Canadian Train Odyssey
Canadian Train Odyssey
Canadian Train Odyssey
15 Days Starting in Toronto and ending in Vancouver
Visiting: Toronto, Niagara Falls, VIA Rail, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Jasper National Park, Columbia Icefield, Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Yoho National Park, Glacier National Park, Kamloops, Victoria, Vancouver
Tour operator:
Tour code:
8960-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
0 - 43
Age range:
5-99
Special diets catered:
Please Advise Request
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
This cross-country adventure across Canada begins in Toronto, ends in Vancouver, and includes beautiful scenery and fun-filled activities in some of Canada’s most popular cities. A highlight of this Canada train tour is the 3-day, 3-night journey on VIA Rail’s® the Canadian—a premier continental train—from Toronto to Jasper. In refurbished art deco rail cars and domed observation cars, enjoy views of the ever-changing landscapes as you leisurely travel through Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. The spectacular landscapes on your train trip are not the only stunning scenery you’ll witness on this Canada rail tour. Marvel at hypnotic Niagara Falls on your boat cruise past the falls. In the Canadian Rockies, ride the Ice Explorer—an all-terrain vehicle—on Columbia Icefield, an expanse of ice that is 750-feet thick. Stop in breathtaking Lake Louise, where cold waters mirror the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Spend time in stunning Jasper National Park—with its rugged mountains, glaciers, alpine meadows, rivers, and abundant wildlife—and Banff National Park, home to majestic mountains and picture-perfect scenery. Also travel through Yoho National Park, with its famous fossils, and Glacier National Park, with its abundant wildlife. From the Pacific Coast, sail to Victoria through the scenic Gulf Islands. In Victoria, visit world-famous Butchart Gardens with its 55 acres of floral displays. Throughout this Canada train tour, enjoy sightseeing in the cities and time to explore on your own. You may want to dine at the top of Toronto’s CN Tower, take an optional float trip on the Athabasca River in Jasper, hike in Banff, enjoy Afternoon Tea at Victoria’s Empress Hotel, or shop Vancouver’s Robson Street. See Canada’s spectacular mountain scenery, stunning lakes, picturesque towns, gentle prairie fields, and exciting cities on this Canadian rail tour—what a fantastic vacation!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Toronto
Location: Toronto
Accommodation Name: Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Toronto
Welcome to Toronto! Your Tour Director is on hand late this afternoon to answer any questions
Day 2: Toronto. Excursion To Niagara Falls
Location: Toronto, Niagara Falls
Accommodation Name: Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Toronto
Begin the day with an orientation tour of Toronto that includes City Hall, the downtown banking district, Rogers Centre, and the stunning CN Tower. Leave the city and travel along the shores of Lake Ontario to Niagara Falls. Sightseeing here includes a Niagara Falls cruise past the world-famous falls. Return to Toronto and spend the evening exploring the city sights on your own or join the optional outing that combines dinner with the spectacular sight of Toronto’s skyline from the CN Tower.NOTE:Operation of the Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise is subject to favorable weather and/or river conditions. When unfavorable conditions exist, a walking tour through the scenic tunnels will be substituted.
TORONTO. EXCURSION TO NIAGARA FALLS Begin the day with an orientation tour of Toronto that includes City Hall, the downtown banking district, Rogers Centre, and the stunning CN Tower. Leave the city and travel along the shores of Lake Ontario to Niagara Falls. Sightseeing here includes a Niagara Falls cruise past the world-famous falls. Return to Toronto and spend the evening exploring the city sights on your own or join the optional outing that combines dinner with the spectacular sight of Toronto’s skyline from the CN Tower.NOTE:Operation of the Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise is subject to favorable weather and/or river conditions. When unfavorable conditions exist, a walking tour through the scenic tunnels will be substituted.
Day 3: Toronto,Via Rail The Canadian
Location: Toronto
Accommodation Name: On board The Canadian
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
This morning, transfer to Union Station for a departure on The Canadian, VIA Rail’s premier transcontinental train. Spend the next three days and nights on this classic trip across Canada’s heartland. Your Sleeper-Plus class rail cars are refurbished art-deco cars from the 1950s. Domed observation cars let you enjoy views of the Canadian countryside as you roll past Ontario’s landscapes. Chef-prepared meals offer a tempting array of soups, salads, main courses, and desserts.
