Wild British Columbia & Alberta
This comprehensive 12-day Canada group tour takes in the best of the Rockies and Vancouver Island. Enjoy wine tasting in the Okanagan Valley and see the shimmering glacier lakes Louise and Moraine. Take in the mountains, waterfalls and wildlife of Banff National Park, ride the Sulphur Mountain gondola and see Mount Robson, highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Relax in Prince Rupert, take the Inside Passage ferry to Vancouver Island to visit Campbell River and Victoria before returning to Vancouver.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes
Tour overview
Itinerary
Day 1 Welcome to Vancouver!
Day 1 Welcome to Vancouver!
Vancouver - Kelowna. We depart from Vancouver's Canada Place at 7:15am (please arrive by 7am). Take in the spectacular sights as we travel through Fraser Valley and along Coquihala Highway towards Okanagan. Once we reach Okanagan and its wine country valley, we participate in an included wine tasting at a local winery. We then carry on to Kelowna for the night. Take a stroll along the scenic boardwalk by Lake Okanagan or explore the charming shops that line the streets of the town.
Day 2 Journey to Banff
Day 2 Journey to Banff
Kelowna - Banff. Departing from the Okanagan Valley, we journey into the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Our route includes a stop at Craigellachie, where the historic last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven. We’ll also cross the scenic Rogers Pass. We pay a visit to the breath-taking Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, both famous for their stunning glacier-fed waters. This evening, we arrive in Banff, where we check into our downtown hotel and have some free time to explore the charming town.
Day 3 Banff
Day 3 Banff
Banff. Join us for a tour of Banff, where we’ll visit highlights like Bow Falls, the Banff Hoodoos, and the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Take in the stunning views with an included ride on the Sulphur Mountain Gondola. Afterward, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, exploring Banff Avenue or coordinating an optional activity with the tour guide.
Day 4 Icefield Parkway and Jasper
Day 4 Icefield Parkway and Jasper
Banff - Jasper. We leave Banff for a thrilling journey along the Icefield Parkway en route to Jasper. Along the way, we’ll visit Bow Lake and Athabasca Falls. At the Columbia Icefields, we'll experience an unforgettable adventure with an included ride on the Ice Explorer onto the Athabasca Glacier. We arrive in Jasper by late afternoon, providing time to unwind and explore the town.
Day 5 Maligne Lake and Prince George
Day 5 Maligne Lake and Prince George
Jasper - Prince George. Today we journey along Maligne Lake Road to the picturesque Maligne Lake, where we can stroll along the shoreline, enjoy the stunning scenery, or choose to take a boat tour (additional cost) to Spirit Island - one of Canada’s most photographed spots. We then explore the dramatic Maligne Canyon and make a stop at Mount Robson, the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies. By evening, we arrive in Prince George.
Day 6 Prince George to Prince Rupert
Day 6 Prince George to Prince Rupert
Prince George - Prince Rupert. Today, we journey westward along the beautiful Skeena River towards the coast of British Columbia. By evening, we’ll arrive in the charming coastal town of Prince Rupert. From the hotel, relax and embrace the marvellous water views from the restaurant and patio.
Day 7 Relax in Prince Rupert
Day 7 Relax in Prince Rupert
Prince Rupert. After several days of travel, today is dedicated to relaxation. There's also an optional visit to the Museum of Northern BC, a Grizzly Bear tour in the Khutzeymateen Valley or whale watching (both additional cost and dependent on seasonality).
Day 8 Ferry to Port Hardy
Day 8 Ferry to Port Hardy
Prince Rupert - Port Hardy. Rise and shine for an early start. We check in at around 5:30am for the Inside Passage Ferry Cruise. The scenic 16-hour journey takes us from Prince Rupert to Port Hardy, passing notable spots like Princess Royal Channel and Chatham Sound. Upon our late-night arrival in Port Hardy, we check in to our hotel for a well-earned rest.
Day 9 Alert Bay and Campbell River
Day 9 Alert Bay and Campbell River
Port Hardy - Campbell River. Today, we drive to Port McNeill and catch another BC Ferry to Alert Bay on Cormorant Island. Alert Bay is deeply rooted in indigenous culture, with up to half of its residents being First Nations people. One of the unique attractions of Alert Bay is the world’s tallest totem pole. This remarkable landmark is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the indigenous communities in the area and offers a fascinating sight for visitors.
We then pay a visit to the U’mista Cultural Centre in Alert Bay (admission included) which houses a museum showcasing returned artefacts from the indigenous communities. These artefacts, which were once confiscated by the Government of Canada, provide a deep insight into the rich cultural heritage of the Kwakwakaʼwakw people. This afternoon, arrive in Campbell River and check in to the hotel.
Day 10 Activities in Campbell River
Day 10 Activities in Campbell River
Campbell River. Start the day with an early morning walk along the Millennium Trail led by our tour guide, or opt to enjoy a relaxed morning and sleep in. For an additional fee, you can join a whale watching tour, navigating the waters of the Salish Sea, Discovery Passage, and Johnstone Strait, where we may encounter Humpback whales, orcas, Pacific white-sided dolphins, Steller sea lions, and other fascinating wildlife. From August 20 to October 15, there's also an option for a bear watching tour. Enjoy the evening exploring Campbell River at leisure.
