Compare Whales & Bears of British Columbia by Exodus Travels vs Trans-American Adventure by Cosmos
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
5 | Excellent
|
4 | Great
|
| Duration | 9 days | 24 days |
| Price From | $ 6,285 | $ 5,020 |
| Price Per Day | $ 698 | $ 209 |
| Highlights |
|
N/A
|
| Trip Style | Small group tour | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Standard |
| Physical Level |
|
|
| Travel Themes |
|
|
| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
|
|
| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
| Activities |
|
|
| Meals Included | Three breakfasts and four picnic lunches are included on this trip. For meals not included, you usually eat out in local restaurants recommended by the tour leader. To help you budget, meals cost on average: Hotel breakfasts: 15-20 Canadian dollars (US$11-US$15) Lunches: 20-25 dollars (US$15-US$19) Dinners: 30-50 dollars (US$23-US$38), this does not include alcoholic beverages Drinks cost on average: Wine: 15-20 dollars (US$11-15) per glass Beer: 8-12 dollars (US$6-US$9) per bottle A tip of approximately 17%-20% is added to group meals in Canadian restaurants. Applicable taxes will also be added to all listed menu prices. Vegetarians and vegans can be well catered for – please inform us before departure of any special dietary requests so our local team can be well prepared. | N/A |
| Description |
‘Beautiful British Columbia’ proclaim the number plates, for once without hyperbole. Sensational wildlife regularly presents itself amid a backdrop of rugged scenery. Here, whale and bear watching is the big draw but seals, elk and beavers ensure a truly authentic British Columbian wildlife encounter. Our adventures take us to Vancouver Island, where we explore beaches and walk trails at Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and we hope to see humpbacks, orcas, black bears and more.Discover the wildlife and rugged scenery of Western Canada |
Take a trip across America from sea to shining sea on a 24-day adventure to discover many of the iconic destinations of the United States. This affordable U.S. vacation begins in the Big Apple, New York City. Enjoy guided sightseeing of NYC’s famous attractions—Broadway, the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and more. From New York, travel to the birthplace of Independence—Philadelphia, then to Washington DC, the nation’s capital. Your expert Local Guide will show you the historic sites, featuring the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, WWII Memorial, and Ford’s Theatre where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated. Stop for photos at the White House and Capitol Hill. Head north through the home of Little League Baseball in Williamsport, and onto the Rainbow Bridge to Canada for a stay at awe-inspiring Niagara Falls. Explore the falls via a sightseeing cruise and drive along Niagara Parkway, then cross the farmlands and vineyards of Ontario to arrive in Dearborn, Michigan. Visit the Henry Ford Museum in this Detroit suburb to learn about the history of the American automobile. Next, travel to Chicago, Illinois, for sightseeing in Lake Michigan’s “Windy City,” then on to Minneapolis, Minnesota—“Land of 10,000 Lakes.” Visit the largest shopping mall in the country, Mall of America, then venture through the farmlands of South Dakota and home of the Sioux Indian Nation. Visit Badlands National Park, with its dramatic landscape carved by wind and water into steep canyons and towering rock spires amid its vast grasslands. In the Black Hills of South Dakota, visit Mount Rushmore to see the granite monument to four American presidents—Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Roosevelt. Traverse the legendary cattle ranchland and the Bighorn Mountains to Cody, Wyoming—home of Buffalo Bill. Visit Yellowstone National Park with stunning views of Yellowstone Canyon and magnificent Lower Falls in America’s first National Park. Take in the spectacular wilderness in Yellowstone, abundant wildlife, and amazing thermal features, including the famed Old Faithful geyser. Visit the Wild West town of Jackson at the foot of the Grand Tetons, then continue into Utah to visit Salt Lake City. Continue into breathtaking Bryce Canyon and Zion national parks, with sandstone and limestone cliffs of ever-changing colors. Experience one of the Natural Wonders of the World at Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. Take in the views from the canyon rim, then travel on to Las Vegas, Nevada, for an exciting visit to the “Vegas Strip”—lined with bright lights and casinos. Try your luck at blackjack or the “one-armed bandit” slot machines, then drive through the Mojave Desert and over the San Gabriel Mountains to Los Angeles, California. Enjoy sightseeing in the “The City of Angels,” with an included sightseeing tour of Tinseltown’s famous sites in Hollywood and Beverly Hills. From New York to L.A., and the historic frontiers in between, this affordable U.S. vacation is a trip for the history books! |
Day 1 Start Vancouver
