Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta with Rocky Mountaineer Option, Classic Group
Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta with Rocky Mountaineer Option, Classic Group
Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta with Rocky Mountaineer Option, Classic Group
9 Days Starting in Calgary, Canada and ending in Vancouver, Canada
Visiting: Banff, Lake Louise, Yoho National Park, Jasper National Park, Kananaskis, Kamloops, Vancouver
Tour operator:
Tour code:
AGVLGM20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Gardens & Nature Tours, Rail Tours, Wildlife Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Alberta with the "Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta with Rocky Mountaineer Option, Classic Group" tour. This adventure begins in Calgary and takes you through the majestic Rocky Mountains, with highlights including Banff, Lake Louise, and the Icefields Parkway. Experience the rich culture and history of the region with visits to the Whyte Museum and a guided walk with a First Nations Cree Iroquois Local Expert. Marvel at the stunning views from the Glacier Skywalk and enjoy a serene cruise on Maligne Lake. The tour culminates with a luxurious ride on the Rocky Mountaineer, offering unparalleled views and exceptional service as you journey to Vancouver. Enjoy included meals, seamless logistics, and expert guidance throughout this spectacular Canadian adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Banff
Location: Banff
Accommodation: Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National Park
Accommodation Name: Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National Park
Meals Included: Dinner
Your stay at a historic mountain resort in Banff awaits. After your arrival at Calgary Airport, if you have purchased an airport transfer, your driver will transport you to the hotel. Built in the distinctive Canadian Château style, it is one of the earliest examples of the country’s grand railway hotels. Tonight, join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a dinner.
Day 2: Exploring Banff
Location: Banff
Accommodation: Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National Park
Accommodation Name: Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Connect with nature as you join a memorable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a First Nations Cree Iroquois Local Expert. Discover First Nations culture, such as how plants and animals like bears hold great significance. This authentic dive into the First Nations Cree community is not only enlightening but also helps assure the sustainability of the community and culture. Embark on a guided walk in the Boreal Forest and learn the Indigenous world of plant medicines as well as the historical and modern-day uses of plants and listen to fascinating stories about the First Nations. This afternoon, visit The Whyte Museum and enjoy artwork inspired by the local Rockies. Or, learn about the history of the Fairmont Banff Springs from a knowledgeable ambassador. Hear stories of events that took place around and at this hotel and receive a self-guided map of highlight locations for you to discover.
Day 3: A Trip To Lake Louise Relaxed Start
Location: Lake Louise
Accommodation: Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National Park
Accommodation Name: Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
The Three Sisters Peak or Mt Assiniboine will impress on this morning’s optional helicopter flights (weather dependent). Make your way to Moraine Lake (seasonal) – the largest glacially fed lake in Canada – for a photo stop before a decadent lunch at Chateau Lake Louise. Marvel as you're surrounded by soaring peaks and the majesty of the Victoria glacier. Capture a photo or two of the turquoise Lake Louise and rugged backdrop of one of the most famous mountain vistas in the world before returning to Banff and enjoying the rest of your day at leisure. This evening, opt for a scenic end to your day by taking Banff Gondola ride.
Day 4: Lakes, Mountains And Glaciers
Location: Yoho National Park
Accommodation: Glacier View Lodge, Jasper National Park
Accommodation Name: Glacier View Lodge, Jasper National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
The glaciers, waterfalls and peaks of Yoho Park are revealed on this morning’s visit to Yoho National Park. Your journey includes photo opportunities at Emerald Lake (seasonal) before taking the Icefields Parkway, one of the most beautiful drives on the planet. Admire the dramatic scenery of the Rockies with plenty of photo opportunities. A warm welcome greets you at the country’s first and only glacier-view resort over a Champagne reception and nibbles. Before dinner, take advantage of the long daylight hours and set out for an after-hours visit to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-floored walkway above the Sunwapta Valley featuring waterfalls and wildlife. After your Skywalk visit, indulge in a delicious, Canadian inspired, locally sourced dinner, sip cocktails and marvel at the spectacular glacier views that wrap the restaurant.
