Welcome to outdoorsy, nature loving Vancouver! Regarded as one of the world’s most naturally beautiful cities, Vancouver is framed by dramatic vistas on all sides and is the kind of place where, given its close proximity to nature, you can ski in the morning and swim in the ocean by early afternoon. After settling in to your hotel you’ll meet your Travel Director this afternoon, then you’re free to head out and uncover the city’s many delights. Take a stroll through Stanley Park, or alternatively explore Vancouver’s diverse culinary scene which boasts some of the best Asian cuisine in all of North America.
This morning’s sightseeing tour of lovely Vancouver will visit the city's oldest neighbourhood, Gastown, which was designated a National Historic Site in 2009. You'll also visit buzzy Chinatown, and admire the famous collection of totem poles at Stanley Park, before jumping on the ferry bound for Vancouver Island, and drive into the capital of British Columbia, Victoria. After docking at Swartz Bay and making the short drive into the city, you’ll no doubt be struck by the distinctly English influence of Victoria. An orientation tour of the city will take you along the waterfront district and into the bustling downtown area, passing the Parliament Buildings, Government Street and through Beacon Hill Park so you can really get your bearings. This evening is yours to explore or dine out with new found friends.
Spend the morning amid the blossoms of world famous Butchart Gardens. This expansive estate is over a century old and offers sunken, rose, Japanese, Italian and Mediterranean gardens. Stroll through and find plenty of photo opportunities amidst moments of beauty. The rest of the day is yours to explore Victoria as you like. Learn about the surrounding waters on a whale watching cruise and keep a lookout for orcas, bald eagles, porpoises and seals.
First up on today’s agenda is Chemainus, a seaside community and former industrial town that is best known for its series of giant outdoor murals depicting local history. Hopping on board a ferry across the Georgia Strait and arriving into Horseshoe Bay, you’ll then travel along the iconic Sea-to-Sky Highway, one of the world’s most scenic drives. We challenge you not to keep your eyes to the horizon as you pass cascading waterfalls, jagged mountain peaks and the dreamy ocean vistas of Howe Sound, before stopping off at Shannon Falls Provincial Park, which boasts the third highest waterfall in all of British Columbia. Still in awe of the scenery offered by today’s drive, you’ll finish today in the alpine village of Whistler, which sits nestled in the shadows of the Blackcomb Mountains.
Enjoy your day in Whistler as you explore this stunning adventure playground. Go hiking or biking on one of the many trails or the labyrinth of lanes that make up Whistler Village. Or make the day your own with action-packed Optional Experiences, each one more exhilarating than the next! You could find yourself soaring into the skies aboard the famous Peak 2 Peak Gondola, go bear viewing with a local wildlife photographer, whitewater rafting, zip lining at 100 km per hour amidst the stunning mountain wilderness, and many more options. When we said exhilarating, we weren't joking!
Fuel for another big day with a Make Travel Matter iconic breakfast at Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre where you’ll get to know more about First Nations culture through food and music, treated to authentic tastes including blueberry and cheese and onion bannock (a kind of quick skillet bread) and a performance by cultural ambassadors dressed in traditional regalia singing, dancing, and sharing stories from Squamish and Lil’wat Nations. You will then leave Whistler behind as you venture along scenic Duffey Lake Road, spotting the freshwater fjord of Seton Lake, and the ominous sounding Mt. Rohr along the way. Following the once treacherous Cariboo Wagon Trail, which formed part of the Gold Rush Route, your final port of call for today is Sun Peaks, one of British Columbia’s best loved ski resorts. Winter time here sees ski and snowboard enthusiasts from across the globe flocking to this pretty little town to enjoy just some of the 135 ski runs that pepper the horizon. In the warmer months, the ski lifts stay open to provide access to more than two dozen hiking and mountain bike trails, making Sun Peaks yet another outdoorsy gem.
Fall in love with the gorgeous prairie provinces of Canada as you drive through the white fenced ranch lands that surround the Yellowhead Highway. Keeping an eye on the snow-capped peaks of the Columbia Mountains in the distance, catch a first glimpse of Mount Robson, the most prominent mountain in the North American Rockies and the highest point in the Canadian range. Finish the day in unpretentious, heart-warming Jasper, which sits in the heart of Jasper National Park, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful, protected wildernesses in the world.
Stepping outside and smelling the fresh mountain air, let the prospect of a day exploring beautiful Jasper bring a smile to your face. Your activity options are abundant in the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. Perhaps choose to explore the beautiful Maligne Lake? A boat cruise (seasonal) around the largest glacially fed lake in the Canadian Rockies is right for you. Interested in discovering the Jasper food scene? Join a Local Expert on a Jasper Food Tour downtown. If you’re looking to get active, choose to experience the majestic scenery of Jasper National Park on foot during a guided nature hike. This evening is yours to relax or enjoy the live theatre show “From Jasper with Love” that showcases the highlights of this charming mountain town.
