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- Western Canada Iconic Sites & Vancouver Island Premium Tour
Western Canada Iconic Sites & Vancouver Island Premium Tour
From £6,969 pp
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18 nights
Escorted Tours-
Economy flights
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Available May - September
This small group tour takes in British Columbia and Alberta’s top locations. You will see the beautiful coastal city of Vancouver, before driving the stunning Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler. Make your way through the beauty of British Columbia before arriving in the Rocky Mountains where you start in the quaint town of Jasper known for her dark skies’ status and wildlife viewing. After this, head down one of the most beautiful drives in the world, the Icefields Parkway, step onto a 10,000-year-old glacier before ending up in the beautiful mountain town of Banff. The tour also winds its way through the wine country of the Okanagan offering lakeside communities, vineyards and rolling valleys. After you have experienced mainland BC head over to Vancouver Island to witness the dramatic landscapes, windswept beaches and diverse plant life in the old growth rainforests. Experience memorable wildlife encounters, a relaxed pace of life and indigenous experiences on British Columbia’s Vancouver Island with your fun and friendly guide.
What's Included
- International flights from the UK based on economy class
- 18 nights hotel accommodation
- Small coach transportation
- Experienced, fun and friendly guide
- 15 breakfasts
- Indigenous experience & salmon BBQ Lunch
- Winery tour and tasting
- Admission to Sulphur Mountain Gondola
- Admission to Icefields Glacier Adventure
- Return BC Ferries between Vancouver and Vancouver Island
- Admission to Butchart Gardens
- Admission to Sea Cider Tasting
- Admission to Malahat SkyWalk
- Admission to Ucluelet Aquarium
- All park fees
Holiday Map
Explore our interactive map to discover your holiday route and key points of interest.
Start
Finish
Stops
Point of interest
Your day-to-day plan
Day 1-2
Arrive in Vancouver
Upon arrival in Vancouver, independently make your way to your downtown hotel. Spend the next 2 days exploring this vibrant city. Explore Stanley Park with its endless forested trails, world class aquarium and its 10-kilometre seawall by foot or by bike. Wander Vancouver’s varied neighbourhoods and must-see attractions such as Dr Sun-Yat Sen’s Chinese Gardens in Chinatown, the famous steam-powered clock in Vancouver’s Gastown district, chiming every 15 minutes on 5 brass steam whistles. Explore the rainforest and majestic evergreens in the iconic Capilano Suspension Bridge and Park on Vancouver’s North Shore or stay downtown for a spot of shopping on Vancouver’s Robson Street.
Day 3
Whistler
After meeting your tour group, you will depart Vancouver for Whistler. The road to Whistler takes you up the beautiful Sea to Sky Highway known as one of the most beautiful drives in the world. The route follows the beautiful coastline of Howe Sound’s steep fjords and the dramatic mountainous landscape to the east. The first stop of the day will be at the beautiful Shannon Falls, rising at 335m above Highway 99 this makes them British Columbia’s third highest falls. The next stop of the day is at Brandywine Falls, a 70-metre waterfall offering views of Daisy Lake and the surrounding mountains. Finally, you will arrive in the beautiful mountain town of Whistler, with endless outdoor recreational activities as well as the beautiful Scandinave Spa there is plenty to keep you entertained whilst here. Ensure to take a trip up the famous Peak 2 Peak Gondola. This record-breaking gondola spans between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains and at 4.4 kilometres is the world’s longest unsupported span for a lift of this kind. Take in the vista of towering volcanic peaks, coastal rainforests, and ancient glaciers. As you are in bear country in Whistler you may also see one of the many Black Bears that call these mountains home. You will have the option to add on a visit to Vallea Lumina this evening (additional cost), a muti-media night walk within the forests of Whistler.
