Compare Whales & Bears of British Columbia by Exodus Travels vs Adventures in Toronto & Niagara Falls With your Grandchild by Road Scholar

Day 1 Start Vancouver

The adventure begins in Vancouver on Canada's west coast. If you have time, we recommend a stroll around this cosmopolitan city to get a feel for it. Treat yourself to moreish maple cookies in Stanley Park, a 990-acre (400ha) green wonderland where you can see authentic totem poles put up in the 1920s or sit in one of the cafes and enjoy a spot of people watching. A welcome briefing may be held this evening or tomorrow morning, in which we gather as a group and meet our tour leader. Accommodation: Holiday Inn & Suites Vancouver Downtown (or similar)

Day 2 Morning ferry to Vancouver Island

In the morning, we head to the port for a ferry to Nanaimo on Vancouver Island, a 1hr 30min journey across the Strait of Georgia. On arrival in Nanaimo, we continue by road, stopping for a walk and picnic lunch at Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park. Rathtrevor is known for its majestic old-growth woodland, beautiful ocean sunsets and a wide, sandy beach with picnic areas nestled amongst the trees. We then continue our drive to Ucluelet, our base for the next three nights. Today's travel time is approximately six hours. Accommodation: Canadian Princess Lodge & Marina (or similar)

Day 3 Pacific Rim National Park Reserve; boat excursion to observe grey and humpback whales

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is nestled between the mountains of the Vancouver Island range and the Pacific coastline. We walk inside the park this morning to admire the rich natural heritage of the west coast of Canada. The reserve has almost 10mi (16km) of sand and a huge collection of driftwood, while the next stop is Japan! We usually take the Nuu-Chah-Nulth trail to the beach and visit during low tide to explore some of the intertidal pools and rocky islands. You may see lime-green anemones and purple, brown and orange starfish. In the afternoon, we board Zodiacs with a naturalist guide who leads a 2hr 30min to three hour whale-observation excursion (depending on the low-tide schedule, this activity may take place earlier in the day). Our goal is to see humpback and grey whales, but it is also common to come across orcas, seals and sea lions among the rocky headlands. Today’s driving time should not exceed two hours. Accommodation: Canadian Princess Lodge & Marina (or similar)

Day 4 Rainforest Figure Eight trail; boat excursion to observe black bears

Today our leader will take us on an easy hike on the Rainforest Figure Eight trail, an hour-long walk along wooden boardwalks through the majestic forest. This is a peaceful trail and we will be surrounded by a dense foliage of ferns, Western Red Cedar and Western Hemlock trees. Keep your eyes peeled for birdlife - our tour leaders have reported sightings of Steller's jays and Rufous hummingbirds! Late this afternoon, we board Zodiacs for a 2hr 30min expedition to observe black bears and bald eagles (depending on the low-tide schedule, this activity may take place earlier in the day). In the wilderness of Clayoquot Sound, black bears search for crabs and clams on the rocky beaches. We travel the fjord inlet by Zodiac, looking in sheltered bays and stopping to see any black bears we find from the comfort of our vessel. Accommodation: Canadian Princess Lodge & Marina (or similar)

Day 5 To Campbell River and Cathedral Grove Provincial Park

Depart Ucluelet and drive for four hours to Campbell River on the north shore of Vancouver Island. Campbell River is known as the salmon capital of the world for its hugely impressive salmon runs, where five species of Pacific salmon swim the river. It has been designated a Heritage River for its importance in British Columbia; following the fish are bears, seals, kingfishers and eagles. This afternoon, we stop at Cathedral Grove Provincial Park to see the last remains of the temperate rainforest that covered the island more than a 1,000 years ago. This is one of the most accessible areas of giant Douglas fir trees in the province and there are many trails enabling us to meander through Douglas fir, western hemlock, grand fir and western red cedar trees. Accommodation: Painter’s Lodge (or similar)

Day 6 Boat excursion to Orford River to observe grizzly bears

Board a covered boat for a full-day excursion to the Orford River area (on the mainland of British Columbia) to observe grizzly bears in their natural habitat. Conservative estimates suggest there are 10,000 grizzly (brown) bears in British Columbia, with 92 percent of the original habitat of grizzlies still occupied. The abundance of spawning salmon in the Orford River at this time of year brings grizzlies down to feast. A two-hour journey by boat with a spectacular backdrop of mountainous scenery brings us to the mouth of the Orford River. From here, we take a short bus journey inland, where there are five viewing platforms from which to spot the bears. We visit one or sometimes two of these platforms, where we hope to observe the bears catching and feeding on salmon, sometimes with cubs in tow. On the boat journey to and from the Orford River, we may also see black bears, orcas, humpback and grey whales, dolphins, porpoises and sea lions. Accommodation: Painter’s Lodge (or similar)

