culture and community.

View all Trafalgar Tours

Rail & Train Tours

Take an unforgettable vacation that includes a ride on a famous train. Enjoy the legendary Orient Express, travel through the Swiss Alps on the Glacier Express, or take in the stunning views aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. These guided tours offer a blend of train travel and curated itineraries, giving you a remarkable travel experience you will always treasure.

View all Rail and Train Tours

Explore the traditions of the First Nations, behold the icy fingers of the Columbia Icefield and meet a retired Mountie. Relax onboard the Rocky Mountaineer for two days of all-daylight rail travel through Canada's West and the Canadian Rockies.

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Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1

Voyage To Vancouver

Tackle the ‘Great Outdoors’ on this effortlessly delivered adventure through Western Canada. Discover why Vancouver consistently ranks as one of the world’s most livable cities. Then, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception.

False Creek in Vancouver, Canada
Accommodation Holiday Inn & Suites Vancouver Downtown
Included Meals Dinner

Day 2

Sample Cider On Vancouver Island

This morning, delve into the historic neighborhoods of Chinatown and Gastown before boarding a ferry to Vancouver Island. Dive into Culture and taste local cider at a family-owned ciderhouse, before continuing to Victoria.

Cider Tasting in British Columbia, Canada
Accommodation Hotel Grand Pacific, Victoria
Included Meals Breakfast
Dive Into Culture Cider Tasting in British Columbia, Canada
Vancouver Island Cider Tasting

Taste local cider at a familly-owned ciderhouse before continuing to Victoria.

Included in Trip

Dive Into Culture

Iconic Experience Stanley Park in Vancouver, Canada
Vancouver Sightseeing

Vancouver's historic neighborhoods spring to life on a tour with your Travel Director. Savor the smells of freshly steamed Siopao in Chinatown and ...

See More
Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Iconic Experience British Columbia Parliament Buildings in Victoria, Canada
Victoria Orientation

Victoria. A waterfront city of historic sites known for its gardens and British influence. View the Parliament Buildings erected in 1897 with beaut...

See More
Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Trafalgar Difference Stay at The Hotel Grand Pacific, Victoria, Canada
Grand Pacific

Located in Victoria, British Columbia’s picturesque Inner Harbor, the Hotel Grand Pacific brings you spectacular views of the harbor and easy acces...

See More
Included in Trip

Trafalgar Difference

Day 3

Explore Butchart Gardens In Victoria

Today on your Canadian Rockies tour, the Garden City comes to life as you greet the day before opening hours with breakfast at Butchart Gardens, a 55-acre showcase of gorgeous floral gardens that have colorfully transformed a once unused quarry. After breakfast, enjoy time in the garden before the crowds. Spend the rest of the day exploring the walkable capital of British Columbia perhaps treating yourself to high tea or tucking into local fish and chips. Or, join an optional Victoria Whale Watching cruise and keep your eyes peeled for orca and humpback whales, bald eagles, porpoises and seals.

Stepping Stones on Lake in Victoria, Canada
Accommodation Hotel Grand Pacific, Victoria
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience Butchart Gardens in Victoria, Canada
Visit Butchart Gardens

Buchart Gardens’ lush and expansive garden is a must-see oasis which has been growing in Victoria, BC for over 100 years. With over a million visit...

See More
Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Optional Experiences Enjoy a Whale Watching Excursion in Victoria, Canada
Victoria Whale Watching Excursion

Get ready for an unforgettable three-hour whale-watching expedition in the waters off Victoria. You have the chance to spot magnificent bald eagles...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 4

Take In The Sights Of Chemainus, Squamish, and Whistler

See the vivid murals of Chemainus. Board a ferry and then take the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway. Ascend to Summit Lodge, admiring the views from the Sea-to-Sky Gondola. 

Cable Car in Squamish, Canada
Accommodation Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience
See The Murals Of Chemainus

Enjoy looking upon the Murals of Chemainus that started in 1981 and is now the world's leading community driven art experience.

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Iconic Experience Enjoy a scenic drive along Sea to Sky highway in Squamish, Canada
Scenic Drive along the Sea to Sky Highway

Enjoy a drive along the 300 kilometers long Sea to Sky Highway and bask in the variety of landscapes on offer.