TORONTO–VIA RAIL THE CANADIAN This morning, transfer to Union Station for a departure on The Canadian, VIA Rail’s premier transcontinental train. Spend the next three days and nights on this classic trip across Canada’s heartland. Your Sleeper-Plus class rail cars are refurbished art-deco cars from the 1950s. Domed observation cars let you enjoy views of the Canadian countryside as you roll past Ontario’s landscapes. Chef-prepared meals offer a tempting array of soups, salads, main courses, and desserts. (L,D)
Day 4: Via Rail The Canadian
Location: VIA Rail
Accommodation Name: On board The Canadian
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, watch the scenery as you whisk by the ever-changing Canadian landscape and travel the full length of the Canadian National Railway’s breathtaking mainline.
VIA RAIL THE CANADIAN Today, watch the scenery as you whisk by the ever-changing Canadian landscape and travel the full length of the Canadian National Railway’s breathtaking mainline. (B,L,D)
Day 5: Via Rail The Canadian
Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Saskatchewan
Accommodation Name: On board The Canadian
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Canadian glides through Winnipeg, before continuing the journey through Manitoba’s prairies and into Saskatchewan.
VIA RAIL THE CANADIAN The Canadian glides through Winnipeg, before continuing the journey through Manitoba’s prairies and into Saskatchewan. (B,L,D)
Day 6: Via Rail The Canadian,Jasper National Park
Location: Jasper National Park
Accommodation Name: Marmot Lodge
Arrive in Jasper this morning and enjoy an orientation tour of the townsite. The remainder of your day is free to enjoy the ambiance of this delightful mountain setting.
VIA RAIL THE CANADIAN–JASPER NATIONAL PARK Arrive in Jasper this morning and enjoy an orientation tour of the townsite. The remainder of your day is free to enjoy the ambiance of this delightful mountain setting.
Day 7: Jasper National Park
Location: Jasper National Park
Accommodation Name: Marmot Lodge
Consider an optional trip to Maligne Lake for a narrated cruise to much-photographed Spirit Island. On the return journey, stop to view mighty Maligne Canyon. With free time this afternoon, maybe hike on the trails and watch for wildlife, or stroll the streets of Jasper. Perhaps an optional float trip on the Athabasca River to end the day?
JASPER NATIONAL PARK Consider an optional trip to Maligne Lake for a narrated cruise to much-photographed Spirit Island. On the return journey, stop to view mighty Maligne Canyon. With free time this afternoon, maybe hike on the trails and watch for wildlife, or stroll the streets of Jasper. Perhaps an optional float trip on the Athabasca River to end the day?
Day 8: Jasper National Park,Columbia Icefield,Lake Louise,Banff National Park
Location: Jasper National Park, Columbia Icefield, Lake Louise, Banff National Park
Accommodation Name: Rundlestone Lodge
Board your motorcoach this morning and journey through Jasper National Park, stopping along the way at the Columbia Icefield to experience the Ice Explorer, an all-terrain vehicle that travels on ice measuring 750 feet (250 meters) thick. Continue down Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise, where cold waters mirror the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Arrive in Banff National Park for a leisurely 2-night stay. An orientation tour highlights Banff’s unspoiled beauty.
JASPER NATIONAL PARK–COLUMBIA ICEFIELD–LAKE LOUISE–BANFF NATIONAL PARK Board your motorcoach this morning and journey through Jasper National Park, stopping along the way at the Columbia Icefield to experience the Ice Explorer, an all-terrain vehicle that travels on ice measuring 750 feet (250 meters) thick. Continue down Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise, where cold waters mirror the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Arrive in Banff National Park for a leisurely 2-night stay. An orientation tour highlights Banff’s unspoiled beauty.
Day 9: Banff National Park
Location: Banff National Park
Accommodation Name: Rundlestone Lodge
The day is free to independently explore this resort town located within Banff National Park. Stroll Banff Avenue, the main thoroughfare of boutiques and souvenir shops. The surrounding 2,564 square miles of parkland are home to wildlife, including elk and grizzly bear. Or perhaps enjoy an optional helicopter ride over the Canadian Rockies. Your Tour Director can offer suggestions for activities and dinner.
BANFF NATIONAL PARK The day is free to independently explore this resort town located within Banff National Park. Stroll Banff Avenue, the main thoroughfare of boutiques and souvenir shops. The surrounding 2,564 square miles of parkland are home to wildlife, including elk and grizzly bear. Or perhaps enjoy an optional helicopter ride over the Canadian Rockies. Your Tour Director can offer suggestions for activities and dinner.
