Vancouver Island Discovery - 8 days
Vancouver Island Discovery - 8 days
Vancouver Island Discovery - 8 days
8 Days Starting in Vancouver, Canada and ending in Nanaimo, Canada
Visiting: Victoria, Tofino, Campbell River, Nanaimo
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 22
Age range:
6-
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Tour Overview
Embark on an 8-day adventure with the "Vancouver Island Discovery" tour, exploring the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant towns of Vancouver Island. Begin your journey in Vancouver with a scenic ferry ride to Victoria, where you'll visit the renowned Butchart Gardens and enjoy a cider tasting. Conquer the Malahat Skywalk for stunning vistas, and explore the cultural significance of Meares Island's Big Tree Trail. In Tofino, indulge in activities like hiking, kayaking, and surfing, or simply relax on its magnificent beaches. Discover the charm of Campbell River with optional bear and whale watching, and stroll through Nanaimo's Harbourfront, savoring the famous Nanaimo Bar. Travel in comfort with all transportation provided, and stay in 3-4 star hotels, making this an unforgettable adventure.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Vancouver
Location: Victoria
Accommodation Name: hotel in downtown Victoria
Vancouver - Victoria. We depart from downtown Vancouver at 9:15 am (please arrive no later than 9:00 am). Start the day with a picturesque ferry ride through the Gulf Islands. Upon arrival in Vancouver Island, we pay a visit to the renowned Butchart Gardens. Afterwards, we head to Sea Cider for a tour and indulge in some cider tasting. Once we reach Victoria, it's time to check into our conveniently located hotel in downtown Victoria. Spend the evening at leisure to further explore the city, Vancouver Island's capital.
Day 2: Victoria
Location: Victoria
Accommodation Name: hotel in downtown Victoria
Meals Included: Breakfast
Victoria. Embark on a tour of Victoria, visiting highlights including Beacon Hill Park, Chinatown, Fan Tan Alley, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Government Street. The rest of the day is yours to spend as you please. Consider taking a leisurely walk along Government Street or visiting the renowned Royal BC Museum. Additionally, there is the option to tuck into Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel.
Day 3: Tofino
Location: Tofino
Accommodation Name: hotel in Tofino
Meals Included: Breakfast
Victoria - Tofino. Wake up early and journey along the Malahat Highway, enjoying memorable panoramic views of the Southern Gulf Islands enroute. We make make a stop at the Malahat SkyWalk to stretch our legs, and partake in a 600-metre long elevated walkway over the lush Arbutus and Douglas Fir forest. The walkway leads to a 10-story spiral lookout tower - a unique architectural marvel in British Columbia. The tower stands 250 metres above sea level, and offers stunning 360-degree views of the area including islands, inlets, fjords, forest and mountains, which span across two countries.
After an exhilarating excursion, we take some time in Duncan for a tour of the City of Totems, and free time to relax for lunch. We then carry our journey on to Tofino, and check into our hotel for the night. The guide will provide some recommendations and information for the hotel amenities and places to dine in Tofino.
Day 4: Tofino
Location: Tofino
Accommodation Name: hotel in Tofino
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tofino. Today starts our two day exploration of Tofino and the surrounding area. We begin by venturing out see serene Long Beach. There's an optional hike with the tour guide, if it sounds appealing. We'll then cruise on a Water Taxi to Meares Island, location of the Big Tree Trail - home to some of the most magnificent and largest old-growth trees in the region.
Meares Island is considered a scared place, with vast spiritual and cultural significance in the area. It is home to the Tla-o-qui-aht, who have called this island home for thousands of years. The island is referred to as the "Waa'kas," translating to "mountain in the sea." After we've had plenty of time to explore, we return to Tofino for a free evening.
Day 5: Tofino
Location: Tofino
Accommodation Name: hotel in Tofino
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tofino. Our second day in Tofino is completely free for you to do as much or as little as you like. Unwind in the hotel, head out on one of the area's many hiking trails or participate in a wide array of activities such as kayaking, surfing, or a boat cruise to Hot Springs Cove. Your guide will be able to help you get the most from the day. Take the rest of the evening to further explore the quaint town of Tofino.
Day 6: Campbell River
Location: Campbell River
Accommodation Name: hotel in Campbell River
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tofino - Campbell River. We say goodbye to Tofino and depart east to the other side of
Vancouver Island. Our first stop is at Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park, where we take a stroll through the magnificent old-growth Douglas Fir rainforest. Then it's onwards to Coombs Market for lunch. Browse the finest fresh produce, delicious sandwiches and best ice cream the island has to offer.