The adventure begins in Vancouver on Canada's west coast. If you have time, we recommend a stroll around this cosmopolitan city to get a feel for it. Treat yourself to moreish maple cookies in Stanley Park, a 990-acre (400ha) green wonderland where you can see authentic totem poles put up in the 1920s or sit in one of the cafes and enjoy a spot of people watching. A welcome briefing may be held this evening or tomorrow morning, in which we gather as a group and meet our tour leader. Accommodation: Holiday Inn & Suites Vancouver Downtown (or similar)
Day 2 Morning ferry to Vancouver Island
In the morning, we head to the port for a ferry to Nanaimo on Vancouver Island, a 1hr 30min journey across the Strait of Georgia. On arrival in Nanaimo, we continue by road, stopping for a walk and picnic lunch at Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park. Rathtrevor is known for its majestic old-growth woodland, beautiful ocean sunsets and a wide, sandy beach with picnic areas nestled amongst the trees. We then continue our drive to Ucluelet, our base for the next three nights. Today's travel time is approximately six hours. Accommodation: Canadian Princess Lodge & Marina (or similar)
Day 3 Pacific Rim National Park Reserve; boat excursion to observe grey and humpback whales
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is nestled between the mountains of the Vancouver Island range and the Pacific coastline. We walk inside the park this morning to admire the rich natural heritage of the west coast of Canada. The reserve has almost 10mi (16km) of sand and a huge collection of driftwood, while the next stop is Japan! We usually take the Nuu-Chah-Nulth trail to the beach and visit during low tide to explore some of the intertidal pools and rocky islands. You may see lime-green anemones and purple, brown and orange starfish. In the afternoon, we board Zodiacs with a naturalist guide who leads a 2hr 30min to three hour whale-observation excursion (depending on the low-tide schedule, this activity may take place earlier in the day). Our goal is to see humpback and grey whales, but it is also common to come across orcas, seals and sea lions among the rocky headlands. Today’s driving time should not exceed two hours. Accommodation: Canadian Princess Lodge & Marina (or similar)
Day 4 Rainforest Figure Eight trail; boat excursion to observe black bears
Today our leader will take us on an easy hike on the Rainforest Figure Eight trail, an hour-long walk along wooden boardwalks through the majestic forest. This is a peaceful trail and we will be surrounded by a dense foliage of ferns, Western Red Cedar and Western Hemlock trees. Keep your eyes peeled for birdlife - our tour leaders have reported sightings of Steller's jays and Rufous hummingbirds! Late this afternoon, we board Zodiacs for a 2hr 30min expedition to observe black bears and bald eagles (depending on the low-tide schedule, this activity may take place earlier in the day). In the wilderness of Clayoquot Sound, black bears search for crabs and clams on the rocky beaches. We travel the fjord inlet by Zodiac, looking in sheltered bays and stopping to see any black bears we find from the comfort of our vessel. Accommodation: Canadian Princess Lodge & Marina (or similar)
Day 5 To Campbell River and Cathedral Grove Provincial Park
Depart Ucluelet and drive for four hours to Campbell River on the north shore of Vancouver Island. Campbell River is known as the salmon capital of the world for its hugely impressive salmon runs, where five species of Pacific salmon swim the river. It has been designated a Heritage River for its importance in British Columbia; following the fish are bears, seals, kingfishers and eagles. This afternoon, we stop at Cathedral Grove Provincial Park to see the last remains of the temperate rainforest that covered the island more than a 1,000 years ago. This is one of the most accessible areas of giant Douglas fir trees in the province and there are many trails enabling us to meander through Douglas fir, western hemlock, grand fir and western red cedar trees. Accommodation: Painter’s Lodge (or similar)
Day 6 Boat excursion to Orford River to observe grizzly bears
Board a covered boat for a full-day excursion to the Orford River area (on the mainland of British Columbia) to observe grizzly bears in their natural habitat. Conservative estimates suggest there are 10,000 grizzly (brown) bears in British Columbia, with 92 percent of the original habitat of grizzlies still occupied. The abundance of spawning salmon in the Orford River at this time of year brings grizzlies down to feast. A two-hour journey by boat with a spectacular backdrop of mountainous scenery brings us to the mouth of the Orford River. From here, we take a short bus journey inland, where there are five viewing platforms from which to spot the bears. We visit one or sometimes two of these platforms, where we hope to observe the bears catching and feeding on salmon, sometimes with cubs in tow. On the boat journey to and from the Orford River, we may also see black bears, orcas, humpback and grey whales, dolphins, porpoises and sea lions. Accommodation: Painter’s Lodge (or similar)
Day 7 Quadra Island for hiking or optional sea kayaking
