Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta - Classic Group
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Alberta with the "Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta - Classic Group" tour. This adventure takes you from the serene beauty of Kananaskis to the majestic peaks of Jasper and Banff National Parks. Experience the vibrant turquoise waters of Moraine Lake, the awe-inspiring Icefields Parkway, and the serene Maligne Lake. Delve into the rich history and culture of the Rocky Mountains at the Whyte Museum and enjoy authentic dining experiences at iconic locations like the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Connect with nature and First Nations culture on a guided walk in the Boreal forest. Travel in comfort aboard a luxurious, air-conditioned coach, and stay in stunning accommodations with views of the Canadian Rockies. This tour promises a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation amidst some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Kananaskis
Location: Calgary, Kananaskis
Accommodation: Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National Park
Accommodation Name: Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Autograph Collection
Meals Included: Dinner
Arrive in Calgary and transfer to Kananaskis, where you'll Check in at the Kananaskis Mountain Lodge. In the evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a delightful dinner, followed by time to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings of Kananaskis Provincial Park.
Day 2: Journey to Jasper
Location: Jasper
Accommodation: Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National Park
Accommodation Name: Forest Park Hotel, Jasper National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your day begins with a drive from Kananaskis toward Jasper. Upon arrival, explore the rugged beauty of Jasper National Park or unwind in its peaceful surroundings. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.
Day 3: Exploring Jasper Relaxed Start
Location: Jasper National Park
Accommodation: Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National Park
Accommodation Name: Forest Park Hotel, Jasper National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin your day with a guided walk through Maligne Canyon, exploring its limestone gorges and waterfalls. Then, take a scenic cruise on Maligne Lake, soaking in views of Spirit Island. In the afternoon, join an optional float trip along the serene Athabasca River. Spend the evening at leisure, relaxing or exploring Jasper’s charming town centre.
Day 4: Glacier Adventure Relaxed Start
Location: Jasper National Park
Accommodation: Glacier View Lodge, Jasper National Park
Accommodation Name: Glacier View Lodge, Jasper National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, you'll visit Athabasca Falls, a breathtaking natural wonder renowned for its powerful and mesmerising beauty, before departing Jasper on the Columbia Icefields Parkway. A warm welcome greets you at the country’s first and only glacier-view resort over a champagne reception and nibbles. Before dinner, take advantage of the long daylight hours and set out for an after-hours visit to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-floored walkway above the Sunwapta Valley featuring waterfalls and wildlife. After your Skywalk visit, indulge in a delicious, Canadian inspired, locally sourced dinner, sip cocktails and marvel at the spectacular glacier views that wrap the restaurant.
Day 5: Lakes, Mountains and Glaciers
Location: Columbia Icefield, Icefields Parkway, Yoho National Park, Banff National Park
Accommodation: The Crimson, Jasper National Park
Accommodation Name: Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Begin your day with an exclusive experience before the crowds arrive, with the Columbia Icefield Glacier Adventure. Step onto the vast ice mass to enjoy early access to this breathtaking natural wonder, setting the stage for a truly memorable day. Enjoy the drive along the Icefields Parkway, renowned as one of the most beautiful journeys in the world, through the soaring mountains, icefields and sweeping valleys. Then explore Yoho National Park, known for its stunning waterfalls and dramatic landscapes. Arrive at the Fairmont Banff Springs for a relaxing evening, with time to unwind or explore Banff National Park at your leisure.
Day 6: A Trip to Lake Louise Relaxed Start
Location: Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Banff National Park
Accommodation: The Crimson, Jasper National Park
Accommodation Name: Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Make your way to Moraine Lake (seasonal) – the largest glacially fed lake in Canada – for a photo stop before a decadent lunch at Chateau Lake Louise. Marvel as you're surrounded by soaring peaks and the majesty of the Victoria Glacier. Capture a photo or two of the turquoise Lake Louise and rugged backdrop of one of the most famous mountain vistas in the world. Next, enjoy a scenic drive through Banff National Park, visiting the Hoodoos and Surprise Corner before returning to the hotel for a relaxing evening.
