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Adventure Tours   >   North America Adventure Tours   >  Canadian Rockies Encompassed

Canadian Rockies Encompassed Adventure Tour

North America

  • Canada

The Indigenous history, beautiful natural landscapes, and lively cowboy culture of western Canada come together on this 19-day tour through British Columbia and Alberta. Spot wildlife on a ferry ride through glacial fjords and immerse yourself in First Nations culture on a day tour of Smithers. Experience the cowboy roots of Calgary and admire the emerald blue hue of Lake Louise. There are stunning vistas and photos ops along the way, as well as opportunities to bond with like-minded travelmates.


Transport  

Private vehicle, ferry, walking.


Itinerary Disclaimer  

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.


Meals Included  

15 breakfasts, 1 lunch


Meals  

All included meals will be prepared from goods bought en route from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes.


Feedback  

After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customersolutions@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.


International Flights  

Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.


Joining Instructions  

For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.

From Vancouver airport (YVR), to reach your starting accommodation you can take the Canada Line or a local taxi. Please go to the airport information desk for assistance.
Please note, the Canada Line is a rapid transit rail link connecting Vancouver Airport to Downtown. You can access the trains from both the International and Domestic Terminals.


WELCOME MEETING TIME: 18:00

Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day.

Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don't see a note, please ask reception for details!

If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day.


Spending Money  

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.


Optional Activities  

Jasper National Park
- Whitewater Rafting on Athabasca River (65-110CAD per person)
- Bald Hills Hike (Free)
- Maligne Lake Cruise (65CAD per person)

Maligne Lake
- Canoe Ride (84-215.25CAD per person)

Maligne Canyon
- Maligne Canyon Hike (Free)

Athabasca Glacier
- Athabasca Glacier Ice Walk (112CAD per person)

Columbia Icefield
- Glacier Adventure (99CAD per person)

Calgary
- Canada Olympic Park Visit (78.80CAD per person)

Tunnel Mountain
- Tunnel Mountain Hike (Free)

Banff
- Cycling (36.75-93.45CAD per person)
- Canoeing (57.75CAD per person)
- Hot Springs Soak (17.32CAD per person)
- Sulphur Mountain Hike

Banff National Park of Canada
- Banff Gondola Ride to Sulphur Mountain (57.75-68.25CAD per person)

Lake Louise
- Lake Agnes Tea House Hike

Whistler
- Whistler Hike (Free)
- Rafting (145.60-196.00CAD per person)
- Peak 2 Peak Gondola Ride (95.20CAD per person)
- Ziplining and Treetop Adventures (155.68CAD per person)


Travel Insurance  

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.


Minimum Age  

You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12. Minimum age of 18 years for this trip. You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.


About Accommodation  

This trip uses comfortable 3 star hotels, lodges and inns, well located in cities or near park entrances. Our chosen hotels vary in size, character, and amenities, but are of a very good standard, and the rooms are double occupancy with a private bathroom.


What to Take  

You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible.

For days in the outdoors, we recommend the use of lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics made of wool or synthetic fibers. Cotton is not recommended for days spent hiking as it does not allow for heat or moisture to enter or escape, and it will not dry easily once wet.

We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. Heavy luggage is not recommended for the health of the CEO, who will take a lead in loading the storage trailer. Due to space in the trailer, we will not be able to accommodate more than one piece of main luggage per person. A good size day-pack (20-35L) is also essential to carry your personal gear for the day, as access to luggage between destinations will be limited. This daypack will be used to carry your personal gear for the day, your lunch and a water bottle.

It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a light jacket. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.

NOTE: Mountains in the Canadian Rockies can have unpredictable weather with snow and heavy rain even in Summer time. Spring time could be snowy (until end of June) and fall season could start as soon as mid-August. Make sure you have equipment and clothing for all conditions!


Solo Travellers  

We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.


Emergency Fund  

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!


Alert Message  

TRAVEL ALERT: Please note that due to the wildfires affecting the Jasper area in Canada, all 2024 departures of this tour will not be visiting Jasper. Alternative activities and locations will be provided. We are continuing to monitor the situation daily, should circumstances change.


Laundry  

Laundry can be done at least once a week while on tour. Some private campgrounds and most cities have laundromats where you can buy soap and wash your laundry in coin-operated machines. Your CEO will advise you along the trip where you will be able to do your laundry.


A Couple of Rules  

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.


Highlights  

Travel by ferry through glacial fjords, Discover the First Nations cultures of Northern BC, Hike through Jasper National Park, Grab a pint at Calgary's cowboy bars, See the picturesque waters of Lake Louise


Dossier Disclaimer  

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.


