WESTERN CANADA & VANCOUVER ISLAND PREMIUM
Overview
Embark on a 14-night adventure that merges the best of Interior BC, Alberta, and Vancouver Island. Explore the Canadian Rockies and mountain towns with premium stays in Whistler, Sun Peaks, Jasper, Banff, and Kelowna. Then, continue on to Vancouver Island, indulging in the historic charm of Victoria, the wild culture of Tofino, and the rugged beauty of Northern Vancouver Island.
This intimate quintessential experience promises an array of unforgettable memories, blending famed and off-the-beaten-path sightseeing stops with visits to iconic attractions and authentically Canadian activities. Learn about the tales of Western Canada’s wonders as you journey through captivating landscapes with your experienced and knowledgeable tour guide, making this the extraordinary Canadian adventure of excellence!
COMBO TOUR: This package combines our complete Western Canada Iconic Sites and Vancouver Island Premium tours, including a night in downtown Vancouver in between. Each leg is available to book separately.
Check out the available optional activities to add on to your itinerary and make the most out of your trip! We offer special rates to upgrade your experience at best value.
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 scheduled departure)
- Travel the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway and stop at Shannon Falls & Brandywine Falls on your way to Whistler
- Arrive in Whistler Village and enjoy a walking tour (optional participation)
- Option to go try an add-on activity like ziplining, e-biking, riing the famous Peak 2 Peak Gondola, and much more (additional cost)
- Check into your centrally located hotel in Whistler Village
- Leisure time to enjoy the hotel amenities or explore Whistler Village
- Evening option to participate in Vallea Lumina – a multi-media night walk in pursuit of hidden wonders (additional cost)
Whistler to Sun Peaks
- Enjoy breakfast in your hotel before departing Whistler
- Drive through Pemberton and Lillooet
- Stop at a beautiful winery with wine tasting included
- Arrive in Sun Peaks and check in to your hotel
- Take the sightseeing chairlift, enjoy spectacular views, and hike through the alpine wildflowers at the top (included)
- Free time to enjoy the hotel amenities, including a big outdoor pool and hot tub, or leisure time to enjoy the pedestrian village of Sun Peaks
Sun Peaks to Jasper
- Have breakfast in your hotel
- Depart Sun Peaks and start your journey to the Rocky Mountains
- Visit the famous Spahats Falls in Clearwater
- Stop at Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies
- Check into your centrally located hotel in the town of Jasper
- Free time to explore the town of Jasper and have dinner
- Option to visit the Jasper Planetarium this evening
Jasper to Banff
- Have breakfast (included) and continue your journey
- Visit Maligne Lake, which is famous for the colour of its azure water, the surrounding peaks, the three glaciers visible from the lake, and Spirit Island, a frequently and very famously photographed islet
- Option to take a boat cruise to Spirit Island (additional cost)
- Travel to the Columbia Icefields and go on the world-renowned Ice Explorer Glacier Adventure (included)
- Roadtrip through the Icefields Parkway, one of the top 5 most scenic drives in the world
- Arrive in the town of Banff, the heart of the Canadian Rockies, and check in to your centrally-located hotel
- Enjoy a group dinner (included), then evening at leisure in Banff
Banff
- Take the Banff Gondola and have a buffet breakfast at the summit while enjoying the amazing views of the Rockies (included)
- Enjoy a driving tour of Banff townsite, including Bow Falls, the HooDoos, Banff Springs Hotel, and more
- Free time for shopping and sightseeing on Banff Avenue, or participating in an exciting outdoor activity, such as e-biking, horseback riding, canoeing, hiking, going to the hot springs, taking a helicopter tour, and more (additional cost)
- Evening at leisure in Banff
Banff to Kelowna
- Breakfast in the hotel then check out
- Visit the beautiful Lake Louise, with time to explore, and stop at Moraine Lake (seasonal)
- Travel through the famous Roger’s Pass on your way to Kelowna
- Check into your hotel in downtown Kelowna
- Evening at leisure to explore the town, with many dining options to choose from
Kelowna to Vancouver
- Have breakfast in your hotel and depart for Vancouver
- Stop in the Okanagan Valley to explore the farmer’s market and indulge in a wine tasting in a local winery
- Arrive in Vancouver in the evening and check in to your hotel downtown
- Evening at leisure to enjoy the hotel’s amenities
Vancouver to Victoria
- Have breakfast in your hotel and meet your guide to continue the adventure on to Vancouver Island
- Take a scenic ferry ride through the Salish Sea and the Gulf Islands – keep an eye out for sea wildlife sightings!
