Canadian Bears & the Rocky Mountaineer Circle Trip
25 Days – Various Dates Summer Months
from $26,995 per person based on 2 sharing
Trip Style: Rail, Nature, Touring, Independent, Luxury, Safari, Group
Share
Included:
- Return Air Canada Flights in economy
- 4 star accommodation for 5 nights Self Drive itinerary
- SUV Car Rental 9 days
- 3 nights All Inclusive Safari at the Great Bear Lodge (Meals, Drinks, Sightseeing activities, Sea Plane Transfers)
- 1 night pre tour Accommodation at the Pan Pacific with Rocky Mountaineer
- 14 night Best of the Rockies Circle Journey with Rocky Mountaineer in Gold Leaf Standard Rooms
- All airport Taxes
Not Included:
- Travel Insurance
- Vancouver airport Transfers (optional)
- Visas
Prices are subject to availability and may fluctuate depending on the season.
Operators:
This trip was designed by combining two separate holidays taken by our customers in 2023. The first one was an extraordinary journey aboard the Rocky Mountaineer on their famous circle tour. A few months earlier, one of our customers Giuliana who kindly sent us the image of the bear above, took off on an independent tour of Victoria and a seaplane to the Great Bear Lodge. The remarkable Great Bear Lodge presents an immersive wildlife retreat like no other. Surrounded by lush rainforests, pristine rivers, and abundant wildlife, this lodge provides a front-row seat to untouched natural beauty. What sets it apart is its exclusive focus on grizzly bear viewing, with expert guides and eco-friendly practices, offering you more than just wildlife observation but a profound connection to the environment. Complementing this incredible adventure, Rocky Mountaineer, renowned for its luxury and captivating scenery, will take you on a stress-free journey through the Canadian Rockies. As you travel, you’ll savour incredible views of snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes, and lush forests, all within the comfort of spacious rail cars featuring gourmet dining and engaging onboard commentary.
Combined they give you an emersion into the West Coast of Canada unlike anything else you will have done before. If you have the time, why not extend your trip with an Alaskan Cruise departing from Vancouver?
Day 1
Flight – Air Canada
There are several options to choose from on your flight to Vancouver depending on which time suits you best.
Day 1-3
Victoria, Canada
Welcome to Victoria, while maintaining its British charm, has evolved into a vibrant city that offers more than just tearooms and antique shops. Fueled by a younger generation, the city now boasts an array of trendy boutiques, authentic coffee shops, and distinctive eateries. Additionally, Victoria takes pride in having an extensive network of cycling routes, surpassing all other Canadian cities. This provides an excellent means to discover the picturesque surroundings while steering clear of a traditional afternoon of antiquing. Whether you’re seeking a taste of British heritage or a contemporary urban adventure, Victoria caters to a diverse range of interests and experiences.
Day 3-4
Campbell River, Canada
Campbell River is a hidden gem that seamlessly blends natural beauty with outdoor adventures. Nestled on the eastern shore of Vancouver Island, this coastal community is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With its proximity to the stunning Strathcona Provincial Park and Discovery Passage, you can immerse yourself in activities like hiking, wildlife viewing, and world-class salmon fishing. Experience the thrill of whale watching, explore the lush forests, and savor fresh seafood at local restaurants. Campbell River is your gateway to rugged wilderness, cultural exploration, and unforgettable marine experiences, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Day 4-9
Port Hardy, Canada - Great Bear Lodge
Welcome to the Great Bear Lodge, a sanctuary for experiences like no other offered by Great Bear Nature Tours. From early May to October, we invite you to embark on extraordinary grizzly bear viewing excursions in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest, celebrated as one of the world’s foremost destinations for observing grizzlies and other magnificent wildlife. Located on the traditional lands of the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nation, they proudly hold the distinction of being recognized as one of the Best Adventure Travel Companies on Earth by National Geographic Adventure. This wilderness lodge, nestled at the confluence of a pristine salmon river, serves as your ideal haven for wildlife photography and guided viewing tours. Savor wilderness-gourmet meals following each of your two daily viewing sessions. With a limited number of guests, we ensure a personalized wilderness adventure in this remarkable area. While witnessing the grandeur of grizzly bears is just the beginning, a journey with us will foster a deep appreciation for the natural world.
Day 9-10
Vancouver, Canada
Welcome to Vancouver!
Take full advantage of the day with the freedom to unwind or curate your own activities at your pace. Vancouver offers a diverse array of activities catering to all interests. You can explore the charming historic district of Gastown, indulge in a delightful dining experience in the lively Yaletown, or savour a leisurely stroll along the enchanting Stanley Park Seawall.
Day 10-24
Rocky Mountaineer, Best of the Rockies Circle Journey
Rocky Mountaineer, your trusted guide through majestic landscapes aboard luxury trains for over three decades. Their expansive glass-dome coaches provide unrivalled views of nature’s grandeur, while onboard, you’ll enjoy engaging storytelling, regionally-inspired cuisine, and exceptional service.
The extraordinary journey that awaits you is meticulously outlined in the itinerary below. When you’re ready to transform this dream into a reality, the dedicated team stands ready to make it happen, eagerly anticipating the pleasure of welcoming you on board!
Day 10-11
Vancouver, Canada
Welcome to Vancouver!
Here you will be staying at the legendary Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, often referred to as the ‘Castle in the City,’ which has been a symbol of timeless elegance and luxury since its establishment in 1939. Situated in a prime downtown location just minutes away from Vancouver’s major attractions.
