Compare Essential Canadian Rockies from Vancouver by Brewster Travel Canada vs Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta Small Group by Insight Vacations
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
2.5 | Disappointing
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 5 days | 8 days |
| Price From | $ 2,729 | $ 4,893 |
| Price Per Day | $ 546 | $ 612 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Retreats | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Premium | Premium |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
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| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
This adventure travels by luxury sightseeing motor coach and daylight train between Western Canada's two major cities: Vancouver and Calgary. The metropolitan city of Vancouver, offers up views of the Pacific Ocean and Coastal Mountains, and an eclectic art and cultural scene. Board the Rocky Mountaineer sightseeing train headed east, with an overnight in Kamloops. This two-day rail journey offers informative commentary and unbeatable views from your comfortable seat. All meals are included on the train. Arriving in Jasper, prepare to be amazed by spectacular scenery and glimpses of wildlife. Continue on to Jasper National Park and the famous Icefields Parkway, with a stop at the Columbia Icefield. Venture out onto the Athabasca glacier in an all-terrain Ice Explorer. Next up is the Glacier Skywalk interpretive centre, featuring fascinating views from a glass walkway perched high above a natural mountain ecosystem. Continue to Banff, and explore this unique alpine townsite, home of Canada's first National Park. Conclude with a scenic drive through rolling foothills and golden prairies to Calgary. |
Take a spectacular guided tour to the Rocky Mountains and witness Alberta’s breath-taking wilderness. Discover the natural wonders of Banff National Park, the grand Columbia Icefield as well as the Jasper National Park. Glorious views, beautiful scenery, warm hospitality, and outstanding activities ensure a sensational trip to one of the most beautiful corners of the world. |
DAY 1 – Arriving in Vancouver
Arrive in Vancouver, a modern city set on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. Explore the landmark sights of this spectacular location including the historic architecture of Gastown, and the 1,000-acre urban rainforest at Stanley Park. Browse through artisan food and crafts at Granville Island Market, and take a stroll along the seawall for sweeping views of the harbour and Coast Mountain Range.
DAYS 2 & 3 – 'Rocky Mountaineer' to Kamloops and Jasper
All aboard the 'Rocky Mountaineer' for a two-day rail adventure. Enjoy picturesque views as the Rocky Mountaineer travels through the Pacific Coastal Mountains and Hell's Gate Canyon to Kamloops. After an overnight stay in Kamloops, continue west toward Jasper National Park. Travel through the spectacular Monashee and Cariboo mountain ranges. Look way up at the towering pinnacle of Mount Robson. Delicious meals and snacks are served on a board, with uninterrupted views steadily streaming by your large picture window. Upon arrival in Jasper, enjoy an evening at leisure in this eclectic mountain town.
DAY 4 – Jasper to Banff
Today, travel the Icefields Parkway from Jasper to Banff, known as Canada’s most scenic mountain roadway. This route is home to over one hundred visible glaciers, turquoise lakes and rushing waterfalls. At the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre, ride an all-terrain Ice Explorer onto the icy slopes of the Athabasca Glacier. After a stop at the award-winning Glacier Skywalk, continue along the Bow Valley Corridor to the resort town of Banff.
DAY 5 – Banff to Calgary
The morning is yours to explore this beautiful mountain town. An afternoon departure from Banff travels through the foothills and ranching country of Alberta to the Calgary Airport.
Essential Canadian Rockies is also available from Calgary, Alberta.
Day 1: Welcome to Banff
After your arrival at Calgary Airport, you are transferred to the Castle in the Rockies, your historic mountain resort in Banff. Built in the distinctive Canadian Château style, it is one of the earliest examples of the country’s grand railway hotels. Tonight, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Dinner.
Day 2: Exploring Banff
Connect with nature as you join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with your First Nations Cree Iroquois Local Expert. Embark on a guided walk in the Boreal forest and discover the Indigenous world of plant medicines. Learn about the historical and modern day uses of plants and listen to fascinating stories about the First Nations culture.Explore Banff with a few fun optionals. Choose to play nine holes of golf. Alternatively, take the Banff gondola up Sulphur Mountain and go on a hike. Another option is to take a guided horseback ride.
Day 3: A Trip to Lake Louise Relaxed Start
Explore Lake Louise with Insight Choice. Choose a journey on the sightseeing gondola and look out for local wildlife as you enjoy a hike surrounded by panoramic views. Alternatively, join your Travel Director for a relaxed stroll along iconic Lake Louise and put paint to canvas to create your own masterpiece. Indulge in a delicious lunch before returning to Banff and enjoying the rest of your day at leisure.
Day 4: Lakes, Mountains and Glaciers Relaxed Start
Start your day with a visit to the glacier-fed Moraine Lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Take a moment to absorb the view of the stunning turquoise lake hidden among steep mountains, waterfalls, and rock piles. Your journey continues on the Icefields Parkway, one of the most beautiful drives on the planet. Admire the dramatic scenery of the Rockies with plenty of photo opportunities. Later, a warm welcome greets you at the country’s first and only glacier-view resort where you will savour a Canadian inspired, locally sourced dinner. After your meal take advantage of the long daylight hours and set out for a private visit to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-floored walkway above the Sunwapta Valley. Once night falls, step out on your hotel’s viewing deck and take your chances at stargazing undisturbed by light pollution.
Day 5: Glacier Adventure
Before other travellers arrive, venture onto the Athabasca Glacier in a massive Ice Explorer for your special visit. Join your Local Expert and walk on the frozen flow of ice. Discover the beauty and immensity of the glacier as you learn about the history and geology of the region. Continue along the magnificent Icefields Parkway and arrive at Jasper National Park with its soothing mineral hot springs, colourful meadows and majestic mountains.
Day 6: Exploring Jasper
Join your Travel Director for an informative walk on the trails of Maligne Canyon, the deepest gorge in the Jasper National Park. Weather permitting, embark on a narrated cruise across the serene waters of Maligne Lake and stop at Spirit Island, one of the most photographed sites in the Canadian Rockies.
Day 7: Relaxing in Kananaskis Relaxed Start
Enjoy your scenic drive to Kananaskis and your upscale hotel nestled in the wilderness. Relax at the resort surrounded by mountainous beauty and modern comforts. Tonight, come together with your fellow travellers for a festive Celebration Dinner and toast to your wonderful trip in the Canadian Rockies.
Day 8: Farewell Canada
After breakfast, you are transferred to Calgary Airport where your journey comes to an end. Arrival time at airport is approximately 12:00.