- Arrive in Vancouver Island and visit the famous Butchart Gardens (admission included)
- Visit Sea Cider for a tour and enjoy a local cider tasting
- Check in to your centrally located hotel in Victoria
- Evening at leisure to explore the capital city
Victoria
- Enjoy a Victoria City tour this morning visiting Beacon Hill Park, Chinatown, Fan Tan Alley, Fisherman’s Wharf and Government Street
- The remainder of the day is at your leisure. You can stroll along Government Street or visit the well known Royal BC Museum. You also have the option to enjoy Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel.
Victoria to Tofino
- Early departure from your hotel and drive along the Malahat Highway where you can enjoy beautiful views over the Southern Gulf Islands
- Stop at the Malahat SkyWalk – the newest outdoor experience on Vancouver Island. Embark on a 600 metre-long elevated walkway through an expansive Arbutus and Douglas Fir forest, leading to a 10-story, architecturally-inspiring spiral tower lookout – 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
- Stop in Duncan for a brief tour around the City of Totems and free time for lunch
- Arrive in Tofino in the evening and check into your hotel. Your guide will tell you about all the great onsite amenities and best places for dinner tonight.
Tofino & Pacific Rim National Park - Day 1
- Today explore Tofino and its magnificent beaches including Long Beach and option to join your guide for a hike
- Visit The Naa’Waya’Sum Coastal Indigenous Gardens (formerly the Tofino Botanical Gardens). The majority of the beautiful 10-acre site is home to coastal rainforest and its many living species. An enchanting trail system is designed to help visitors navigate through the forest and along the waterfront–also a globally recognized important bird area. Covered viewpoints and seating areas are nestled thoughtfully in various places to create opportunities for pause, reflection, and appreciation of nature’s teachings. Visitors also have the opportunity to view the art exhibit and carvers in action! In three separate locations, visitors can learn about Nuu’chah’nulth art, culture, and governance through the exhibit at the welcome centre and the totems that are being designed and carved on site. This is a rare opportunity to learn by observing and interacting with Nuu’chah’nulth master artists and knowledge holders.
- Evening at leisure
Tofino & Pacific Rim National Park - Day 2
- Today you have a full day to join an activity such as taking a boat cruise to Hot Springs Cove, kayaking, surfing, hiking through one of the many rainforest trails, or simply relaxing on the beach
- The remainder of the evening is at your leisure to explore the town of Tofino
Tofino to Campbell River
- Check out of your hotel this morning and depart Tofino, traveling back towards the east coast of Vancouver Island
- Stop at Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park where you can take a walk around the old-growth Douglas Fir rainforest.
- Arrive in Coombs Market, famously known for the goat on the rooftop and today’s stop for lunch. Here you can find fresh produce, great sandwiches and the best ice cream on the Island
- Continue your drive along Coastal Highway 19A that has you travel through coastal communities and along beautiful landscapes, stopping in Comox for dinner this evening
- Arrive in Campbell River and your hotel for the night
- Evening at leisure to explore the resort, watch the sunset and enjoy the peaceful surroundings
Northern Vancouver Island
- Morning at leisure with the option to participate in many different activities including kayaking, fishing, and whale watching (Additional Cost)
- Option to go on a full day Grizzly Bear Expedition into the Toba Valley (additional cost, available from Sept. 1 – Oct. 15)
- Visit Elk Falls Provincial Park and explore the extensive network of walking and hiking trails including Elk Falls Suspension Bridge and enjoy a walk on the elevated cantilevered viewing platform that offers an amazing view of Elk Falls
- Arrive back at your hotel and free time for dinner
Campbell River - Nanaimo - Vancouver
- Depart Campbell River in the morning
- Stop 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
- Stop in Nanaimo for a stroll along the Harbourfront. Don’t miss trying one of the famous Nanaimo Bars – a treat for everyone loving sweets
- Take the 3:55 pm ferry from Nanaimo to Horseshoe Bay
- Return to downtown Vancouver at approximately 6:30 pm
FAQs
Are the hiking trails on this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes. In fact, there is no hiking necessary to go on this tour. Your guide will suggest a variety of optional walking and hiking trails during your stops in several destinations. Most trails are suitable for all fitness levels, and some can be for those seeking a more adventurous experience. Our experienced guides are trained to tailor their suggestions to the group’s abilities, ensuring everyone has a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.