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Iconic Experience Cable Car in Squamish, Canada
Soar aboard the Sea to Sky Gondola

Enjoy a ride on the Sea to Sky Gondola and bask in the stunning views of the coastal mountains and panoramic views.

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Day 5

Explore Whistler

Enjoy an insightful MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and learn about the First Nations at the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Center. Get a first-hand look into the traditional way of life of the original inhabitants of the area and their collection of artifacts and contemporary pieces led by Aboriginal Ambassadors who share their own stories and first-hand cultural experiences. After lunch at the center, enjoy your time at leisure.

Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler, Canada
Accommodation Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa
Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler, Canada
Visit the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Center

Enjoy an insightful visit at the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Center. Learn about the First Nations cultures as you delve into the history of the region. 

Included in Trip

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®

Day 6

Travel To Sun Peaks

We continue towards Sun Peaks where we’ll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. 

Grizzly Bear in Sun Peaks, Canada
Accommodation Sun Peaks Lodge
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Iconic Experience
See Seton Lake

Spend some time seeing Seton Lake and the beautiful snow capped mountains surrounding it.

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Day 7

Explore The Rocky Mountain National Parks

Drive through Glacier & Yoho National Park en route to Banff. Sample the best of the UNESCO-listed Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks. The excitement of Canada’s highest suspension bridges awaits at the Golden Skybridge! Explore canyon ridge walking trails with sweeping views of the Columbia Valley and the Rocky and Purcell mountain ranges. We then overnight in beautiful Banff National Park.

Inukshuk in Rocky Mountains National Park, Canada
Accommodation Banff Park Lodge
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience Drive through Glacier National Park of Canada
Drive through Glacier National Park of Canada

Take a drive through the Glacier National Park of Canada and enjoy the landscape of mountains along the way.

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Iconic Experience Drive through Yoho National Park in Canada
Drive through Yoho National Park

Drive through Yoho National Park and marvel over the spectacular landscape of massive ice fields and mountain peaks.

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Iconic Experience Visit Golden Skybridge in Jasper, Alberta, Canada
Visit Golden Skybridge

Enjoy a visit to Golden Skybridge and take in the views of the Rocky and Purcell mountain ranges as well as the tumbling waterfall. 

Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Day 8

Wander Beautiful Banff

Your morning is at leisure, perhaps do an optional gondola ride or explore on your own terms. Later in the morning, you will have your orientation tour of Banff National Park. This evening, meet a Mountie dressed in traditional red serge uniform and hear about their exciting history before enjoying dinner.

Mounties in Banff, Canada
Accommodation Banff Park Lodge
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Dive Into Culture Mounties in Banff, Canada
Meet a Mountie

Meet a retired Canadian Mountie and hear exciting and colorful stories of their rich history and traditions.

Included in Trip

Dive Into Culture

Iconic Experience Take a guided tour of Banff, Canada
Banff Sightseeing

Uncover how Banff is in a league of its own. Stroll through the downtown lined with historic buildings as majestic mountains stand tall in the dist...

See More
Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Optional Experiences View the Canadian Rockies on the Brewster Banff Gondola
Banff Gondola

Unlock incredible views of six mountain ranges of the Canadian Rockies on the Banff Gondola. Ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain in a fully enclose...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences See Mount Assiniboine on this exciting helicopter tour, Canada
Mt. Assiniboine Helicopter Tour

It’s one blockbuster after another zipping in a helicopter to Mount Assiniboine - "the Matterhorn" of the Canadian Rockies. Get your camera ready t...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Get up close and personal with the famous Three Sisters Peaks on this scenic flight tour, Canada
Three Sisters Peaks Tour (25 min)

Gear up for the most action packed twenty minutes of your life. You won’t want to miss your chance fly past famous Three Sisters Peaks. Get up clos...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 9

Cross The Athabasca Glacier

Enjoy a lakeside walk at Lake Louise, then board an Ice Explorer and drive over the Athabasca Glacier. Continue your drive along the Icefields Parkway to your overnight in Jasper.

