Grand Canadian Rockies

Grand Canadian Rockies

10 Days Starting in Vancouver and ending in Calgary

Visiting: Vancouver, Whistler, Sun Peaks, Jasper, Banff National Park, Lake Louise / Banff National Park, Calgary

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

SSKK

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99 years

Tour operated in:

English
From: $5105

NB: Prices correct on 08-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Canada’s Rocky Mountains provide a stunning landscape of craggy, towering rock faces, snow-capped mountains, thick forests and picturesque lakes. Wander the streets of Vancouver and admire the views each direction you turn. Hike or bike the breathtaking trails of Whistler, Sun Peaks, Jasper, and Banff. Experience the renowned expanse of Lake Louise, or wrap your hands around a mug of hot chocolate while admiring the superb alpine scenery of the Rockies. Ready for a grand adventure? Jump aboard and witness the sheer beauty of this exceptional part of the world.

Highlights

  • Sit back and enjoy the Icefields Parkway between Jasper and Banff, one of the most scenic drives on earth, without the hassle of driving.

  • Head to Whistler to learn more about First Nations history at the Squamish Lil'Wat Cultural Centre – the first of its kind in Canada.

  • Experience the seasonal moods and beauty of Lake Louise for yourself and cross off one of those must-see bucket list experiences.

  • Keep your eye on the roadside for extraordinary wildlife like elk, black bears, grizzly bears, eagles, Rocky Mountain goats, and – if you're lucky – beavers, wolves and moose.

  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Water First. Donations support their work to provide critical clean, safe water for indigenous communities in Canada.

  • Head out on a walk and talk with a guide from Yellowstone to Yukon, an initiative to create wildlife corridors spanning from the US to Canada.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Vancouver

Location: Vancouver

Accommodation: Hotel

Welcome to Canada! Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you do arrive early, perhaps explore the happening neighbourhood of Yaletown, or head to Granville Island to visit the colourful markets full of fresh produce and handcrafts. Vancouver’s coastal setting is beautiful, bordered by an ocean harbour to the north and a river to the south. The majestic Coastal Mountains, often snow-capped, provide the eastern horizon, making it a picturesque place to spend a few days before the tour begins. After your welcome meeting, perhaps wander around downtown Vancouver or grab a craft beer in the Gastown neighbourhood.

Day 2: Whistler

Location: Whistler

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: lunch

On your way out of Vancouver today, check out Stanley Park’s carved totem poles, representing the historical crests of First Nations families and their clans. During the drive to Whistler you’ll stop at the beautiful Shannon Falls, then learn more about First Nations art, history and culture at Squamish Lil'Wat Cultural Centre. Refuel with a late lunch at the onsite cafe, serving a modern take on traditional First Nations food. Once you arrive in Whistler Village, your leader will take you on an orientation walk through the bustling hub of shops and award-winning restaurants, all surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery. Later, you may like to join in on the Whistler nightlife by sampling one of the town’s lively bars.

Included Activities:
-Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre Visit
-Whistler - Leader-led orientation walk

Day 3: Whistler

Location: Whistler

Accommodation: Hotel

Stunning Whistler is ready to be explored, up the mountain or back down in the village. Perhaps buy yourself a ticket to ride the PEAK 2 PEAK gondola to enjoy unparalleled views of towering volcanic peaks and surrounding forest on the world’s longest and highest lift. Once at the top, check out the nearby scenic walking trails, mountaintop restaurants and indoor interpretive displays. Otherwise, you could hire a bike and ride along the Valley Trail to Lost Lake, or go for an easy hike along the Lost Lake Nature Trail. If you're after something a little more cultured, perhaps hit the Audain Art Museum to see a selection of First Nations and British Columbian artwork.