First, you will be heading on to explore the magnificent Columbia Icefield. The Icefields Parkway features an abundance of jaw-dropping vistas at every turn. Here, you’ll ride the giant Ice Explorer across the Athabasca Glacier for a closer look at this ancient marvel of nature. Back on the Icefields Parkway, exit Jasper National Park and enter Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Prepare to be dazzled as we saved the best for last – Lake Louise, one of the most beautiful lakes and settings in North America. You can also choose the Optional Experience Banff gondola and dinner with a view.
Get ready to explore the vast natural playground outside your front door today! Venture into the stunning wilderness of Banff National Park or, better yet, take advantage of our enticing range of optional experiences to truly know the best of this region. A variety of helicopter flights (weather dependent) will have you soaring over iconic sites including the Three Sisters Peak, the Sundance Ranges and the Gloria and Assiniboine Glaciers. Or perhaps you’d prefer to catch the gondola to the very top of Sulphur Mountain for a bird’s eye view of the six mountain ranges within the Rockies, spotting glorious Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in the distance. You can also choose nine-hole golfing, or a plant medicine walk with a First Nations local guide. However you choose to explore today, Banff will be an experience you’ll never forget.
It will be another incredible drive today as you climb higher and higher to cross the Continental Divide at Kicking Horse Pass, stopping at the Spiral Tunnels on the way to marvel at one of the steepest railroad stretches in the world. You’ll then travel through not one, not two, but three beautiful national parks, slowly descending from the mountains as the landscape changes from snowcapped peaks to sprawling wineries and fruit orchards, indicating that you’ve arrived in Canada’s ‘fruit basket’, the Okanagan Valley. Surrounded by so many grapes the temptation for a tasting will be hard to resist, so you’ll stop off at a local winery for a tour and tasting before heading on to Vernon, the unofficial capital of the Okanagan.
On your final drive of the trip you'll pass through the Cascade Mountains, named for the staggering number of waterfalls tumbling off the peaks, before venturing into the Fraser River Valley and finally coming to a stop back in Vancouver, the place where it all began. Drop off at 1:30 PM at Vancouver International Airport. Please be aware when booking flights.
Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a twin room. To request a personalized travel quote, click "Request Quote" and a Travel Specialist will send your custom quote including airfare if requested.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Available on Day 3
A unique walking tour of Victoria that combines a history lesson with modern food. Tour includes 7 foodie stops including craft beer at a local brewery. This tour explores the bustling Victoria Public Market, iconic Chinatown neighborhood, and Market Square. Guests visit Fan Tan Alley and historic Fisgard Street.
Adult Price: CAD 74
Board your vessel to enjoy a three-hour whale-watching expedition in the waters off Victoria. While it can’t be guaranteed in advance which of the abundant marine wildlife you’ll see on your journey, chances are you’ll also spot magnificent bald eagles, porpoises or seals. Spring and summer are the best times of the year to see a number of different species of whales including Bigg’s killer whales (orca), humpback whales, South Resident orca, Minke, and gray whales.
Adult Price: CAD 140
Available on Day 5
From our ancient, volcanic peaks with their 360 degree views, to our vibrant and sophisticated village with its incredible vibe, Whistler Blackcomb has summer covered from top to bottom. Travel across BC’s rooftop on the world record-breaking PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, explore over 31 miles of high alpine hiking trails, then head to the valley for a bike ride on Whistler’s paved valley trail, or its renowned single-track network in the world-famous Whistler Mountain Bike Park. Approx. duration: 1 hour
Adult Price: CAD 79
This whitewater rafting trip takes you just north of Whistler Village to Green River, which provides the perfect combination of fun bouncy rapids and picturesque scenery for first-timers or for those on a family adventure. The Class 2 and 3 rapids you will encounter are sure to jostle your raft and challenge you to break through the white water. Paddling through the waves as a team will no doubt be a bonding experience you won’t soon forget!
Adult Price: CAD 126
Be a bird for a day. Why not? We’ve designed and custom-built one of the best adventures in the world – side-by-side ziplines located in stunning mountain wilderness. Our tour features a newly engineered and revolutionary braking system, West Coast-inspired architecture and a network of paths and platforms designed to immerse you in the peace, quiet and freedom of the forest. Highlighted by two of Canada’s longest lines – 0.62 miles long, 600 feet high and reaching speeds of 62 mph – we take our name very seriously.
Adult Price: CAD 163
Enjoy a visit to Whistler Olympic Park and 2,5 hours of educational information on black bears in a bear habitat. The park is home to a large population of black bears which can be viewed from a distance in the safety of the vehicle. We will search for bears foraging for their meals in spectacular back-country scenery. Experience the park like it’s your own private oasis. Drive to the top of the world-famous Olympic Ski Jumps and brave the gatehouse for a gold-medal glimpse of a one-of-a-kind panoramic mountain and valley view. Other photographic stops include Alexander waterfalls.
