Mountain Rails (Eastbound): Vancouver, Kamloops, Jasper, Calgary & More
- Duration
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 4,991
FIRST-CLASS | RAIL TOUR: A daylight train journey to experience the Canadian Rockies is on many bucket lists. This trip starts in fabulous Vancouver at the Pacific Coast, takes in a visit to lovely Victoria before you board the Rocky Mountaineer. Magnificent landscapes set the tone for the entire trip, from British Columbia’s lush and wild interior to the majesty of Alberta’s mountains and its world-renowned resorts of Jasper and Banff.
This first-class 8-day rail tour whisks you through fairytale-like mountains on the journey of a lifetime as you explore the magic of Canada’s west coast, beginning in bustling Vancouver and scenic Victoria before boarding the Rocky Mountaineer. Allow yourself to be whirled into the wild forests of British Columbia where anything can happen, then swept onwards into the beauty of Alberta’s mountains as you carve out a space for your own adventure in the world-renowned resort towns of Jasper and Banff.
It all begins in Vancouver, where you’ll have a full day to explore the largest city in Western Canada. There’s something for everyone in this seaport, where urban streets and beautiful nature exist side-by-side in harmony. There’s no better example than the famous Stanley Park, whose sprawling 400-hectare grounds boast ocean, mountain, and city views along its Seawall, giving you the option of strolling or biking on its pathways. Heading into the city core will bring you to happening neighbourhoods like Yaletown or Gastown, where there’s no shortage of art galleries, eclectic eateries, and local breweries.
Don’t forget your camera as you cruise through the Gulf Islands, making a stop at the Butchart Gardens. The colours of this floral oasis feel like a scene from Alice in Wonderland, except it’s a real horticultural spectacle over 100 years in the making. After you escape its spell, your ferry will land in Victoria for the next stop on your list, where you’ll soak up some culture with a city sightseeing tour. Learn about historic locations like the Royal British Columbia Museum, Thunderbird Park, the Parliament Buildings, and more, all while getting a peek at some of Victoria’s finest properties in neighbourhoods like the Uplands and Oak Bay, none of which are lacking on the garden front.
All aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, where you’ll enjoy first-class luxury from Vancouver to Kamloops, revelling in sweeping mountain views outside your window with an included breakfast and lunch. Stay alert as you hurtle into the wild interior of British Columbia, where the scenery unfolds from green thickets to spiralling river canyons, feeling like you’re in a movie as the peaks of the Coast and Cascade Mountains loom before your eyes. Water will be a common theme as you continue inland, arriving in Kamloops for dinner where the North and South Thompson Rivers meet.
Continue northeast the next day as you move into Alberta along the river, giving you unparalleled views of the Canadian Rockies as their slopes get more dramatic moving toward the Continental Divide. It’s hard to prepare yourself for the majesty of Mount Robson, towering 3,954 metres as the highest peak in the Rockies. Monashee and Cariboo mountains will not disappoint either, nor will the waterfalls or your climb through Yellowhead Pass, which will bring you to Jasper.
A free day in Jasper leaves you with many options, whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking to raft down the Athabasca River or cycle through the winding mountain roads. The next day you’ll join a full-day sightseeing transfer through the spectacular Columbia Icefield, including a ticket aboard the Ice Explorer Ride as you experience the glaciers up close.
After a scenic drive along the Trans-Canada Highway, you’ll get cozy for two nights in the resort region of Banff. Soak in the natural landscapes while warming up in one of the many hot springs, treating yourself to a spa visit with unparalleled views that will leave your mind with thoughts of tranquillity and skin feeling as fresh as the water trickling down the Rockies. If you’d rather get your heart racing, Banff is no stranger to outdoor activities, featuring sports options like white-water rafting, horseback riding, mountain biking, and more. With day excursions available from scenic float trips down the Bow River to boat tours on the glacial waters of Lake Minnewanka, there’s something for everyone in Banff. No matter how you spend your day, top off the evening with an unforgettable meal in one of the many international restaurants, offering a taste for every palate.
Your trip comes to an end with a transfer to the Calgary International Airport, unless you’d like to continue on into the mountains.
- Duration
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- AU$ 4,991
Itinerary
Vancouver
Following your arrival at Vancouver International Airport independently transfer to your downtown hotel. Enjoy the rest of your day exploring the city’s neighborhoods such as Yaletown or Gastown, venture along the meandering pathways along the ocean, visit a gallery, indulge in a little shopping on Robson Street, or Vancouver’s vibrant nightlife.