Day 5: Glacier Adventure Relaxed Start
Location: Jasper National Park
Accommodation: Forest Park Hotel, Jasper National Park
Accommodation Name: Forest Park Hotel, Jasper National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Before other travellers arrive, venture onto the Athabasca Glacier in a massive Ice Explorer for your special, before-hours visit. Join your Local Expert and walk on the frozen flow of ice. Discover the beauty and immensity of the glacier as you learn about the history and geology of the region. Continue along the magnificent Icefields Parkway further into Jasper National Park with its soothing mineral hot springs, colourful meadows and majestic mountains.
Day 6: Exploring Jasper Relaxed Start
Location: Jasper National Park
Accommodation: Forest Park Hotel, Jasper National Park
Accommodation Name: Forest Park Hotel, Jasper National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a relaxed start this morning or join the fun and experience an optional easy rafting, scenic float trip down the Athabasca River, a designated Canadian Heritage River. A National Park licensed guide will provide commentary on the human and natural history of Jasper while navigating you along the same route used by the “fur traders” over 2 centuries ago. Don’t worry, the guides do all the rowing; you sit back and enjoy while exploring all the spectacular scenery. There is always a chance of seeing various wildlife including elk, deer, moose, coyotes, wolves, eagles, ospreys, mountain sheep and bears. Later, join your Travel Director on an informative walk on Maligne Canyon, the deepest gorge in Jasper National Park. As you cruise across the crystal waters of magical Maligne Lake (seasonal), fed by the glaciers of Jasper National Park and glide past the jagged mountain peaks, you'll discover why it's been declared the "Best Boat Cruise in Canada.”
Day 7: Journey To Kananaskis
Location: Kananaskis
Accommodation: Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Autograph Collection
Accommodation Name: Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Autograph Collection
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, enjoy a scenic drive down to Kananaskis, often kept as a secret mountain sanctuary for locals, away from the masses that visit neighbouring Banff National Park. Enjoy the late afternoon to yourself to discover the local trails surrounding your upscale hotel nestled in the wilderness, or head to the Nordic Spa located steps away from the lodge. Tonight, come together with your fellow travellers for a festive dinner and toast to your wonderful trip in the Canadian Rockies.
Day 8: Board The Rocky Mountaineer
Location: Kamloops
Accommodation: Assigned by Rocky Mountaineer, Kamloops
Accommodation Name: Assigned by Rocky Mountaineer, Kamloops
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
In the morning you will be transferred to Banff from Kananaskis to board the Rocky Mountaineer. Your journey starts Westward through the mighty Canadian Rockies and the province of Alberta. With more than three decades of fine tuning, Rocky Mountaineer has perfected the art of comfort and service. Whether you choose SilverLeaf Service or GoldLeaf Service, prepare for spectacular views and flavourful food—a celebration for the senses. Aboard Rocky Mountaineer, every element is carefully choreographed to create an effortless, unforgettable experience. You will see a spectacular array of scenery as you travel across ranchlands, along rocky lakeshores, over high mountain passes and through the remarkable tunnels that form part of the rich rail history of the Canadian Rockies. Today's highlights include Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, the climb over Rogers Pass, Kicking Horse Canyon, the Spiral Tunnels and, of course, the glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Overnight in Kamloops.
Day 9: Continue Your Rocky Mountaineer Journey
Location: Vancouver
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Depart Kamloops this morning and continue your journey on the Rocky Mountaineer to the coastal city of Vancouver, in the heart of British Columbia's interior. As you travel along you will see dramatic changes in scenery, from the desert-like environment of the British Columbia interior, the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley, and forests and winding river canyons surrounded by the peaks of the Coast and Cascade Mountains. Highlights include the rushing waters of Hell's Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River. On arrival in Vancouver you will bid farewell to this incredible experience and make your way to the airport independently for your flight home, or alternatively choose to extend your stay in this exciting city. The train will arrive Vancouver between 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm.
What's Included
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Meals
3 Dinners with Wine, 8 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch with Wine, and 2 Lunches are included.
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Accommodation
Stay at luxurious hotels including Fairmont Banff Springs, Glacier View Lodge, Forest Park Hotel, and Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours and experiences including visits to the Whyte Museum, Glacier Skywalk, and a walk with a First Nations Cree Iroquois Local Expert.
