Vancouver Island & Northern Rockies
Vancouver Island & Northern Rockies
Aerial view of Vancouver downtown Coal Harbour
Landscape of Prince Rupert
Kaien Island near Prince Rupert, British Columbia
Jasper, Canada
Athabasca Glacier
Calgary, Canada
$3999
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Canada with the "Vancouver Island & Northern Rockies" tour. This small group journey begins in vibrant Vancouver and takes you through the stunning Inside Passage, where you can spot whales and sea lions. Immerse yourself in the rich First Nations culture in Smithers and marvel at the towering peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Relax in the soothing Miette Hot Springs and enjoy the awe-inspiring views along the Icefields Parkway. Travel in comfort with private vehicles and ferries, staying in cozy hotels and lodges. With a mix of guided activities and free time, this tour offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Vancouver
Location: Vancouver
Accommodation Name: Century Plaza Hotel & Spa
Arrive at any time.
ACTIVITY: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Day 2: Vancouver/Campbell River
Location: Vancouver, Nanaimo, Campbell River
Accommodation Name: Painter's Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast
Catch a ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo and drive along the Oceanside Route to Campbell River. Visit the museum in the town which respectfully acknowledges the First Nations of North Vancouver Island by preserving, interpreting, and sharing the history of these Nations on the lands now known as Campbell River. After seeing the exhibits at the museum attend an optional dinner with the group.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
TRANSPORT: Hop on a ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo.
TRANSPORT: Sit back and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Nanaimo and Campbell River.
ACTIVITY: Visit the museum in Campbell River which houses collections of historic, archaeological and archival material specifically relating to the First Nations present in the northern Vancouver Island area. Spend an hour seeing the exhibits and learning more about the Liǧʷiɫdax̌ʷ First Nation. See how their lives intertwined with the lands Campbell River Museum now help to preserve, interpret, and share.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 3: Campbell River/Port Hardy
Location: Campbell River, Port Hardy, Alert Bay, Port McNeill
Accommodation Name: Kwa'lilas Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take in the scenery while travelling to Port Hardy at the northern tip of Vancouver Island. Enjoy impressive views of coastline and lush forests. Then take the short ferry ride to Alert Bay and pay a visit to the World's Tallest Totem before visiting the U'mista Cultural Centre, whose mandate is to ensure the survival and preservation of the cultural heritage of the Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw. Walk on some of the trails dotting this tiny island before transferring back to Port McNeill for more free time and an optional happy hour at a local spot. Continue on to Port Hardy in the early evening and check into your hotel.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
TRANSPORT: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy a visit to the U'mista Cultural Centre where the mandate for the cultural society is to ensure the survival of the cultural heritage of the Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw. In November of 1980 the centre opened and featured the permanent collection of "Potlatch". Other exhibits on display include origin stories of the Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw villages as well as historical and contemporary objects that were of importance to their day to day lives.
TRANSPORT: Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
FREE TIME: Spend free time in Port McNeill exploring on your own. Before driving back to Port Hardy the group will meet up at a local restaurant where you can opt to buy dinner.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 4: Port Hardy/Prince Rupert
Location: Port Hardy, Prince Rupert
Accommodation Name: Prestige Oceanview Hotel Prince Rupert
Meals Included: Breakfast
Embark at dawn for a day-long ferry ride through the famous Inside Passage. The glacial fjords provide spectacular scenery along the route and a safe haven for all types of wildlife, including orcas and porpoises.
The ride is long, but spectacular. With a full day to relax, enjoy the scenery, read a book, or dine at the onboard restaurants. Reach Prince Rupert late in the evening.
Additional Information: Due to ferry schedules, there may be layovers at certain stops along the route.
ACTIVITY: Relax aboard the ferry through the stunning Inside Passage. Spot wildlife and soak in the views on one of the most scenic stretches of coastline in the world.
Day 5: Prince Rupert/Smithers
Location: Prince Rupert, Smithers
Accommodation Name: Prestige Hudson Bay Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast
Drive one of the most scenic roads in the world from Prince Rupert to Smithers and discover the First Nations cultures of Northern BC on a day tour around Smithers. Visit the Gitanyow Totems, Battle Hill, and 'Ksan Museum & Historical Village.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Get immersed in the First Nations culture of Northern BC. Start by visiting the Gitwangak National Historic Site and learn about the fort and battles fought by the warrior Nekt on Battle Hill. After, stop at the Hazeltons, an area with one of the highest concentrations of totem poles in the world, with over 50 standing poles. Wrap up the day with a tour of the Ksan museum and historical village.
