Itinerary

Day 1:
Mon. VANCOUVER. Enjoy some time at leisure to relax or do some independent exploring. Your Tour Director is on hand this evening to answer any questions.

Day 2:
Tue. VANCOUVER. This morning an included city tour shows you STANLEY PARK, Chinatown, the harbor and beaches, and more. The remainder of the day is at leisure, and your Tour Director will have suggestions for your further exploration of the city. Shoppers and browsers can take a water taxi to lively Granville Island with its outdoor markets, street musicians, and waterfront cafes. Or visit historic Gastown with its steam-powered clock, antique shops, art galleries, and street vendors.

Day 3:
Wed. VANCOUVER–KELOWNA. This morning, start out through British Columbia’s fertile valleys and rich mountain forests to Lake Okanagan. Travel along the lake to the resort city of Kelowna, attractively set on the lake shore and surrounded by orchards and vineyards. Sample the local wines on the included WINERY tour this afternoon.

Day 4:
Thu. KELOWNA–KICKING HORSE PASS–BANFF. Motor north through the Okanagan Valley, famous for its peaches and vineyards. Then begin the climb up 4,379-foothigh Rogers Pass in GLACIER NATIONAL PARK. Take a break at the pass, a perfect spot for photos of the impressively rugged mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls. Enter YOHO NATIONAL PARK and continue over Kicking Horse Pass, peaking at 5,421 feet. By early evening, reach BANFF NATIONAL PARK, gateway to the majestic Canadian Rockies.

Day 5:
Fri. BANFF. Banff is one of Canada’s favorite year-round resorts with activities ranging from skiing in the winter to hiking, boating, and fishing in the summer. With a free day, your Tour Director will suggest an optional helicopter ride over the Canadian Rockies. Tonight, why not take in an optional dinner theater featuring cuisine and entertainment all about Canada?

Day 6:
Sat. BANFF–LAKE LOUISE–COLUMBIA ICEFIELD–JASPER. A day of scenic grandeur. First to Lake Louise, its cold turquiose waters a perfect natural mirror reflecting the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Precipitous gorges, snowcapped summits, and lakes of exquisite blues and greens come into view as the motorcoach scales two mountain passes on the journey northward into JASPER NATIONAL PARK. Another highlight on today’s agenda is a stop at the COLUMBIA ICEFIELD to experience the Ice Explorer, an allterrain vehicle that travels on ice that is 365-meters (1,200-feet) thick. Late this afternoon, your Tour Director suggests an optional raft trip down the Athabasca River. Enjoy an orientation tour of Jasper townsite upon arrival.

Day 7:
Sun. JASPER. Today, join our optional excursion to Maligne Lake, where you embark on a narrated cruise of the lake. The balance of the day is free to join one of our guided hikes, shop, or canoe. With free time this evening you might take a walk along the trails and watch for elk.

Day 8:
Mon. JASPER–MOUNT ROBSON–SUN PEAKS. Leave Jasper and follow the Fraser River to the base of Mount Robson, the highest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, peaking at 12,972 feet. Continue following the Yellowhead Highway south along the Thompson River—a route pioneered by fur trappers a century ago. Overnight at the mountain resort of Sun Peaks.

Day 9:
Tue. SUN PEAKS–LILOET–WHISTLER. Head south following the once treacherous Cariboo Wagon Trail. Via Lilloet—”Mile 0 of the gold rush route”—your motorcoach will follow the shores of Seton and Duffey Lakes with a mid-afternoon arrival in Whistler. There are plenty of optional activities to choose from, such as flightseeing by floatplane over the lakes and glaciated peaks of Garibaldi Provincial Park. Tonight, wander the many alpine trails or relax in the plaza enjoying the artists and musicians.

