Compare Yellowstone, Grand Canyon & Tequila by Dragoman vs The Canadiana by Omega Tours

Day 1: Banff

Border information: If joining in Banff, you will most likely enter Canada at Calgary International Airport (IATA code: YYC).

There will be an important group meeting at 18:00 at the joining hotel - please look out at the hotel reception for a note from your leader with more details about this important meeting.

The rest of the day is free to explore Banff and its stunning surroundings. Please note that many of the options listed below will only be possible for those with extra time in Banff before the start of your trip with us - please contact the Sales team if you would like to book pre-tour accommodation with us to have extra time exploring Banff.

In Banff we will stay in dormitory rooms in a centrally-located hostel.

Day 2-3: Glacier National Park

Estimated Drive Time - 8-9 hours (please note that all drive times given here are the approximate number of hours that the truck will be in motion only, and does not include any time taken for coffee or lunch stops, border crossings, photo stops, activities en route, comfort breaks, shopping stops, toilet stops, etc. The times given are approximate estimates only and whilst given with the best of intentions, the drive times are heavily dependent on traffic, road conditions, weather, police roadblocks, and many other factors - flexibility is essential on any overland trip!).

Border information: Exit Canada at Chief Mountain, enter USA at Chief Mountain.

Today we will have a full day drive over the US border into the state of Montana and arrive at the eastern side of Glacier National Park, stopping en route at the fascinating Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a cliff that aboriginal people used for hunting for almost 6000 years.

On Day 3 we will free time to fully explore the pristine ecosystem of Glacier National Park and take some optional treks or scenic drives up the Going-to-the-Sun Road to Logan Pass and other scenic points.

In Glacier National Park we will camp in a campsite near the spectacular St. Mary's Lake.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Visit the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, used for around 5,500 years by the indigenous peoples of the plains to kill buffalo by driving them off the 11m-high cliff
• Explore the spectacular lakes and mountains of Glacier National Park in the state of Montana

Day 4-6: Yellowstone National Park, Grand Teton National Park

Estimated Drive Time - 9-11 hours.

Today we have a full day drive south into the state of Wyoming and to the famous Yellowstone National Park, home to magnificent landscapes, fantastic treks, and the incredible Old Faithful geyser.

On our first night we will stay at a Campsite on the northern edge of the park with good facilities.

On Day 5 we will pack up our camp and explore Yellowstone National Park as we make our way to our camp on the southern edge of the park, where we will base ourselves for the next 2 nights.

From here we have a free day on Day 6 to fully explore Yellowstone and Grand Teton National park and take part in optional treks and other activities.

In Yellowstone National Park we will camp at a campsite in the Madison area of the park.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Explore the highlights of the famous Yellowstone National Park, including its hiking trails and the iconic geyser of Old Faithful

Day 7-8: Jackson Hole

Estimated Drive Time - 7-9 hours.

Today we will drive south through the stunning Grand Teton National Park and take a stop at the spectacular Jenny Lake, where we'll have some free time to explore the lake and possibly take a short boat trip. We will then continue to the beautiful town of Jackson Hole.

In Jackson Hole we will stay in quad rooms in a comfortable hostel, the following day we have a free day for activities and to explore the area.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Drive through the stunning Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, stopping at the picturesque Jenny Lake

Day 9: Salt Lake City

Estimated Drive Time - 5-6 hours.

Today we will drive to Utah's state capital of Salt Lake City, where we will have time for quick free exploration of the city centre and its famous Temple Square. We will then head to the nearby Antelope Island State Park, known for its abundant population of American bison and pronghorns.

In Antelope Island we will camp at a basic campsite with few facilities.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Explore the rugged Antelope Island State Park and go in search of American Bison and Longhorns

Day 10-11: Canyonlands National Park, Moab

Estimated Drive Time - 6-7 hours.

Today we will have a full day drive to the town of Moab, perfectly located next to the rugged wildernesses of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.

We will spend the next day exploring and trekking in Canyonlands National Park, and taking part in some optional activities in and around Moab.