Adult Price: CAD 218
Available on Day 7
Your evening will begin with a delicious, 3-course meal at the award-winning Beckers Gourmet Restaurant. Set on the banks of the Athabasca River with stunning views of Mount Kerkeslin, Beckers combines inspired fare and superb service in an intimate but relaxing atmosphere. After dinner, you will set off with your guide in search of Jasper's original inhabitants. As the sun begins to set, wildlife viewing opportunities abound and the scenery is spectacular. You will have plenty of opportunities for photography while learning about the ways the wildlife in this area contributes to the rich diversity of the National Park.
Adult Price: CAD 100
Available on Day 8
Join the fun and experience an easy rafting/scenic float trip down the Athabasca River, a designated Canadian Heritage River. A National Park licensed guide will provide commentary on the human and natural history of Jasper while navigating you along the same route used by the “fur traders” over 2 centuries ago. Lifejackets and the specially designed, 25-foot-long, oar-powered rafts; offer a safe and comfortable ride through several small, easy sets of rapids and calm stretches that any first-time rafter will enjoy. Don’t worry the guides do all the rowing; you sit back and enjoy while exploring all the spectacular scenery drifting down a route that was used by fur traders many years ago. There is always a chance of seeing various wildlife including elk, deer, moose, coyotes, wolves, eagles, ospreys, mountain sheep and bears. Tours will operate rain or shine, and a poncho will be provided when required.
Adult Price: CAD 87
Experience the majestic scenery of Jasper National Park on foot. This guided nature hike will feature a spectacular array of rolling hills, jagged peaks, forests, meadows, marshes, streams, and stunning glacial lakes. Your licensed interpreter will lead this leisurely walk as you explore the abundant flora and fauna along these routes that often offer incredible opportunities to spot wildlife. Marvel at snow-capped peaks during the months of May and early June, in mid-summer the forest and alpine meadows are ablaze in glorious wildflower shades of red, blue, yellow, and white. By late August and through the month of September, the mountain landscapes glow with the red, orange, and gold of the Larch and Aspen trees. Routes can change due to weather, wildlife and seasonal closures. Guides will provide hiking poles, water, and will guide the guest through both trail networks. Guests should be of a basic fitness level and comfortable walking for about 2 hours.
Adult Price: CAD 73
Nestled in a ring of towering mountains, Maligne Lake is the largest glacially fed lake in the Canadian Rockies. Here you’ll discover world-famous Spirit Island, the crown jewel of Jasper National Park. The Maligne Lake Cruise is an experience like no other with an experienced crew who will guide you through the rich history, ecology and geology of Maligne Lake. This interpretive tour has been declared the “Best Boat Cruise in Canada” by 8 million Reader’s Digest subscribers. You’ll be inspired by the beauty of Maligne Lake’s vibrant blue waters and by the stunning lofty peaks as you cruise to Spirit Island, a world-famous destination and one of the most photographed locations in the Rockies, accessible only by boat. Subject to weather conditions.
Adult Price: CAD 84
This Jasper Downtown Foodie Tour is led by a Local Expert who lives in Jasper year-round. You’ll go on a short guided walk that feels less like venue-hopping and more like dropping in for a catch-up with a series of food-loving locals. At each of the four stops, you have a chance to sample carefully handpicked dishes, each paired with an alcoholic beverage. Along the way, you will learn about Jasper’s history and listen to tales of an authentic mountain town. Per Alberta law, must be 18 or older to participate.
Adult Price: CAD 123
Join Warrior Women, who are First Nations Cree from the Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation, in an evening by the fire, make yourself comfortable and be prepared to engage in conversation about Indigenous culture, with stories, drumming, and songs. Warrior Women will guide you through an hour of immersive experience through drumming, singing, creation storytelling and cultural teachings. You will go away fulfilled after this adventure!
Adult Price: CAD 44
Get a little wet and have a lot of fun on the Athabasca River. Raft the Mile 5 section of the glacier-fed river. This section of river is a great introduction to river rafting as it begins with an approximately 10-minute float before the class II rapids start. Experience the gentle thrill of some bumps and splashes on your 2-2.5 roundtrip (approximately 1 hour of “river time”). Experience white water rafting in the Rocky Mountains. This soft adventure is perfect for kids and beginners. Includes roundtrip transport from your hotel. Also provided a neoprene wetsuit, a pair of neoprene boots, and a lifejacket. If the weather calls for it, we may also provide splash jackets, neoprene jackets, fleeces, toques (aka beanies or warm hats), or gloves.