People on the Glacier Walk in Athabasca Glacier, Canada
Accommodation Forest Park Hotel, Jasper
Included Meals Breakfast
Iconic Experience Lake Louise in Banff, Canada
Visit Lake Louise

Get ready for a showstopper. Walk down a forest path before coming up upon the unreal turquoise color of Lake Louise popping through the trees for ...

See More
Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Iconic Experience Ice Explorer Columbia Icefield, Jasper, Canada
Columbia Icefield Adventure

Gear up for a Columbia Icefield Adventure. Board a massive, specially designed ‘Ice Explorer’ to view one of the largest non-polar ice fields in th...

See More
Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Iconic Experience Drive through mountains towards Icefields Parkway, Jasper, Canada
Icefields Parkway Drive

Unlock the Canadian Rockies' pristine wilderness on one of the most scenic drives in North America – the Icefield Parkway. This stretch of double-l...

See More
Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Optional Experiences From Jasper with Love theatre show, Jasper, Canada
From Jasper with Love!

Get ready to fall in love with Jasper. In this energetic, one-hour live theater show, your hosts will show off the best this little mountain town h...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 10

Walk Through the Wilderness in Jasper

Embark on an invigorating guided walk to Maligne Canyon. Board a narrated cruise on Maligne Lake (seasonal) stopping at Spirit Island. Travel on to Jasper and this evening join Matricia Bauer for a one of a kind Be My Guest experience, on traditional First Nations land. Learn how to make curated drink bitters from foraged ingredients, enjoy a designer cocktail and listen to stories and drumming over dinner.

Man Canoeing on Lake in Jasper, Canada
Accommodation Forest Park Hotel, Jasper
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner
Be My Guest Warrior Women Show, Jasper, Canada
Warrior Women

Learn about the local flora through the lens of the Indigenous Peoples and how to make curated drink bitters utilizing the foraged ingredients as y...

See More
Included in Trip

Be My Guest

Iconic Experience Maligne Canyon in Jasper, Canada
Guided Maligne Canyon Walk

Maligne Canyon promises natural wonders from mosses and lichens on the canyon walls to ice caves, fossils and frozen waterfalls. On this guided wal...

See More
Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Iconic Experience
Maligne Lake Cruise

See how Maligne Lake is in a league of its own on a scenic cruise. Discover world-famous Spirit Island and get great photo opportunities with beaut...

See More
Included in Trip

Iconic Experience

Optional Experiences Experience a scenic float trip down the Athabasca River in Jasper National Park, Canada
Jasper Float Trip

Float down the Athabasca River, a designated Canadian Heritage River. A National Park licensed guide provides commentary on the human and natural h...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 11

All Aboard The Rocky Mountaineer

Embark on a two-day journey on the luxury Rocky Mountaineer with a night in Kamloops.

Rocky Mountaineer Train in Kamloops, Canada
Accommodation South Thompson Inn & Conference Center, Kamloops
Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch

Day 12

Take a Rustic Railway to Vancouver

Discover the elegance of yesteryear, continuing your journey through the clouds by rail until you reach Vancouver. An included transfer is offered from Vancouver train station to hotel.

Rocky Mountaineer Train in Vancouver, Canada
Accommodation Pinnacle Harbourfront, Vancouver
Included Meals Breakfast, Lunch

Day 13

Farewell From Vancouver

Our dazzling encounter with the Canadian Rockies has come to an end. Depart at leisure as you head to Vancouver International Airport.

Totem Poles in Vancouver, Canada
Included Meals Breakfast

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Special Departure

Special Departure

Included Highlights

Top rated highlights

Learn more about the landmarks, history and culture that makes your destination special.

Dive Into Culture
Vancouver Island Cider Tasting

Taste local cider at a familly-owned ciderhouse before continuing to Victoria.

Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Vancouver Sightseeing

Vancouver's historic neighborhoods spring to life on a tour with your Travel Director. Savor the smells of freshly steamed Siopao in Chinatown and ...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Victoria Orientation

Victoria. A waterfront city of historic sites known for its gardens and British influence. View the Parliament Buildings erected in 1897 with beaut...