Day 6: Smithers
Location: Smithers
Accommodation Name: Prestige Hudson Bay Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a free day to explore the wilderness around Smithers. Opt to visit Moricetown Canyon or hike one of many trails in the area.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Take advantage of free time in the Canadian wilderness. Opt to visit a Provincial Park or go for a hike.
Day 7: Smithers/Prince George
Location: Smithers, Prince George
Accommodation Name: Coast Prince George Hotel by APA
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a visit to Twin Falls after breakfast and then spend free time in Smithers before travelling to Prince George, the largest city in Northern British Columbia.
FREE TIME: MORNING Take advantage of a final morning for outdoor activities around Smithers.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Day 8: Prince George/Jasper
Location: Jasper National Park
Accommodation Name: Jasper Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel to Jasper National Park. En route, stop at the tallest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, Mount Robson. Visit the Interpretation Centre, and go for a short hike to take in the views.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Stop at the visitor centre and, if it’s a clear day, see the top of the Mount Robson, the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies.
Day 9: Jasper
Location: Jasper
Accommodation Name: Jasper Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a free day to explore Jasper National Park. Opt to hike at Maligne Canyon, cross the lake on a boat cruise, or join a scenic river rafting tour. In the evening, visit the Miette Hot Springs.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Prepare for an exciting day! With lots of optional activities and incredible scenery, you're guaranteed to have an unforgettable day in Jasper.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy the stunning landscape of lakes and mountains as you drive to the hot springs. Soak in one of the four pools as you take in the peaceful panoramic views.
ACTIVITY: Jasper National Park might be less known, but no less mighty. As the largest park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper is wild in every sense of the word. Experience mountain landscapes complete with waterfalls, canyons, glacier lakes, and the Columbia Icefield. Get out and explore on rugged backcountry trails chock-full of wildlife and take part in outdoor activities like, mountain biking or kayaking to experience the true essence and beauty of this impressive park.
Day 10: Jasper/Canmore
Location: Jasper, Columbia Icefield, Canmore
Accommodation Name: Quality Chateau Canmore
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel to Canmore via one of the most scenic drives in the world, the Icefields Parkway. Stop at the Columbia Icefield en route.
Along the 300km (186.4 mi) ride, a spectacle unfolds before our eyes: lush coniferous forests, immense mountains, turquoise lakes, high-falling cascades, and humbling glaciers. We stop a number of times along the way to take in the scenery and search for wildlife.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: View one of the Rockies' largest and most accessible active glaciers. The Athabasca Glacier recedes at a rate of nearly 5m (16.4 ft) a year. See this natural beauty while you still can.
ACTIVITY: The Icefields Parkway is a breathtaking drive situated between Banff and Jasper National Parks in Alberta, Canada. Experience the wild beauty of the Canadian Rockies on a winding drive through jagged mountain peaks and past glaciers feeding into brilliant blue lakes. Along the way expect to see postcard mountain vistas, huge valleys, and loads of hiking trails that will get you out and about in this truly incredible area.
Day 11: Canmore/Calgary
Location: Canmore, Calgary
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel to Calgary, a modern city that honours its cowboy roots. Tour ends on arrival to Calgary.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotels (6 nts), lodges (4 nts). -
Meals
10 breakfasts -
Welcome Moment
Meet your CEO and group.
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Wellness Moment
Visit Miette Hot Springs in Jasper National Park.
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Inside Passage Cruise
Experience a cruise through the Inside Passage.
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First Nations Day Tour
Immerse yourself in First Nations culture with a day tour.
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Mt Robson Stop
Visit the Interpretation Centre at Mt Robson.
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Miette Hot Springs Visit
Enjoy a visit to the Miette Hot Springs.
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Icefields Parkway Drive
Drive along the scenic Icefields Parkway.
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Columbia Icefield Stop
Stop at the Columbia Icefield.
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Free Time
Enjoy free time in Smithers and Jasper National Park.
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Transport
All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
What's Not Included
Tipping and Gratuities
Tipping and gratuities are not included.
Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable stays in hotels for 6 nights and lodges for 4 nights, providing a cozy retreat after each day's adventure.
Transport
Private vehicle, ferry, walking.
Meals Included
10 breakfasts
Group Size
Max 12, avg 11.
Solo Travellers
We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price. ...more ...less
Meals
All included meals will be prepared from goods bought en route from supermarkets, local shops and markets. Breakfasts will generally consist of breads and cereals, if time allows a warm breakfast may be prepared. Many lunches will be provided en-route and will be light meals such as sandwiches and/or salads. All evening meals will be freshly-prepared hot meals, and will consist of a variety of continental and local dishes. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with a private vehicle, ferry rides, and walking tours, ensuring a seamless and scenic journey through the stunning landscapes.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12. You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Important Notes
1. TRAVEL DAYS
In order to cover the vast distance in Noth America to be able to visit several different parks and cities along our trip, we will have a couple of long driving days.
