Seeing glacier-fed lakes ringed by the high peaks of Banff National Park. Their fantastic turquoise hue - caused by the levels of rock flour in the water - almost looks unreal.
The western provinces of Alberta and British Columbia are draped in spectacular natural riches. On this 14-day Canadian Rockies tour, you’ll twist along the highs and lows of the vast landscape through sweeping scenery, mighty mountains, deep forests and pristine lakes and rivers. We contrast the natural landscapes with city stays, too, spending time in Vancouver and Victoria. You’ll soon realise it was more than the promise of gold that tempted settlers here during the Klondike Gold Rush of the 1890s…
7 excursions & visits
Day 1 - Banff
Join your tour group at the hotel in the little town of Banff - surely one of the loveliest in North America. This small town is the launching point for world-famous Banff National Park, home to an untamed wilderness. Rugged mountaintops, glistening lakes, thick forests and elusive wildlife. It’s the stuff that inspires novels and painters. This evening you’re free to enjoy your hotel and explore the surrounding area.
Day 2 - Banff - Lake Louise
We head out on a day of scenic delights are we explore the town’s surrounds and Lake Louise (named after Queen Victoria’s daughter), plus Moraine Lake (subject to seasonal availability). These glassy lakes are filled by waterfalls and flash shades of deep emerald and bright turquoise, reflecting the mountain peaks towering overhead.
Day 3 - Banff
Today you can enjoy Banff completely at leisure. On the outskirts of town is Sulphur Mountain, with its enclosed gondola ride to the 7,500ft summit from where there are some breathtaking views of the Bow Valley and Banff town below.
Day 4 - Columbia Icefield - Jasper
You’ll want to keep your camera within reach this morning as we journey to Jasper National Park from Banff National Park by way of the Icefields Parkway. This stunningly scenic road links the two great parks, and for over 140 miles we’ll wind through jagged mountain peaks and high forested valleys, passing emerald lakes and mountain-fed streams, waterfalls and rivers. The halfway point is the spectacular Columbia Icefield, one of the biggest accumulations of ice and snow south of the Arctic Circle. We’ll jump on an Ice Explorer for a ride on the surface of the Athabasca Glacier (subject to weather). Then, heading west, we enter Jasper National Park - 4,200 square miles of alpine forests, natural hot springs, white-water rivers, tranquil valleys and jagged snow-capped mountains.
Day 5 - Jasper
Head out today for an unforgettable sightseeing journey. Beginning with the limestone gorge of Maligne Canyon, we’ll continue along the shores of Medicine Lake and on to the breathtaking Maligne Lake - the largest of the glacier-fed lakes in the Rockies. It really is a sight to behold. We arrive back in Jasper in the afternoon, where you’ll have the rest of the day to yourself. We’ll finish off this evening with an interpretative talk at dinner.
Day 6 - Kelowna
A spectacular drive as we leave the Rocky Mountains and descend to the Okanagan Valley, takes us to Kelowna, beautifully positioned on the shores of shimmering Lake Okanagan. The following morning, we've arranged a visit to one of the region's internationally recognised and award-winning vineyards for a tour and tasting of some delicious wines. The afternoon is free to relax, perhaps enjoy time by the lakeside in this lovely setting.
Day 7 - Victoria
Leaving Kelowna behind this morning, we take the scenic route to Hope. We continue on our drive south through Vancouver to Tsawwassen, to take the ferry through the glorious Gulf Islands region with towering Douglas fir trees climbing the hills on all sides, to Swartz Bay. We continue to the southern-most tip of Vancouver Island and Victoria, the provincial capital of British Columbia. We'll enjoy an orientation tour on arrival, of this very English city.
Day 8 - 9 - Victoria
Charming Victoria is perhaps the most British city you’ll find outside of London. Laid-back lower rises give way to pretty ports and sprawling gardens. We’ll enjoy a morning tour and stop by the world-famous Butchart Gardens. Then this afternoon is at leisure to get to know the city for yourself.
Day 10 - Vancouver
Leaving Victoria behind this morning, we drive to Nanaimo, a deep sea fishing port and major centre for the forest industry, where we take the ferry through the Strait of Georgia to Horseshoe Bay. We end our holiday in Vancouver, staying in the vibrant city centre.
Day 11 - Vancouver
Vancouver is considered by many to have one of the most spectacular settings in the world - in the foreground the encircling Pacific Ocean and, as a backdrop, the grandeur of Grouse Mountain. For natural beauty, there is the 1,000-acre Stanley Park, the largest urban park in North America. It is Vancouver’s green heart - a wilderness area of forest, marshland and beaches. For excitement and variety, Chinatown, centred on Pender Street, is a city apart. Vancouver’s 100,000 Chinese are expected soon to surpass San Francisco’s as the largest community outside the Far East. Shops, hotels, markets and restaurants along with incessant activity combine to create a vibrant atmosphere. The Gastown area of the city is distinguished by cobbled walkways, gas lamps, quaint shops and restaurants. As an introduction to this fabulous city we have arranged a short orientation tour; then you’re free to discover its wonders for yourself.
Day 12 - Vancouver
A relaxing free day to further enjoy Vancouver as you please. Perhaps discover some of the 9,000 marine and freshwater animals at the aquarium in Stanley Park. Or visit the Classical Chinese Gardens - a replica from the Ming Dynasty. For a local taste of the city, head to Granville Island, a friendly and easy-going spot alive with shops, markets, galleries and a marina. Or, if you’re looking for a spot of relaxation, Kitsilano Beach is your best bet, with views out over English Bay towards Stanley Park. Sit outside one of its idyllic cafes and watch the world go by.
Day 13 - Vancouver
Say goodbye to your tour group for your onward travel.
Departing 15 May 2025
Departing 12 Jun 2025
Departing 19 Jun 2025 / 28 Aug 2025 / 11 Sep 2025
Departing 18 Sep 2025
Departing 21 May 2026
Departing 11 Jun 2026
Departing 10 Sep 2026 / 24 Sep 2026 / 1 Oct 2026
Call our team today to find out more on 1300 414 198. Our team can also assist with booking International flights and accommodation as part of your overall travel plans.
Please note: Exact itineraries may vary slightly depending on the departure date - your full itinerary will be shown on your confirmation invoice.
Dress for the Weather: Conditions can change quickly; layers are essential.
Book in Advance: Glacier tours, accommodations, and activities fill up quickly during peak season.
Stay Hydrated: Altitude and activity can dehydrate you faster than usual.
Plan for Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from animals and have a camera ready for sightings.