See More
Included in Trip
Trafalgar Difference
Grand Pacific

Located in Victoria, British Columbia’s picturesque Inner Harbor, the Hotel Grand Pacific brings you spectacular views of the harbor and easy acces...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Visit Butchart Gardens

Buchart Gardens’ lush and expansive garden is a must-see oasis which has been growing in Victoria, BC for over 100 years. With over a million visit...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
See The Murals Of Chemainus

Enjoy looking upon the Murals of Chemainus that started in 1981 and is now the world's leading community driven art experience.

Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Scenic Drive along the Sea to Sky Highway

Enjoy a drive along the 300 kilometers long Sea to Sky Highway and bask in the variety of landscapes on offer.

Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Soar aboard the Sea to Sky Gondola

Enjoy a ride on the Sea to Sky Gondola and bask in the stunning views of the coastal mountains and panoramic views.

Included in Trip
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
Visit the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Center

Enjoy an insightful visit at the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Center. Learn about the First Nations cultures as you delve into the history of the region. 

Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
See Seton Lake

Spend some time seeing Seton Lake and the beautiful snow capped mountains surrounding it.

Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Drive through Glacier National Park of Canada

Take a drive through the Glacier National Park of Canada and enjoy the landscape of mountains along the way.

Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Drive through Yoho National Park

Drive through Yoho National Park and marvel over the spectacular landscape of massive ice fields and mountain peaks.

Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Visit Golden Skybridge

Enjoy a visit to Golden Skybridge and take in the views of the Rocky and Purcell mountain ranges as well as the tumbling waterfall. 

Included in Trip
Dive Into Culture
Meet a Mountie

Meet a retired Canadian Mountie and hear exciting and colorful stories of their rich history and traditions.

Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Banff Sightseeing

Uncover how Banff is in a league of its own. Stroll through the downtown lined with historic buildings as majestic mountains stand tall in the dist...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Visit Lake Louise

Get ready for a showstopper. Walk down a forest path before coming up upon the unreal turquoise color of Lake Louise popping through the trees for ...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Columbia Icefield Adventure

Gear up for a Columbia Icefield Adventure. Board a massive, specially designed ‘Ice Explorer’ to view one of the largest non-polar ice fields in th...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Icefields Parkway Drive

Unlock the Canadian Rockies' pristine wilderness on one of the most scenic drives in North America – the Icefield Parkway. This stretch of double-l...

See More
Included in Trip
Be My Guest
Warrior Women

Learn about the local flora through the lens of the Indigenous Peoples and how to make curated drink bitters utilizing the foraged ingredients as y...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Guided Maligne Canyon Walk

Maligne Canyon promises natural wonders from mosses and lichens on the canyon walls to ice caves, fossils and frozen waterfalls. On this guided wal...

See More
Included in Trip
Iconic Experience
Maligne Lake Cruise

See how Maligne Lake is in a league of its own on a scenic cruise. Discover world-famous Spirit Island and get great photo opportunities with beaut...

See More
Included in Trip

What to expect

Explore Columbia Icefield Adventure, Have a chat with a local retired Canadian Mountie and learn about their rich history and traditions.
Discover Vancouver, Victoria
Visit Butchart Gardens, Kamloops, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, local Vancouver Island Ciderhouse, Sea-to-Sky Gondola, Maligne Canyon, Mount Robson Visitor Center, Golden Skybridge
View Seton Lake, Lake Louise, Athabasca Glacier, Athabasca Falls, Murals of Chemainus, Bow Falls, Surprise Corner, Mount Robson, Stanley Park Totem Poles
Cruise across Maligne Lake to Spirit Island
See Glacier National Park of Canada, Yoho National Park, Section Lake

Optional Experiences

Sign up on tour for additional experiences that have been curated by your Travel Director from their own in-depth local knowledge.

Optional Experience
Victoria Whale Watching Excursion

Get ready for an unforgettable three-hour whale-watching expedition in the waters off Victoria. You have the chance to spot magnificent bald eagles...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Banff Gondola

Unlock incredible views of six mountain ranges of the Canadian Rockies on the Banff Gondola. Ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain in a fully enclose...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Mt. Assiniboine Helicopter Tour

It’s one blockbuster after another zipping in a helicopter to Mount Assiniboine - "the Matterhorn" of the Canadian Rockies. Get your camera ready t...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Three Sisters Peaks Tour (25 min)

Gear up for the most action packed twenty minutes of your life. You won’t want to miss your chance fly past famous Three Sisters Peaks. Get up clos...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
From Jasper with Love!

