Ultimate Canada | 2026
Ultimate Canada | 2026
Ultimate Canada | 2026
19 Days Starting in Toronto, Canada and ending in Vancouver, Canada
Visiting: Ottawa, Quebec City, Montreal, Niagara Falls, Toronto, Whistler, Sun Peaks, Jasper, Banff, Vernon, Vancouver
Tour operator:
Tour code:
GCTO26
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
English , FrenchTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Ultimate Canada | 2026" tour, a breathtaking journey from Toronto to Vancouver, exploring the diverse landscapes and vibrant cities of Canada. Begin in Toronto, then venture to Ottawa for a taste of the nation's capital. Discover the charm of Quebec City with its cobbled streets and indulge in local delicacies. Experience the cultural richness of Montreal and the natural wonder of Niagara Falls. Traverse the majestic Rockies, visiting Whistler, Jasper, and Banff, where adventure awaits at every turn. Marvel at the stunning vistas of the Columbia Icefield Parkway and the serene beauty of Lake Louise. Conclude your adventure in the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver, where you can explore its multicultural neighborhoods and scenic parks. This tour promises unforgettable experiences, from thrilling outdoor activities to cultural immersions, making it the ultimate Canadian adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Toronto To Ottawa
Location: Ottawa
Accommodation: Days Inn (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Days Inn (or similar)
Your journey begins in Toronto BUT...we're off to Ottawa this morning for a glimpse into life in the nation's capital. Welcome to Ottawa, the fun-loving capital. We'll explore our new surroundings on a city tour before enjoying some time to see Ottawa your way - whether it's a boat ride on the Rideau Canal or just strolling the streets. (Exercise seems a good idea in preparation for all that Poutine in Quebec....). Or maybe just relax with a beer-tasting tour. The day is all yours.
Day 2: Ottawa To Quebec City
Location: Quebec City
Accommodation: Hotel Le Voyageur (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Le Voyageur (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Au revoir Ottawa and bonjour Quebec City! With its cobbled streets and ancient stone houses, Quebec City’s UNESCO World-Heritage-listed old town is an open-air museum. It’s time to get out and explore more of what this region has to offer - we’re talking vibrant art scenes, Parisian-style eateries and quaint river boardwalks. We'll immerse ourselves in the history of the city on a tour with a local guide, then once we've uncovered Quebec's hidden historical gems, it's time to fill up on a famous Canadian dish - Poutine! We’ll be sure to hit up a local eatery where it's well and truly the star of the show.
Day 3: Quebec City
Location: Quebec City
Accommodation: Hotel Le Voyageur (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Le Voyageur (or similar)
There's no better way to start the day than with fresh air and fantastic views, so let’s whisk ourselves away to Montmorency Falls this morning. If you're feeling adventurous, opt to soar across the falls on a zipline that will bring you even closer to this magnificent, natural phenomenon. Now that you're fully awake, we'll head back to Quebec where you'll have the afternoon to explore. You could check out the Chateau Frontenac - this red brick building built in 1983 is a landmark the city is definitely proud of. Or try munching on duck with maple syrup – a local delicacy. Oh and let’s not forget the awesome nightlife Quebec offers - it’s time to party French style!
Day 4: Quebec City To Montreal
Location: Montreal
Accommodation: Sandman Montreal Longueuil (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Travelodge by Wyndham Montreal Centre (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Bid Quebec au revoir as we head towards the jazzy island city of Montreal. The French-infused city is home to arts, mouth watering food and the prettiest panoramic scenic views.Together, we’ll take a spin around Montreal’s Old Port and quays where we’ll familiarise ourselves with a few signature sites. Failing that, you can always just wander around, trying out the best of your high school French.
Day 5: Montreal
Location: Montreal
Accommodation: Sandman Montreal Longueuil (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Travelodge by Wyndham Montreal Centre (or similar)
Today you’ll have a full day to explore Montreal – on your tod or with your squad. Don’t miss Mount Royal Park, the Notre-Dame Basilica, the breathtaking botanical gardens or the awesome Barbie Expo. Today you’ll also have the chance to hop on the Grande Roue – Montreal’s 60-metre-high ferris wheel. Talk about a great view of a great city!
Day 6: Montreal To Niagara Falls
Location: Niagara Falls
Accommodation: Days Inn Fallsview (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Days Inn Fallsview (or similar)
Still bopping along to the sax from the night before, we bid farewell Montreal. Wanna experience Niagara Falls’ surging power from a different perspective? You’ll have the chance to soar above the action in a helicopter, whizz past it from the Wildplay Zipline or simply take in the scene from the safety of a viewing platform. And don’t worry – the ponchos are on us.
Day 7: Niagara Falls To Toronto
Location: Toronto
Accommodation: Chelsea Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Chelsea Hotel (or similar)
Rise and shine. Today’s the day you finally get to say “I’m taking an epic cruise across the Niagara Falls today.” Unreal. Welcome to Toronto, the largest city in Canada. Your Trip Manager will fill you in on the hot spots of this fabulous city soon after we arrive and will then give you the afternoon to yourselves where you can find your niche in this cosmopolitan melting pot. If you want to enjoy an evening of laughter, head to the legendary Second City improv show where some of the funniest people on the planet have trodden the boards. Joan Rivers, Martin Short, Eugene Levy and Bill Murray are just a few of the big names to have started out here over the past 60 years.
Day 8: Toronto
Location: Toronto
Accommodation: Chelsea Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Chelsea Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Another day to explore this epic city. Score, or should we say homerun? Catch a baseball game, head to the CN Tower, visit Gallery 44 or Toronto Park for people watching. You’ll also have the chance to see the whole of Canada in model form on a visit to Little Canada, and take a tour of historic Steam Whistle Brewery! Tonight, why not go feel the global vibe of this city's nightlife?
Day 9: Toronto To Whistler Via Vancouver
Location: Whistler
Accommodation: Pangea Pod Hotel (Multi-Share)
Accommodation Name: Pangea Pod Hotel (Multi-Share)
Meals Included: Dinner
Rise and shine, wanderlusters! We've got an early flight to Vancouver this morning... And then we're headed straight to Whistler. While mostly known for its excellent ski conditions, this town is an absolute delight in the summer. Take in all that fresh air and admire Whistler's breathtaking mountains and crystal blue rivers and lakes. Soak up all the nature vibes you can get, but make sure to rest up, because adventure is on the cards all day tomorrow.
Day 10: Whistler
Location: Whistler
Accommodation: Pangea Pod Hotel (Multi-Share)
Accommodation Name: Pangea Pod Hotel (Multi-Share)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Come winter, Whistler may be a haven for snowbunnies, but when the weather is warm, it’s activity central. Test your Popeye strength by canoeing along the River of Golden Dreams, zipline over churning rivers or take a hike through scenery that puts most postcards to shame. If you’re feeling lazy, take a gondola or a chairlift to the mountain tops, but don’t forget to explore the village itself – you’ll melt at its cuteness.
Day 11: Whistler To Sun Peaks
Location: Sun Peaks
Accommodation: Sun Peaks Lodge (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Sun Peaks Lodge (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
We're headed out of Whistler to the second largest ski area in Canada, Sun Peaks. Along the way we'll enjoy a scenic drive through the Lillooet Mountain Range, admiring the various reservoirs and lakes that sparkle in the sun. And before that, you have the chance to take a gondola ride between two peaks to soak up those glorious panoramas!Welcome to Sun Peaks! This elegant little village will be our home for the night.
Day 12: Sun Peaks To Jasper Via Mount Robson
Location: Jasper
Accommodation: Athabasca Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Athabasca Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Well rested, we'll take in some incredible scenes on our drive this morning, and you might even see the highest point in the Rockies if weather permits. Eating outdoors is essential in these parts, so feel free to grab some lunch and dine against a beautiful backdrop. And then the outdoors is yours to explore. Want to take the adrenaline levels up a notch? Get involved with our optional white-water rafting experience on the Fraser River. There's nothing like a rafting adventure to confirm that there is no 'I' in team. Jasper will be your home for the next two nights – convenient really, considering it’s the perfect base to explore the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies.
Day 13: Jasper
Location: Jasper
Accommodation: Athabasca Hotel (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Athabasca Hotel (or similar)
Rise 'n' shine - it's time to get out there with an easy hike though Maligne Canyon. Towering limestone walls will watch over us as we take in the scene, making our way across bridges to the thrilling soundtrack of rushing water. Nature goals achieved, we'll jump on the coach and head to Maligne Lake, famous for the azure colour of its water, and today we’ll show you why. Drink in the beauty of the surrounding snow-capped mountains from the shore, or take an optional cruise out to iconic Spirit Island, the most photographed image in the Rockies - we'll bet you know the one. A truly special experience awaits us tonight – we’ll be joined by the Warrior Women for a fireside chat.