Day 10:
Wed. WHISTLER–FERY CROSSING–VICTORIA. Motor along the majestic Sea to Sky Highway. Then sail this afternoon across the Strait of Georgia and through the spectacular Gulf Islands, an archipelago known for its Mediterranean-type climate. Afternoon arrival in Victoria. Sightseeing today includes the Marine Drive, Bastion Square, and Thunderbird Park with its unusual collection of totem poles. Tonight, a stroll along the lovely waterfront might be fun.

Day 11:
Thu. VICTORIA. A full free day. Be sure to check out some of the attractions this splendid city has to offer, including the Royal British Columbia Museum, afternoon tea at the Empress Hotel, the IMAX presentation at the National Geographic Theatre, whale watching on the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and fine shopping along Government Street. Suggestion for this evening is an optional outing that includes a harbor cruise, followed by a dinner at one of Victoria’s waterfront restaurants.

Day 12:
Fri. VICTORIA–SWARTZ BAY–VANCOUVER. First stop this morning is world-famous BUTCHART GARDENS. At Swartz Bay, board the ferry for a scenic crossing to the mainland for a mid-afternoon arrival. Tonight, your Tour Director will offer recommendations for dinner.

Day 13:
Sat. VANCOUVER. The trip ends today with guests departing on individual schedules. Transfers to Vancouver International Airport are included.

Dates & Prices

In Vancouver and Victoria.

Itinerary

Day 1:
VANCOUVER. Enjoy some time at leisure to relax or to do some independent exploring. Your Tour Director is on hand this evening to answer any questions.

Day 2:
VANCOUVER–FERY CROSSING–VICTORIA. Morning sightseeing focuses on Vancouver’s Chinatown, Gastown, the beautiful beaches and harbor, and lovely STANLEY PARK. Afterward, set sail across the Strait of Georgia through the spectacular Gulf Islands, an area known for its Mediterranean-like climate. Afternoon sightseeing in Victoria includes worldfamous BUTCHART GARDENS, Bastion Square, and Thunderbird Park with its unusual collection of totem poles.

Day 3:
VICTORIA. Be sure to discover some of the attractions this splendid city has to offer, including the Royal British Columbia Museum, afternoon tea at the Empress Hotel, a whale-watching cruise on the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and fine shopping along Government Street. This evening, join our optional excursion in Chinatown which includes a lantern tour and dinner at a first-class restaurant.

Day 4:
VICTORIA–CHEMAINUS–PORT HARDY. An early departure from Victoria follows the eastern coastline of Vancouver Island, stopping at Chemainus, the unique village with more than 30 murals depicting pioneer settlement of the area. Then it’s through the port of Campbell River, the “salmon capital of the world.” Anglers from across the continent congregate here for the opportunity to catch some of the largest saltwater salmon in the world.

Day 5:
PORT HARDY–INSIDE PASSAGE CRUISE–PRINCE RUPERT. This morning, embark on BC Ferries for what is referred to as one of the world’s most beautiful ocean voyages. The scenery is spectacular, with towering mountains, roaring waterfalls, endless islands, and virgin rain forest. Animal and marine life includes sea lions, eagles, and porpoises—you may even spot a killer whale! Late-evening arrival in Prince Rupert.

Note: Crossing time through the Inside Passage is approximately 15 hours. Please come prepared with all medication you require, eyeglasses, and any other items you need.

Day 6:
PRINCE RUPERT. Depart for an orientation tour of Prince Rupert, then visit the NORTH PACIFIC HISTORIC FISHING VILLAGE for a guided tour of British Columbia’s oldest cannery village. Learn of the canning process and what life was like in the village during peak production earlier this century. With your free time this afternoon, you may opt for an outing to learn the secrets of the totem. See a totem pole being carved and visit a longhouse to gain a better understanding of the day-to-day lifestyle of the First Nations culture. (Native Indians in Canada are referred to as the First Nations.)