Get ready to fall in love with Jasper. In this energetic, one-hour live theater show, your hosts will show off the best this little mountain town h...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Jasper Float Trip

Float down the Athabasca River, a designated Canadian Heritage River. A National Park licensed guide provides commentary on the human and natural h...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

USA & Canada

  • Official Languages across USA & Canada: English the official language of USA & Canada.
  • Currency used in USA & Canada: The currency of USA is the American Dollar ($) and the currency of Canada is the Canadian Dollar (C$).
  • Capital Cities:: The capital of USA is Washington, DC and the capital of Canada is Ottowa.
  • Time Zone(s) in USA & Canada: Several time zones are used across different regions of the USA to establish standard time: Eastern Standard Time (EST), Central Standard Time (CST), Mountain Standard Time (MST), Pacific Standard Time (PST), Alaska Standard Time (AKST), Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST). Several time zones are used across different regions of Canada to establish standard time: Eastern Standard Time (EST), Central Standard Time (CST), Mountain Standard Time (MST), Pacific Standard Time (PST), Atlantic Standard Time (AST), and Newfoundland Standard Time (NST). It's important to note that some regions within each time zone may observe daylight saving time, which would result in a one-hour shift during the daylight saving time period.

USA & Canada passport, visa, and entry requirement information for US citizens.

  • Passport: Your passport should have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip
  • Visa Requirement: A visa is not required to enter USA or Canada.
  • Entry Requirements: You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to getours.com/travel-requirements-restrictions.

The climate and weather in the United States vary greatly due to its large size and diverse geography. The country experiences a wide range of climate types, including temperate, Mediterranean, subtropical, arid, and alpine climates. In general, the eastern and central parts of the United States have a humid continental climate, characterized by hot and humid summers, and cold winters. The western coastal regions, such as California and the Pacific Northwest, have a more Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The southern states have a subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. The southwestern and western regions, including states like Arizona and Nevada, have a desert or arid climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters. The northernmost parts of the country, particularly Alaska, have a subarctic and alpine climate, with extremely cold winters and cool summers.

The weather and climate in Canada vary greatly due to its vast size and diverse geography. In general, Canada experiences four distinct seasons: spring, summer, fall, and winter. The country's northern regions have a subarctic and arctic climate, characterized by extremely cold winters and short, cool summers. The central and eastern regions have a temperate climate with warm summers and cold winters, while the western coastal areas have a milder, maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers. Canada also has various microclimates due to its mountain ranges, such as the Rockies and the Coast Mountains, which can bring significant variations in weather patterns. Additionally, Canada is known for its heavy snowfall in many regions during winter months, particularly in the provinces of Quebec and Ontario.

On-Tour Luggage & Carry-On Bag Size Limits

Luggage: Each guest traveling may bring one suitcase no larger than 30” x 18” x 10" and weighing no more than 50 lb

Carry-On Bag: *Restricted to one piece per person, not to exceed 12” x 11” x 6”

  • *Please note: A "carry-on bag" on a tour coach is not the same as a "carry-on" for a flight. Because our coaches have large windows to enjoy the view, there is minimal space to store large items securely overhead or under the seats. A "carry-on bag" may be a soft-sided daypack, purse, backpack, tote bag, or the like. Because we value our guests' safety, small rolling suitcases or bags with telescopic handles are not permitted. In order to guarantee a smooth trip, guests are not permitted to store an additional "carry-on" bag beneath the coach with the luggage. 

So your driver and any hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances. 

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline, and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.