In Moab we will camp in a well equipped campsite.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Explore the phenomenal 'Islands in the Sky' region of Canyonlands National Park and walk on some of it's stunning trails
• Explore the other-worldly landscapes of Arches National Park and see the iconic Delicate Arch at sunset

Day 12: Monument Valley

Estimated Drive Time - 8-9 hours.

Today we will drive to the incredible Monument Valley, the iconic landscape symbolic of the American West. On arrival we will head out on an included jeep tour of the Monument Valley Tribal Park, seeing the stunning rock formations up close and learning about the local Navajo culture.

In Monument Valley we will spend the night in a traditional Navajo ‘Hogan’ (an igloo-shaped dwelling of wood and earth where 6-8 people sleep together on the ground in a circle).

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Spend a night sleeping in a traditional Navajo hogan and take a jeep tour of the spectacular Monument Valley

Day 13: Page

Estimated Drive Time - 5-6 hours.

Today we will continue our drive to the beautiful town of Page near the stunning Lake Powell.

In Page we will camp in a well-equipped campsite.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Visit the iconic Antelope Canyon on a trip from the town of Page

Day 14: Kodachrome Basin State Park

Estimated Drive Time - 7-8 hours.

Today we will drive to the wonderful Kodachrome Basin State Park, where we will have free time on arrival to explore the beautiful landscape.

In Kodachrome Basin State Park we will camp in a scenic campsite.

Day 15-16: Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park

Estimated Drive Time - 4-5 hours.

Today we will drive to the incredible Bryce Canyon National Park, where we will have a few hours here to take some optional treks to its hoodoos (odd-shaped pillars of rock left standing from the forces of erosion). Following this, we will take a very scenic drive to the stunning Zion National Park.

In Zion National Park we will camp at a well-equipped campsite just outside the park.

On Day 16, we have a free day for exploring and activities in the Zion National Park.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Visit the beautiful and scenic Bryce Canyon National Park and the nearby Kodachrome Basin State Park
• Visit the spectacular canyons and rock formations of Zion National Park

Day 17-18: Las Vegas

Estimated Drive Time - 4-5 hours.

This morning we will have free time to explore, trek or take scenic drives through the spectacular deserts and rock formations on Zion National Park. In the afternoon we will drive to the bustling and energetic city of Las Vegas.

On the following day we will have free time to fully explore the fascinating city of Las Vegas and enjoy its world-famous all-night entertainment options, including its casinos and shows!

In Las Vegas we will stay in a local hotel.

Day 19-20: The Grand Canyon

Estimated Drive Time - 7-8 hours.

Today we will continue south into the state of Arizona and to one of the most spectacular highlights of the USA - the world-famous Grand Canyon. On arrival we will head up to one of the stunning viewpoints over the Grand Canyon for sunset.

On the following day we will have free time to explore the Grand Canyon area and take optional treks and scenic helicopter flights over the canyon. The entrance to the Grand Canyon is included on the trip, but as there are many options once inside the National Park the day will be free to explore in your own way.

At the Grand Canyon we will camp at a well-equipped campsite in the Grand Canyon Village.

Daily Activities

Included Activities: (Included in Kitty)

• Visit some of the spectacular viewpoints over the world-famous Grand Canyon and the Colorado river

Day 21: Phoenix

Estimated Drive Time - 5-6 hours.

Today we start to drive south through Arizona to the area near Phoenix.

In the Phoenix area we will most likely stay in multi-share rooms in a hostel, if time allows we may have the opportunity to go horse riding or visit Antelope Canyon.

Day 22: Nogales

Estimated Drive Time - 5-6 hours.

Today we will drive south to the border town of Nogales.

In Nogales we will camp in a well equipped campsite.

Day 23-24: Mazatlán, Guaymas

Estimated Drive Time - 8-11 hours each day.

Border information: Exit USA at Nogales, enter Mexico at Nogales.

Today we will cross the border into Mexico, and over the next two days we will drive south along the Pacific coast, staying close to the towns of Guaymas and Mazatlán en route.

In Guaymas and Mazatlán we will camp in well-equipped campsites.

Day 25-26: Sayulita

Estimated Drive Time - 7-8 hours.

Today we will drive to the surfing town of Sayulita on Pacific coast and enjoy some free time on arrival.