Day 4
Wells Gray Provincial Park
Depart Whistler for the spectacular Wells Gray Provincial Park. You will pass the communities of Pemberton & Lillooet before taking part in an authentic Indigenous experience with salmon BBQ. Visit the Bridge River Fishing Grounds, the past and present fishing areas of the St'át'imc people. Learn about the traditional wind-dried method of preserving the salmon still used today. After the tour you will partake in a salmon BBQ, complete with salmon, rice, salad and Bannock plus a traditional dessert of whipped berries (sxúsum). Once you arrive in Clearwater you will have the option to participate in a canoe tour (additional cost) or relax in your hotel.
Day 5
Jasper
Explore Wells Gray Provincial Park known for its natural beauty and numerous spectacular waterfalls. Stops include Helmcken Falls, the fourth-highest falls in Canada, and one of the most popular spots in the park, as well as Spahats Falls where the water cascades in the gorge from an unusual break in the rocks. As you make your way towards the quaint town of Jasper there will be a stop at Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Once checked into your hotel you will have free time to explore the town of Jasper and have dinner. As a dark sky preserve you may wish to partake in the optional visit to the Jasper Planetarium this evening.
Day 6
Jasper
This morning you will have time to explore Maligne Canyon. Walk along the scenic bridges and trails whilst looking for ancient fossils in the rocks and viewing the many waterfalls. After, you can view the sheer beauty of Maligne Lake, famous for the colour of its azure water, the surrounding peaks, the three glaciers visible from the lake, and Spirit Island which is frequently photographed. There is an option to take the boat cruise to Spirit Island (additional cost) or enjoy a stroll along the lakeside trail. You will have free time in the afternoon to explore Jasper or take part in other optional activities including food tours, motorcycle tours or the Jasper Sky Tram to name but a few.
Day 7
Icefields Parkway
Today will see you embark on another iconic drive as you head south down the Icefield’s Parkway towards Banff. The Icefield’s Parkway weaves its way through the Canadian Rockies passing glaciers, lakes, and endless mountain peaks. Your first stop of the day will be at the Columbia Icefields to partake in the Glacier Adventure on one of the world-renowned Ice Explorers. Pose for photos atop the 10,000-year-old sheet of ice and fill up your water bottles from the glacier fed water. A stop at Saskatchewan Crossing will give you the option to go on a helicopter tour to view more of the Rockies from above. Other stops include Bow Lake & Peyto Lake before arriving in the town of Banff.
Day 8
Banff
Take a trip on the Banff Gondola to enjoy spectacular views of the Rockies before partaking in a tour of the Banff townsite including Bow Falls, HooDoos, and the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. You will have free time for shopping and sightseeing on Banff Avenue or to enjoy the endless activities on offer such as e-biking, horse riding, canoeing, hiking, a visit to the hot springs or a helicopter tour. The evening will be at leisure to take in the numerous restaurants and bars within Banff.
Day 9
Kelowna
Explore the turquoise beauty of 2 of the most photographed lakes, Lake Louise, and Moraine Lake. Ensure your camera is fully charged in preparation for the vistas that will be before you. As you enter British Columbia, travel through the historic Roger’s Pass, a high mountain pass through the Selkirk Mountains and the approaches used by the Canada Pacific Railway. This historic site has been a tourist destination since 1886. Upon arrival in Kelowna in the heart of the Okanagan region you will have free time to explore the town and its many dining options.
Day 10
Vancouver
The Okanagan Valley is one of British Columbia’s top-producing wine regions, offering wine tasting, festivals, and farmer’s markets. The sprawling hillsides, valleys, lakes, and deserts are a hub for food and wine lovers. Boating on the lakes during summer months is a popular pastime. A stop at a farmer’s market and winery is included. The Okanagan is a perfect summer destination for all ages. Arrive in Vancouver this evening and explore the cities many neighbourhoods. A food tour in Vancouver is a great way to explore the city.