Day 7 Quadra Island for hiking or optional sea kayaking

Board a ferry for a 10-minute journey across the Discovery Passage to Quadra Island, where we spend the day exploring the island trails and beaches by foot. Our leader will determine the best trail based on the group's preference and ability, but options include the Shallaligan Pass Trail along Quadra Island's coastline, which offers panoramic ocean views, or the Heriot Ridge Trail that passes through the bush and out onto a ridge for coastal views galore. There is also an optional three-hour sea kayaking excursion from Quadra Island. Accompanied by kayak and marine life observation guides, there is never a dull moment as we paddle by kayak around Quadra Island – we could see soaring eagles, oystercatchers, herons, cormorants, gulls and, if lucky, seals, sea lions, dolphins and porpoises. The mountain views offer a stunning backdrop to this excursion, which is suitable for beginners. Accommodation: Painter’s Lodge (or similar)

Day 8 Transfer to Victoria; whale-watching in the Salish Sea

We drive for around four hours to Victoria, capital of British Columbia. Victoria is well-known for its colourful gardens, British architecture and arts scene. In the afternoon, we have one final wildlife-viewing opportunity as we embark on a whale-watching excursion from Victoria, where orcas, humpback whales and sea lions are often spotted in the waters of the Salish Sea. A certified marine naturalist will accompany us in the Zodiac boat, helping to spot wildlife and providing background information on the species we observe. Accommodation: Huntingdon Manor (or similar)

Day 9 Ferry to Vancouver; orientation tour and end Vancouver

It's an early start on our final day in British Columbia as we take the ferry (approximately 1.5 hours) across the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver. Our leader will take us on a guided orientation tour of the city then there's free time to explore Vancouver at your leisure. Those on Land Only arrangements may choose stay longer in the vibrant city of Victoria. Please speak to your sales representative if you'd like to add post-tour nights in Victoria or Vancouver.

Day 1 Check-In, Registration, Welcome Dinner, Orientation Toronto, ON

Hotel check-in available from 3:00 p.m.

Arrive to multicultural Toronto and transfer to the hotel. Program Registration. 4:00-5:00 p.m. Come meet our group leader in the lobby and get your welcome packet. If you arrive late, please ask for your packet when you check in and the front desk will be happy to help you.

We’ll begin our evening with an orientation session where we’ll get to know each other as well as review the up-to-date program schedule and any changes. We’ll go over important information as well as have time for questions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars or settle in for the night. You may also wish to explore what the city has to offer. The hotel is located in the heart of Toronto, surrounded by shops, restaurants, movie theatres, and within walking distance to the Ed Mirvish Theatre, the Toronto Police Museum, and the escape game room Roundabout.

At a local restaurant.

Day 2 Kensington Market Scavenger Hunt, Chinatown, Harbor Cruise Toronto, ON

Walking up to 2 miles, on pavement, stairs; about 3 hours; boarding/disembarking boat. Harbour boat trip is aboard the Oriole, a Great Lakes Steamship replica, all 76 feet have been decorated with the perfect blend of varnished woods, wrought iron, polished brass and plush upholstery. The two wrought iron staircases lead to the canopied upper deck where guests can enjoy music while romancing the skyline from the comfort of one of her many varnished benches. We will be using public transit today.

Learn about Toronto's history and some of the city's most vibrant and culturally diverse neighbourhoods from a local expert before going out to explore on foot. Gain an appreciation and understanding of the 20th century immigrant experience, and the importance of Kensington Market and Chinatown in the development of modern-day Toronto's incredible cultural diversity. Set off to discover some of Toronto’s most colorful and culturally rich neighborhoods. A scavenger hunt will help participants young and old learn about the area in a fun and interactive way. We begin our urban adventure at Kensington Market, from there it’s a short walk to a bustling and colorful Chinatown. Here, we’ll explore the history of the Chinese community in Toronto; Jewish and Eastern European immigration and history; fine art, graffiti art and murals, moose on rooftops, a famous King who lived here, and some of the best places to eat and shop. Toronto is one of the most multicultural cities in the world and celebrates over 100 different cultures with over 180 languages spoken.

