WESTERN CANADA ICONIC SITES
Overview
This captivating journey through Western Canada provides a postcard-worthy adventure. Stay overnight in the iconic locations of Whistler, Wells Gray Provincial Park, Jasper, Banff, and Kelowna. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the natural landscapes along the way, delve into the heart of Indigenous culture, savour delicious local cuisine, and explore famous landmarks like Maligne Lake and the Columbia Icefield. From exciting easy hikes to serene moments by glacial lakes, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Canada’s natural wonders.
Make it a COMBO: This tour can be booked together with our Vancouver Island Premium Tour for a supreme 16-day adventure in Western Canada.
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 downtown Vancouver from Canada Place. Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your departure time
- Travel the scenic Sea to Sky Highway with a stop at Shannon Falls and Brandywine Falls
- Arrive in Whistler Village and enjoy a guided walking tour of this small, European-style town
- Option to join an add-on activity such as zip-trekking, e-biking, riding the famous Peak 2 Peak Gondola, and more (additional cost)
- Check in to your centrally located hotel in Whistler Village
- Leisure time to enjoy the hotel amenities and explore at leisure
- Evening option to participate in Vallea Lumina – a multi-media night walk in pursuit of hidden wonders (additional cost)
Whistler to Clearwater
- Enjoy breakfast included at your hotel, then depart Whistler
- Drive through Pemberton and by Lillooet Lake
- Enjoy an authentic Indigenous experience with Xwísten Experience Tours: Visit the Bridge River Fishing Grounds, the past and current fishing area of the St’át’imc People. Learn about the traditional wind-dried method of preserving the salmon still used until today. After the tour, partake in a Salmon BBQ, complete with salmon, rice, salad, and bannock. Dessert is a traditional dish of whipped berries called sxúsum
- Check in to your hotel in Clearwater
- Option to do a canoe tour this evening (additional cost) or relax in your hotel. Hotel amenities include a pool and hot tub
*Photo courtesy of ©Tourism Lillooet
Clearwater to Jasper
- Enjoy breakfast in the hotel
- Explore the beautiful Wells Gray Provincial Park with a visit to Helmcken Falls and Spahats Falls
- Stop at Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies
- Check in to your centrally located hotel in the town of Jasper
- Free time to explore the town and have dinner at leisure
- Option to visit the Jasper Planetarium this evening (additional cost)
*Photo courtesy of ©Tourism Jasper
Jasper National Park
- Enjoy breakfast in the hotel
- Explore Maligne Canyon: walk along scenic bridges and trails and see ancient fossils and many waterfalls
- Visit Maligne Lake, famous for the colour of its azure water, and gaze at the surrounding peaks, the three glaciers visible from the lake, and Spirit Island, a frequently photographed islet
- Option to take a boat cruise to Spirit Island (additional cost)
- Free time in the afternoon to explore Jasper or take part in other optional activities, such as the Jasper Planetarium in the evening (additional cost)
*Photos courtesy of ©Parks Canada – Ryan Bray and ©Sean Thonson via Travel Alberta
Jasper & Icefields Parkway to Banff
- Enjoy breakfast at your hotel
- Travel to the Columbia Icefield and go on the Ice Explorer Glacier Adventure! Ride an all-terrain snocoach and walk on Athabasca Glacier to try the glacier water and take some pictures (included)
- Travel the world-renowned Icefields Parkway, on of the top 5 most scenic routes in the world, with stops at Bow Lake and Peyto Lake (time permitting)
- Arrive in the town of Banff and check in to your centrally located hotel for 2 nights
*Photo courtesy of ©Pursuit – Mike Seehagel
Banff
- Have breakfast at your hotel
- Take the Banff Mountain Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain and enjoy a amazing views of the Rocky Mountains (included)
- Enjoy a short coach tour of Banff townsite, including Bow Falls, HooDoos, and Banff Springs Hotel
- Free time to go shopping and sightseeing on Banff Avenue, or to participate in an exciting optional activity such as e-biking, horseback riding, canoeing (bow river float), hiking, and more
- Evening at leisure in Banff
*Photo courtesy of ©Pursuit – Chris Amat
Banff & Lake Louise to Kelowna
- Have breakfast at the hotel then check out
- Explore beautiful Lake Louise, and travel to Moraine Lake (dependent on road closures)
- Travel through the famed Roger’s Pass
- Check in to your hotel located in downtown Kelowna
- Explore the town at leisure with many dining options to choose from
*Photo courtesy of ©Tourism Kelowna – Danika Lee
Kelowna to Vancouver
- Have breakfast at your hotel
- Explore the Okanagan Valley with a stop at a farmer’s market
- Enjoy a winery tour and tasting
- Return to Vancouver at approximately 7:30pm
FAQs
Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
While travel insurance is not included in the tour package, we can arrange it for you along with any additional travel needs through Uniglobe Specialty Travel. Please contact our licensed travel specialist, Sepideh Sajjadi, at sepideh@uniglobespecialty.com and we will book flights, accommodation, car rentals or insurance for you upon request.
We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.
What is the typical weather like during the tour season?
The weather in the Rocky Mountains can change drastically within a few days. We strongly recommend checking the weather forecast prior to your tour departure, and packing diverse layers to prepare accordingly.
In general, summers in Western Canada (June to August) are mild to warm, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). However, it is advisable to be prepared for rain or cooler temperatures, particularly in the evenings.
How physically demanding are the included activities?
All of the activities included in this tour do not require previous hiking experience, and are easy and suitable for most ages and fitness levels.
Optional activities like e-biking, horseback riding or canoeing may require moderate fitness levels. We recommend reviewing the optional add-on descriptions to determine which activities best suit your abilities and preferences.
What kind of wildlife might we encounter during the tour?
Western Canada is renowned for its diverse wildlife, and you may encounter a variety of species in their natural habitats on thir tour. These can include black bears, grizzly bears, elk, deer, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and various bird species such as eagles and ospreys.
Additionally, you might have the opportunity to spot smaller mammals like marmots and squirrels. Our guides are knowledgeable about local wildlife and will ensure that encounters are conducted safely and respectfully, providing an enriching experience while prioritizing the well-being of both guests and animals.
The 2025 Earlybird Promotion is valid until October 31, 2024.
Please contact us for assistance.
Use code EBD25 and save up to $410 CAD/person*!
Duration
Size
Quad
Triple
Double
Single
Highlights
- Discover Whistler’s charm on a guided walking tour
- Indulge in an authentic Indigenous salmon BBQ experience
- Marvel at Jasper’s iconic Maligne Lake and Spirit Island
- Experience the thrill of the Columbia Icefield Glacier Adventure
- Explore Banff with a scenic gondola ride and town tour
- Relax in Kelowna and savour local wines in the Okanagan
Inclusions
What to Bring:
- 2 pieces of ID
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Clothing layers for varying temperatures
- Swimsuit and flip flops
- Sunscreen and sunglasses (optional sun hat)
- Insect repellent
- Waterproof jacket or light layer
- Small backpack and reusable water bottle
- Camera (recommended)
- Travel adapter and charger for electronic devices (recommended)