Optional Activities:
-Whistler - Zip Trek Tour (1.5 hrs)
-Whistler – Standard Mountain Bike Rental (full day)
-Whistler - PEAK2PEAK Gondola
-Whistler - Audain Art Museum
-Whistler - Regular Bike Rental (half day)
-Whistler - Lost Lake Trail hike - Free

Day 4: Sun Peaks

Location: Sun Peaks

Accommodation: Lodge

Meals Included: dinner

Say goodbye to Whistler and drive through the mountains to Sun Peaks. The Sun Peaks township is set on one of many peaks along the mountain range and the views from the top are incredible. On arrival you’ll have the choice to see those views for yourself by doing a hike along the Sunburst Loop. Or, you might like to take a shorter walk along the Shuswap Medicine Trail and learn about local flora, fauna and traditional First Nations medicines. This evening, rejoin your group for dinner together.

Optional Activities:
-Sun Peaks - Sunburst Loop Trail - Free
-Sun Peaks - Shuswap Medicine Trail - Free

Day 5: Jasper

Location: Jasper

Accommodation: Inn

This morning head to Jasper National Park, one of the most photographed places in Canada. Jasper is the largest of Canada's Rocky Mountain parks, famous for wildlife such as elk, moose, deer, coyotes, grizzly bears and mountain lions, as well as smaller mammals and birds. Along the way you’ll stop in at Mt Robson Provincial Park, stretching your legs on a short walk through the picturesque wildflower meadows. Once you arrive in Jasper, you’ll have options to explore including hiking in the Valley of Five Lakes and riding the Jasper SkyTram – the highest and longest aerial tramway in Canada. Climbing to 2300 metres, the SkyTram provides spectacular views of the Rocky Mountains.

Included Activities:
-Jasper National Park - Entrance Fee
-Mt. Robson Provincial Park - Wildflower walk

Day 6: Jasper

Location: Jasper

Accommodation: Inn

Meals Included: lunch

Today is a free day in Jasper. Join the group on a visit to Maligne Lake for some hiking, and perhaps book yourself a cruise on the lake’s shimmering blue waters past the much-photographed Spirit Island. If the lake cruise isn’t your thing, you might like to spend your time seeing the area while hiking either the Mary Schaeffer or the Moose Lake trails. There’s also the option hike or bike around Beauvert Lake, or a ride on the Jasper SkyTram is highly recommended if you didn’t do it yesterday!

Included Activities:
-Visit to Maligne Lake

Optional Activities:
-Jasper - SkyTram
-Jasper - Mountain Bike Hire
-Jasper - Cruise on Maligne Lake
-Maligne Lake - Hiking - Free
-Jasper National Park - Hikes - Free

Day 7: Banff National Park

Location: Banff National Park

Accommodation: Lodge

Buckle up for Banff. Today is a long day, with many scenic stops and visits along the way. In the morning, travel towards Banff, stopping off at the Columbia Icefields Centre, Athabasca Falls and Sunwapta Falls. You'll have the chance to join an optional glacier hike with a professional guide (at own expense). Then head into Banff National Park in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Banff is considered the oldest national park in Canada, showcasing the Rockies’ valleys and mountain chains which began forming up to 75 million years ago.

Included Activities:
-Icefields Parkway - Sightseeing Stops including Athabasca Falls

Optional Activities:
-Icefields Parkway - Athabasca Glacier Hike with Guide

Day 8: Lake Louise / Banff National Park

Location: Lake Louise / Banff National Park

Accommodation: Lodge

Meals Included: lunch

Today, pay a visit to Lake Louise. You can get your bearings on optional walks along the easy Waterfront Trail, or take the steeper trail to the Fairview Lookout for some incredible views from above. After, you might like to check out the interior of the luxury mountain resort, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. This afternoon, don an old-fashioned swimsuit and soak in the hot mineral waters of the Banff Upper Hot Springs. If there is extra time today, you may like to take part in one of the many adventure activities available within the park. With its coniferous forests, alpine meadows, icefields and glaciers, the park is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. There are opportunities for canoeing, mountain biking, hiking or riding the gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain.

