Overview
A panoramic cruise along the crystal waters of Maligne Lake to remote Spirit Island – one of Canada’s most cherished and photographed places – is everyone’s favourite course on this journey through Western Canada. More scenery, cities, and savoury cuisine are served aboard the Rocky Mountaineer as you travel in comfort from Alberta to British Columbia. A thrilling addition to your Canadian Rockies tour, the Rocky Mountaineer transports you from beautiful Banff to vibrant Vancouver with a midway overnight stay in the welcoming town of Kamloops.
Itinerary
Welcome to Vancouver!
At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink.
British Columbia Treasures
Tour Vancouver, including the waterfront, Chinatown, and Stanley Park with its old-growth evergreen forests and totem poles. Catch the BC Ferry over to Vancouver Island and Victoria. See major attractions on your city orientation tour including the Fairmont Empress Hotel, Bastion Square, and Thunderbird Park. Later, visit world-famous Butchart Gardens, followed by a special dinner in the former historic greenhouse. (B/D)
LOCAL FAVOURITE - PICTURE PERFECT: Butchart Gardens, named for the woman who founded this botanical oasis of blooming shades and horticultural design, is a National Historic site for its legacy and lush treasure of millions of flowering beds and over 900 varieties of plants in exquisitely landscaped gardens bring fairytales to life.
City of Gardens
The day is free to explore on your own. (B)
FREE TIME TIPS - EXPLORE MORE: in Victoria with a stroll in the quaint downtown area with its British colonial architecture to shop and admire its heritage buildings and stunning gardens, then relax over proper British afternoon tea. Your Tour Director may suggest an optional marine wildlife and whale-watching trip. Shoppers will love Government Street's elegant shops and Market Square's specialty stores. Your GlobusGO mobile app has the maps and tips for the perfect day.
Gulf Dreams
Board a BC Ferry crossing the Strait of Georgia through the spectacular Gulf Islands, an archipelago known for its Mediterranean-type climate. En route to Whistler, stop at Shannon Falls, where a boardwalk leads to a viewing platform near the base of the roaring falls. On to the alpine resort of Whistler at the base of breathtaking Blackcomb Mountain. Time to explore the 2010 Winter Olympics' sites. Enjoy a 2-night stay at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, with classic elegance in a modern alpine setting at the base on Blackcomb Mountain. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT: Nestled at the base of breathtaking Blackcomb Mountain, the luxurious Fairmont Chateau Whistler brings old and new together in a seamless blend of historical style and modern beauty. Enjoy impeccable service and outstanding cuisine in this pristine mountain wilderness.
Alpine Adventures
Full free day to explore all that Whistler has to offer. (B)
FREE TIME TIPS - EXPLORE MORE: in Whistler. You might enjoy a trip on Whistler's Peak2Peak Gondola, connecting Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Enjoy spectacular scenery and incredible photo opportunities as you travel via the longest unsupported gondola span in the world. Other options include a walk in the treetops, a sightseeing excursion by air, shopping in the village, or just relaxing at your resort.
Ancient Traditions
This morning, enjoy a visit and breakfast at the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre, dedicated to the history and culture of the First Nations people. Then, journey north through the heart of the magnificent Cariboo region. Spectacular scenery abounds as you pass by rolling hills, deeply incised rivers, and sparkling lakes. Afternoon arrival in Sun Peaks with the balance of the day at leisure. Free time this evening. (B)
LOCAL FAVOURITE - CULTURAL GEMS: Visit the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre before opening hours where you will be greeted with a First Nations welcome followed by breakfast. The centre is a spectacular setting, which brings to life the history of Native peoples whose traditions and beautiful culture still resonate today.
Sun, Snow & Stars
Continue north, following Yellowhead Highway and hugging the mighty North Thompson River, into the province of Alberta. See the base of 12,972-foot Mount Robson (the highest point in the Canadian Rockies) before entering Jasper National Park. Marvel at the precipitous gorges, snow-capped summits, and lakes of exquisite blues and greens in this wild mountain wilderness. Before arriving at your hotel, you may wish to take an optional float trip down the historic Athabasca River, where your experienced guide will navigate as you absorb the splendour of Jasper National Park. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - NATURAL WONDERS: Spanning nearly 4,250 square miles of spectacular natural beauty, Jasper is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. Its vast wilderness, majestic peaks, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking panoramic sights lie below an incredible Dark Sky to thrill stargazers as well. A cruise to Spirit Island on the turquoise waters of Maligne Lake is a spectacular sight to behold as one of the most photographed locations in the world for its jaw-dropping beauty.
Spectacular Jasper National Park
Travel through Jasper's unspoiled beauty to glacial Maligne Canyon for lunch at the Wilderness Kitchen. Continue to stunning Maligne Lake for a narrated scenic cruise to Spirit Island. Return to Jasper where the balance of the day is at leisure to explore Jasper on your own. (B/L)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - NATURAL WONDERS: Spanning nearly 4,250 square miles of spectacular natural beauty, Jasper is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. Its vast wilderness, majestic peaks, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking panoramic sights lie below an incredible Dark Sky to thrill stargazers as well. A cruise to Spirit Island on the turquoise waters of Maligne Lake is a spectacular sight to behold as one of the most photographed locations in the world for its jaw-dropping beauty.