Day 11
Victoria
Spend the morning cruising through the Gulf Islands as you make your way from the mainland to Vancouver Island. Upon arrival in Victoria, British Columbia’s provincial capital you will visit the famous Butchart Gardens. Open year round the gardens offer beautiful blooms and landscapes over 55 acres, with 900 bedding plant varieties and 26 greenhouses. The 120-year-old gardens are a designated National Historic Site of Canada and offer up stunning views of Tod Inlet. After your visit to the gardens, partake in a Cider Tasting tour, with Victoria’s cider scene buzzing it’s the perfect way to gain knowledge and relax as your guide helps you to find your new favourite cider. This evening is at leisure to explore Victoria’s inner harbour, the parliamentary building and don’t forget to stop by the Fairmont Empress Hotel for stunning photo opportunities.
Day 12
Victoria
The day kick starts with a Victoria City tour, visiting Beacon Hill Park, Canada’s oldest Chinatown, Fan Tan Alley, Fisherman’s Wharf and Government Street. The remainder of the day will be at your leisure, take the time to enjoy Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel or for a thrilling experience take to the water on a whale watching tour. The waters in nearby Juan de Fuca and Haro Straits provide sterling viewing opportunities for transient and resident Orcas as well as Humpback Whales. Other marine life includes Dall’s Porpoises, Harbour Porpoises, Stellar and California Sea Lions, Harbour and Elephant Seals, otters, and a variety of birds.
Day 13
Tofino
As you make your way to the western point of Vancouver Island you will drive along the Malahat Highway where you can enjoy beautiful views over the Southern Gulf Islands. Stop at the Malahat SkyWalk and embark on a 600-metre-long elevated walkway through an expansive Arbutus and Douglas Fir Forest, leading to a 10 story spiral lookout tower – 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. A stop is made in Duncan for a brief tour around the City of Totems and free time for lunch. On arrival in Tofino your guide will tell you about all the great onsite amenities and the best places for dinner tonight.
Day 14-15
Pacific Rim National Park
Explore the magnificent beaches of Tofino including Long Beach and take an optional hike with your guide. Enjoy a visit to the Ucluelet Aquarium, which is a fantastic locally run aquarium displaying the amazing variety of local marine life and offering great education on the local environment. After visiting the Aquarium join your guide for a trail walk of the Wild Pacific Trail Lighthouse area, around Ucluelet, to see the rugged coastline and sweeping ocean views.
Day 16
Campbell River
As you make your back towards the east coast of Vancouver Island your first stop will be at Coombs Market, famously known for the goat on the rooftop and today’s stop for lunch. You can find fresh produce, great sandwiches, and the best ice cream on the island. After we continue the drive along the Coastal Highway, through coastal communities and along beautiful landscapes, a stop will made in Comox for dinner. Upon arrival in Campbell River explore the resort, watch the sunset, and enjoy the surroundings.
Day 17
Northern Vancouver Island
Take the morning participating in the many different optional activities including kayaking, fishing and whale watching. There will be an option to go on a full day Grizzly Bear Expedition into the Bute or Toba Valley (seasonal only). Visit Elk Falls Suspension Bridge and enjoy a walk on the elevated cantilevered viewing platform that offers an amazing view of Elk Falls. This evening you will have free time at the hotel.
Day 18
Vancouver
After departing Campbell River, the first stop of the day will be 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. After a stop in Nanaimo for a stroll along the Harbourfront, don’t miss out on trying one of the famous Nanaimo Bars. Then it’s time to board the ferry back to the mainland for your final night in Vancouver.
Day 19
Fly Home
Enjoy the last few hours in Vancouver prior to your return flight. If you have time head down to Canada Place to check out Flyover Canada, an immersive flying journey that connects you with Canada’s spectacular sights, sounds and stories.
Related Itineraries
This holiday requires an ETA for entry to Canada, for full details and to apply please see below:
Please note Parks Canada charge fees at most national parks and historic sites across the country. Parks Canada passes can be purchased as part of your holiday, speak to your sales advisor for more details. Early booking is recommended.
For further information about national parks and historic sites in Canada or to reserve campsites and activities, please visit:
