Iconic Rockies and Western Canada with Rocky Mountaineer Goldleaf
Iconic Rockies and Western Canada with Rocky Mountaineer Goldleaf
Iconic Rockies and Western Canada with Rocky Mountaineer Goldleaf
13 Days Starting and ending in Vancouver, Canada
Visiting: Vancouver, Vancouver Island, Victoria, Whistler, Sun Peaks, Banff, Jasper, Kamloops
Tour operator:
Tour code:
DIRWGM20
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 Iconic Rockies and Western Canada with the Rocky Mountaineer Goldleaf tour. This adventure begins in vibrant Vancouver, exploring its historic neighborhoods before heading to the picturesque Vancouver Island. Discover the stunning Butchart Gardens, the murals of Chemainus, and the breathtaking views from the Sea-to-Sky Gondola. Immerse yourself in the rich First Nations culture at the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre and enjoy a unique Be My Guest experience in Jasper. Traverse the majestic Canadian Rockies, visiting Banff and Jasper National Parks, and marvel at natural wonders like Lake Louise and the Athabasca Glacier. The highlight of your journey is a luxurious two-day rail trip aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, offering unparalleled views of the rugged landscapes. Conclude your adventure back in Vancouver, enriched by the beauty and culture of Western Canada.
Must-see Highlights
- Explore Columbia Icefield Adventure, Have a chat with a local retired Canadian Mountie and learn about their rich history and traditions.
- Discover Vancouver, Victoria
- Visit Butchart Gardens, Kamloops, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, local Vancouver Island Ciderhouse, Sea-to-Sky Gondola, Maligne Canyon, Mount Robson Visitor Center, Golden Skybridge
- View Seton Lake, Lake Louise, Athabasca Glacier, Athabasca Falls, Murals of Chemainus, Bow Falls, Surprise Corner, Mount Robson, Stanley Park Totem Poles
- Cruise across Maligne Lake to Spirit Island
- See Glacier National Park of Canada, Yoho National Park, Section Lake
Make Travel Matter®
Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre: Enjoy an insightful visit at the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Center. Learn about the First Nations cultures as you delve into the history of the region.
Be My Guest
Jasper: Learn about the local flora through the lens of the Indigenous Peoples and how to make curated drink bitters utilizing the foraged ingredients as you enjoy storytelling and drumming during dinner.
Trafalgar Difference
Victoria: Located in Victoria, British Columbia’s picturesque Inner Harbor, the Hotel Grand Pacific brings you spectacular views of the harbor and easy access to sightseeing in Victoria. Stroll along the Inner Harbor or join a yoga class at the hotel's on-site athletic club. You'll also feel good knowing that the Hotel Grand Pacific is helping replenish vital ecosystems by partnering with Veritree to plant two trees for every night you stay and decline a stayover room clean.
Itinerary
Day 1: Voyage To Vancouver
Location: Vancouver
Accommodation: Holiday Inn & Suites Vancouver Downtown
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn & Suites Vancouver Downtown
Meals Included: Dinner
Tackle the ‘Great Outdoors’ on this effortlessly delivered adventure through Western Canada. Discover why Vancouver consistently ranks as one of the world’s most livable cities. Then, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception.
Day 2: Sample Cider On Vancouver Island Dive Into Culture
Location: Vancouver Island
Accommodation: Grand Pacific
Accommodation Name: Grand Pacific
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, delve into the historic neighborhoods of Chinatown and Gastown before boarding a ferry to Vancouver Island. Dive into Culture and taste local cider at a family-owned ciderhouse, before continuing to Victoria.
Day 3: Explore Butchart Gardens In Victoria
Location: Victoria
Accommodation: Grand Pacific
Accommodation Name: Grand Pacific
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today on your Canadian Rockies tour, the Garden City comes to life as you greet the day before opening hours with breakfast at Butchart Gardens, a 55-acre showcase of gorgeous floral gardens that have colorfully transformed a once unused quarry. After breakfast, enjoy time in the garden before the crowds. Spend the rest of the day exploring the walkable capital of British Columbia perhaps treating yourself to high tea or tucking into local fish and chips. Or, join an optional Victoria Whale Watching cruise and keep your eyes peeled for orca and humpback whales, bald eagles, porpoises and seals.