Day 10: Banff National Park,Yoho National Park,Glacier National Park,Kamloops
Location: Banff National Park, Yoho National Park, Glacier National Park, Kamloops
Accommodation Name: Best Western Premier Kamloops
This morning, leave Banff National Park and travel over Kicking Horse Pass on the Continental Divide. Travel through Yoho National Park, where pre-Cambrian fossils were discovered, and Glacier National Park, where recreational mountain climbing was introduced to North America a century ago. Late this afternoon, arrive at the cattle-ranching center of Kamloops.
BANFF NATIONAL PARK–YOHO NATIONAL PARK–GLACIER NATIONAL PARK–KAMLOOPS This morning, leave Banff National Park and travel over Kicking Horse Pass on the Continental Divide. Travel through Yoho National Park, where pre-Cambrian fossils were discovered, and Glacier National Park, where recreational mountain climbing was introduced to North America a century ago. Late this afternoon, arrive at the cattle-ranching center of Kamloops.
Day 11: Kamloops,Ferry Crossing,Victoria
Location: Kamloops, Victoria
Accommodation Name: Royal Scot Hotel & Suites
As you travel through the Coast Mountain Range to its majestic Pacific coastline, the vegetation changes from desert landscape to lush alpine forest. Board your afternoon ferry for the spectacular crossing to Vancouver Island. Sightseeing in Victoria includes the Inner Harbour, Bastion Square, and Thunderbird Park. This evening, consider strolling along the lovely Waterfront Promenade.
KAMLOOPS–FERRY CROSSING–VICTORIA As you travel through the Coast Mountain Range to its majestic Pacific coastline, the vegetation changes from desert landscape to lush alpine forest. Board your afternoon ferry for the spectacular crossing to Vancouver Island. Sightseeing in Victoria includes the Inner Harbour, Bastion Square, and Thunderbird Park. This evening, consider strolling along the lovely Waterfront Promenade.
Day 12: Victoria
Location: Victoria
Accommodation Name: Royal Scot Hotel & Suites
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, and fine shopping along Government Street. Or perhaps take an optional excursion to see the 55 acres of floral displays at world famous Butchart Gardens or go on a whale and wildlife watching cruise.
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, and fine shopping along Government Street. Or perhaps take an optional excursion to see the 55 acres of floral displays at world famous Butchart Gardens or go on a whale and wildlife watching cruise.
Day 13: Victoria,Ferry Crossing,Vancouver
Location: Vancouver
Accommodation Name: Sandman Suites on Davie
This morning, set sail across the Strait of Georgia and through the spectacular Gulf Islands, an archipelago known for its Mediterranean-like climate. In Vancouver, city sightseeing includes Stanley Park, Gastown, Chinatown, and many other famous landmarks. The remainder of the day is free to explore Robson Street and experience British Columbia’s premier shopping and entertainment location.
VICTORIA–FERRY CROSSING–VANCOUVER This morning, set sail across the Strait of Georgia and through the spectacular Gulf Islands, an archipelago known for its Mediterranean-like climate. In Vancouver, city sightseeing includes Stanley Park, Gastown, Chinatown, and many other famous landmarks. The remainder of the day is free to explore Robson Street and experience British Columbia’s premier shopping and entertainment location.
Day 14: Vancouver
Location: Vancouver
Accommodation Name: Sandman Suites on Davie
Today is at leisure for independent sightseeing. Maybe take a water taxi to lively Granville Island with its outdoor markets, street musicians, and waterfront cafés. Or re-visit historic Gastown with its steam-powered clock, antique shops, art galleries, and street vendors.
VANCOUVER Today is at leisure for independent sightseeing. Maybe take a water taxi to lively Granville Island with its outdoor markets, street musicians, and waterfront cafés. Or re-visit historic Gastown with its steam-powered clock, antique shops, art galleries, and street vendors.
Day 15: Vancouver
Location: Vancouver
Your vacation ends this morning.
VANCOUVER Your vacation ends this morning.
What's Included
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Accommodations
Stay in comfort at selected hotels including Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Toronto, Marmot Lodge, Lobstick Lodge, Rundlestone Lodge, Best Western Premier Kamloops, Royal Scot Hotel & Suites, and Sandman Suites on Davie.