Day 14: Jasper To Banff
Location: Banff
Accommodation: Tunnel Mountain Resort (multi-share)
Accommodation Name: Tunnel Mountain Resort (multi-share)
Meals Included: Dinner
On our way to Banff today, you’ll be glued to the windows as we pass the waterfalls, lakes, meadows, glaciers and towering mountains that make up the Columbia Icefield Parkway. Take a walk to the Athabasca Falls, wheel across the Athabasca Glacier on the Ice Explorer, and cure that cotton-mouth with a drink of pure H2O – just be careful not to stick your tongue to the ice... Peyto Lake and Lake Louise (you're sure to have seen these on Instagram) are the perfect place to snap your next profile pic, and make sure those eyes stay peeled for wildlife. We’ll roll into Banff – the unofficial capital of the Canadian Rockies. You���re in cowboy country now, and who are we to buck tradition? Saddle up for a round of drinks before dinner and check into your chalet.
Day 15: Banff
Location: Banff
Accommodation: Tunnel Mountain Resort (multi-share)
Accommodation Name: Tunnel Mountain Resort (multi-share)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today kicks off with Canada’s ultimate mountain experience. Standing on the suspension bridges of Mt Norquay Via Ferrata, you’ll feel alive, emotional and a little dizzy all at once. There’s loads more on the menu today in Banff: take a heli-tour of the high country or choose to explore on horseback.
Day 16: Banff To Vernon
Location: Vernon
Accommodation: Days Inn Vernon (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Days Inn Vernon (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Marvel at the change of scenery today as we cut through three national parks on our way to Vernon. First up is Yoho National Park with its valley of waterfalls and meadows, and home to the amazing engineering feat - the Spiral Train Tunnel. Next up is Glacier National Park, which boasts over 400 (wait for it) glaciers (surprise) and Rogers Pass. Lastly we’ll drive through scenic Mt. Revelstoke National Park. After cramming three national parks into one day, you deserve a hearty meal in Vernon. There's plenty of traditional pubs in town, and they'll be able to help you out on the beverage front as well.
Day 17: Vernon To Vancouver
Location: Vancouver
Accommodation: YMCA Vancouver (or similar)
Accommodation Name: YWCA Hotel Vancouver
Meals Included: Breakfast
We’re sure you’ll agree that meandering through Canada's wine country – the famed Okanagan Valley - is a great way to kill time on the drive back to Vancouver. It's time to see everything of this magical metropolis that you missed the first time around, we'll treat you to a whirlwind tour of the historic sites. Vancouver’s downtown is world class, and its locals take immense pride in its multiculturalism. Stop for pics at the city's nine Totem Poles - these colourful carved sculptures stand tall in Stanley Park and are a must-see sight that were gifted to Vancouver City. Get out there and get local, do some boutique shopping or even rent a bike and explore the city on wheels.
Day 18: Vancouver
Location: Vancouver
Accommodation: Hotel Belmont (Twin-Share)
Accommodation Name: YWCA Hotel Vancouver
A hidden grassroots art scene, eating adventures in abundance, and a pretty seaport setting - your free day in Vancouver will not be short of magic. If the galleries and cute cafes get old, roam one of the city's many parks or gardens or find a spot to take in the surrounding mountain vistas. Top off the day with a dinner cruise and your Vancouver experience is whole and complete.
Day 19: End Vancouver
Location: Vancouver
All good things must come to an end, and so does our alpine adventure this morning. We wish you all a fond salute and bon voyage. We hope we'll be seeing you again soon.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels and lodges throughout the tour, including Days Inn, Hotel Le Voyageur, Travelodge by Wyndham Montreal Centre, Chelsea Hotel, Pangea Pod Hotel, Sun Peaks Lodge, Athabasca Hotel, Tunnel Mountain Resort, and YWCA Hotel Vancouver.
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Meals
The tour includes 7 breakfasts and 6 dinners.
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Included Experiences
The tour includes various experiences such as exploring Quebec City, visiting a traditional Canadian 'sugar shack' in Montreal, a trip to Niagara Falls, a tour of Toronto's iconic sights, and scenic drives through the Canadian Rockies.
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Transportation
Transportation between destinations is included, with an early flight from Toronto to Vancouver on Day 9.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours are provided in Quebec City and other locations to enhance the travel experience.
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Make Travel Matter® Experiences
Participate in Make Travel Matter® experiences in Quebec City and Jasper National Park.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as ziplining at Montmorency Falls, helicopter rides at Niagara Falls, and white-water rafting on the Fraser River are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Flights to and from Canada
International flights to and from Canada are not included in the tour package.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
Dining Summary
- 7 Breakfast (B)
- 6 Dinner (D)
Included Experience
- Quebec City: Stretch your legs and discover this quaint fortified city.