Day 4: Take In The Sights Of Chemainus, Squamish, And Whistler
Location: Whistler
Accommodation: Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa
Accommodation Name: Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast
See the vivid murals of Chemainus. Board a ferry and then take the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway. Ascend to Summit Lodge, admiring the views from the Sea-to-Sky Gondola.
Day 5: Explore Whistler Make Travel Matter
Location: Whistler
Accommodation: Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa
Accommodation Name: Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Enjoy an insightful MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and learn about the First Nations at the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Center. Get a first-hand look into the traditional way of life of the original inhabitants of the area and their collection of artifacts and contemporary pieces led by Aboriginal Ambassadors who share their own stories and first-hand cultural experiences. After lunch at the center, enjoy your time at leisure.
Day 6: Travel To Sun Peaks
Location: Sun Peaks
Accommodation: Sun Peaks Lodge
Accommodation Name: Sun Peaks Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We continue towards Sun Peaks where we’ll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 7: Explore The Rocky Mountain National Parks
Location: Banff
Accommodation: Banff Park Lodge
Accommodation Name: Banff Park Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast
Drive through Glacier & Yoho National Park en route to Banff. Sample the best of the UNESCO-listed Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks. The excitement of Canada’s highest suspension bridges awaits at the Golden Skybridge! Explore canyon ridge walking trails with sweeping views of the Columbia Valley and the Rocky and Purcell mountain ranges. We then overnight in beautiful Banff National Park.
Day 8: Wander Beautiful Banff
Location: Banff
Accommodation: Banff Park Lodge
Accommodation Name: Banff Park Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Your morning is at leisure, perhaps do an optional gondola ride or explore on your own terms. Later in the morning, you will have your orientation tour of Banff National Park. This evening, meet a Mountie dressed in traditional red serge uniform and hear about their exciting history before enjoying dinner.
Day 9: Cross The Athabasca Glacier
Location: Jasper
Accommodation: Forest Park Hotel
Accommodation Name: Forest Park Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a lakeside walk at Lake Louise, then board an Ice Explorer and drive over the Athabasca Glacier. Continue your drive along the Icefields Parkway to your overnight in Jasper.
Day 10: Walk Through The Wilderness In Jasper Connect With Locals
Location: Jasper
Accommodation: Forest Park Hotel
Accommodation Name: Forest Park Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Embark on an invigorating guided walk to Maligne Canyon. Board a narrated cruise on Maligne Lake (seasonal) stopping at Spirit Island. Travel on to Jasper and this evening join Matricia Bauer for a one of a kind Be My Guest experience, on traditional First Nations land. Learn how to make curated drink bitters from foraged ingredients, enjoy a designer cocktail and listen to stories and drumming over dinner.
Day 11: All Aboard The Rocky Mountaineer
Location: Kamloops
Accommodation: South Thompson Inn & Conference Centre
Accommodation Name: South Thompson Inn & Conference Centre
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Embark on a two-day journey on the luxury Rocky Mountaineer with a night in Kamloops.
Day 12: Take A Rustic Railway To Vancouver
Location: Vancouver
Accommodation: Pinnacle Harbourfront
Accommodation Name: Pinnacle Harbourfront
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Discover the elegance of yesteryear, continuing your journey through the clouds by rail until you reach Vancouver. An included transfer is offered from Vancouver train station to hotel.
Day 13: Farewell From Vancouver
Location: Vancouver
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our dazzling encounter with the Canadian Rockies has come to an end. Depart at leisure as you head to Vancouver International Airport.
What's Included
-
Accommodation
Stay at various accommodations including Holiday Inn & Suites Vancouver Downtown, Grand Pacific, Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa, Sun Peaks Lodge, Banff Park Lodge, Forest Park Hotel, South Thompson Inn & Conference Centre, and Pinnacle Harbourfront.
-
Meals
Enjoy 12 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 4 dinners during the tour.
-
Transportation
Travel includes a two-day journey on the luxury Rocky Mountaineer train.