Overnight Vancouver
| Duration | 2 nights |
|---|
Vancouver
This full-day trip to Victoria begins with a cruise through the scenic Gulf Islands and includes a visit to the acclaimed Butchart Gardens. Afterwards continue to Victoria for a city sightseeing tour that encompasses Victoria’s stately homes and gardens as well as historic landmarks. You will see the University of Victoria and Beacon Hill Park and pass the Royal British Columbia Museum, Thunderbird Park, the Parliament Buildings and the exclusive homes of the Uplands and Oak Bay. You will return to Vancouver in the early evening.
Overnight Vancouver
Rocky Mountaineer Vancouver to Kamloops
Enjoy Rocky Mountaineer’s SilverLeaf Service from the time you board the train at the Vancouver Station at 7:30am (Pacific Time). Breakfast and Lunch are included onboard, and you can look forward to a journey that offers dramatic changes in scenery as you travel into the heart of British Columbia’s interior. The verdant fields of the Fraser Valley soon give way to deep forests and winding river canyons, set against the backdrop of the magnificent peaks of the Coast and Cascade Mountains. Yet, some parts of the interior appear almost desert-like and provide fascinating alternative views to the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon or the steep slopes along the Thompson River. Travelling along the shores of Kamloops Lake, you arrive at the city of Kamloops between 6:00pm and 7:30pm (Pacific Time).
Overnight Kamloops.
| Duration | 1 night |
|---|
Rocky Mountaineer Kamloops to Jasper
Your daylight trip into the Canadian Rockies continues north and east into the province of Alberta. The scenery is as mesmerizing as the day before as you follow the banks of the North Thompson River, slowly climbing towards the high peaks of the Continental Divide. Passing the Monashee and Cariboo mountains, one of the stunning views of the day is Mount Robson, at 3,954 metres (12,972 feet) the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Passing Pyramid Falls, you slowly climb over Yellowhead Pass into fabulous Jasper National Park, arriving in the resort town of Jasper in the evening.
Overnight Jasper
| Duration | 1 night |
|---|
Jasper
Take the day to create your own adventure in Jasper! Perhaps you may wish to arrange for a thrilling rafting trip down the Athabasca River or climb aboard a motorcycle sidecar for a different touring experience along the park’s scenic roads.
Overnight Jasper
| Duration | 1 night |
|---|
Jasper to Banff Including Columbia Icefield Excursion
Full-day sightseeing transfer to Banff including a visit to the spectacular Columbia Icefield (Ice Explorer ride included). Afterwards, depart along the Icefields Parkway, meandering through a mesmerizing landscape of peaks and glaciers. The Trans-Canada Highway leads you to Banff, the famous year-round resort region that will treat you to spectacular wilderness scenery, outdoor sporting activities and international dining.
Overnight Banff
| Duration | 2 night |
|---|
Banff
The entire day is free to tour Banff and the surrounding area. We suggest a visit to the Luxton Museum, a gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain or a stroll through town admiring the many shops. You may also try river rafting on the Bow River or take a boat tour on beautiful Lake Minnewanka.
Overnight Banff
Banff to Calgary
Transfer from Banff to Calgary International Airport unless you plan to continue your stay in the area.
Other Information
DEPARTURES:
Sundays and Wednesdays: May 3 - October 4, 2023
PRICE INCLUDES:
- Accommodation for 7 nights
- Full day excursion to Victoria including Butchart Gardens visit
- Vancouver/Kamloops/Jasper rail passage on the Rocky Mountaineer (SilverLeaf Service)
- Transfer to or from Vancouver train station to hotel
- Transfer to and from Kamloops train station
- Transfer to or from hotel to Jasper train station
- Full day sightseeing transfer from Jasper to Banff, including a visit to the spectacular Columbia Icefields (Ice Explorer ride included)
- Two (2) breakfasts and two (2) lunches on board the Rocky Mountaineer
- Transfer from Banff to Calgary International Airport
- Provincial Taxes and Federal GST
PRICE EXCLUDES:
- Transfers to and from airport and / or train stations unless otherwise specified
- Travel insurance
- International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes
- Airport improvement fee
- Entrances fees to sites not explicitly listed as included
- National Park entrance fees
- Meals and beverages not mentioned
- Gratuities
- Items of a personal nature
- Visa fees if applicable
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please inquire.
1 Jan 2027