Adult Price: CAD 87
Available on Day 9
Soar to the top of Sulphur Mountain to experience a stunning bird’s-eye view of six incredible mountain ranges. With breathtaking vistas in every direction, you’ll understand why the Banff Gondola is a Canadian Rockies must-see destination. Your adventure begins with an eight-minute journey to the summit of Sulphur Mountain in a modern, fully enclosed four-passenger gondola cabin. Glide up over the treetops to the crest of a steep-sided Rocky Mountain peak and step out into a jaw-dropping mountaintop experience. Then take a seat with breathtaking views in the restaurant and enjoy chef-attended stations including carvery, salads, pizza, burgers, pasta and desserts—all created by the culinary team with regionally-sourced ingredients
Adult Price: CAD 105
Available on Day 10
Renowned for its panoramic beauty, The Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course in Alberta is a captivating and challenging layout set in the heart of Canada's Rocky Mountains. Enjoy 9-hole golfing with breathtaking views in every direction. Amateurs and professionals alike are constantly amazed by its challenging layout. From hole design to optical illusions created by the surrounding mountains, this Alberta golf course will delight and tempt you. Included are green fee as well as club rental.
Adult Price: CAD 159
You are in for something special as you are transported to Mount Assiniboine - "the Matterhorn" of the Canadian Rockies. Our most popular adventure has all the fantastic scenery of the previous tours plus a fly-by over top of the glacier. This photogenic peak rises majestically to 11,870 feet along the Great Divide. The Gloria and Assiniboine Glaciers will astound you. This is an experience you will never forget!
Adult Price: CAD 399
The most action-packed twenty minutes of your life. Get up close and personal with the famous Three Sisters Peaks. Reach out and touch them as you whisk by before escaping into the Spray Valley where you will explore the extraordinary hues of the Spray Lakes. Your return flight travels along the Goat Range before following the pristine Bow River back to Canmore.
Adult Price: CAD 294
Inspiring mountain views, sparkling river water, and the chance to view wildlife while you sit back and relax on a scenic horseback ride along the river. Ride past the Cave & Basin - the original historic hot springs. The trail loops around the marsh following the Bow River back to Warner Stables.
Adult Price: CAD 60
Join Mahikan Trails on a Guided Medicine Walk and explore the world of plant medicine from an Indigenous lens. A knowledgeable guide will share insightful teachings from the land, including fascinating information about the historical medicines of the Boreal forest and how Indigenous ancestors survived off the land for millennia. The tour starts with a tobacco ceremony to greet the ancestors and ask permission to be in the dwelling of the standing people (plants), followed by a walk where you learn about plant medicine, the culture, and connect to the land. Approx. duration: 1.5 hours
Adult Price: CAD 88
This ride is an extension of the 1 Hour Bow River Ride, which rides along the tranquil Bow River – an area home to wildlife in amongst the thick marshes and grassy meadows – and passes by the historic Cave and Basin, the birthplace of Banff National Park. Here craggy rock walls surround pools of bubbling thermal water. The ride then continues with fantastic scenery as you climb up Sulphur Mountain around the Windy Knoll viewpoint before returning to the stables.
Adult Price: CAD 115
This trail begins in the Valley of the Ten Peaks at stunning Moraine Lake. The drive alone to this location is worth it in itself. We’ll spend our time hiking leisurely along an old-growth forest trail to Consolation Lakes, where you’ll see the Fay Glacier atop Mount Babel. Upon our return, explore around Moraine Lake, including a trip to the top of the Rockpile. Due to bear restrictions, this is a great trip to do in a guided group. Rated: Easy. Return Distance: 3.6 miles. Elevation Gain: 837 ft.
Adult Price: CAD 127
At the Banff Gondola, you’ll see more mountains in a moment than most see in a lifetime! Ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain to experience a bird’s eye view of six mountain ranges of the Canadian Rockies. Begin with an eight-minute journey to the summit in a fully enclosed four-passenger gondola cabin. The views become increasingly spectacular as you climb to an elevation of 7,486 feet to the Summit Upper Terminal. Witness the breathtaking views in every direction or go to the restaurant area to enjoy the views inside or from its upper deck. You can also take the Banff Skywalk for a short self-guided interpretive walkway along the summit ridge leading to the Cosmic Ray Station National Historic Site of Canada.
Adult Price: CAD 70
Italian for “iron road,” the Via Ferrata is perfect for those who want a blend of rock climbing and hiking but may not have the experience to go it on their own. It’s just like climbing a series of ladders, all of which are located on the side of a mountain, leading to a magnificent viewpoint and crossing a suspension bridge. This seasonal high-alpine climbing experience above the Mt. Norquay Ski Resort includes all the equipment you’ll need along with a ride on the open-air chairlift to access the Via Ferrata. Light and moderate exertion throughout.
Adult Price: CAD 247
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