Packing Tips for Your Tour

Packing for a guided tour will vary depending on the duration of the trip, the time of year, and the activities planned. Here is a general packing list to help you get started:

Clothing:

  • Comfortable walking shoes: Comfortable walking shoes. North and Central America, along with Canada, offer a vast range of terrains. To make the most of your trip, it is vital to pack shoes that can cater to all your activities, from strolling on Hawaii's beaches to dining at a sophisticated restaurant in Toronto.
  • Lightweight, breathable clothing: Pack clothes suitable for the season. Bring a mix of short-sleeved tops, lightweight pants or skirts, and a few long-sleeved options for cooler evenings for the summer months, and long-sleeved and heavier layers for early Spring, Fall, and Winter.
  • Layers: From the snowy peaks of the Rockies to the steamy jungles of Costa Rica, you’ll encounter a myriad of climates. To ensure you're ready for any situation, it's wise to pack adaptable, layered clothing. We advise you to bring a light jacket or sweater and a scarf for layering, especially in Spring or Fall. 
  • Modest attire: In some religious sites, modest clothing is required, so we suggest carrying a shawl or scarf to cover your shoulders or legs when necessary.
  • Nice evening wear: You may wish to wear a dressier outfit if you plan on dining in an elegant restaurant, for example. Smart-casual clothes are usually acceptable for all included daytime and evening activities throughout your tour.
  • Rain Gear: Depending on the season and the countries you're visiting, it's a good idea to pack a compact rain jacket or umbrella.

Sun Protection:

  • Hat, sunglasses, UV-protective clothing.
  • Sunscreen with high SPF. If you're visiting any coastal areas, bring reef-safe sunscreen formulated without harmful chemicals known to be damaging to coral reefs and marine life. Traditional sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been found to contribute to coral bleaching and negatively impact marine ecosystems. Look for sunscreens with certifications such as "Reef Safe," "Coral Safe," or "Ocean-Friendly" to ensure they are environmentally friendly.

Medications and First Aid:

  • Any prescription medications you need. (See more below under Health & Wellness)
  • Basic first aid kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.

Toiletries:

  • Travel-sized toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste.
  • Travel towel (quick-drying and compact).
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • A washcloth and carry bag (often not available in hotels abroad).

Electronics:

  • A camera: You’re traveling to see extraordinary scenery and sites. So that you don't miss a single moment, bring a trustworthy camera. Check out our travel photography tips for capturing the best photos of your trips. If you feel comfortable, you can also try the camera on your phone. However, if you want to zoom in or capture moving objects, a camera might be your best bet.
  • Mobile phone.
  • Chargers for each electronic you bring.
  • Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
  • Small travel hair dryer

Miscellaneous:

  • A travel-friendly daypack or bag to carry your essentials during excursions.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Reusable water bottle. At GET, we’re all about caring for our planet, and with that in mind, we always recommend that you pack a reusable water bottle for your trip. Bringing your own reusable water bottle or asking for tap water at restaurants means you can make a difference by reducing your vacation plastic waste.
  • A small travel alarm.
  • A travel iron if you like your clothes to be pressed.
  • A travel pillow.

Optional:

  • Scarf or shawl for visiting religious sites or to cover up in conservative areas.
  • Light sleepwear.
  • A new, blank journal to document your trip. Don't know your travel journal style? Find out here!
  • Ziplock bags (storing snacks, toiletries, and keeping things organized).

Remember to pack light and versatile items that can be mixed and matched for different outfits. Laundry facilities are often available, or you can have your clothes laundered at hotels during your trip. It's also a good idea to pack a small bag or backpack to bring on the coach for day trips and excursions, leaving your larger luggage at the hotel.

Electricity

As an American traveler going on a guided tour within the USA, there are a few essential things to know about electricity and adaptors to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Since you are traveling within the USA, you won't need to worry about voltage and plug type differences. Just pack your electronic devices as you would for any domestic trip, and you'll be all set to enjoy your guided tour in the United States!

  • Voltage and Plug Type: As an American traveler, you won't need a voltage converter or plug adapter for your electronic devices within the country.
  • Compatibility: Since you are traveling within the USA, your electronic devices, such as smartphones, laptops, and camera chargers, should be compatible with the standard voltage and plug type used in the country. You can use your regular chargers and power cords without any issues.
  • Hotels and Accommodations: Most hotels and accommodations in the USA provide electrical outlets compatible with American plugs. You won't need to worry about adaptors or converters within the country.
  • Airports and Public Places: Airports, train stations, and other public places in the USA will have outlets that match the American standard, so you can quickly charge your devices while on the go.