Day 7:
PRINCE RUPERT–VIA RAIL SKENA TRAIN–PRINCE GEORGE. This morning, board VIA Rail®’s Skeena train for a trip of a lifetime. The train winds its way through the majestic Coast Mountains, follows the mighty Skeena River—often referred to as the “River of Mists”—and concludes in the Pacific Coast rain forest. You’ll retrace ancient First Nations trading routes and follow the paths of the earliest fur traders. Soaring bald eagles, inquisitive black bears, browsing moose, and other wildlife may be spotted from the glassed-in observation dome that provides 360-degree views. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included. (B,L,D)

Day 8:
PRINCE GEORGE–MOUNT ROBSON–JASPER. As we move onward toward Jasper National Park the peak elevations grow, culminating with Mount Robson, the highest of Canada’s Rockies at 13,000 feet. We settle in at the town of Jasper for our overnight.

Day 9:
JASPER–COLUMBIA ICEFIELD–LAKE LOUISE–BANFF. Winding our way down the western fringe of Alberta, our journey takes us through some of the Rockies’ most breathtaking wilderness. First highlight on today’s agenda is a stop at the COLUMBIA ICEFIELD to experience the Ice Explorer, an all-terrain vehicle that travels on ice measuring 365-meters (1,200-feet) thick. On to Lake Louise; its cold waters are a perfect natural mirror reflecting the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Precipitous gorges, snowcapped mountain ranges, and lakes of exquisite blues and greens come into view as the motorcoach scales two mountain passes on the journey south.

Day 10:
BANFF. Banff is one of Canada’s favorite year-round resorts with summer activities including hiking, boating, horseback riding, and fishing. This morning, Cosmos has arranged for an optional helicopter ride high over the Canadian Rockies. This evening, join the optional excursion to “Oh Canada Eh?” for a 5-course dinner and musical entertainment.

Day 11:
BANFF–YOHO NATIONAL PARK–VERNON. This morning, enter the spectacular beauty of YOHO NATIONAL PARK, one of Canada’s most popular recreational areas and the site of pre-Cambrian fossil finds. On to GLACIER NATIONAL PARK, where the motorcoach climbs 4,379-foot-high Rogers Pass, a perfect spot for photos of the impressive surrounding mountain cliffs and glaciers. Spend the night in Vernon.

Day 12:
VERNON–LAKE OKANAGAN–CASCADE MOUNTAINS–VANCOUVER. Today, continue west through the fertile Fraser Valley before heading north along the shores of magnificent Lake Okanagan, with grand vistas of vineyards and orchards. Next, travel over the towering Cascade Mountains.

Day 13:
VANCOUVER. The trip ends today with guests departing on individual schedules. Transfers to Vancouver International Airport are included.

Dates & Prices

In Vancouver and Victoria; orientation tour of Prince Rupert.

Itinerary

Day 1:
CALGARY. Enjoy time at leisure to relax or do some independent exploring. Your Tour Director is on hand this evening to answer any questions.

Day 2:
CALGARY–BANFF. The discovery of oil converted this all-western cattle ranching town into a thriving, sophisticated city. See many of the city’s attractions this morning on your sightseeing tour, including downtown, the Olympic Ski Jump, and Saddledome. Then motor west through the foothills of the Rockies and into BANFF NATIONAL PARK. Upon arrival, take the optional gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views of Banff’s spectacular scenery. Then enjoy a visit to sparkling Bow Falls.

Day 3:
BANFF. Full day at leisure. Banff is one of Canada’s favorite resorts, with summer activities that include hiking, boating, and fishing. Your Tour Director will suggest a half-day optional helicopter ride over the Canadian Rockies. Tonight there’s an optional cruise on Lake Minnewanka.

Day 4:
BANFF–LAKE LOUISE–JASPER NATIONAL PARK. First stop is Lake Louise, its cold waters reflecting the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Precipitous gorges, snow-capped mountain ranges and exquisite lakes come into view as the motorcoach scales two mountain passes. Another highlight on today’s agenda is a stop at the COLUMBIA ICEFIELD to experience the Ice Explorer, an all-terrain vehicle that travels on ice measuring 365-meters (1,200-feet) thick. Upon arrival in Jasper, an orientation tour to see Jasper’s unspoiled beauty. Late this afternoon, join our optional raft trip down the historic Athabasca River. Your accommodation for the next two nights will be in JASPER NATIONAL PARK.