On the following day we will have free time to explore the Playa Los Muertos beach and possibly try your hand at surfing!

In Sayulita we will stay in a basic hostel.

Day 27: Tequila

Estimated Drive Time - 5-6 hours.

Today we will drive to the town of Tequila, where we will have time for an optional visit to the town's famous distilleries (either today or on the following morning).

In Tequila we will stay in a basic hotel.

Day 28-29: Angahuan

Estimated Drive Time - 5-6 hours.

Today we drive to the town of Angahuan. This village is inhabited by the Purépecha people, who have been indigenous to the area since one thousand years before the Spanish invasion. Angahuan is the gateway to the Parícutin volcano, the only volcano in the world to have been born in modern times.

On the following day we will have free time to explore the village of Angahuan or to go for optional walks around the area of the Parícutin volcano. The creation of the volcano in 1943 buried two nearby villages, and it's still possible to see the spire of the cathedral of San Juan Parangaricutiro sticking up from the lava field.

In Angahuan we will camp at a campsite near to the volcano.

Day 30-31: Mexico City

Estimated Drive Time - 10-11 hours.

Today we will have a full day drive to the massive and chaotic Mexican capital of Mexico City.

The following day we have a free day to enjoy Mexico.

In Mexico City we will stay in a good hotel in the central district of Bellas Artes.

Day 32: Mexico City

Border information: if leaving in Mexico City, you will most likely exit Mexico at Mexico City Benito Juárez International Airport (IATA code: MEX).

Today is the end day for passengers finishing their trip in Mexico City. Please note there is no accommodation included on the trip tonight - please contact the Sales Team if you are interested in booking extra nights of accommodation in order to fully explore and take part in some of the optional activities listed below.

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN TORONTO

Arrive at Pearson International Airport, Toronto. Individual transfer to your centrally-located hotel. After checking in with your tour director, the remainder of the day is free. Overnight in Toronto.

Accommodation at the Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto, or similar

DAY 2: TORONTO

We get better acquainted with our traveling companions at breakfast before exploring Toronto on a morning city tour. Experience the sights and sounds of this cosmopolitan city as you explore the downtown area and residential areas. Highlights include the Eaton Centre, old and new City Halls, Casa Loma, Yorkville, and the University of Toronto. You will pass by the Rogers Centre and the CN Tower and drive along the harbourfront for a complete impression of this city. The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration. Overnight in Toronto. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto, or similar

DAY 3: TORONTO TO MONTREAL

Departing early, we enjoy a pleasant drive east. Following the north shore of Lake Ontario, we pass endless miles of rolling farmland. Our first destination is the beautiful Thousand Islands resort region, where we embark upon a relaxing cruise. After taking in the sights and sounds of this river playground, we re-board our tour coach for the drive to Montreal. Overnight in Montreal. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Delta Hotel by Marriott, Montreal, or similar

DAY 4: MONTREAL

This morning, we will tour the second-largest French-speaking city in the world. The dynamic city of Montreal encapsulates the two founding cultures of Canada and boasts a curious blend of history and modernity. Touring the downtown area we view the Olympic Complex, charming Old Montreal, McGill University, the residential streets of Mount Royal, and the bustling shopping streets. The afternoon is for leisure. Overnight in Montreal. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Delta Hotel by Marriott, Montreal, or similar

DAY 5: MONTREAL TO QUEBEC CITY

This morning, we prepare to depart from Montreal’s cosmopolitan atmosphere and partially follow the route of Canada’s first carriageway, the Chemin du Roy deep into French Canada. Winding our way through typical French-Canadian villages and towns, we experience true immersion in French culture. Upon arrival in Quebec City, we tour within the walls of the old city and view Lower Town, the Citadel, Battlefields Park, and the ornate city gates. Overnight in Quebec City. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Le Concorde, Quebec City, or similar

DAY 6: QUEBEC CITY

The day is at your leisure to further explore the sights of this charming World Heritage Site. You can enjoy an optional full-day excursion to Tadoussac including a 3-hour whale-watching tour on the St. Lawrence River at the mouth of the Saguenay River. Step aboard a regular boat and go in search of the world’s largest mammals. You will also visit the spectacular Montmorency Falls which are 30 meters higher than the world-famous Niagara Falls. Overnight in Quebec City. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Le Concorde, Quebec City, or similar

