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Iconic Rockies and Western Canada with Rocky Mountaineer Goldleaf
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Iconic Rockies and Western Canada with Rocky Mountaineer Goldleaf
Explore the traditions of the First Nations, behold the icy fingers of the Columbia Icefield and meet a retired Mountie. Relax onboard the Rocky Mountaineer for two days of all-daylight rail travel through Canada's West and the Canadian Rockies.
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Trip code
DIRG
Iconic Rockies and Western Canada with Rocky Mountaineer Goldleaf
Explore the traditions of the First Nations, behold the icy fingers of the Columbia Icefield and meet a retired Mountie. Relax onboard the Rocky Mountaineer for two days of all-daylight rail travel through Canada's West and the Canadian Rockies.
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 travellers for a Welcome Reception.
This morning, delve into the historic neighbourhoods of Chinatown and Gastown before boarding a ferry to Vancouver Island. 'Dive into Culture' and taste local cider at a familly-owned ciderhouse, before continuing to Victoria.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Inn at Laurel Point
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 3
Victoria Sightseeing
Experience the diversity of indigenous culture and get an in-depth look at how the natural environment and indigenous plants shaped the daily lives of the Lekwungen people. Hosted by Chef Gary at the Songhees Cultural Centre, this 'Be My Guest' lunch includes a tour and describes the harvesting process on the Rooftop Garden, cooking demonstration and Bannock making workshop - guests will leave with a new understanding of what food means to indigenous culture and the importance of it in our history, all ending with a delicious meal. Embrace the Garden City status of Victoria as you greet the day with breakfast at Butchart Gardens, a 55-acre showcase of gorgeous floral gardens that have colourfully transformed a once unused quarry.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast, Be My Guest
Optional Experience
*Victoria Whale Watching Excursion
Board your vessel to enjoy a three-hour whale-watching expedition in the waters off Victoria. While it can’t be guaranteed in advance which of the abundant marine wildlife you’ll see on your journey, chances are you’ll also spot magnificent bald eagles, porpoises or seals. Spring and summer are the best times of the year to see a number of different species of whales including Bigg’s killer whales (orca), humpback whales, South Resident orca, Minke, and gray whales. Approx. duration: 3 hours.
Adult Price: $138.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 4
Victoria – Chemainus – Squamish – Whistler (2 Nights)
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. Following Sea-to-Sky Gondola, the evening is at leisure.
Today includes a Your Choice Sightseeing experience. Learn about the First Nations at the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre or visit the Audain Art Museum, a comprehensive Permanent Collection of the province's most celebrated artists. Exemplifying the richness of cultural difference in Canada, the collection takes visitors on a transformative visual journey from the late 18th century to present. Tonight, enjoy a Regional Dinner in Whistler Village.
From our ancient, volcanic peaks with their 360 degree views, to our vibrant and sophisticated village with its incredible vibe, Whistler Blackcomb has summer covered from top to bottom. Travel across BC’s rooftop on the world record-breaking PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola. Approx. duration: 1 hour.
Adult Price: $73.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 6
Whistler – Sun Peaks
We continue towards Sun Peaks where we'll enjoy an evening at leisure.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Sun Peaks Lodge
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 7
Sun Peaks – Rocky Mountain National Parks – Banff (2 Nights)
Sample the best of the UNESCO-listed Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks. We then overnight in beautiful Banff National Park.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Banff Park Lodge
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 8
Banff Sightseeing
Your morning is at leisure, perhaps do an optional gondola ride or explore on your own terms. In the afternoon you will have your orientation tour of Banff National Park. Later we'll meet a retired "Mountie" as our Local Specialist as we immerse in Banff's soul-stirring natural surrounds, followed by dinner at the hotel.
Royal Canadian Helicopter Tour (weather dependent)*
This journey will only enhance the Three Sisters Peaks Tour by exploring the Goat and Sundance Ranges of the Rocky Mountains. You will see mountain peaks, alpine meadows, waterfalls and untouched glacier lakes. Perhaps even a glimpse of some wildlife. It's an extraordinary adventure not to be missed. Approx. duration: 20 minutes.