Rocky Mountain Majesty
Head south through Jasper National Park on Icefields Parkway to the Columbia Icefield for a thrilling Ice Explorer ride on Athabasca Glacier with a Glaciologist guide. Climb Sunwapta Pass to savour stunning vistas of alpine meadows, waterfalls, and massive glaciers. Next, stop at Lake Louise, whose green-blue waters form a perfect mirror reflection of Mount Victoria. Continue into Banff for a free evening. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - EPIC RIDE: Be moved by an expedition across the Athabasca Glacier. Traverse this massive glacier aboard the all-terrain Columbia Ice Explorer and walk on the surface where the Earth's geology is changing beneath your feet. Feel the force of nature's strength on an ancient glacier that still carves the face of the Rocky Mountains today.
Heavenly Heights
Breakfast this morning is served on top of Sulphur Mountain. Take a scenic ride on the Banff Gondola to the top of the mountain and then enjoy spectacular views of the valley below as you savour a flavourful meal. Additional sightseeing in Banff includes a visit to Bow Falls. The balance of the afternoon is at leisure. Consider an optional flightseeing trip for a bird's-eye view of the Rockies. This evening, join your Tour Director for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B/D)
LOCAL FAVOURITE - EPIC RIDE: Soar to the top of the world on the Banff Gondola ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. Enjoy breakfast and be in awe of the magnificent, natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies with breathtaking views you'll never forget.
The Continental Divide
This morning, board the Rock Mountaineer and travel over the Continental Divide and along the Kicking Horse River. We travel westward to Shuswap Lake with its thousand miles of shoreline and then overnight in Kamloops. Tonight, enjoy free time in Kamloops. (B/L)
NOTE: Kamloops properties are considered moderate 2- or 3-star hotels or motor inns. The city does not offer any hotels in the superior category. Your chosen hotel is determined by Rocky Mountaineer; however, you can rest assured that it satisfies our high standards of cleanliness and comfort.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - TRAIN SPOTLIGHT: The Rocky Mountaineer travels through spectacular Canadian scenery. GoldLeaf Service features a single-level dome coach offering panoramic views from oversized windows and meals served at your seat. An upgrade to GoldLeaf Dome Service offers luxury reminiscent of a bygone era, including extra attendants, an elegant bi-level dome car, and regional cuisine in an exclusive dining room.
British Columbia Treasures
Back aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, enjoy your amazing journey through the fertile fields of Thompson Valley and the beautiful Fraser Canyon. Late this afternoon, arrive in Vancouver with transfer to your hotel to enjoy free time this evening. Your Local Host will be available to provide suggestions on how to spend your free time. (B/L)
FREE TIME TIPS - EXPLORE MORE: in Vancouver with your pick of the freshest seafood from this vibrant gateway to the Canadian Rockies. The buzzing downtown scene is rich in culinary delights from sushi or wild-caught salmon to pizza and pasta. Don't forget to indulge in an iconic British Columbia confection of coconut, chocolate, and nutty Nanaimo bars.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- We've packed everything you need for the perfect holiday—from hand-selected hotels and dining to the friendly expertise of Globus Tour Directors and Local Guides, to seamless transportation between destinations and VIP access to the world's most iconic sites! Touring by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach with free Wi-Fi.
- Your Train: The Rocky Mountaineer travels through spectacular Canadian scenery. SilverLeaf Service features a single-level dome coach offering panoramic views from oversized windows and meals served at your seat. An upgrade to GoldLeaf Dome Service offers luxury reminiscent of a bygone era, including extra attendants, an elegant bi-level dome car, and regional cuisine in an exclusive dining room.
- 12 Breakfasts
- 3 Lunches
- 2 Dinners
- Vancouver Georgian Court Hotel (Superior First-Class)
- Victoria Inn at Laurel Point (First-Class)
- Whistler Fairmont Chateau Whistler Resort (Deluxe)
- Sun Peaks Sun Peaks Grand Hotel & Conference Centre (First-Class)
- Jasper The Jasper Inn & Suites (First-Class)
- Banff Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa (First-Class)
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- Kamloops properties are considered moderate 2 or 3-star hotels or motor inns. Rocky Mountaineer determines hotels that also meet our high standards of cleanliness and comfort.
- Visiting and participating in activities in this region may be subject to favourable weather conditions.
Globus includes all must-see sites, with special VIP access that lets you skip to the front of the queue. Read more
Globus has the recipe for a great holiday. Savour the flavours of Canada & Alaska through its regional cuisine. Read more
Travel with expert Tour Directors and Local Guides who share their vast knowledge of Canada & Alaska. Read more
Globus' selection of hotels in unforgettable places ensure you stay right in the heart of each destination. Read more
Globus' coaches offer one of the most comfortable, stress-free and eco-friendly ways to travel. Read more
Do as the locals do and enjoy unique experiences that you wouldn't find touring on your own. Read more
Trip Reviews (11) View All Most Recent 'Majestic Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer' Reviews
The experiences we had area around Jasper would have to be my favourite, especially the boat cruise ...read more on Maligne Lake and the walk on the Athabasca Glacier, both included tours. We also did the optional Maligne Canyon Walk that we really enjoyed. Another optional that we loved was the McGillivray Lake Fur Trader Feast at Sun Peaks when we got to paddle canoes on glass-like water. Absolutely magic!
Our tour guide, Tarek, was very well-organised and very knowledgeable and did his best to make sure my dietary requirements were catered for. The hotels we stayed in were mostly of a very high standard and within good walking distance of town. Included tours were well-balanced with leisure time and there were quite a few optional tours available. We were really pleased we chose to finish the tour on the Rocky Mountaineer back to Vancouver rather than finish in Calgary as it afforded us more of the stunning scenery.
Availability
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. We guarantee the lowest price in Australia. T&C’s apply.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Globus. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Globus. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