Are there opportunities for wildlife viewing during the tour?
Absolutely! On this tour, you will travel through wildlife country, with the possibility to spot elk, bears, mountain goats and even a moose in the Rockies, and whales, orcas and eagles in Vancouver Island.
Additionally, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to join wildlife viewing tours in Banff, Campbell River, and Tofino for an additional cost. Our guides are well-versed in the best practices for wildlife observation, prioritizing safety and respect for the natural environment.
Can I opt-out of certain activities and attractions if I prefer a more relaxed pace?
Certainly, flexibility is a key aspect of our tours. While the itinerary includes exciting activities and attractions to encourage you to engage in Canadian culture, you have the freedom to opt-out of participating if you prefer a more relaxed pace, or have specific preferences. Your guide will be able to provide alternative suggestions and help arrange optional activities based on your interests when possible. However, please note that in order to accommodate the entire group, the itinerary of the tour cannot be modified (unless unforeseen circumstances occur).
How much free time is allocated for exploring on our own?
Our sample itinerary is thoughtfully designed to provide a balance between guided experiences and free time for independent exploration. You can expect to have leisure time in each destination, allowing you to wander at your own pace, discover local gems, or simply relax and soak in the surroundings.
What is the weather like in Western Canada?
Weather in both the mountains and the coastlines can vary significantly, given the diverse landscapes of interior BC, the Rockies, and Vancouver Island.
Generally, during the summer months, temperatures range from mild to warm. although it’s advisable to pack light layers, including a jacket and/or windbreaker for cooler evenings and higher altitudes, and waterproof options in the event of light rain. Please check local weather forecasts closer to your travel dates for more accurate information.
How can I extend my stay in Canada before or after the tour?
If you wish to travel to Canada before your tour or to extend your stay after the trip, we can assist in arranging your flights, additional accommodations and activities, and day tours in and around Vancouver, providing you with the flexibility to explore more of Canada. Please contact one of our agents to create a custom travel experience for you.
Additionally, you can purchase travel insurance for all of our experiences through a licensed insurance specialist from Uniglobe Speciatly Travel. Please click here to request a no obligation quote.
Duration
Size
Quad
Triple
Double
Single
Highlights
- Conquer the Canadian Rockies & mountain towns with stays in Whistler, Sun Peaks, Jasper, and Banff, wandering in the majesty of the peaks
- Immerse in the coastal serenity and laid-back charm of Vancouver Island, surrounded by rugged shores, sandy beaches and ancient rainforests
- Witness the splendor of Lake Louise, Maligne Lake, and the Columbia Icefields, each a masterpiece of natural beauty
- Navigate scenic and historic routes, like the Icefields Parkway or the Pacific Rim Highway, revealing the treasures of Western Canada
- Enjoy a scenic ferry ride as you transition from the mountain scenery to the enchanting landscapes of the lush rainforest in the Island
- Savour the journey with cider and wine tastings along the way to add a gourmet touch to your Canadian adventure
- Get discounted rates on optional activities when you book in advance
Inclusions
14-nights hotel accommodations- Roundtrip mini-coach transportation from downtown Vancouver
- Roundtrip BC Ferries from Vancouver to Vancouver Island
- Experienced, friendly and fun tour guide
- Daily breakfast & 1 dinner
- Admission to:
- Wine tasting at 2 wineries
- Sea cider tasting
- Scenic sightseeing stops along the way
- All park passes
- Discounted optional activities if you book in advance
14-nights hotel accommodations
Sea cider tasting
Scenic sightseeing stops along the way
All park passes
Discounted optional activities if you book in advanceWhat to Bring:
- Comfortable walking/hiking gear & footwear
- Light, layered clothing
- Waterproof raincoat and/or windbreaker (recommended)
- Bathing suit & beach towel
- Small backpack for daily excursions
- Reusable water bottle
- Sunglasss & sunscreen
- Hat (recommended)
- Camera and binoculars (recommended)