Adult Price: $289.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Mt. Assiniboine Helicopter Tour (weather dependent)*
You are in for something special as you are transported to Mount Assiniboine - "the Matterhorn" of the Canadian Rockies. Our most popular adventure has all the fantastic scenery of the previous tours plus a fly by over top of the glacier. This photogenic peak rises majestically to 3,611meters (11,870 feet) along the Great Divide. The Gloria and Assiniboine Glaciers will astound you. This is an experience you will never forget! Approx. duration: 30 minutes.
Adult Price: $347.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
*Three Sisters Peaks Helicopter Tour (weather dependent)
The most action packed twelve minutes of your life. Get up close and personal with the world famous Three Sisters Peaks. Reach out and touch them as you whisk by before escaping into the Spray Valley where you will explore the extraordinary hues of the Spray Lakes. Your return flight travels along the Goat Range before following the pristine Bow River back to Canmore. Approx. duration 12 minutes
Adult Price: $210.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Brewster Banff Gondola
At the Banff Gondola, you’ll see more mountains in a moment than most see in a lifetime! Ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain to experience a bird’s eye view of six mountain ranges of the Canadian Rockies. Begin with an eight-minute journey to the summit in a fully enclosed four-passenger gondola cabin. The views become increasingly spectacular as you climb to an elevation of 7,486 feet ( 2,281 meters) to the Summit Upper Terminal. Witness the breathtaking views in every direction or go to the restaurant area to enjoy the views inside or from its upper deck. You can also take the Banff Skywalk for a short self-guided interpretive walkway along the summit ridge leading to the Cosmic Ray Station National Historic Site of Canada. Subject to weather conditions. Approx. duration: 2.5 hours.
Adult Price: $70.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 9
Banff – Lake Louise – Jasper (2 Nights)
Enjoy a lakeside talk at Lake Louise, then board an Ice Explorer and drive over the Athabasca Glacier.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - The Sawridge Inn
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Day 10
Jasper Sightseeing
Embark on an invigorating guided walk to Maligne Canyon. Board a narrated cruise on Maligne Lake (seasonal) stopping at Spirit Island. Enjoy dinner this evening.
Join the fun and experience a 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 fur traders over 2 centuries ago. Lifejackets and the specially designed, 7 meter / 25 foot long oar-powered rafts offer a safe and comfortable ride through several small, easy sets of rapids and calm stretches that any first time rafter will enjoy. 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. Tours will operate rain or shine, and a poncho will be provided when required. Approx. duration: 50-90 minutes
Adult Price: $86.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 11
Jasper – Kamloops
All aboard for a sensational two-day journey on the luxury Rocky Mountaineer with a night in Kamloops. Enjoy the good life without worrying about a thing as you journey through Canada's spectacular Rocky Mountains, including Mount Robson, Canada's highest peak.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Assigned by Rocky Mountaineer
Discover the elegance of yesteryear, continuing your journey through the clouds by rail. Travel through the Coast Mountains and the remote landscapes of Canada's west until you reach Vancouver.
Join the fun and experience a 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 fur traders over 2 centuries ago. Lifejackets and the specially designed, 7 meter / 25 foot long oar-powered rafts offer a safe and comfortable ride through several small, easy sets of rapids and calm stretches that any first time rafter will enjoy. 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. Tours will operate rain or shine, and a poncho will be provided when required. Approx. duration: 50-90 minutes
Adult Price: $86.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 13
Depart Vancouver
Our dazzling encounter with the Canadian Rockies has come to an end. Transfer to Vancouver International Airport or to the Canada Place for those on the optional Alaska cruise.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
All optional experiences for this trip
Book with your travel director when you travel
Available on day 3
*Victoria Whale Watching Excursion
Board your vessel to enjoy a three-hour whale-watching expedition in the waters off Victoria. While it can’t be guaranteed in advance which of the abundant marine wildlife you’ll see on your journey, chances are you’ll also spot magnificent bald eagles, porpoises or seals. Spring and summer are the best times of the year to see a number of different species of whales including Bigg’s killer whales (orca), humpback whales, South Resident orca, Minke, and gray whales. Approx. duration: 3 hours.