Today you have a free day to explore at your leisure.
Day 11-12
Vancouver To Kamloops
Embark on a scenic journey from Vancouver to Kamloops, deep in the heart of British Columbia’s interior. On today’s ride, you’ll experience a captivating shift in landscapes, starting from the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley. The route takes you through forests, meandering river canyons, and the imposing peaks of the Coast and Cascade Mountains, before reaching the more arid BC Interior.
The journey features exciting moments such as the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the striking slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River. While on board, enjoy a satisfying breakfast and lunch to complement your travel experience. Your day concludes as the Rocky Mountaineer follows the serene shores of Kamloops Lake, guiding you to Kamloops itself.
Expect to arrive in Kamloops between 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM. Whether you choose to explore the city of Kamloops or unwind in your hotel room, the evening is yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Day 12
Kamloops to Banff, Canada
Step aboard the Rocky Mountaineer at Kamloops Station, and continue your journey eastward to the mighty Canadian Rockies and the province of Alberta. Along this scenic route, you’ll travel across ranchlands, hug rocky lakeshores, cross high mountain passes, and pass through remarkable tunnels, all of which contribute to the rich rail history of the Canadian Rockies.
Notable highlights of this leg of your journey include Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, the ascent over Rogers Pass, the dramatic Kicking Horse Canyon, the fascinating Spiral Tunnels, and the breathtaking glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies.
Day 12-17
Banff and Lake Louise, Canada
Enjoy two leisurely days to unwind and curate activities at your own pace. Banff offers a wide array of options for all interests. You can ride the gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain, unwind in the soothing Banff hot springs, explore the vibrant town, or embark on outdoor wildlife adventures.
On your final day in Banff you will enjoy a picturesque transfer to Lake Louise, with delightful stops along the way, including the captivating Emerald Lake. The tour concludes in Lake Louise, where you’ll have the rest of the afternoon and the following day at your disposal to revel in the splendour of this magnificent location.
Day 17-20
Lake Louise to Jasper, Canada
Embark on a full-day sightseeing tour along the Icefields Parkway, renowned as one of the world’s most breathtaking highways. The day’s highlight is an exploration of the Columbia Icefield, where you’ll partake in an exhilarating Ice Explorer ride across the Athabasca Glacier and visit the Glacier Skywalk. Your journey also includes a stop at the Columbia Icefield Centre, where you can enjoy a leisurely lunch (included) before continuing your route northward to Jasper.
Your stay in Jasper will be at the renowned Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, an iconic luxury mountain resort located within the stunning Jasper National Park, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Covering 700 acres, this year-round destination is a sanctuary of natural beauty, nestled along the serene shores of Lac Beauvert and home to Canada’s top-rated Golf Resort Course.
The resort’s inviting village features charming cedar chalets and cabins interconnected by picturesque pathways, providing guests with exclusive access to explore the pristine natural surroundings that envelop the resort. A memorable escape awaits in this captivating mountain haven.
Day 20-21
Jasper To Quesnel, Canada
Embark on a scenic journey aboard the Rocky Mountaineer from the mountain retreat of Jasper in the Canadian Rockies to the quaint rural town of Quesnel, known as the gateway to the North Cariboo. Traverse the picturesque Rocky Mountain Trench, with the towering Rocky and Cariboo Mountains flanking either side. Your route then meanders through the rolling hills and expansive forests of British Columbia’s Northern Interior.
Notable highlights of the journey encompass the sight of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, the crossing of Yellowhead Pass, and a glimpse of Moose Lake. While on board, enjoy a delectable breakfast and lunch (included). Your day comes to a close as the Rocky Mountaineer passes through the charming town of Prince George and follows the enchanting Fraser River, ultimately leading you to Quesnel.
Anticipate your arrival in Quesnel between 6:45 PM and 8:45 PM.
Day 21-22
Quesnel To Whistler, Canada
Continue your southbound journey to the four-season resort of Whistler, taking in a diverse and breathtaking landscape. Your route encompasses a transition from the arid conditions of the Fraser Canyon to the expansive ranchlands of the Cariboo Plateau, through river canyons, and into the lush farmlands of the Pemberton Valley.
Highlights include sweeping vistas of the Fraser Canyon, a crossing of the towering Deep Creek Bridge, recognized as one of the world’s highest railway bridges, and the picturesque shorelines of glacial-fed Seton Lake and Anderson Lake. To enhance your journey, breakfast and lunch are included on board.
Your rail adventure concludes upon reaching Pemberton, expected between 6:45 PM and 8:45 PM. From Pemberton, you will be transferred by motorcoach to Whistler, which played host to the alpine events of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, where you will spend the night.
Day 22-24
Whistler to Vancouver, Canada
In the afternoon, embark on your return journey to Vancouver via the Rocky Mountaineer, traversing the captivating landscapes of the Sea to Sky Corridor. Along this scenic route, you’ll encounter a host of highlights, including the majestic Cheakamus Canyon, the striking dome peak of Mount Garibaldi, the enchanting Brandywine Falls, and vistas of Howe Sound and the Coast Mountains.
During the afternoon, a delightful meal is served in a canapé style. Anticipate your arrival in North Vancouver between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM.
Following your return to Vancouver, you’ll have a free day to explore this vibrant city at your own pace.
Day 24
Overnight flight, Vancouver
Depart your hotel in Vancouver and transfer to Vancouver International Airport where we will fly home via Air Canada.
Book Now!
Speak to a Travel Expert now on 07 3569 3699 or complete the form below to request a call back.
