Classic Rockies: 13-day Canada explorer

Calgary

Day 1: Arrival In Calgary

Welcome to Calgary! Calgary is a vibrant city that offers the best of both worlds - a cosmopolitan metropolis of over one million plus the awe-inspiring outdoor adventure of the Canadian Rockies only an hour away. With a wealth of cultural attractions, award-winning cuisine, parks and pathways, specialty shops and hip night spots, plus outdoor activities such as golfing and hiking, fishing and mountain biking, skiing and dog-sledding - there's something for everyone. 

Upon arrival at the airport, you will be transferred to your hotel which is in the heart of downtown Calgary. You are within walking distance of business and financial centers, major shopping malls and theaters. You can rest or explore the city on your own!

Calgary - Banff

Day 2: From Calgary To Banff

After breakfast you will drive from Calgary to Banff in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Along the way you'll visit Kananaskis Country, where you'll stop for an invigorating horseback ride and cowboy ranch lunch - you'll be served burgers and beans in an authentic setting. Journey on through the town of Canmore before arriving into Banff. Here, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing - perhaps enjoy one of the local spas and swim in one of the spectacular rooftop hot pools with views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

Banff

Day 3: Explore Beautiful Banff

Rise and shine! Spend the day exploring the town of Banff, taking in the charm of this small mountain community, and set out to get to know its surroundings - the Banff Hot Springs and the cable car ride up to Sulphur Mountain are highly recommended.

Banff - Jasper

Day 4: On Your Way To Jasper

In the morning you will travel from Banff to Jasper, along the legendary Highway 93 - commonly known as the Icefields Parkway, and one of the most beautiful roads in the country. Soak up the best sights along the way: Crowfoot Glacier & Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, Columbia Icefield, and the falls of Sunwapta and Athabasca.

Jasper

Day 5: Get Intimate With Jasper

Nestled in the heart of Canada's largest Rocky Mountain Park, the town of Jasper offer unparalleled access to one of the most breathtaking and pristine wilderness areas. The area is listed as one of only 15 UNESCO extraordinary sites in Canada. Its shimmering glaciers, abundant wildlife, crystal clear lakes, thundering waterfalls, deep canyons and evergreen forest, all surrounded by towering, rugged mountain peaks are worth exploring. Make the most of your stay and explore Jasper like no other!

Jasper - Clearwater

Day 6: Welcome To Clearwater

Today, you will drive from Jasper to Clearwater. Clearwater combines an enthusiasm for outdoor adventure with a deep respect for the area's natural surroundings, and rich culture and history. In the summer, partake in a selection of energising activities such as fishing, hiking, golfing, and kayaking, while cross-country and downhill skiing are great winter options. Wildlife-spotting and birdwatching can be enjoyed at the nearby Wells Gray Provincial Park, which also offers camping grounds and backcountry camping.

Clearwater

Day 7: A Day of Whitewater Rafting

Today you'll have a full day to spend in Clearwater, soaking up the sights and enjoying a fantastic, three-hour whitewater rafting experience along Clearwater River. As you navigate the waters and feel the adrenaline rush through your body, you'll also see spectacular canyon scenery, unique wilderness and plenty of wildlife.

Clearwater - Vancouver - Nanaimo

Day 8: Journey to Nanaimo

Today, your journey will lead you on to Vancouver, with suggestions in your roadbook for stops along the way. After about five-and-a-half hours of driving, you'll reach Vancouver and board a ferry for a crossing to Nanaimo, where you'll check into your hotel and relax.

Nanaimo is Vancouver Island’s second largest city and is known as the Harbour City for its picturesque harbor. Nanaimo is easy to get to and its central location makes it an excellent base for tours of Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. Hiking, boating, kayaking, biking, world-class scuba diving and snorkeling are everyday activities at the bustling waterfront, as seaplanes take flight from sparkling blue waters. Try out these activities in Nanaimo to get the most of your experience in the city!

Nanaimo - Chemainus - Victoria

Day 9: On The Way To Victoria

Today, drive from Nanaimo to Victoria, with a handful of scenic stops along the way. First you'll visit Cowichan Bay, a great starting point for open-sea excursions to observe majestic marine mammals, including humpback, fin, gray and killer whales. Drive to Duncan and experience its many charms, before reaching Chemainus to gaze in awe at the wall frescoes for which it is famous. From there you'll travel to Victoria, where you'll check into your hotel.

Victoria

Day 10: Get Acquainted With Victoria

Spend the day getting to know the charms of Victoria at your own pace. As the capital of the province of British Columbia, it holds many attractions worth adding to your sightseeing list, as well as parks and beaches to relax in. Today, you'll have a chance to hop aboard an authentic sailboat for a sumptuous escapade at sea. Your captain, Mike, will teach you the basics of sailing. You'll see the American mountains go by as you leave Victoria Harbor... For the more adventurous among you, head to the bow of the boat on the net for a dip above the water!

Victoria - Tsawwassen - Vancouver

Day 11: From Victoria To Vancouver

In the morning, you will drive from Victoria to Vancouver, including a ferry crossing. Check into your hotel and spend the day at leisure, resting or exploring the city at your own pace. Vancouver is an emerging city of perfect contrasts: ocean and mountain landscapes, antiquity and modernity, serenity and energy.

Vancouver

Day 12: Getting To Know Vancouver

Vancouver is one of the few places in the world where you can ski in the morning and sail in the afternoon. Renowned for its scenic beauty and endless opportunities for outdoor activities, Vancouver is also a cosmopolitan city with all the urban amenities – fine dining, shopping, museums, galleries, music, and theater. Hit the nightclub scene or wander through ethnic enclaves. Visit the aquarium, take a city tour or stroll through Stanley Park, the city's urban wilderness. Have fun in Vancouver!

Vancouver

Day 13: Goodbye, Canada!

Your 13-day trip in Canada has been fun and wonderful but sadly, it has ended. No worries! You can always return to Canada with your family or friends. Don't forget to share your experience with them!

You will be transferred to Vancouver International Airport for your next destination. Have a safe flight!