Adult Price: $138.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 5
Peak 2 Peak Gondola
From our ancient, volcanic peaks with their 360 degree views, to our vibrant and sophisticated village with its incredible vibe, Whistler Blackcomb has summer covered from top to bottom. Travel across BC’s rooftop on the world record-breaking PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola. Approx. duration: 1 hour.
Adult Price: $73.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 8
Royal Canadian Helicopter Tour (weather dependent)*
This journey will only enhance the Three Sisters Peaks Tour by exploring the Goat and Sundance Ranges of the Rocky Mountains. You will see mountain peaks, alpine meadows, waterfalls and untouched glacier lakes. Perhaps even a glimpse of some wildlife. It's an extraordinary adventure not to be missed. Approx. duration: 20 minutes.
Adult Price: $289.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 8
Mt. Assiniboine Helicopter Tour (weather dependent)*
You are in for something special as you are transported to Mount Assiniboine - "the Matterhorn" of the Canadian Rockies. Our most popular adventure has all the fantastic scenery of the previous tours plus a fly by over top of the glacier. This photogenic peak rises majestically to 3,611meters (11,870 feet) along the Great Divide. The Gloria and Assiniboine Glaciers will astound you. This is an experience you will never forget! Approx. duration: 30 minutes.
Adult Price: $347.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 8
*Three Sisters Peaks Helicopter Tour (weather dependent)
The most action packed twelve minutes of your life. Get up close and personal with the world famous Three Sisters Peaks. Reach out and touch them as you whisk by before escaping into the Spray Valley where you will explore the extraordinary hues of the Spray Lakes. Your return flight travels along the Goat Range before following the pristine Bow River back to Canmore. Approx. duration 12 minutes
Adult Price: $210.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 8
Brewster Banff Gondola
At the Banff Gondola, you’ll see more mountains in a moment than most see in a lifetime! Ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain to experience a bird’s eye view of six mountain ranges of the Canadian Rockies. Begin with an eight-minute journey to the summit in a fully enclosed four-passenger gondola cabin. The views become increasingly spectacular as you climb to an elevation of 7,486 feet ( 2,281 meters) to the Summit Upper Terminal. Witness the breathtaking views in every direction or go to the restaurant area to enjoy the views inside or from its upper deck. You can also take the Banff Skywalk for a short self-guided interpretive walkway along the summit ridge leading to the Cosmic Ray Station National Historic Site of Canada. Subject to weather conditions. Approx. duration: 2.5 hours.
Adult Price: $70.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 10
*Jasper Float Trip
Join the fun and experience a 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 fur traders over 2 centuries ago. Lifejackets and the specially designed, 7 meter / 25 foot long oar-powered rafts offer a safe and comfortable ride through several small, easy sets of rapids and calm stretches that any first time rafter will enjoy. 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. Tours will operate rain or shine, and a poncho will be provided when required. Approx. duration: 50-90 minutes
Adult Price: $86.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 12
*Jasper Float Trip
Join the fun and experience a 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 fur traders over 2 centuries ago. Lifejackets and the specially designed, 7 meter / 25 foot long oar-powered rafts offer a safe and comfortable ride through several small, easy sets of rapids and calm stretches that any first time rafter will enjoy. 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. Tours will operate rain or shine, and a poncho will be provided when required. Approx. duration: 50-90 minutes
Adult Price: $86.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
All Optional Experiences
The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
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About this trip
About this trip
What's included
Trip Summary Accomodation Icon
12 nights
Accommodation
Trip Summary Meals Icon
19 Meals
12 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners
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On-trip Transport
All transport shown
The Trafalgar difference
CONNECT WITH LOCALS
Guests will leave with a new understanding of what food means to indigenous culture and the importance of it in First Nations history, all ending with a delicious meal. (Day 3)
DIVE INTO CULTURE
Taste local cider at a familly-owned ciderhouse, before continuing to Victoria. (Day 2)
Sightseeing highlights
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CITY TOUR in Vancouver, Victoria, Banff
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CRUISE across Maligne Lake to iconic Spirit Island
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SCENIC DRIVE along the Sea-to-Sky Highway
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VIEW Lake Louise, Athabasca Glacier, Rogers Pass, Athabasca Falls, Sea-to-Sky Gondola, Butchart Gardens
