DISCOVER RAINFOREST TO ROCKIES (One-way Vancouver to Calgary)
Overview
This small group journey showcases Western Canada from the coastal rainforest of Vancouver through British Columbia’s wine country and onward to the dramatic peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Travel east through Kelowna, Glacier National Park, Lake Louise, and Banff before concluding in Calgary.
With this unique one-way itinerary, you can combine your trip with a Rocky Mountaineer train journey, making it the ultimate round-trip experience throughout Western Canada. This allows you to witness different scenery from both the road and the rail, which are uniquely different and equally impressive.
Itinerary
Please note that this is a sample itinerary and is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, such as weather or unexpected closures.
Arrival in Vancouver
- Arrive at Vancouver International Airport (YVR).
- Independent transfer to your downtown hotel.
- Free time to explore Vancouver at leisure.
*Photo courtesy of ©Destination BC
Vancouver to Kelowna
- Travel through the Fraser Valley and over the Coquihalla Pass.
- Arrive in Kelowna, the heart of BC’s wine country.
- Enjoy an afternoon winery tour and wine tasting.
- Free time to explore the lakefront promenade and marina.
*Photos courtesy of ©Destination BC & Unsplash
Kelowna to Golden
- Breakfast included at your hotel.
- Depart Kelowna after breakfast.
- Stop in Revelstoke for mountain views.
- Scenic drive through Glacier National Park and Rogers Pass.
- Visit the Golden Skybridge (included).
- Check in to your hotel and evening at leisure.
*Photos courtesy of ©Destination BC
Golden to Lake Louise
- Breakfast included at your hotel.
- Travel through Yoho National Park.
- Visit Emerald Lake and the Natural Bridge (weather permitting).
- Continue to Lake Louise.
- Free time to explore the lakeshore or enjoy afternoon tea.
- Seasonal visit to Moraine Lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks.
*Photos courtesy of ©Destination BC & ©Rocky Mountaineer
Icefields Parkway to Banff
- Breakfast included at your hotel
- Depart Lake Louise.
- Scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway.
- Photo stops at Peyto Lake and Bow Lake.
- Visit the Columbia Icefield.
- Ice Explorer Glacier Tour (included).
- Orientation tour of Banff including Banff Springs Hotel and Bow Falls.
*Photos courtesy of ©Unsplash & ©Rocky Mountaineer
Banff
- Breakfast included at your hotel
- Banff Gondola ride to Sulphur Mountain (included).
- Free time for optional activities, shopping, or dining.
*Photos courtesy of ©Rocky Mountaineer & ©Unsplash
Banff to Calgary
- Breakfast included at your hotel.
- Depart Banff after breakfast.
- Lunch at Boundary Ranch (included).
- Visit the Calgary Stampede Sam Centre.
- Free time in downtown Calgary.
*Photos courtesy of ©Travel Alberta
Departure
- Breakfast at the hotel and check out
- For guests staying in Calgary: Additional nights in Calgary can be arranged upon request and there are a number of sightseeing options that we can help arrange
FAQs
Where does this tour end? What can I do after?
This is a one-way tour ending in Calgary, however, this doesn’t have to be the end of the Canadian adventure. There are ample options for you to choose from.
If you wish to return back to Vancouver, you could book this one-way tour together with a one-way Rocky Mountaineer train journey. Making it a round trip back to Vancouver.
With our sightseeing bus tour, you will have the opportunity to see unique scenery and walk to viewpoints where the train passes by. You’ll get to breathe the fresh mountain air, walk to the turquoise lakes to immerse your feet, and—if you are lucky—witness spectacular wildlife! Whereas the train journey takes you through rugged tunnels, rivers, and canyons that the roads can’t reach, offering a totally different experience and perspective. We can book both options for you if you wish.
For guests who don’t wish to return to Vancouver, you could spend a few days to explore Calgary, then fly out to any destination your heart desires.
What is the group size for this tour?
This is a small group tour with a maximum of 23 guests, offering a more relaxed pace, easier logistics, and a more personal experience with your guide.
Are meals included?
Daily breakfast is included, along with select experiences such as a wine tasting and a ranch-style lunch. Other meals are left free so guests can explore local dining options.
Will there be free time during the tour?
Yes. The itinerary balances guided sightseeing with free time in key destinations such as Vancouver, Kelowna, Banff, and Calgary.
Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Canada?
Absolutely. This itinerary highlights many of Western Canada’s most iconic landscapes and attractions, making it ideal for first-time visitors as well as returning travellers.
What to bring?
- Comfortable walking shoes or light hiking boots for trails and canyon walks
- Warm layers and a weatherproof jacket (mountain weather can change quickly)
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sunny alpine days
- Camera or smartphone to capture iconic views and wildlife moments
- Small daypack for daily essentials and extra layers
- Travel insurance is required. We can help you arrange different packages through Uniglobe Specialty Travel
Duration
Size
Quad
Triple
Double
Single
Highlights
- Travel east from Vancouver’s coastal rainforest into the heart of the Canadian Rockies
- Drive through the scenic Fraser Valley, Coquihalla Pass, and interior mountain corridors
- Enjoy a winery tour and tasting in British Columbia’s renowned Okanagan Valley
- Walk across the Golden Skybridge, Canada’s highest suspension bridge
- Discover the turquoise waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake (seasonal)
- Journey along the spectacular Icefields Parkway
- Experience the Columbia Icefield Ice Explorer Glacier Tour
- Ride the Banff Gondola for sweeping alpine views
- Explore charming mountain towns including Banff and Lake Louise
- Visit the Calgary Stampede Sam Centre for an immersive look at Canada’s western heritage
Inclusions
7 nights accommodation including 2 nights right in the town of Banff - Deluxe mini-coach transportation with air conditioning and large windows
- Experienced, friendly, and fun tour guide
- Daily breakfast & 1 Lunch
- Admission to:
- Wine tasting
7 nights accommodation including 2 nights right in the town of Banff 
Deluxe mini-coach transportation with air conditioning and large windows
Experienced, friendly, and fun tour guide 