2. HIKES AND WALKS
All walks and hikes proposed by our CEO will be easy to moderate level. You may choose to participate or not, but exploring our national parks on foot is part of our way of travelling. It’s a healthy way to discover North America’s beauty and landscape.
3. COMBO TRIP
Please note that some trips could be a combination of multiple G Adventure tours. You should expect some group members to join or leave the tour between tour segments.
4. LEGAL DRINKING AGE
Please note that the legal drinking age in the United States is 21 and in Canada, 19 (with Alberta and Quebec at 18). Many bars and clubs will ask for ID at the door, therefore listening to live music in certain bars or spending a night out is not possible when you are under the legal age, even if you don't plan on consuming alcohol. Drinking laws in both countries are strictly enforced and our CEOs are unable to help those under age obtain alcohol of any kind.
While this should not stop those under legal drinking age from booking a tour, it is important to note that if a traveller is under-age there are certain optional nighttime activities that they may not legally be able to participate in. When trying to book the right trip, we recommend that travellers under legal drinking age take this into consideration when booking a tour that visits several big cities.
5. ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.
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Group Leader
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The CEO will be the group manager, leader and driver - this person is experienced in the routes travelled and will organize and lead the meal preparations and has experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.
As the group coordinator and manager, the aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. They will also offer suggestions for things to do and to see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends.
We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
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About Accommodation
This trip uses comfortable 3 star hotels, lodges and inns, well located in cities or near park entrances. Our chosen hotels vary in size, character, and amenities, but are of a very good standard, and the rooms are double occupancy with a private bathroom.
What to Take
You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible.
For days in the outdoors, we recommend the use of lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics made of wool or synthetic fibers. Cotton is not recommended for days spent hiking as it does not allow for heat or moisture to enter or escape, and it will not dry easily once wet.
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. Heavy luggage is not recommended for the health of the CEO, who will take a lead in loading the storage trailer. Due to space in the trailer, we will not be able to accommodate more than one piece of main luggage per person. A good size day-pack (20-35L) is also essential to carry your personal gear for the day, as access to luggage between destinations will be limited. This daypack will be used to carry your personal gear for the day, your lunch and a water bottle.
It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a light jacket. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.
NOTE: Mountains in the Canadian Rockies can have unpredictable weather with snow and heavy rain even in Summer time. Spring time could be snowy (until end of June) and fall season could start as soon as mid-August. Make sure you have equipment and clothing for all conditions!
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Spending Money
Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip. ...more ...less
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife might I see during the Inside Passage ferry ride?
During the Inside Passage ferry ride, you might see a variety of wildlife including orcas and porpoises, as the glacial fjords provide a safe haven for these animals.
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What cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes several cultural experiences such as a visit to the U'mista Cultural Centre to learn about the Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw cultural heritage, a day tour around Smithers to discover First Nations cultures, and a visit to the Gitanyow Totems and 'Ksan Museum & Historical Village. ...more ...less
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What activities are available in Jasper National Park?
In Jasper National Park, you can opt to hike at Maligne Canyon, take a boat cruise across the lake, join a scenic river rafting tour, or visit the Miette Hot Springs.
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What is the accommodation like during the tour?
The accommodation during the tour consists of comfortable 3-star hotels, lodges, and inns, well located in cities or near park entrances. The rooms are double occupancy with a private bathroom.
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What is the role of the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) on this tour?
The Chief Experience Officer (CEO) is the group manager, leader, and driver. They are experienced in the routes traveled, organize and lead meal preparations, and have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited. They also offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend local eating venues, and introduce you to local friends. ...more ...less
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What should I pack for the tour?
You should pack lightly, with clothes for warm days and cool evenings, and a light jacket. It's recommended to use lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics for outdoor days. A backpack or medium-sized suitcase is advised, along with a good size day-pack (20-35L) for personal gear. Be prepared for unpredictable weather in the Canadian Rockies, including snow and heavy rain.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this operator
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Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Vancouver Island & Northern Rockies
11 Days Starting in Vancouver, Canada and ending in Calgary, Canada
Visiting: Vancouver, Nanaimo, Campbell River, Port Hardy, Alert Bay, Port McNeill, Prince Rupert, Smithers, Prince George, Jasper National Park, Jasper, Columbia Icefield, Canmore, Calgary ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
24918
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
12-
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