Hair Dryers in Your Hotel

Hair dryers are standard accessories in hotels. Since you don't have to worry about converting the voltage, you can bring a travel dryer or pack one from home. If you need a hair dryer during your trip but can't find one in your hotel room, you can inquire with the hotel staff. Many hotels will be able to provide a hair dryer upon request, either at the front desk or through housekeeping.

Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is commonly available in most hotels, restaurants, and public spaces in the USA, especially in major cities and tourist areas.

However, it's important to note that not all accommodations or historic buildings may have air conditioning, particularly in more traditional or rural settings. 

Traveling by coach

Our modern air-conditioned coaches have been selected with your comfort in mind. Your Travel Director will familiarize you with all the onboard features, including a washroom fitted for your convenience and comfort. Regular stops are made to stretch your legs, take refreshments, fill up your water bottles, and use the facilities.

Airport transfers

Airport transfers are not included or available on tours that operate in the United States and Canada. Guests will be provided local transfer options after booking so they can make their travel arrangements from the airport to the hotel and vice versa. Learn more about Airport Transfers here.

To enable you to personalize your tour experience, you will find a number of Optional Experiences designed to complement the itinerary. These are designed to offer a deeper insight into the culture and character of the areas to be visited and provide some wonderful highlights to your travels. The optional program is designed to let you experience more of what interests you and to get the most from your vacation without replacing or overlapping with anything included in an itinerary.

The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances, including weather and days of the week. Your Travel Director will provide further information.

Exact payment options will be advised locally by your Travel Director/Local Representative for each Optional Experience, but in many cases, cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are all accepted.

It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while traveling.

In order to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, we strongly suggest that you pack a plentiful supply of any medication you may need while on vacation. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with medications.

Prior to traveling, please notify GET of any disability requiring special assistance or any specific dietary needs that you may have, and we will strive to accommodate these.

It's essential to ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to any destination. Routine vaccinations may include COVID, measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and influenza.

When traveling with GET, baggage handling at hotels, service charges, and tips for hotel wait staff (for included meals) will all be taken care of by your Travel Director. There are, however, a few instances where individual tipping is welcome.

Local Specialists

It is customary to show appreciation for the insights, stories, and know-how shared with you by the Local Specialists, and we suggest a gratuity of $1.00-$2.00 USD per person/half day.

Your Coach Driver and Travel Director

The trip cost does not include gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. At the end of your trip, you may express appreciation to your Travel Director and Driver for their excellent service and the personal attention you received. Gratuities are given at the discretion of each guest, and a suggested amount per person/day is listed in your travel documents.

Hotel services

It is customary to tip hotel staff for room service delivery if the charge has not already been added to the bill. Where ice machines are not available, and you receive ice from the bar, a small tip to the bartender is always appreciated.

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Reviews
Service
Vacation
Independent Reviews
Trusted Customer
Review date: Monday, September 30, 2024
Vacation
I had a wonderful stay at the Fairmont Hotel in Whistler. I also visited Vancouver, Victoria, Banff, Lake Louise, Glacier Mountains, and Lake Moraine, and then returned to Vancouver. I had a great time.
Response from Grand European Travel:
That's fantastic to hear. Thank you for booking with us and taking the time to leave your comments.
Thursday, October 3, 2024
William Austin
Review date: Tuesday, August 8, 2023
Service
Always a best travel value when booking through GET. Friendly and detail oriented service.
Vacation
Tour Director Elizabeth Weichel and coach driver JT kept us on schedule and loving every mile along the way. Elizabeth knew the culture, the food, the landscape and the history of each destination. She had travelled the area routinely since the age of 16 and continually amazed us with an endless supply of new stories and new experiences. We experienced a thoroughly delightful trip on every level with a delightful group of travel companions. Thank you Elizabeth for such a special journey. You helped us enjoy yet another priority item on our very heavy bucket list. JT. Thanks for being so awesome and for our continued safe travels. Sharing your own regional knowledge to the commentary was a wonderful bonus as well. You sir keep an immaculate coach; and that really matters.
Alicia Hutton
Review date: Saturday, July 29, 2017
Service
I would recommend them and purchase again. I have used Insight before and liked that the group was smaller, and the bus was roomier. That said, the trip was beautiful and efficient.
Vacation
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