- Ottawa: This home of top-quality cheddar is now a major institution in Canada. A lil cheesy but we simply MUST take a look around!
- Quebec City: A stroll around this citadelle is every history buff’s dream. Plus, there are some pretty cool photo ops.
- Quebec City: On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience, you’ll immerse yourself into the world of the Hurons – from canoes to traditional clothing, archery and dance performances.
- Montreal: Visit a traditional Canadian ‘sugar shack’ for dinner and a tour. A sweet, sweet experience for all.
- Niagara Falls: Take a trip to a natural wonder of the world, and truly the most mesmerising waterfall on the planet.
- Toronto: Tour the iconic sights of the city, including the CN Tower, Rogers Centre baseball stadium, bustling Yonge Street and the University.
- Niagara Falls: Top of the #travel goals! You haven’t lived until you’ve sailed past this incredible wall of water.
- Whistler: Snow-topped mountains, aquamarine lakes and the occasional grizzly bear are all familiar sights on this epic road trip.
- Jasper: Snow-capped peaks and turquoise lakes guaranteed. And you might even spot a grizzly bear or coyote.
- Mount Robson: It’s a photogenic, snow-capped beauty. And the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies.
- Rocky Mountain National Park: Everything you’d expect from a picturesque drive through Canada. Cruise past rolling hills, lush forests, looming snow-dusted mountains and the occasional elk.
- Jasper: Marvel at the azure waters and enjoy Insta-perfect views of the Rocky Mountains. This is why we travel.
- Jasper National Park of Canada: Insightful chats, informal setting... time to gather round the campfire for a truly unique MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience.
- Banff: Wrap up warm and see this hunk of ice in all its sparkling glory. Don’t forget to fill a bottle with glacial water.
- Banff: All year round you’re guaranteed epic views and soul-cleansing mountain air.
- Banff: Can anything make you feel more alive than turquoise lakes and snow-topped mountains? We think not.
- Banff: Cameras at the ready, folks! On our first day, we’ll visit Canada’s first ever National Park – known for its colourful lakes and beautiful mountains.
- Banff: Tunnels that slice through the heart of the Rockies. You don’t need to be a trainspotter to admire this epic piece of engineering.
- Banff: The official place of all your outdoor adventure dreams. Stop off for lunch surrounded by lakes and waterfalls.
- Vancouver: Fill up your Insta feed with pics of this first nation’s art installation. We love it!
- Vancouver: Probably one of the most naturally beautiful cities in the world. Vancouver’s got beaches, mountains and rainforest right on its doorstep.
- Vancouver: This spot is so beautiful it’ll make you want to switch off your phone and just ‘be’ (after taking some pics of course).
Mode of Transport
Travel across Canada with a mix of coach journeys and an internal flight from Toronto to Vancouver, ensuring a seamless and scenic exploration of the country's diverse landscapes and vibrant cities.
Accommodation
Experience comfort and convenience with accommodations at Days Inn, Hotel Le Voyageur, Travelodge by Wyndham Montreal Centre, Days Inn Fallsview, Chelsea Hotel, Pangea Pod Hotel, Sun Peaks Lodge, Athabasca Hotel, Tunnel Mountain Resort, and YWCA Hotel Vancouver, offering a mix of multi-share and twin-share options.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience in Quebec City where you'll immerse yourself in the world of the Hurons, experiencing traditional activities such as canoeing, archery, and dance performances. Additionally, in Jasper National Park, there will be insightful chats around a campfire for a unique cultural experience.
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What activities are available at Niagara Falls during the tour?
At Niagara Falls, you have the opportunity to experience the falls from different perspectives, including a helicopter ride, a zipline adventure, or simply enjoying the view from a platform. Ponchos are provided for those who wish to get closer to the falls.
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What can I expect to see and do in Whistler during the tour?
In Whistler, you can enjoy activities such as canoeing along the River of Golden Dreams, ziplining over rivers, hiking through scenic landscapes, or taking a gondola or chairlift to the mountain tops. The village itself is also worth exploring for its charm.
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What are some highlights of the drive from Jasper to Banff?
The drive from Jasper to Banff includes breathtaking views along the Columbia Icefield Parkway, with stops at Athabasca Falls, the Athabasca Glacier, Peyto Lake, and Lake Louise. The route is known for its stunning waterfalls, lakes, meadows, glaciers, and towering mountains.
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What kind of experiences are offered in Banff?
In Banff, you can experience Canada's ultimate mountain adventure on the suspension bridges of Mt Norquay Via Ferrata. There are also options for a helicopter tour of the high country or exploring the area on horseback.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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