Day 5:
JASPER. Join the optional trip to Maligne Lake for a narrated cruise. On the return journey, stop to view Maligne Canyon. With much of the afternoon and evening free, you might hike along the trails and look for elk.

Day 6:
JASPER–ROCKY MOUNTAINEER TRAIN–KAMLOPS. An exciting morning as you board the Rocky Mountaineer for a two-day, all-daylight, classic rail journey from the Canadian Rockies to the Pacific Coast. You may see Mount Robson, the highest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, and follow the route of the “Overlanders,” 19th-century homesteaders who attempted to settle this rugged region. Follow the Thompson River and enjoy vistas of the Monashee Mountains. Overnight in Kamloops. Tonight, join our optional dinner outing to a popular theatre performance. (B,L)

Note: Continental breakfast and a cold lunch are included on board the Rocky Mountaineer;snacks and non-alcoholic drinks are also provided free of charge. It will be necessary to pack an overnight bag for the train journey. Suitcases will be checked for the entire journey and will be unavailable for the overnight at Kamloops. No porterage service is available in Kamloops.

Day 7:
KAMLOPS–ROCKY MOUNTAINEER TRAIN–VANCOUVER. Reboard the train and head through the ranchlands along the South Thompson River. Continue through the stark beauty of Fraser Canyon and the turbulence of mighty Hell’s Gate. Then pass through the fertile fields of the Fraser Valley, surrounded by the snowcapped Coast Mountains. Arrive in Vancouver at the Rocky Mountaineer Station in early evening and transfer to your hotel. (B,L)

Day 8:
VANCOUVER–VICTORIA. Morning sightseeing focuses on Vancouver’s Chinatown, Gastown, the beautiful beaches and harbor, and lovely STANLEY PARK. Afterward, set sail across the Strait of Georgia through the spectacular Gulf Islands, an area known for its Mediterranean-like climate. Afternoon sightseeing in Victoria includes world-famous BUTCHART GARDENS, Bastion Square, and Thunderbird Park with its unusual collection of totem poles.

Day 9:
VICTORIA. Be sure to discover some of the attractions this splendid city has to offer, including the Royal British Columbia Museum, afternoon tea at the Empress Hotel, a whale-watching cruise on the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and fine shopping along Government Street. Why not join us for our evening optional excursion that includes a harbor cruise followed by dinner at one of Victoria’s waterfront restaurants?

Day 10:
VICTORIA–FERY CROSSING–VANCOUVER. Morning departure for Vancouver. Transfers to Vancouver International Airport are included. Please schedule flights after 1:30 p.m.

Dates & Prices

In Calgary, Vancouver, Victoria; orientation tour in Jasper.

Itinerary

Day 1:
Mon. VANCOUVER. Enjoy some time at leisure to relax or do some independent exploring. Your Tour Director is on hand this evening to answer any questions.

Day 2:
Tue. VANCOUVER–WHISTLER. You’ll start your tour with a special treat this morning when we visit the VANCOUVER AQUARIUM. While enjoying a wonderful breakfast, you’ll see beluga whales up close and personal. A wildlife expert will tell you all about these fascinating creatures. Afterward, you’ll have time to explore the rest of the aquarium featuring a world of animals in breathtaking settings. Then, your Vancouver sightseeing tour will include the beautiful beaches and harbor, Stanley Park, Gastown, and Chinatown. Next, we’ll travel to Whistler, home of the 2010 Winter Olympics. This evening, take some time to explore this quaint village. (B)

Day 3:
Wed. WHISTLER. Come and explore Whistler this morning on a nature and wildlife walk. A Local Guide will teach you about the flora and fauna of the area as well as about the animals that live around Lost Lake. Keep an eye out for pika, black-tailed deer, marmot, black bears, and bald eagles. Although we can never guarantee wildlife sightings, have your cameras ready, as you never know what surprises of nature will surface. The remainder of the afternoon and evening are at leisure. Time to explore more of what Whistler has to offer: hike, bike, go horseback riding, or just relax and enjoy the majestic views. Shopping is abundant, including designer outlets, art galleries, gift shops, outdoor clothing, and ski shops. Your Tour Director will have suggestions on the best way to spend your free time.