My Own Room  

Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room/Tent" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room/tent for all nights.


What's Included  

Your G for Good Moment: Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre Visit, Whistler
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Wellness Moment: Miette Hot Springs Visit, Jasper National Park
Your Foodie Moment: Okanagan Valley Wine Tasting, Kelowna
Your Discover Moment: Whistler
Your Hands-On Moment: Medicine Bag Making Activity, Whistler. Inside Passage cruise. First Nations day tour (Smithers). Mt Robson stop with visit to Interpretation Centre. Icefields Parkway drive. Columbia Icefield stop. Lake Louise visit. Free time in Smithers, Jasper National Park, Banff, Whistler, and Vancouver. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.


Group Leader Description  

This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The CEO will be the group manager, leader and driver - this person is experienced in the routes travelled and will organize and lead the meal preparations and has experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.

As the group coordinator and manager, the aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. They will also offer suggestions for things to do and to see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends.

We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.


Tipping  

It is customary in North America to tip service providers such as waiters, bartenders and taxi drivers, at approximately 18-20%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip any local guides used. Recommendations for tipping local guides would range from $2-8 USD per activity depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.


Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures Chief Experience Officer did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline $5-10 USD per person, per day can be used as a guide. If your CEO(s) exceeded your expectations, feel free to tip more.


Important Notes  

1. TRAVEL DAYS
In order to cover the vast distance in Noth America to be able to visit several different parks and cities along our trip, we will have a couple of long driving days.

2. HIKES AND WALKS
All walks and hikes proposed by our CEO will be easy to moderate level. You may choose to participate or not, but exploring our national parks on foot is part of our way of travelling. It's a healthy way to discover North America's beauty and landscape.

3. COMBO TRIP
Please note that some trips could be a combination of multiple G Adventure tours. You should expect some group members to join or leave the tour between tour segments.

4. LEGAL DRINKING AGE
Please note that the legal drinking age in the United States is 21 and in Canada, 19 (with Alberta and Quebec at 18). Many bars and clubs will ask for ID at the door, therefore listening to live music in certain bars or spending a night out is not possible when you are under the legal age, even if you don't plan on consuming alcohol. Drinking laws in both countries are strictly enforced and our CEOs are unable to help those under age obtain alcohol of any kind.

While this should not stop those under legal drinking age from booking a tour, it is important to note that if a traveller is under-age there are certain optional nighttime activities that they may not legally be able to participate in. When trying to book the right trip, we recommend that travellers under legal drinking age take this into consideration when booking a tour that visits several big cities.

5. ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.


Group Size Notes  

Max 12, avg 11.


About our Transportation  

For this trip we use 15-passenger vans for up to 12 people plus the CEO/Driver. For groups of 8 and more travellers, we also use a trailer to carry luggage. These durable vehicles allow us to drive on most types of roads in North America.

Each van has a front passenger seat and 4 benches that will accommodate 3 people each with mandatory seat belts to keep us secure and safe. No standing is permitted in these vehicles.

This is not a physically demanding journey, but with limited space in the van, long drive days can be difficult. Please take note of the travel times and distances in the above itinerary. There is air conditioning to cool things down on warm days to keep everyone more comfortable. Despite some of the long days, most travellers feel that the diversity of the North American landscape, culture, and wildlife are all well worth the experience!


Money Exchange  

The Canadian currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD).

Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere in Canada and can be used to purchase most items. When purchasing products or services with a foreign credit card in Canada, you may be charged additional fees by your credit card company for foreign purchases.

Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances but you must remember to bring your PIN number (be aware that many ATM machines only accept 4-digit PINs). Both Cirrus and Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. Both Visa and Master Cards are the most widely accepted credit cards. While ATMs are commonly available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work check with your bank before you travel. A visit to an ATM can be arranged on Day 1 and other days of the trip.

Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of Canadian Dollars as cash (preferably smaller bills, 5's, 10's and 20's) and credit cards is best.

Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com


Group Leader  

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.


Accommodation  

Hotels (14 nts), lodges (4 nts).


Packing List  

Cold Weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers
• Warm waterproof jacket

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

Day 1 Vancouver

Arrive at any time.

Day 2 Vancouver/Campbell River

Catch a ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo and drive along the Oceanside Route to Campbell River. Visit the museum in the town which respectfully acknowledges the First Nations of North Vancouver Island by preserving, interpreting, and sharing the history of these Nations on the lands now known as Campbell River. After seeing the exhibits at the museum attend an optional dinner with the group.