Board a ferry for a 10-minute journey across the Discovery Passage to Quadra Island, where we spend the day exploring the island trails and beaches by foot. Our leader will determine the best trail based on the group's preference and ability, but options include the Shallaligan Pass Trail along Quadra Island's coastline, which offers panoramic ocean views, or the Heriot Ridge Trail that passes through the bush and out onto a ridge for coastal views galore. There is also an optional three-hour sea kayaking excursion from Quadra Island. Accompanied by kayak and marine life observation guides, there is never a dull moment as we paddle by kayak around Quadra Island – we could see soaring eagles, oystercatchers, herons, cormorants, gulls and, if lucky, seals, sea lions, dolphins and porpoises. The mountain views offer a stunning backdrop to this excursion, which is suitable for beginners. Accommodation: Painter’s Lodge (or similar)
Day 8 Transfer to Victoria; whale-watching in the Salish Sea
We drive for around four hours to Victoria, capital of British Columbia. Victoria is well-known for its colourful gardens, British architecture and arts scene. In the afternoon, we have one final wildlife-viewing opportunity as we embark on a whale-watching excursion from Victoria, where orcas, humpback whales and sea lions are often spotted in the waters of the Salish Sea. A certified marine naturalist will accompany us in the Zodiac boat, helping to spot wildlife and providing background information on the species we observe. Accommodation: Huntingdon Manor (or similar)
Day 9 Ferry to Vancouver; orientation tour and end Vancouver
It's an early start on our final day in British Columbia as we take the ferry (approximately 1.5 hours) across the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver. Our leader will take us on a guided orientation tour of the city then there's free time to explore Vancouver at your leisure. Those on Land Only arrangements may choose stay longer in the vibrant city of Victoria. Please speak to your sales representative if you'd like to add post-tour nights in Victoria or Vancouver.
Day 1: NEW YORK CITY
Welcome to the “Big Apple!” Your Tour Director is on hand late this afternoon to answer any questions.
Day 2: NEW YORK CITY
New York City is one of the world’s most exciting cities, buzzing with atmosphere and packed with fascinating sights. On today’s guided sightseeing tour, see the major attractions—Broadway, the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and the 9/11 Memorial. Your afternoon is free.
Day 3: NEW YORK CITY–PHILADELPHIA– WASHINGTON DC AREA
Head south through New Jersey to Philadelphia, the birthplace of the United States. During your free time, perhaps see Independence Hall and visit the Liberty Bell. On to Washington DC.
Day 4: WASHINGTON DC AREA
The nation’s capital is a sightseeing treasure trove, and your half-day tour with a Local Guide features Capitol Hill, the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, National WWII Memorial, and other well-known sights. Stop for photos at the White House and Capitol Hill. As the remainder of the day is free, perhaps visit one of the many Smithsonian museums. (Breakfast)
Day 5: WASHINGTON DC–NIAGARA FALLS, CANADA
A scenic day as you head north through Pennsylvania Dutch Country, home of the Amish and Mennonite religious sects. Then, along the Susquehanna River to Williamsport, the birthplace of Little League baseball and site of the league’s annual “World Series.” Later, cross the Rainbow Bridge to Canada and arrive at Niagara Falls, Ontario, for your overnight stay. (Breakfast)
Day 6: NIAGARA FALLS, CANADA–DEARBORN
This morning, board your Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise for amazing close-up views from the base of the falls. Then, travel the Niagara Parkway, admiring the sweeping landscapes of this scenic countryside. Head southwest and cross the farmlands and vineyards of Ontario, to Dearborn, a suburb of Detroit.
NOTE:Operation of the Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise is subject to favorable weather and/or river conditions. If unfavorable conditions exist, a walking tour of the scenic tunnels will be substituted.
Day 7: DEARBORN–CHICAGO
Begin the day with a visit to the Henry Ford Museum. Reach Chicago, America’s third-largest city, in the late afternoon. City sightseeing includes all the major landmarks of the “Windy City.” (Breakfast)
Day 8: CHICAGO
Today is free for independent activities. Perhaps take an optional cruise on Lake Michigan and through the locks of the Chicago River.
Day 9: CHICAGO–MADISON–MINNEAPOLIS
First stop today is Madison, a vibrant city situated between two sparkling lakes. A photo stop at the capitol before making our way to Minnesota—the “Land of 10,000 Lakes.”
Day 10: MINNEAPOLIS. EXCURSION TO THE MALL OF AMERICA
Enjoy an orientation tour of the bustling downtown area of Minneapolis before reaching the Mall of America, the largest shopping mall in the United States, featuring an extensive range of retail shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
Day 11: MINNEAPOLIS–MITCHELL–OACOMA
Into the rich farmlands of South Dakota, homeland of the great Sioux Indian Nation. Stop in Mitchell to see the Corn Palace, a remarkable Moorish-style building where the interior and exterior are covered with designs of corn outlined with grasses and grain. Stay overnight on the shores of the Missouri River in Oacoma.
