Compare 8-Day Great Bear Rainforest by Spirit of the West Adventures vs Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta Classic Group by Insight Vacations
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 8 days | 8 days |
| Price From | $ 1,878 | $ 4,401 |
| Price Per Day | $ 235 | $ 550 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Group tour | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Premium |
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| Travel Themes |
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| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions | N/A |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
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| Meals Included |
8 Lunches |
N/A |
| Description |
The Great Bear Rainforest, on the central coast of BC, is part of the largest remaining temperate rainforest in the world. On this trip we'll head to the outer coast to explore that wind- and wave-tossed fringe that exemplifies the coastal wilderness of British Columbia. Remote beaches, whales, sea otters, wolf tracks in the sand, undeveloped campsites. A self-supported sea kayaking expedition to the Great Bear Rainforest is perfect for satisfying your need to get away from it all. |
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
Meet your guides in Bella Bella in the heart of BC’s Central Coast. We will meet in central Bella Bella at the government dock. Here we will load kayaks and gear onto our water taxi for the shuttle out to our first campsite. Once there, we will sort out gear and prepare for our adventure, beginning with an orientation to the kayaks and gear, learning efficient paddling techniques and safety procedures. Once everyone is comfortable with their boats we’ll launch for our first strokes in the Great Bear Sea.
DAYS 2 To 7
This is a beautiful area to paddle and we work with the conditions and remain open to adventure. Each day, your guides will assess the weather, tides, and sea state to determine the destination for the day. Flexibility is key. Depending on the weather and exact drop-off location, we may plan to paddle the remote Goose Group Islands (weather depending), McMullins and Tribal Group. Moving southeast we’ll enter the spectacular islands and beaches of the Hakai Conservancy, continuing in the direction of Calvert Island.
Day 8
We will meet a water taxi this morning for transport back to Bella Bella. We expect to arrive in Bella Bella by midday, allowing us time for a quick visit to the village before either heading to the airport to catch an afternoon flight back to Vancouver or departing by BC Ferries. If flying you can expect to be back in Vancouver between 3 and 5pm, or if travelling with BC Ferries you’ll arrive in Port Hardy at 11:30pm. (Please note these times were correct at time of publication – please double check before planning your travel).
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.