DAY 7: QUEBEC CITY TO OTTAWA

Following the shore of St. Lawrence, this morning we travel west past Montreal, across the Ontario border, and on to Ottawa — the nation’s capital. We stop for lunch along the way at the Sucrerie de la Montagne — an authentic sugar shack and pioneer-style restaurant. Upon arrival in Ottawa, we take a quick tour of Ottawa. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Ottawa. Meals: B, L

Accommodation at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre, Ottawa, or similar

DAY 8: OTTAWA

In the morning we explore Ottawa on a city tour. We view the Parliament Buildings, residences of the Prime Minister and the Governor General, the Rideau Canal (designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site), and much more. The afternoon is free for independent exploration of Ottawa’s many museums and fine galleries, shopping at the Sparks Street Mall, or perhaps a boat cruise on one of the city’s many waterways. Overnight in Ottawa. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre, Ottawa, or similar

DAY 9: OTTAWA TO MIDLAND

Our journey west from Ottawa features sparkling lakes, rushing streams, deep forests, and characteristic northern towns. The trip will be highlighted by a visit to Algonquin Provincial Park where we will take a walk along the scenic trails. This immense wildlife and forest preserve is a favorite destination for camping expeditions during the summer months, and your walk will give you the opportunity to experience a little of it for yourself. Soon, we enter the Muskoka resort region, our destination for the night. Overnight in Midland. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Super 8 by Wyndham, Midland, or similar

DAY 10: MIDLAND TO NIAGARA FALLS

This morning, upon arrival at Sainte-Marie Among The Hurons, we have breakfast. This fascinating three-acre historic site is a detailed reconstruction of the first inland European community in Canada. Next, we are driving south past Toronto and then through the orchards and vineyards of the Niagara Peninsula with a final destination of Niagara Falls.

A thrilling boat ride on the Hornblower Niagara Cruises - Voyage to the Falls brings us to the foot of the thundering waterfalls for an unforgettable experience. We will take a ride to the top of the Skylon Tower providing a spectacular view of the falls and the surrounding district of Niagara. Afterward, you can enjoy an optional Niagara Helicopter Tour or Niagara Skywheel that gives you a breathtaking view of the Niagara Falls region. The evening is free for exploring North America’s “honeymoon capital”. Overnight in Niagara Falls. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hilton Hotel & Suites Fallsview, Niagara Falls, or similar

DAY 11: NIAGARA FALLS TO TORONTO

We leave Niagara Falls this morning. Our drive follows the scenic Niagara Parkway through the historic village of Niagara-on-the-Lake, home of the Shaw Festival. Here we see a small but thriving community, proud to display a carefully-preserved nineteenth-century atmosphere. This afternoon completes the tour with a short drive back to Toronto. The evening features our special “Farewell to Canada” dinner at the CN Tower. Overnight in Toronto. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto, or similar

DAY 12: TORONTO TO CALGARY (FLIGHT)

Today we transfer to Pearson International Airport in Toronto and check in for our flight to Calgary, Alberta. Having crossed two thousand kilometres of Canadian wilderness and western wheatland, we arrive at Calgary International Airport and transfer to our hotel. After check-in at the hotel, the remainder of the day is free. Explore the Old West at the Glenbow Museum or Fort Calgary on your own, browse through the Eau Claire Market, ride up the Calgary Tower for a great view and savour the great restaurants and dynamic nightlife. Overnight in Calgary. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Delta Hotels by Marriott, Calgary, or similar

DAY 13: CALGARY TO BANFF NATIONAL PARK

We begin the day with a city tour of Calgary. Leaving the city, we travel west on the Trans-Canada Highway into the rolling foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The majestic peaks of the Canadian Rockies soon fill the horizon as we approach Banff National Park, our first of several in the Canadian national parks system. We soon arrive in the charming resort town of Banff. Overnight in Banff. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Mount Royal Hotel, Banff, or similar