We'll continue along the Coastal Highway 19A, traversing through coastal communities and stunning landscapes, eventually stopping for dinner in Comox. Our final destination is Campbell River, where we check into our hotel for the night.
Day 7: Campbell River
Location: Campbell River
Accommodation Name: hotel in Campbell River
Meals Included: Breakfast
Campbell River. This morning is free to relax or embark on an array of optional activities, including fishing, kayaking and whale watching (additional cost). There's an optional Grizzly Bear expedition, venturing into the Bute or Toba Valley (August 18th - October 15th). We then make our way to Elk Falls Provincial Park, which hosts a selection of walking and hiking trails, including the magnificent Elk Falls Suspension Bridge - not to be missed. Elk Falls is also home to an elevated cantilevered viewing platform, showcasing panoramic views of Elk Falls. Unwind back at the hotel, and browse the local area for dinner.
Day 8: Nanaimo
Location: Nanaimo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Campbell River - Nanaimo - Vancouver. On our final day of the tour, we head for Morningstar Farm - Parksville. The farm serves as a local food hub offering self-guided tours, a farmgate store, a seasonal café, petting farm and trails. We then make our way to Nanaimo for a leisurely stroll on the harbourfront. While there, be sure to try one of the famous Nanaimo bars - a must try for anyone with a sweet tooth. We catch the 3:55 pm ferry to Horseshoe Bay, completing our round trip. Schedule permitting, we aim to arrive back in downtown Vancouver for 6:30 pm.
Please note: The tour itinerary may be adjusted at the time of travel due to unforeseen circumstances, such as weather, road closures, and traffic.
What's Included
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7 breakfasts
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7 nights 3-4 star hotels
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Escorted by an experienced, friendly and fun tour guide
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All relevant transportation in a private minibus or coach
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Water taxi to Meares Island & the Big Tree Trail
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BC Ferries to Vancouver Island (round trip fees included)
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Sightseeing and free time in Tofino and Campbell River
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Sea Cider Tasting
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Admission to Butchart Gardens & Malahat SkyWalk
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One piece of luggage and a small backpack or handbag per guest
What's Not Included
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International flights & visas
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Airport transfers
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Travel Insurance
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Any meals or drinks not specified in the inclusions
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Optional activities
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Items of a personal nature
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Tips for your tour guide - an entirely personal gesture!
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort with all relevant transportation provided in a private minibus or coach, including a picturesque ferry ride through the Gulf Islands and a water taxi to Meares Island.
Accommodation
Enjoy 7 nights in comfortable 3-4 star hotels, conveniently located to enhance your exploration of Vancouver Island's stunning landscapes and vibrant towns.
Age Policy
Minimum age 6 (19 for any included wine / cider tasting). No maximum age.Child discounts for 2-12 yr olds and also 13-18 yr olds (lower discount) - child prices in Lemax
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 7 nights in comfortable 3-4 star hotels, conveniently located to enhance your exploration of Vancouver Island's stunning landscapes and vibrant towns.
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What kind of transportation is included in the tour?
All relevant transportation is provided in a private minibus or coach, including a picturesque ferry ride through the Gulf Islands and a water taxi to Meares Island.
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What activities are available in Tofino?
In Tofino, you can explore magnificent beaches, enjoy hiking, rainforest trails, kayaking, surfing, and other activities. There is also an optional hike with the tour guide and a water taxi ride to Meares Island for the Big Tree Trail.
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Is there any free time during the tour?
Yes, there is free time allocated in various locations such as Victoria, Tofino, and Campbell River for you to explore at your own pace or participate in optional activities.
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What optional activities are available in Campbell River?
In Campbell River, you can participate in optional activities such as fishing, kayaking, whale watching, and a Grizzly Bear expedition (available from August 18th to October 15th).
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What is the minimum age requirement for the tour?
The minimum age for the tour is 6 years old. For any included wine or cider tasting, the minimum age is 19.
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Are there any child discounts available?
Yes, there are child discounts available for children aged 2-12 years old and also for those aged 13-18 years old, although the discount is lower for the older age group.
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What is the significance of Meares Island?
Meares Island is considered a sacred place with vast spiritual and cultural significance. It is home to the Tla-o-qui-aht, who have called this island home for thousands of years. The island is referred to as the 'Waa'kas,' translating to 'mountain in the sea.'
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What should I expect at the Malahat SkyWalk?
The Malahat SkyWalk features a 600-metre long elevated walkway over the lush Arbutus and Douglas Fir forest, leading to a 10-story spiral lookout tower. The tower stands 250 metres above sea level and offers stunning 360-degree views of the area, including islands, inlets, fjords, forest, and mountains, spanning across two countries.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 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 on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.