Embark on a boat trip to experience Toronto Harbor from the water. We will explore the harbor on a relaxing cruise and view the city's breathtaking skyline including the Harborfront, CN Tower, Rogers Centre, Scotiabank Arena, Toronto Islands, and the fabled Gibraltar Point Lighthouse.

At leisure. If you wish, you may enjoy the on-site facilities. Kids of all ages love the Eaton Chelsea! The Family Fun Zone features the Kid Centre, pool and the 130-foot "Corkscrew", downtown Toronto’s only indoor waterslide and other supervised activities.

At the hotel.

At a local restaurant.

At a local restaurant.

Day 3 Ripley's Aquarium, Free Time Toronto, ON

Walking up to 2 miles in a museum, some stairs. We will be using public transit today.

This morning we visit the Ripley Aquarium, a public aquarium featuring over 20,000 freshwater and exotic sea specimens. Our exploration of the Canadian Waters Gallery will take us from coast to coast learning about some of the Country’s spectacular habitats, freshwater wildernesses, fisheries and kelp forests. We’ll also get the chance to see the inner workings of the aquarium as we go behind the scenes to the animal husbandry department with an expert aquarist who will introduce us to food preparation and water filtration systems which mimic the animals’ natural habitats.

Free Time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

On your own.

On your own.

Day 4 Old Town Toronto, St. Lawrence Market, Niagara Falls Niagara Falls

Walking up to 2 miles. Approximately 2 hours coach, about 90 miles. Boat ride is approximately 30 minutes on large sight-seeing boat, specially designed for the falls.

Head out to explore the history and flavors of the city with our local expert. See places that even locals don't even know about - the hidden gems often overlooked. Explore Old Town Toronto on foot with stops in front of St Lawrence Hall, St. James Cathedral as well as various historical sites along the way. The fusion of classic architecture and modern amenities is enhanced by the stunning view of Toronto's skyline. We will end our walk at historic St. Lawrence Market, considered by Food and Wine magazine to be one of the world's 25 best food markets, located in the heart of historic Old Town Toronto. Here we will discover some Canadian delights; the restored 1845 market building is home to more than 50 specialty vendors.

In Niagara Falls, we experience the water, power and mist of one of Canada’s natural wonders. We will get up-close and personal on a new state-of-the-art catamaran boat tour “Voyage To The Falls”. We will travel from the Canadian docks at the base of the Great Gorge, past the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and experience a connection with the thundering water, awesome power and amazing mist of the mighty Horseshoe Falls!

Check in to our hotel in Niagara Falls.

At the hotel.

At a local restaurant.

At a local restaurant.

Day 5 Whirlpool Aero Car, Butterfly Gardens, Niagara--on-the-Lake Toronto, ON

Approximately 1.5 hours on the coach; Walking 2 miles over the course of the day.

This morning we will soar the Great Gorge, high above the racing Niagara River on the Whirlpool Aero Car. We'll be transported through the air in an antique cable car, while far below the torrent of water abruptly changes direction and creates one of the world’s most mesmerizing natural phenomena – the Niagara Whirlpool. Sometimes frightening and always unforgettable! Next, we will visit the Butterfly Conservatory, this magical place features over 2,000 colorful tropical butterflies floating freely among lush, exotic blossoms and greenery. Paths wind through the rainforest setting, past a pond and waterfall and the Emergence window, where butterflies leave their pupae and prepare to take their first flight!

After lunch we will embark on an expert-led motorcoach exploration of the historic Niagara area including Niagara-on-the-Lake. Focal points will include learning about the area from times of the First Nations peoples to the arrival of the Europeans and eventually the War of 1812. Visit battlefields from the War of 1812 and Queenston Heights. There will be some free time in Niagara-on-the-Lake before dinner.

Return to Toronto by coach after dinner.

At the hotel.

Boxed lunch in a picnic area.

At a local restaurant in Niagara.

Day 6 Program Concludes Toronto, ON

Check-out is 11:00 a.m.

We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please join our Facebook page and share photos of your program. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rsadventures. Best wishes for all your journeys!

At the hotel for 7:00 a.m. Program concludes.