DAY 14: BANFF NATIONAL PARK

Today we will enjoy a tour of the region around Banff. The area became Canada’s first national park in 1885 to protect its natural hot springs. An optional Helicopter Sightseeing Tour will give you the chance to see the eastern ranges of the Rocky Mountains. Alternatively, you can take an optional gondola ride to spectacular Sulphur Mountain. Bring your camera! The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the surroundings of Banff, stroll along Banff Avenue, or relax and enjoy the scenery. Overnight in Banff. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Mount Royal Hotel, Banff, or similar

DAY 15: BANFF NATIONAL PARK TO JASPER NATIONAL PARK

Today’s journey through Banff and Jasper national parks promises to be a highlight of our Rockies Trail program. Shortly after leaving Banff, we visit the famous scenery of Lake Louise, one of the most photographed lakes in Canada. Afterward, we travel north on the famed Icefields Parkway through a rugged wilderness flanked by dramatic mountain ranges.

At the Columbia Icefield, we board a specially constructed Ice Explorer to ride on the surface of the ancient Athabasca Glacier. Close to Jasper, you have the chance to go on an optional raft trip on the Athabasca River. Your experienced guide will point out the natural and human history as you raft through short rapids and stretches of calm waters. Overnight in Jasper. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Lobstick Lodge, Jasper, or similar

DAY 16: JASPER NATIONAL PARK TO SUN PEAKS

Before leaving Jasper National Park this morning, you can take part in an optional Spirit Island Cruise on Maligne Lake, the most picturesque and largest glacier-fed lake in the park. You may alternately take an optional motorcycle tour of Jasper, riding in the comfortable sidecar with an unmatched view of the forests and mountains. Then, we travel west along the Yellowhead Highway and into the heartland of British Columbia. Breathtaking, unspoiled vistas await visitors in every season of the year. The route takes us along the Thompson River through the picturesque Shuswap Highlands. Overnight in Sun Peaks. Meals: B

Accommodation at Sun Peaks Grand, Sun Peaks, or similar

DAY 17: SUN PEAKS TO WHISTLER

We can expect a day of dramatic scenery changes when we drive through the ranch lands and head for the coastal mountains. A journey along the Duffey Lake Road exposes new vistas at every turn. An optional Floatplane Sightseeing Tour over Garibaldi Park gives you an inspiring view of a natural preserve of volcanic peaks, alpine lakes, and meadows. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Whistler. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Whistler Village Suites, Whistler, or similar

DAY 18: WHISTLER TO VICTORIA

The Sea-to-Sky Highway leads us south through spectacular coastal scenery today. You will visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge suspended high above a magnificent canyon. From Horseshoe Bay, we cruise by ferry across the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver Island and continue by coach to Victoria, British Columbia’s capital city. Arriving in Victoria, we embark on a city tour of this former British enclave. Overnight in Victoria. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Coast Victoria Hotel & Marina by APA, Victoria, or similar

DAY 19: VICTORIA

Proud of her maritime heritage, Victoria has retained a quaint, colonial demeanor evident in the many 19th-century landmarks throughout the city. Today we treat ourselves to a tour of the world-famous Butchart Gardens, one of the world’s great floral displays set in a reclaimed stone quarry. Time will be allocated here for browsing through the regal gardens. You can take part in an optional Floatplane Sightseeing Tour over downtown Victoria and the Strait of Juan de Fuca with the Olympic Mountains in the distance. You can also go on an optional Whalewatching Excursion aboard a Zodiac or a regular vessel. Watch for the magnificent orcas and the abundance of marine wildlife. The remainder of the day is at leisurely exploring the city’s delights. Overnight in Victoria. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Coast Victoria Hotel & Marina by APA, Victoria, or similar

DAY 20: VICTORIA TO VANCOUVER

We continue through the resort region of the Gulf Islands to the oceanside city of Vancouver. Upon arrival in Vancouver, we enjoy an interesting tour of the city, including Stanley Park, English Bay, Gastown, Chinatown, and much more. The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration or simple relaxation. This evening features our farewell dinner. Overnight in Vancouver. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Sutton Place Hotel, Vancouver, or similar

DAY 21: VANCOUVER DEPARTURE

A time for last-minute shopping and sad farewells. Individual transfer to Vancouver International Airport in time to check in for your return flight. Meals: B