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VISIT Chase, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Audain Art Museum or the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Center, Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse, Butchart Gardens, Sea-to-Sly Gondola, Meet a Mountie, Maligne Lake Cruise
Daily breakfast and an average of 50% of evening meals
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with WiFi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
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Cherry-picked hotels all tried and trusted
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Handcrafted Highlights
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Optional Experiences and free time
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All porterage and local charges included
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
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An expert Travel Director and separate Driver
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All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
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Airport transfers on the first and last day of your guided holiday
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VIP entry to many sights
Live, unedited & independent traveller reviews
Iconic Rockies and Western Canada with Rocky Mountaineer Goldleaf trip reviews
Our guests are at the heart of everything we do, their feedback fuels our innovation, inspiring us to improve continuously and craft Simply The Best vacations. That's why we ask each of our guests to leave a third-party verified, independent review after every trip. As testament to our commitment we have been given the Trusted Service Award from Feefo, recognising we deliver exceptional experiences as rated by real guests.
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4.8
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Based on 98 independent reviews
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5
Itinerary was not too jammed. Plenty of free time to shop etc. It got busier in the smaller towns, which was good.
They delivered everything they promised. Except for the Sea to Sky gondola, which vandals had wrecked about one week prior to our tour. So, Trafalgar took us to a ranch for an included tour and lunch as an alternative.
This was my fourth Trafalgar tour, and once again it did not disappoint. I have found all Trafalgar's tour directors and bus drivers to be excellent. Great location of hotels, lots of extras that really made for a most enjoyable trip.
Everything our tour director, Sheryl, organised for us was way and above our expectations. Hotels were of an outstanding level. Excursion suggestions were great. Our coach driver, Jonathan, went out of his way to make the journey so enjoyable. Local people were always very welcoming and caring for all our needs Thank you.
Unless otherwise stated, trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discount. Discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Trip prices are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however are subject to change - please confirm all details at time of booking.
Twin-share option not available for trips to South America, Costa Rica, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, South Africa, Kenya & Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia or for any holiday & cruise combination, or in Asia and Eastern Mediterranean except Highlights of Turkey (without cruise) & Best of Turkey. It's also not available on Small Group trips. Guided Vacations included in this restriction are Newfoundland and Labrador (DNLA). Does not apply to trips operated by Inspiring Journeys & our Mini-stays.
For trips that are part of our Guaranteed Room Share, please note that there is a no smoking policy in all shared rooms. Solo travel is not accepted on guided Family Experiences holidays unless travelling as part of a family group.
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Your selected departure date will feature some seasonal itinerary changes to what is displayed. Click 'VIEW ITINERARY' below to see full details.
Active Trip Details
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What is an Active Trip? This is an "Active" lifestyle itinerary, with walks and hikes most days. Hikes will range from easy/moderate to strenuous. No technical climbing skills are required but a reasonable level of fitness is required to make the trip more enjoyable. Understanding that not all people want to hike at the same pace or even on the same trail we will, where possible, host map orientation and then let everyone disperse to enjoy the trails best suited to them.
What to Pack Guests should bring lightweight hiking shoes or boots, broad brimmed sun hats, sunglasses, layered clothing, reusable water bottle(s), a hiking day pack and hiking poles (optional)
Weather & Altitude While the itinerary is laid out below, we are at the mercy of the weather and so reserve the right to adjust the program as necessary. Please keep in mind that the higher elevations and possible variations in weather and temperature can increase the perceived level of difficulty of our activities. Elevation ranges up to 9,000 feet for Utah’s Mighty Five and up to 11,000 feet for California High Country Adventure.
Everyone reacts differently to altitude and so if you do have any health issues you should check with your doctor that this trip is suitable for you.