-
Guided Tours
Experience guided tours including a visit to the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre and a guided walk to Maligne Canyon.
-
Cultural Experiences
Engage in cultural experiences such as meeting a retired Canadian Mountie and learning about First Nations cultures.
-
Sightseeing
Visit iconic locations such as Butchart Gardens, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, and more.
-
Cruise
Cruise across Maligne Lake to Spirit Island.
What's Not Included
-
Optional Activities
Optional activities such as the Victoria Whale Watching cruise are not included.
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
-
Flights
International and domestic flights to and from Vancouver are not included.
-
Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
Dining Summary
- 4 Dinner (D)
- 12 Breakfast (B)
- 3 Lunch (L)
Dive Into Culture
- Vancouver Island: Taste local cider at a familly-owned ciderhouse before continuing to Victoria.
- Banff National Park of Canada: Meet a retired Canadian Mountie and hear exciting and colorful stories of their rich history and traditions.
Mode of Transport
Travel through the stunning landscapes of Western Canada by ferry to Vancouver Island, and enjoy a luxurious two-day journey on the Rocky Mountaineer train, with included transfers from Vancouver train station to your hotel.
Accommodation
Experience comfort and luxury at various accommodations including the Holiday Inn & Suites Vancouver Downtown, Grand Pacific, Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa, Sun Peaks Lodge, Banff Park Lodge, Forest Park Hotel, and South Thompson Inn & Conference Centre.
Check out our Q&As
-
What unique cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a visit to the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre where you can learn about First Nations cultures and their history. Additionally, in Jasper, you can enjoy storytelling and drumming during dinner while learning about local flora and how to make curated drink bitters from foraged ingredients.
-
What activities are available in Banff National Park during the tour?
In Banff National Park, you have the option to take a gondola ride or explore the area on your own. There is also an orientation tour of the park, and you will have the opportunity to meet a Mountie dressed in traditional red serge uniform to hear about their history.
-
What is the Rocky Mountaineer experience like on this tour?
The Rocky Mountaineer experience is a two-day luxury train journey with a night in Kamloops. It offers a journey through the clouds with elegant travel reminiscent of yesteryear, culminating in a transfer from Vancouver train station to your hotel.
-
What can I expect during the visit to Butchart Gardens?
During the visit to Butchart Gardens, you will have breakfast before the gardens open to the public, allowing you to enjoy the 55-acre floral showcase in a more private setting. You will have time to explore the gardens before the crowds arrive.
-
Are there any opportunities to interact with local wildlife on the tour?
Yes, there is an optional Victoria Whale Watching cruise where you can look out for orca and humpback whales, bald eagles, porpoises, and seals.
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Monday - Saturday
May 05, 2025 - May 17, 2025Monday - Saturday
May 12, 2025 - May 24, 2025Monday - Saturday
May 19, 2025 - May 31, 2025Monday - Saturday
May 26, 2025 - Jun 07, 2025Monday - Saturday
Jun 02, 2025 - Jun 14, 2025Monday - Saturday
Jun 09, 2025 - Jun 21, 2025Monday - Saturday
Jun 16, 2025 - Jun 28, 2025Monday - Saturday
Jun 23, 2025 - Jul 05, 2025Monday - Saturday
Jul 14, 2025 - Jul 26, 2025Monday - Saturday
Jul 21, 2025 - Aug 02, 2025Monday - Saturday
Aug 04, 2025 - Aug 16, 2025Monday - Saturday
Aug 11, 2025 - Aug 23, 2025Monday - Saturday
Aug 18, 2025 - Aug 30, 2025Monday - Saturday
Aug 25, 2025 - Sep 06, 2025Monday - Saturday
Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 13, 2025Monday - Saturday
Sep 08, 2025 - Sep 20, 2025Monday - Saturday
Sep 15, 2025 - Sep 27, 2025Monday - Saturday
Sep 22, 2025 - Oct 04, 2025Book with Confidence
-
Low Deposit
Trafalgar 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.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar 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.
-
Terms and Conditions
Enquire for huge savings
Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.