Discover the many landscapes, animals, and ways of life in the Canadian Rockies through an engaging 11-day tour. Venture to Vancouver Island and embark on the Inside Passage ferry, which takes you through glacial fjords to spot orcas and porpoises. Visit a collection of totem poles and immerse yourself in First Nation cultures. After all of these incredible encounters, you’ll soon agree that the west coast is the best coast.
Hotels (6 nts), lodges (4 nts).
10 breakfasts
Allow USD420-550 for meals not included.
Private vehicle, ferry, walking.
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
Vancouver: Arrive at any time.
Vancouver/Campbell River: Catch a ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo and drive along the Oceanside Route to Campbell River. Visit the museum in the town which respectfully acknowledges the First Nations of North Vancouver Island by preserving, interpreting, and sharing the history of these Nations on the lands now known as Campbell River. After seeing the exhibits at the museum attend an optional dinner with the group.
Campbell River/Port Hardy: Take in the scenery while travelling to Port Hardy at the northern tip of Vancouver Island. Enjoy impressive views of coastline and lush forests. Then take the short ferry ride to Alert Bay and pay a visit to the World's Tallest Totem before visiting the U'mista Cultural Centre, whose mandate is to ensure the survival and preservation of the cultural heritage of the Kwakwa?ka??wakw. Walk on some of the trails dotting this tiny island before transferring back to Port McNeill for more free time and an optional happy hour at a local spot. Continue on to Port Hardy in the early evening and check into your hotel.
Port Hardy/Prince Rupert: Embark at dawn for a day-long ferry ride through the famous Inside Passage. The glacial fjords provide spectacular scenery along the route and a safe haven for all types of wildlife, including orcas and porpoises.
Prince Rupert/Smithers: Drive one of the most scenic roads in the world from Prince Rupert to Smithers and discover the First Nations cultures of Northern BC on a day tour around Smithers. Visit the Gitanyow Totems, Battle Hill, and 'Ksan Museum & Historical Village.
Smithers: Enjoy a free day to explore the wilderness around Smithers. Opt to visit Moricetown Canyon or hike one of many trails in the area.
Smithers/Prince George: Enjoy a visit to Twin Falls after breakfast and then spend free time in Smithers before travelling to Prince George, the largest city in Northern British Columbia.
Prince George/Jasper: Travel to Jasper National Park. En route, stop at the tallest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, Mount Robson. Visit the Interpretation Centre, and go for a short hike to take in the views.
Jasper: Enjoy a free day to explore Jasper National Park. Opt to hike at Maligne Canyon, cross the lake on a boat cruise, or join a scenic river rafting tour. In the evening, visit the Miette Hot Springs.
Jasper/Canmore: Travel to Canmore via one of the most scenic drives in the world, the Icefields Parkway. Stop at the Columbia Icefield en route.
Canmore/Calgary: Travel to Calgary, a modern city that honours its cowboy roots. Tour ends on arrival to Calgary.