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Sightseeing Highlights
Enjoy the breathtaking views of Canada's landscapes from refurbished art deco rail cars and domed observation cars, marvel at Niagara Falls, explore the stunning Jasper National Park, travel through Yoho and Glacier National Parks, and experience the vibrant cities of Toronto and Vancouver.
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Meals
2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners.
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Transportation
Travel aboard VIA Rail's premier transcontinental train, The Canadian, for a classic trip across Canada's heartland. Experience the Ice Explorer on the Columbia Icefield and enjoy ferry crossings to Vancouver Island.
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UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Visit stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, and Yoho National Park.
What's Not Included
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Airfare
International and domestic airfare not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended but not included.
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Optional Tours
Optional tours and activities not included.
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Personal Expenses
Items of a personal nature, including souvenirs, laundry, and telephone calls, are not included.
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Meals not mentioned
Any meals not listed in the inclusions are not covered.
Meals
2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
Notes
Visiting and participating in activities in this region may be subject to favorable weather conditions and vendor dates of operation.
UNESCO Sites
Banff National Park|Jasper National Park|Yoho National Park
Accommodation
Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Toronto
Whether you want to relax or take in the sights of downtown Toronto, this hotel is the perfect place to stay.
Marmot Lodge
The Marmot Lodge features a number of services including concierge service, currency exchange, indoor pool, business center, and Embers Steakhouse restaurant. All 107 guestrooms are all equipped with coffeemakers, mini-fridge, hairdryers, and complimentary toiletries.
Lobstick Lodge
Lobstick Lodge is located in a secluded mountain setting near east end of town, 5 blocks from CNR station. Enjoy large open rooms with spectacular mountain views right outside your window.
Rundlestone Lodge
Guests will find a warm welcome with a large, open fireplace in the lobby and friendly staff at the Rundlestone Lodge. Conveniently located on Banff Avenue only minutes from Downtown Banff, the Lodge offers a host of amenities including a fitness center, whirlpool, and swimming pool.
Best Western Premier Kamloops
Newly renovated Best Western Premier Aberdeen Kamloops is conveniently located off the TransCanada Highway just twenty minutes from Kamloops Airport in the Thompson Nicola District. Leisure and business guests alike enjoy breathtaking views of Thompson River Valley & Mountains and an ideal location with proximity to important area businesses and attractions such as Thompson Rivers University, Royal Inland Hospital, BC Wildlife Park. Aberdeen Mall and a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Royal Scot Hotel & Suites
Located in the center of downtown, the Royal Scot hotel & Suites is just a short walk to Victoria's famous Inner Harbour as well as shopping, dining, entertainment, and attractions. The hotel features an indoor and outdoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, game room, concierge service, guest laundry, gift shop, business center, Internet access, restaurant, and lounge.
Sandman Suites on Davie
This hotel is located in downtown Vancouver in a neighborhood complete with local shops, lounges, restaurants, and close to English Bay as well as a Granville Market. The hotel includes Moxie's Grill & Bar, a spa, fitness center, swimming pool, and business center.
Check out our Q&As
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What are the highlights of the Canadian Train Odyssey tour?
The highlights of the Canadian Train Odyssey tour include enjoying views of the ever-changing landscapes in refurbished art deco rail cars and domed observation cars, marveling at hypnotic Niagara Falls on a boat cruise, stopping in breathtaking Lake Louise, spending time in stunning Jasper National Park, and traveling through Yoho National Park and Glacier National Park.
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What type of accommodations are included in the tour?
The accommodations included in the tour are Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Toronto, Marmot Lodge, Lobstick Lodge, Rundlestone Lodge, Best Western Premier Kamloops, Royal Scot Hotel & Suites, and Sandman Suites on Davie.
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Are meals included in the Canadian Train Odyssey tour?
Yes, the tour includes 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.
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What UNESCO World Heritage Sites will be visited during the tour?
The UNESCO World Heritage Sites visited during the tour include Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, and Yoho National Park.
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Is airfare included in the tour package?
No, international and domestic airfare is not included in the tour package.
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What type of transportation is used during the tour?
The transportation during the tour includes travel aboard VIA Rail's premier transcontinental train, The Canadian, the Ice Explorer on the Columbia Icefield, and ferry crossings to Vancouver Island.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1961
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.
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Low Deposit
Cosmos requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cosmos 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.