Day 3 Campbell River/Port Hardy

Take in the scenery while travelling to Port Hardy at the northern tip of Vancouver Island. Enjoy impressive views of coastline and lush forests, and make a stop in the quirky town of Telegraph Cove along the way. This renowned whale watching outpost is one of the last remaining boardwalk communities on the West Coast where you will have free time to have lunch on your own and partake in one of the optional activities available in the area. Choose from whale watching, kayaking, hiking, or walking along the historic boardwalk. Arrive to Port Hardy in the early evening and check into your hotel.

Day 4 Port Hardy

Today enjoy a visit to Alert Bay and the Worlds Tallest Totem, and the 'Umista Cultural Centre. Begin the day with free time to walk along the Haddington Beach trail or spend time in Port McNeill. In the late morning take the ferry to Alert Bay and visit the 'Umista Cultural Centre, whose mandate is to ensure the survival and preservation of the cultural heritage of the Kwakwa_ka_'wakw. Travel back to Port McNeill for more free time and an optional happy hour at a local spot. In the evening return to Port Hardy.

Day 5 Port Hardy/Prince Rupert

Embark on a ferry through the famous Inside Passage. The glacial fjords provide spectacular scenery along the route and a safe haven for all types of wildlife, including orcas and porpoises.

The ride is long, but spectacular. With a full day to relax, enjoy the scenery, read a book, or dine at the onboard restaurants. Reach Prince Rupert late in the evening.

Due to ferry schedules, there may be layovers at certain stops along the route.

Day 6 Prince Rupert/Smithers

Drive one of the most scenic roads in the world from Prince Rupert to Smithers and discover the First Nations cultures of Northern BC on a day tour around Smithers. Visit the Gitanyow Totems, Battle Hill, and 'Ksan Museum & Historical Village.

Day 7 Smithers/Prince George

Enjoy a visit to Twin Falls after breakfast and then spend free time in Smithers before travelling to Prince George, the largest city in Northern British Columbia.

Day 8 Prince George/Jasper

Travel to Jasper National Park. En route, stop at the tallest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, Mount Robson. Visit the Interpretation Centre, and go for a short hike to take in the views.

Day 9 Jasper

Enjoy a free day to explore Jasper National Park. Opt to hike at Maligne Canyon, cross the lake on a boat cruise, or join a scenic river rafting tour. In the evening, visit the Miette Hot Springs.

Day 10 Jasper/Canmore

Travel to Canmore via one of the most scenic drives in the world, the Icefields Parkway. Stop at the Columbia Icefield en route.

Along the 300km (186.4 mi) ride, a spectacle unfolds before our eyes: lush coniferous forests, immense mountains, turquoise lakes, high-falling cascades, and humbling glaciers. We stop a number of times along the way to take in the scenery and search for wildlife.

Day 11 Canmore/Calgary

Travel to Calgary, a modern city that honours its cowboy roots. Opt to visit museums, the Olympic Park, or wet your whistle at a cowboy bar.

Day 12 Calgary

Enjoy a free day to explore Calgary. This evening, opt to meet new members of the group at a welcome meeting.

Day 13 Calgary/Banff

Discover the beautiful town of Banff; opt to view wildlife, take a gondola ride, or hike up a mountain for spectacular views.

With free time upon arrival, Banff has tons to offer. There are plenty of optional activities for all interests and activity levels. It's also just as pleasant to wander the main streets, pop in and out of shops or walk along the river.

Day 14 Lake Louise/Revelstoke

Continue to Lake Louise, view the emerald blue waters of this alpine lake, and opt to hike to one of the Tea Houses.

Lake Louise is that iconic Canadian Rockies locale. Don't miss the chance to snag the perfect photo.

Day 15 Revelstoke/Kelowna

Travel to Kelowna in the Okanagan Valley, stopping for a BBQ lunch at Kaloya Regional Park, then a tasting at a local winery en route. Kelowna has become a foodie haven in recent years - opt to visit one of the many craft breweries in the city this evening.

Day 16 Kelowna/Whistler

Drive through the beautiful coastal mountains to the village of Whistler, one of the locations of the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Day 17 Whistler

Enjoy a free day to explore Whistler. Opt to ride a gondola to the top of the mountain, hike, or zipline.

Day 18 Whistler/Vancouver

Visit the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre and go on an interpretive guided tour of the museum, before participating in a medicine bag making activity. Travel to Vancouver, and spend the afternoon in this beautiful, easy-going city.

Day 19 Vancouver

Depart at any time.

Details

Prices from: €5309.10

Duration: 19 Days

Travel Style: Classic

Service Level: Standard

Trip Type: Small Group

Merchandising: Planeterra Project

Physical Grading: 3 - Average



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