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Transportation
Travel in a luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
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Rocky Mountaineer Train Journey
Experience a journey on the Rocky Mountaineer with spectacular views and flavourful food.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
All hotel and restaurant tips are included.
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Porterage
Porterage charges at hotels are included.
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Wi-Fi
Complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
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Personal Radio Headsets
Personal radio headsets are provided for guided tours.
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Travel Director
A highly-skilled Travel Director will ensure your journey is seamless.
What's Not Included
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Airport Transfers
Airport transfers are not included unless purchased separately.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as helicopter flights and rafting trips 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 should be purchased separately.
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Flights
Flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style aboard the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer, offering breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies. Enjoy the comfort of Insight's air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with enhanced hygiene protocols, ensuring a safe and relaxing journey through the stunning landscapes of Alberta and British Columbia.
Accommodation
Experience the grandeur of the Fairmont Banff Springs, Glacier View Lodge, and Forest Park Hotel, offering luxurious stays amidst the stunning landscapes of Banff and Jasper National Parks. Enjoy upscale amenities at Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge and a unique overnight stay assigned by Rocky Mountaineer in Kamloops.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of cultural experiences can I expect in Banff?
In Banff, you will have the opportunity to connect with nature and learn about First Nations culture through a memorable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a First Nations Cree Iroquois Local Expert. You will discover how plants and animals hold great significance in their culture and learn about the historical and modern-day uses of plants. Additionally, you can visit The Whyte Museum to enjoy artwork inspired by the local Rockies and learn about the history of the Fairmont Banff Springs from a knowledgeable ambassador.
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What activities are available at the Glacier View Lodge?
At the Glacier View Lodge, you can enjoy an after-hours visit to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-floored walkway above the Sunwapta Valley featuring waterfalls and wildlife. After your Skywalk visit, you can indulge in a delicious, Canadian-inspired, locally sourced dinner, sip cocktails, and marvel at the spectacular glacier views that wrap the restaurant.
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What can I expect during the Rocky Mountaineer journey?
During the Rocky Mountaineer journey, you will travel westward through the mighty Canadian Rockies and the province of Alberta. You will see a spectacular array of scenery, including ranchlands, rocky lakeshores, high mountain passes, and remarkable tunnels. Highlights include Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, the climb over Rogers Pass, Kicking Horse Canyon, the Spiral Tunnels, and the glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies. The journey continues from Kamloops to Vancouver, where you will see dramatic changes in scenery, from the desert-like environment of the British Columbia interior to the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley and the peaks of the Coast and Cascade Mountains.
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What unique experiences are offered on the Icefields Parkway?
On the Icefields Parkway, you will have the opportunity to take a seat in a specially designed Ice Explorer for a visit onto the Athabasca Glacier before other travelers arrive. You will follow your Local Expert as you stroll on its icy surface and experience the enormous glaciers up close. Additionally, you can enjoy an after-hours visit to the Glacier Skywalk, a cliff-edged, glass-floored walkway rising 918 ft above the Sunwapta Valley, offering sweeping views of the valley and Columbia Icefield.
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What wildlife might I see during the tour?
During the tour, especially on the optional easy rafting scenic float trip down the Athabasca River, you may have the chance to see various wildlife including elk, deer, moose, coyotes, wolves, eagles, ospreys, mountain sheep, and bears.
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What kind of dining experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a variety of dining experiences such as dinner at the historic and regal Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, an evening reception at the Glacier View Lodge with dinner, and a flavourful dinner at the Kananaskis Mountain Lodge. Additionally, you will have a decadent lunch at Chateau Lake Louise and enjoy meals aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, which offers spectacular views and flavourful food.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
You will stay at a variety of luxurious accommodations during the tour, including the historic Fairmont Banff Springs in Banff National Park, the Glacier View Lodge in Jasper National Park, the Forest Park Hotel in Jasper National Park, and the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Autograph Collection. Additionally, you will have an overnight stay in Kamloops assigned by Rocky Mountaineer.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% 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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