Day 4:
Thu. WHISTLER–CAMPBELL RIVER. Today we cross the Strait of Georgia and sail through the spectacular Gulf Islands arriving on Vancouver Island. We then travel to Campbell River, “The Salmon Capital of the World,” for a 3-night stay. Tonight, the people of the Laichwiltach First Nation invite you to attend a performance at the GILDAS BOX OF TREASURES THEATRE. Gildas is the name given to the symbolic box in which each family keeps the songs, masks, dances, and stories of their heritage. They will share their heritage and perform a dance ceremony. Afterward, you are invited to visit the gallery which features the artwork of the Laichwiltach people in carvings, paintings, clothing, and many other wonderful items.

Day 5:
Fri. CAMPBELL RIVER–TELEGRAPH COVE EXCURSION. This morning we’ll leave Campbell River and head farther north to Telegraph Cove, one of the premier spots in the world for orca viewing. In addition to seeing orca “killer” whales, the area is home to a wealthof other marine wildlife. While on your CRUISE, keep your eyes on the lookout for porpoises, dolphins, sea lions, seals, and a variety of bird species. Trained naturalists will identify and discuss the local marine mammals and sea birds while on your trip. Your vessel is also equipped with underwater microphones so you can listen to the whales’ vocalizations.

Day 6:
Sat. CAMPBELL RIVER. You have a full day at leisure to enjoy the “Wilderness Lodge Experience”: go fishing, play a round of golf, hit the tennis courts, rent a bicycle, take a journey to Quadra Island, or relax at the spa or by the pool. For a truly unique experience, don snorkel and fins and take a guided tour as you swim with the salmon returning up the river to spawn (available mid-July through October). This evening, perhaps take a stroll along the picturesque waterfront and explore the neighborhood restaurants.

Day 7:
Sun. CAMPBELL RIVER–TOFINO. Today, we travel across Vancouver Island to Tofino and PACIFIC RIM NATIONAL PARK RESERVE, the farthest west you can go on Vancouver Island by paved road. We’ll stop at Cathedral Grove, home to incredible old-growth trees and a great place to take a leisurely stroll. This afternoon is at leisure to explore the many shops and galleries in Tofino or enjoy a walk on the beach. Tonight, why not sample some of the fresh local seafood, including salmon, halibut, and Dungeness crab? Your Tour Director will have recommendations for the best places to eat.

Day 8:
Mon. TOFINO. Each year, more than 22,000 whales migrate along the west coast of Vancouver Island. Today, we’ll travel through the pristine waters of Clayoquot Sound revealing sensational scenery and wildlife, such as sea lions, sea otters, and killer whales on our included CRUISE. Today’s activities also include the exciting experience of viewing BLACK BEARS who call this area home. Have your cameras ready—you may just spy them roaming the shores in search of their favorite delicacy, the rock crab.

Day 9:
Tue. TOFINO–VICTORIA. We leave the pounding Pacific surf and head south to Victoria. We’ll stop in Duncan, nicknamed “The City of Totems,” where you’ll learn about the art of totem carving and be entertained by the many legends and myths that accompany each of them. Later this afternoon, we arrive in Victoria, “The City of Gardens.” Your sightseeing tour of Victoria includes Bastion Square and Thunderbird Park with its unusual collection of totem poles. This evening, join us on our optional excursion in Chinatown, including a lantern tour and dinner at a first-class restaurant. A very memorable and unique way to experience Victoria!