Day 12: OACOMA–BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK–MOUNT RUSHMORE–CUSTER
First, a drive through the prairie as it once was when only buffalo and the Sioux Indians occupied the land. Next is Badlands National Park, where 37 million years of wind and water have carved a remarkably colorful sight. Then, head into the Black Hills and behold the granite faces of Mount Rushmore, a giant monument to four American presidents—Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Roosevelt.
Day 13: CUSTER–CODY
Head through the rich, mountainous country where open-range cattle kings made war on the sheep ranchers of the 1880s. See Sheridan and then ascend into the alpine region of the Bighorn Mountains, and site of the Battle of Tongue River. Overnight in Buffalo Bill’s frontier town of Cody. (CBreakfast)
Day 14: CODY–YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK–WEST YELLOWSTONE
Travel through Shoshone National Forest to splendid Yellowstone National Park. Follow Grand Loop Road to Artist Point with magnificent views of Yellowstone Canyon and the stupendous Lower Falls, nearly twice the height of Niagara. Yellowstone’s abundant and diverse wildlife are as famous as its geysers. It’s home to hundreds of animal species, including bears, wolves, bison, elk, and antelope. As a visitor to the world’s first national park, you may be lucky enough to encounter some of these amazing creatures in their natural habitat. Overnight in West Yellowstone, gateway to the geysers of Yellowstone National Park.
Day 15: WEST YELLOWSTONE. DAY EXCURSION TO YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK
This morning, return to Yellowstone National Park and visit the bubbling mud paint pots, the reliable “blow” of Old Faithful, Yellowstone’s great geyser, and West Thumb Geyser Basin. Return to West Yellowstone and explore on your own. (CBreakfast)
Day 16: WEST YELLOWSTONE–JACKSON
Travel south through Idaho and into the Wild West town of Jackson. The afternoon and evening are free to explore the shops and art galleries of historic downtown. Be sure not to miss Town Square, flanked by massive arches made of elk antlers on each corner! (CBreakfast)
Day 17: JACKSON–SALT LAKE CITY
Today, drive to Salt Lake City, Utah’s vibrant capital. Set on the edge of Great Salt Lake Desert, this center of the Mormon religion is where Brigham Young declared to his followers, “This is the place.” An included orientation tour shows you the Capitol Building, the Tabernacle, and other city highlights.
Day 18: SALT LAKE CITY–BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK–CEDAR CITY
Travel through the sagebrush landscape of southern Utah to Bryce Canyon National Park with its breathtaking sandstone and limestone cliffs, unique formations called hoodoos, and ever-changing colors. Head west through Dixie National Forest to Cedar City for your overnight. (Breakfast)
Day 19: CEDAR CITY–ZION NATIONAL PARK–GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK
First stop is Zion National Park, a landscape that was carved out by rushing streams over a period of a million years. Through Kaibab National Forest to the less visited North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, where you’ll marvel at the stunning views of the flame-colored walls plunging 4,800 feet into the Colorado River. The evening is free. (Breakfast,Lunch)
Day 20: GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK–LAS VEGAS
Head to the unique phenomenon of Las Vegas, where today’s fortune hunters try their luck at the 24-hour gambling tables and slots. An orientation tour upon arrival shows off many of the themed casino resorts along the colorful “Strip.” Tonight, perhaps take a walk down the Strip and be amazed by the flashing lights and variety of nightlife.
Day 21: LAS VEGAS
A free day to explore Las Vegas. Your Tour Director can arrange an optional excursion to the Hoover Dam and will have suggestions for the best shows to see this evening.
Day 22: LAS VEGAS–LOS ANGELES
Travel through the Mojave Desert and over the San Gabriel Mountains to America’s second largest city, Los Angeles.
Day 23: LOS ANGELES
Start the day with a sightseeing tour of Tinseltown. You’ll drive to Hollywood and see the footprints of the glamourous stars at the TCL Chinese Theatre, and famous Dolby Theater, home of the Oscars. Then, on to elegant Beverly Hills followed by a drive down the Sunset Strip. The rest of your afternoon and evening are free. Perhaps take an optional excursion to Warner Brothers Studio for a behind-the-scenes look at movie making.
Day 24: LOS ANGELES
Your vacation ends this morning. You may choose to extend your vacation with extra nights and explore L.A. further.