Day 11 Victoria
Day 11 Victoria
Campbell River - Victoria. After breakfast, we leave Campbell River and head southbound towards Victoria. Our journey includes a lunch stop in the charming town of Comox. In Victoria, this afternoon, enjoy a guided city tour of BC’s capital, featuring highlights like Fan Tan Alley in Chinatown, Fisherman’s Wharf, Beacon Hill Park, and Mile Zero. The remainder of the day is at leisure for exploration.
Day 12 Back to Vancouver
Day 12 Back to Vancouver
Victoria - Vancouver. After our final breakfast together, enjoy free time to explore downtown Victoria or join optional activities such as indulging in High Tea at the Empress Hotel or taking a cycling tour around Victoria Harbour. In the afternoon, we'll visit the tranquil Butchart Gardens on an included visit. Later, we'll journey to Swartz Bay to board the 90-minute ferry through the Southern Gulf Islands back to the mainland. Our journey concludes upon arriving in downtown Vancouver around 8pm.
Please note: The tour itinerary may be adjusted at the time of travel due to unforeseen circumstances, such as weather, road closures, and traffic.
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Prices & Dates
Hotels
The Royal Anne Hotel in Kelowna offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort, situated in the heart of downtown and just a short stroll from Okanagan Lake. This boutique hotel features warmly decorated rooms equipped with contemporary amenities, providing a cosy retreat for both business and leisure travellers. Embrace stunning lake and city views, a complimentary continental breakfast, and access to a fitness centre. The Royal Anne's prime location makes it an ideal base for exploring Kelowna's vibrant dining scene, boutique shopping, and the picturesque waterfront, making every stay a memorable experience in the Okanagan Valley.
Mount Royal Hotel in Banff is a timeless retreat set in the heart of this picturesque mountain town, offering a seamless blend of heritage charm and contemporary comfort. Situated against the backdrop of the stunning Canadian Rockies, the hotel features well-appointed rooms with modern amenities, a rooftop hot tub, and a cosy lounge that captures the essence of rustic elegance. Soak in the panoramic views or enjoy a relaxing evening by the fireplace, Mount Royal Hotel offers an authentic Banff experience, combining the warmth of tradition with the convenience of modernity.
Nestled in the heart of Jasper National Park, Forest Park Hotel offers a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, surrounded by breath-taking mountain landscapes and serene wilderness. The hotel provides well-appointed rooms with contemporary amenities, ensuring a relaxing retreat after a day of exploring the park's stunning natural beauty. Enjoy a variety of facilities, including an indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness centre, as well as dining options that range from casual to fine dining, all featuring delicious local cuisine. With its prime location, Forest Park Hotel serves as an ideal base for outdoor adventures.
Best Western Plus Prince George is a contemporary hotel in Prince George, British Columbia, offering a blend of comfort and modern amenities. Enjoy well-appointed rooms equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and ergonomic workspaces. The hotel also features a fitness centre, an indoor pool, a hot tub and a complimentary hot breakfast to start your day right. With its combination of convenience, comfort, and a welcoming atmosphere, Best Western Plus Prince George is an ideal choice for visitors looking to explore the "Gateway to the North."
The Crest Hotel in Prince Rupert, British Columbia, offers an exceptional stay with stunning views of the harbour and surrounding mountains. Located centrally, this luxurious hotel provides easy access to the town's vibrant dining, shopping, and cultural attractions, such as the Museum of Northern British Columbia and the Prince Rupert waterfront. Enjoy well-appointed rooms featuring modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and in-room coffee makers. The hotel's on-site restaurant serves delicious local cuisine, while its fitness centre and hot tub provide perfect relaxation after a day of exploring. The Crest Hotel combines comfort, convenience, and breath-taking vistas, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking a memorable stay in Prince Rupert.
The Kwa’lilas Hotel in Port Hardy, British Columbia, offers a unique blend of luxury and cultural immersion, reflecting the rich heritage of the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nations. This boutique hotel provides elegantly designed rooms that feature indigenous artwork and modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and enriching stay. Enjoy authentic West Coast cuisine at the hotel's restaurant, which incorporates local, fresh ingredients. Located in the heart of Port Hardy, the Kwa’lilas Hotel is an ideal base for exploring the pristine wilderness of Northern Vancouver Island. The hotel's commitment to sustainability and community involvement adds an extra layer of depth to your stay, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Painter's Lodge in Campbell River, British Columbia, is a premier waterfront retreat that captures the essence of rustic elegance and outdoor adventure. Overlooking the serene waters of Discovery Passage, this iconic lodge offers serene waterfront and garden views. The lodge's renowned dining experience features fresh, local seafood and panoramic ocean views, creating a perfect setting for both relaxation and adventure. Whether you're exploring the rugged beauty of Vancouver Island or seeking a tranquil escape, Painter's Lodge provides a charming and memorable stay in the heart of nature.
The Coast Victoria Hotel & Marina by APA is a stunning waterfront retreat in the heart of Victoria, British Columbia, offering breath-taking views of the Inner Harbour. This modern hotel combines comfort and luxury, featuring spacious rooms with contemporary décor and signature amenities like TOTO® Washlets for a touch of Japanese hospitality. Indulge in fresh, local seafood at the on-site Blue Crab Seafood House, known for its exceptional cuisine and harbour views. The hotel boasts direct marina access, an indoor/outdoor swimming pool, and a relaxing hot tub, making it perfect for both relaxation and adventure. Located just a short walk from downtown Victoria, the hotel provides easy access to local attractions, shops, and cultural landmarks, offering a convenient and picturesque base for exploring the city.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
Tour Upgrades
Find alternative tours below with Upgrades to this tour