Included Activities:
-Banff Upper Hotsprings
-Visit to Lake Louise

Optional Activities:
-Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum
-Banff - Canoe Hire
-Banff - Sulphur Mountain gondola
-Banff - Horse Riding (1 hour)
-Banff - Mountain bike hire (full day)
-Banff - Cruiser bike hire (full day)
-Lake Louise - Waterfront Trail - Free
-Lake Louise - Fairview Lookout hike - Free

Day 9: Calgary

Location: Calgary

Accommodation: Hotel

Before leaving Banff this morning, join a guide from Yellowstone to Yukon (Y2Y). Y2Y is an initiative to create wildlife corridors spanning from Yellowstone to Yukon, and you’ll learn about how the US and Canada have come together to support the animals whose habitats span both countries. Then, complete your crossing of the Rockies today on a drive to Calgary. Along the way, make a stop in the cosy little town of Canmore, the perfect place to grab some lunch and soak in some final mountain views. Arriving in Calgary the afternoon. Home to the famous Calgary Stampede, the city is growing at a rapid rate, largely thanks to oil and mining. While it may not be the most picturesque of cities, Calgary makes up for it with a budding dining and nightlife scene. In the evening perhaps head for dinner at one of the city's great restaurants.

Included Activities:
-Banff - Walk and talk with Y2Y Wildlife Conservation guide

Optional Activities:
-Calgary - Calgary Tower

Day 10: Calgary

Location: Calgary

There are no activities planned for today and you can depart the accommodation at any time, though please be sure to comply with any hotel check-out times.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotel (4 nights), Lodge (3 nights), Inn (2 nights)

  • Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre Visit

  • Jasper National Park - Entrance Fee

  • Visit to Maligne Lake

  • Banff Upper Hotsprings

  • Visit to Lake Louise

  • Meals

    3 lunches, 1 dinners

  • Whistler - Leader-led orientation walk

  • Mt. Robson Provincial Park - Wildflower walk

  • Icefields Parkway - Sightseeing Stops including Athabasca Falls

  • Banff - Walk and talk with Y2Y Wildlife Conservation guide

Included Activities

  • Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
  • Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre Visit
  • Sun Peaks - 4 Course Fur Trader's Feast & Voyageur Canoe experience
  • Jasper National Park - Entrance Fee
  • Visit to Maligne Lake
  • Banff Upper Hotsprings
  • Visit to Lake Louise

Transport

  • AIRPORT TRANSFERS IN THE USA & CANADA
  • We recommend taxis and rideshare services like Lyft and Uber when traveling to and from hotels in the USA and Canada. These services are widely available across North America, offering convenient and accessible transportation options. Private transfers in North America incur high costs and present an increased risk of missed connections due to their fixed schedules. In contrast, taxis and rideshares offer both cost-effectiveness and flexibility, ensuring a smoother journey. With transparent pricing, GPS tracking, and on-demand availability, we believe that taxis and rideshare apps not only offer a reliable alternative to private transfers but also provide a secure, trustworthy, and budget-friendly transportation option for our customers.
  • NORTH AMERICA VEHICLES
  • Our large fleet of 15-passenger vans are fully equipped with air-conditioning system, V8 engines and any camping or cooking equipment needed for your trip. Most have cloth-upholstered seats and carpeted interior with radio or CD players. Your luggage is typically transported in a trailer which is towed behind the van.
  • The vans are regularly serviced by a well-established network of maintenance and service facilities throughout the continent. However, unforeseen maintenance problems can still occur while on the road and we appreciate the patience of our travellers as we make necessary repairs as quickly as possible.
  • While your group will have a van for all included activities on the trip, the services of the van and leader may not be available for your use during free time, or after you have arrived for the day. If you need a special trip into town you may need to arrange transport or a taxi.

Accommodation

  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.
  • Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

Important Information

  • 1. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6pm on Day 1 in Vancouver. This trip ends in Calgary on the morning of Day 10.
  • 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights on your trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 3. Please note that the legal drinking age in the US is 21 and in some parts of Canada it's 19.
  • 4. We are not able to book airport shuttle service for North America trips. North America has convenient taxi and rideshare options from all airports, as well as public transport systems in major hub cities. Please check the joining and finishing point instructions listed in the Essential Trip Information.