Day 10:
Wed. VICTORIA–VANCOUVER. Today, we cross back over to Vancouver where the remainder of your day and evening are at leisure. This evening, why not enjoy our optional sunset dinner cruise onboard an authentic paddle wheeler for views of Vancouver Harbour and a one-of-kind dining experience? The perfect ending to your vacation!

Day 11:
Thu. VANCOUVER. The trip ends today, with guests departing on individual schedules. Transfers to Vancouver International Airport are included.

Dates & Prices

In Vancouver and Victoria.

Itinerary

Day 1:
CALGARY. Enjoy some time at leisure to relax or to do some independent exploring. Your Tour Director is on hand this evening to answer any questions.

Day 2:
CALGARY–BANFF. The discovery of oil converted this cattle ranching town into a thriving, sophisticated city with skyscrapers and elegant shopping centers. It is also home to the world-famous Calgary Stampede. Tour many of the city’s attractions, including Canada Olympic Park, the Saddledome, and FORT CALGARY. Motor west through the foothills and into BANFF NATIONAL PARK, gateway to the majestic Canadian Rockies. Join the optional excursion to Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views of Banff’s spectacular scenery.

Day 3:
BANFF. Banff is one of Canada’s favorite year-round resorts, with summer activities such as hiking, boating, and fishing. With a free day, your Tour Director will suggest an optional helicopter ride over the Canadian Rockies. Tonight, take an optional excursion to the theater, featuring Canadian cuisine and entertainment.

Day 4:
BANFF–LAKE LOUISE–JASPER. A day of scenic grandeur. First stop is Lake Louise, where its cold turquoise waters create a perfect natural mirror reflecting the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Next, journey northward into JASPER NATIONAL PARK where precipitous gorges, snowcapped summits, and lakes of exquisite blues and greens come into view as the motorcoach scales two mountain passes. Another highlight on today’s agenda is a stop at the COLUMBIA ICEFIELD to experience the Ice Explorer, an all-terrain vehicle that travels upon ice that is 365 meters (1,200 feet) thick. Later this afternoon your Tour Director suggests an optional raft trip down the Athabasca River. Enjoy an orientation tour of Jasper townsite upon arrival.

Day 5:
JASPER–MOUNT ROBSON–SUN PEAKS. With a morning at leisure, join the optional trip to Maligne Lake, where you embark on a narrated cruise to much-photographed Spirit Island. Depart Jasper and follow the Fraser River to the base of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. The Yellowhead Highway continues south along the mighty Thompson River with spectacular views of the Monashee Mountains. Overnight at the Sun Peaks alpine resort.

Day 6:
SUN PEAKS–FERRY CROSSING–VICTORIA. As you travel through British Columbia’s Coast Mountain Range to its majestic Pacific coastline, the vegetation changes abruptly from lush alpine forests to desert landscape. Board your afternoon ferry for the spectacular crossing to Vancouver Island. Sightseeing in Victoria includes the Inner Harbor, Bastion Square, and Thunderbird Park. This evening, you might want to take

Day 7:
VICTORIA. Today is a full free day for independent sightseeing. Your Tour Director will have ideas to enhance your enjoyment of this most British of Canadian cities. Take an optional whale-watching cruise and seek out pods of killer whales. A suggestion for this evening is an optional dinner in Chinatown, followed by a historic walk.

Day 8:
VICTORIA–VANCOUVER. First stop today: the famous BUTCHART GARDENS with its 35 acres of showcase exhibits, including the English Rose Garden and the Japanese Gardens. This afternoon, board the ferry for a spectacular crossing though the Gulf Islands, an archipelago known for its Mediterranean climate, to the British Columbia mainland. In Vancouver, city sightseeing includes STANLEY PARK, Gastown, Chinatown, and many other famous landmarks. Tonight, your Tour Director will offer dining recommendations for this vibrant city.

Day 9:
VANCOUVER. The trip ends today with guests departing on individual schedules. Transfers to Vancouver International Airport are included.

Dates & Prices