Day 7: Exploring Banff
Location: Banff
Accommodation: Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Autograph Collection
Accommodation Name: Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Connect with nature as you join a memorable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a First Nations Cree Iroquois Local Expert. Discover First Nations culture, such as how plants and animals like bears hold great significance. This authentic dive into the First Nations Cree community is not only enlightening but also helps assure the sustainability of the community and culture. Embark on a guided walk in the Boreal Forest and learn the Indigenous world of plant medicines as well as the historical and modern-day uses of plants and listen to fascinating stories about the First Nations. This afternoon, visit The Whyte Museum and enjoy artwork inspired by the local Rockies. Or, learn about the history of the Fairmont Banff Springs from a knowledgeable ambassador. Hear stories of events that took place around and at this hotel and receive a self-guided map of highlight locations for you to discover. End the day with an optional helicopter tour and a dinner in Banff.
Day 8: Farewell Canada
Location: Calgary
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, you are transferred to Calgary Airport where your journey comes to an end. Arrival time at airport is approximately 12:00.
What's Included
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Luxury Coach Travel
Travel in comfort aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
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Guided Walks and Tours
Enjoy guided walks and tours, including a walk through Maligne Canyon and a narrated cruise on Maligne Lake.
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Cultural Experiences
Engage in cultural experiences such as learning about First Nations culture with a Cree Iroquois Local Expert.
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Scenic Drives
Experience scenic drives along the Icefields Parkway, one of the most beautiful journeys in the world.
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Exclusive Glacier Access
Enjoy early access to the Columbia Icefield Glacier Adventure and an after-hours visit to the Glacier Skywalk.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as helicopter flights and rafting trips are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
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Flights
International and domestic flights to and from Calgary are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. The customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and maintained to very high standards.
Accommodation
Stay at the historic Fairmont Banff Springs in Banff National Park, the Glacier View Lodge in Jasper National Park, and the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge. Enjoy luxurious amenities and stunning views of the Canadian Rockies throughout your journey.
Dining Summary
- 7 Breakfast (B)
- 3 Dinner (D)
- 1 Lunch with Wine (LW)
Insight Experiences
- Icefields Parkway: Take a seat in a specially designed Ice Explorer for a visit onto the Athabasca Glacier before other travellers arrive. Follow your Local Expert as you stroll on its icy surface and experience the enormous glaciers up close.
- Athabasca Glacier: With the opportunity to get up close to nature's breathtaking power, Athabasca Falls is an experience not to be missed. Here, the Athabasca River crashes through a narrow gorge with immense force, its thundering waters and dramatic drop offering incredible photo opportunities to capture the raw beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
- Icefields Parkway: Enjoy an after-hours visit to the amazing Glacier Skywalk. Step onto the cliff-edged, glass-floored walkway rising 918 ft (280 meters) above the Sunwapta Valley offering sweeping views of the valley and Columbia Icefield.
- Icefields Parkway: After a delicious dinner, step out onto the viewing deck and stargaze. As you marvel at the dark night sky, relax with a drink in the library or hang out inside the Moraine Lounge with games and live entertainment. The perfect way to end any night.
Summary
- Visit Banff National Park • Lake Louise • Jasper National Park • Moraine Lake • Icefields Parkway scenic drive • Maligne Lake • Sunwapta Falls • Athabasca Falls • Maligne Canyon.
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a guided walk through Maligne Canyon, a scenic cruise on Maligne Lake, an after-hours visit to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, and a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a First Nations Cree Iroquois Local Expert.
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What kind of dining experiences can I expect on this tour?
You will enjoy a variety of dining experiences including a dinner at the historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, an evening reception at the Glacier View Lodge, and a flavourful dinner at the Kananaskis Mountain Lodge. Additionally, there is a decadent lunch at Chateau Lake Louise. ...more ...less
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What is the transportation like during the tour?
Travel is in comfort aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and an onboard washroom. The coaches are sanitized before the start of the tour and maintained to very high standards.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, optional activities such as helicopter flights and rafting trips are available but not included in the tour package.
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
Accommodation includes stays at the historic Fairmont Banff Springs in Banff National Park, the Glacier View Lodge in Jasper National Park, and the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, all offering luxurious amenities and stunning views of the Canadian Rockies.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD 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 insight vacations 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.
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Terms and Conditions
Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta - Classic Group
8 Days Starting and ending in Calgary, Canada
Visiting: Calgary, Kananaskis, Jasper, Jasper National Park, Columbia Icefield, Icefields Parkway, Yoho National Park, Banff National Park, Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Banff ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
AGVLM26
Guide Type:
Fully Guided