Mode of Transport

  • FLEET
  • Our large fleet of vans are fully equipped with dual air-conditioning system, V8 engines and any camping or cooking equipment needed for your trip. Most have cloth-upholstered seats and carpeted interior with radio/tape or CD players. Your baggage is transported in a trailer which is towed behind the van.
  • The vans are regularly serviced in our own maintenance facility and continuously checked and serviced by a well established network of maintenance and service facilities throughout the continent. However, unforeseen maintenance problems can still occur while on the road and we appreciate the patience of our travellers as we make necessary repairs as quickly as possible.
  • DRIVING TIMES
  • All driving times mentioned in our itinerary are intended as a guide only and represent an estimated driving time - not including lunch stops, fuel stops, photo stops, traffic congestion, adverse weather conditions or any last minute alterations to the itinerary for any unforeseen circumstances. Please note that there are some long driving days on this tour - we'll have some starts as early as 7am and late arrivals at our final destination, sometimes after dark). As always, your group leader will make stops for viewpoints, short walks and lunch
    est breaks to help break up the journey.
  • We recommend you are fully prepared for these long travel days by reviewing our notes and indicated drive times. Some travellers prefer to bring pillows on board for added comfort, others prefer reading material or games and puzzles. The reality is that to get from one fabulous location to another, the distances are great and we like to think at least some of the adventure is in the journey - not just the destination. You'll be on board with up to 12 other passengers plus your group leader so patience and cooperation goes a long way in making this journey a comfortable one.
  • SEAT BELT POLICY
  • Safety is our priority and therefore our travellers are asked to sign a document on Day 1 of the itinerary indicating your understanding of our seat belt policy.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    This trip covers a lot of ground, as Canada is a huge country. Please be prepared for some long days of driving. The drive between Sun Peaks and Jasper, for example, takes around six hours.

    It is not uncommon for snow to remain on the ground in higher elevations until the end of May. The presence of snow may impact certain activities such as scenic gondolas, boat trips or mountain hikes in late spring. Your trip leader will have a range of suggestions for alternative activities to do in your free time no matter the season.

    As we're travelling through the mountains, the weather can be unpredictable. We advise wearing layers at all times of the year in case conditions change during the day. At night the temperature can really drop, so make sure you have warm clothing with you.

    In summer, especially in July and August, be prepared for insects. This is mosquito and black fly season so it's important to bring insect repellent, which will help prevent you from being bitten.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Tuesday

May 18, 2025 - May 27, 2025
$5105

Sunday - Tuesday

May 25, 2025 - Jun 03, 2025
$5310

Sunday - Tuesday

Jun 01, 2025 - Jun 10, 2025
$5570

Sunday - Tuesday

Jun 08, 2025 - Jun 17, 2025
$5515

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Jun 15, 2025 - Jun 24, 2025
$5515

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$5735

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$5310

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Jul 27, 2025 - Aug 05, 2025
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Aug 10, 2025 - Aug 19, 2025
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Sunday - Tuesday

Aug 17, 2025 - Aug 26, 2025
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$5105

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Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 16, 2025
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Sep 14, 2025 - Sep 23, 2025
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Sunday - Tuesday

May 17, 2026 - May 26, 2026
$5615

Sunday - Tuesday

May 24, 2026 - Jun 02, 2026
$5615

Sunday - Tuesday

May 31, 2026 - Jun 09, 2026
$5615

Sunday - Tuesday

Jun 07, 2026 - Jun 16, 2026
$5615

Sunday - Tuesday

Jun 14, 2026 - Jun 23, 2026
$5615

Sunday - Tuesday

Jun 28, 2026 - Jul 07, 2026
$5615

Sunday - Tuesday

Jul 05, 2026 - Jul 14, 2026
$5615

Sunday - Tuesday

Jul 12, 2026 - Jul 21, 2026
$5615

Sunday - Tuesday

Jul 26, 2026 - Aug 04, 2026
$5615

Sunday - Tuesday

Aug 09, 2026 - Aug 18, 2026
$5615

Sunday - Tuesday

Aug 16, 2026 - Aug 25, 2026
$5615

Sunday - Tuesday

Aug 23, 2026 - Sep 01, 2026
$5615

Thursday - Saturday

Sep 03, 2026 - Sep 12, 2026
$5615

Sunday - Tuesday

Sep 06, 2026 - Sep 15, 2026
$5615
Prices last published on 08-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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