Compare Tofino Coastal Explorer by Great Canadian Trails vs Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta with Rocky Mountaineer Silverleaf Option, Classic Group With Rocky Mountaineer Silverleaf Service Classic Group by Insight Vacations

Day 1: Arrive Tofino

Make your way to your centrally-located accommodations in beautiful Tofino. Offering beauty and unaffected hospitality, Tofino is a feat of art, culture, and cuisine. A rich community heritage combined with an idyllic setting north of Pacific Rim National Park and on the doorstep of Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve make this the ultimate destination for the nature lover. Whether you spend your day absorbing Aboriginal traditions, daring body and soul to conquer the world-class surf, or engulfing your palate in the vast sea of local flavours, there is truly something for everyone in Tofino.

Day 2: Marine Safari and Hot Springs

A 5 minute walk brings you to the dock house where you meet your guides. An early afternoon departure by zodiac takes you on an exciting marine safari to explore Clayoquot Sound on the way north to Maquinna Provincial Park. Stops can include California and Stellar sea lion haul-outs, bald eagle lookouts, and a scenic nesting island. Frequently includes whale observation and possibly black bear sightings. At the remote north end of the sound, we reach the park entrance which is accessible only by water or air. We enjoy a walk along the rainforest trail to natural sulfur hot springs (about 50C/110F) where we spend the next 1-2 hours enjoying a relaxing soak in the hot mineral pools. The natural pools are a very unique feature - The geothermal hot springs cascade down a waterfall into half a dozen rocky pools. These pools flow from one level to the next, becoming gradually cooler as the fresh spring water is cooled by ocean swells. Afterwards, we return to the zodiac and retrace our path to Tofino as the sun sets on the western horizon.

Day 3: 4 Hour Kayaking Excursion

Back to the dock house this morning. After a short, land-based training session, we take you from Tofino harbour to the quiet waters nearby where rainforest, beaches, and tidal flats surround you. Move through the protected waters and inlets and listen as your knowledgeable guide explains the rainforest ecology and the natural and cultural history of Clayoquot Sound. We stop to explore Meares Island's old growth forest and walk on the 'Big Tree Trail' (approx 40 minutes), known for its giant redcedars. Keep an eye open for eagles and migratory birds on the mudflats at low tide.

Day 4: Departure Day

No services are included today. Check-out is at 11am. We hope to see you again!

Day 1: Welcome to Banff

After your arrival at Calgary Airport, you are transferred to the Castle in the Rockies, your historic mountain resort in Banff. 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 travelers for a Welcome Dinner.

Day 2: Exploring Banff

Connect with nature as you join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with your First Nations Cree Iroquois Local Expert. Embark on a guided walk in the Boreal forest and discover the Indigenous world of plant medicines. Learn about the historical and modern day uses of plants and listen to fascinating stories about the First Nations culture.Explore Banff with a few fun optionals. Choose to play nine holes of golf. Alternatively, take the Banff gondola up Sulphur Mountain and go on a hike. Another option is to take a guided horseback ride.

Day 3: A Trip to Lake Louise Relaxed Start

Explore Lake Louise with Insight Choice. Choose a journey on the sightseeing gondola and look out for local wildlife as you enjoy a hike surrounded by panoramic views. Alternatively, join your Travel Director for a relaxed stroll along iconic Lake Louise and put paint to canvas to create your own masterpiece. Indulge in a delicious lunch before returning to Banff and enjoying the rest of your day at leisure.

Day 4: Lakes, Mountains and Glaciers Relaxed Start

Start your day with a visit to the glacier-fed Moraine Lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Take a moment to absorb the view of the stunning turquoise lake hidden among steep mountains, waterfalls, and rock piles. Your journey continues on the Icefields Parkway, one of the most beautiful drives on the planet. Admire the dramatic scenery of the Rockies with plenty of photo opportunities. Later, a warm welcome greets you at the country’s first and only glacier-view resort where you will savour a Canadian inspired, locally sourced dinner. After your meal take advantage of the long daylight hours and set out for a private visit to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-floored walkway above the Sunwapta Valley. Once night falls, step out on your hotel’s viewing deck and take your chances at stargazing undisturbed by light pollution.

Day 5: Glacier Adventure

Before other travellers arrive, venture onto the Athabasca Glacier in a massive Ice Explorer for your special 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 and arrive at Jasper National Park with its soothing mineral hot springs, colourful meadows and majestic mountains.

Day 6: Exploring Jasper

Join your Travel Director for an informative walk on the trails of Maligne Canyon, the deepest gorge in the Jasper National Park. Weather permitting, embark on a narrated cruise across the serene waters of Maligne Lake and stop at Spirit Island, one of the most photographed sites in the Canadian Rockies.

Day 7: Relaxing in Kananaskis Relaxed Start

Enjoy your scenic drive to Kananaskis and your upscale hotel nestled in the wilderness. Relax at the resort surrounded by mountainous beauty and modern comforts. Tonight, come together with your fellow travellers for a festive Celebration Dinner and toast to your wonderful trip in the Canadian Rockies.

Day 8: Board the Rocky Mountaineer

This morning, start your spectacular Rocky Mountaineer Journey and get transferred back to Banff from Kananaskis to board the Rocky Mountaineer. Your journey on this luxurious train begins westward bound through the mighty Canadian Rockies and the province of Alberta. With more than three decades experience, Rocky Mountaineer has perfected the art of comfort and service. Prepare for spectacular views and flavourful food as you indulge in this 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 make up 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 Rockies. This evening you will disembark in Kamloops where you will overnight at your inviting hotel.

Day 9: Continue Your Rocky Mountaineer Journey

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 transfer to the airport for your flight home, or alternatively choose to extend your stay in this exciting city. Airport arrival time is between 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm.