Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta with Rocky Mountaineer Option, Small Group

Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta with Rocky Mountaineer Option, Small Group

39 Views
9 Days From

$8275

$7786

Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta with Rocky Mountaineer Option, Small Group

9 Days Starting in Calgary, Canada and ending in Vancouver, Canada

Visiting: Kananaskis, Banff, Lake Louise, Yoho National Park, Jasper National Park, Kamloops, Vancouver

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

SAGVLGM20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Walking

From: $8275 $7786 Operator discount: -$489

NB: Prices correct on 01-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Alberta with the "Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta with Rocky Mountaineer Option, Small Group" tour. This adventure begins in Calgary and takes you through the majestic Canadian Rockies, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Explore the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs and the Whyte Museum, and enjoy the serene beauty of Moraine Lake and Maligne Lake. Travel along the scenic Icefields Parkway, and experience the thrill of walking on the Athabasca Glacier. The tour culminates with a luxurious ride on the Rocky Mountaineer, where you'll witness the stunning transition from the rugged Rockies to the lush landscapes of Vancouver. With opportunities to engage with First Nations culture and indulge in authentic dining experiences, this tour promises a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and stories.

Highlights

  • Banff: Learn about the history of Fairmont Banff Springs and explore the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies.

  • Moraine Lake: Visit the vibrant turquoise, glacier-fed lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks.

  • Icefields Parkway: Experience one of North America's most scenic drives with breathtaking glaciers and mountain peaks.

  • Maligne Lake: Enjoy a narrated cruise to Spirit Island, accessible only by boat.

  • Maligne Canyon: Walk the trails of one of the most stunning gorges in the Canadian Rockies.

  • Kamloops: Travel through spectacular scenery aboard a luxury rail experience.

  • Athabasca Glacier: Venture onto the glacier in a massive Ice Explorer for a unique experience.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Welcome To Kananaskis

Location: Kananaskis

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: Exploring Banff

Location: Banff

Accommodation Name: Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National Park

Meals Included: Breakfast

Connect with nature as you join a memorable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a First Nations Cree Iroquois Local Expert. Discover the significance of First Nations culture, including the importance of plants and animals like bears. 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.

Day 3: A Trip To Lake Louise Relaxed Start

Location: Lake Louise

Accommodation Name: Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National Park

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

The Three Sisters Peak or Mt Assiniboine will impress on this morning’s optional helicopter flights (weather dependent). 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 before returning to Banff and enjoying the rest of your day at leisure. This evening, opt for a scenic end to your day by taking the Banff Gondola ride.

Day 4: Lakes, Mountains And Glaciers

Location: Yoho National Park

Accommodation Name: Glacier View Lodge, Jasper National Park

Meals Included: Breakfast

The glaciers, waterfalls and peaks of Yoho Park are revealed on this morning’s visit to Yoho National Park. Your journey includes photo opportunities at Emerald Lake (seasonal) before taking the Icefields Parkway, one of the most beautiful drives on the planet. Admire the dramatic scenery of the Rockies with plenty of photo opportunities. 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 surrounding the restaurant.

Day 5: Glacier Adventure Relaxed Start

Location: Jasper National Park

Accommodation Name: Forest Park Hotel, Jasper National Park

Meals Included: Breakfast

Before other travellers arrive, venture onto the Athabasca Glacier in a massive Ice Explorer for your special, before-hours visit. Join your Local Expert and walk on the frozen flow of ice. Discover the beauty and immensity of the glacier as you learn about the history and geology of the region. Continue along the magnificent Icefields Parkway further into Jasper National Park with its soothing mineral hot springs, colourful meadows and majestic mountains.

Day 6: Exploring Jasper Relaxed Start

Location: Jasper National Park

Accommodation Name: Forest Park Hotel, Jasper National Park

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a relaxed start this morning or join the fun and experience an optional easy rafting, scenic float trip down the Athabasca River, a designated Canadian Heritage River. A National Park licensed guide will provide commentary on the human and natural history of Jasper while navigating you along the same route used by the “fur traders” over 2 centuries ago. Don’t worry, the guides do all the rowing; you sit back and enjoy while exploring all the spectacular scenery. There is always a chance of seeing various wildlife including elk, deer, moose, coyotes, wolves, eagles, ospreys, mountain sheep and bears. Later, join your Travel Director on an informative walk in Maligne Canyon, the deepest gorge in Jasper National Park. As you cruise across the crystal waters of magical Maligne Lake (seasonal), fed by the glaciers of Jasper National Park and glide past the jagged mountain peaks, you'll discover why it's been declared the "Best Boat Cruise in Canada.”

Day 7: Journey To Kananaskis

Location: Kananaskis

Accommodation Name: Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Autograph Collection

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, enjoy a scenic drive down to Kananaskis, often kept as a secret mountain sanctuary for locals, away from the masses that visit neighbouring Banff National Park. Enjoy the late afternoon to yourself to discover the local trails surrounding your upscale hotel nestled in the wilderness, or head to the Nordic Spa located steps away from the lodge. Tonight, come together with your fellow travellers for a festive dinner and toast to your wonderful trip in the Canadian Rockies.

Day 8: Board The Rocky Mountaineer

Location: Kamloops

Accommodation Name: Assigned by Rocky Mountaineer, Kamloops

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning you will be transferred to Banff from Kananaskis to board the Rocky Mountaineer. Your journey starts Westward through the mighty Canadian Rockies and the province of Alberta. With more than three decades of fine tuning, Rocky Mountaineer has perfected the art of comfort and service. Whether you choose SilverLeaf Service or GoldLeaf Service, prepare for spectacular views and flavourful food—a celebration for the senses. Aboard Rocky Mountaineer, every element is carefully choreographed to create an effortless, unforgettable experience.  You will see a spectacular array of scenery as you travel across ranchlands, along rocky lakeshores, over high mountain passes and through the remarkable tunnels that form part of the rich rail history of the Canadian Rockies. Today's highlights include Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, the climb over Rogers Pass, Kicking Horse Canyon, the Spiral Tunnels and, of course, the glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Overnight in Kamloops.

Day 9: Continue Your Rocky Mountaineer Journey

Location: Vancouver

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Depart Kamloops this morning and continue your journey on the Rocky Mountaineer to the coastal city of Vancouver, in the heart of British Columbia's interior. As you travel along you will see dramatic changes in scenery, from the desert-like environment of the British Columbia interior, the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley, and forests and winding river canyons surrounded by the peaks of the Coast and Cascade Mountains. Highlights include the rushing waters of Hell's Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River. On arrival in Vancouver you will bid farewell to this incredible experience and make your way to the airport independently for your flight home, or alternatively choose to extend your stay in this exciting city. The train will arrive Vancouver between 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm.

What's Included

  • Dining Summary

    The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners with wine, and 1 dinner.

  • Additional Included Highlights

    Hotel and restaurant tips, taxes, and porterage charges at hotels are included. Personal radio headsets and complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi are also provided.

  • Insight Experiences

    Enjoy an after-hours visit to the Glacier Skywalk, a visit onto the Athabasca Glacier, and stargazing on the Icefields Parkway.

  • Well-being

    Travel in comfort with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with enhanced hygiene protocols and physical distancing measures.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as helicopter flights and rafting trips are not included.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.

  • Airport Transfers

    Airport transfers are not included unless purchased separately.

  • Gratuities for Optional Activities

    Gratuities for optional activities and personal services are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, a luxury rail experience through the Canadian Rockies, and enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom.

Accommodation

Experience the comfort of the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Fairmont Banff Springs, Glacier View Lodge, and Forest Park Hotel, offering luxurious stays amidst the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies.

Dining Summary

  • 3 Dinner with Wine (DW)
  • 8 Breakfast (B)
  • 3 Lunch (L)

Additional Included Highlights

  • From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
  • Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
  • We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
  • Our highly-skilled Travel Director will ensure your journey is seamless, serving as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas.
  • Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
  • Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

Insight Experiences

  • 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.
  • 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.

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.
  • Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19. All Travel Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a First Nations Cree Iroquois Local Expert, where you will learn about First Nations culture and the significance of plants and animals. Additionally, there is an after-hours visit to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk and a special before-hours visit to the Athabasca Glacier with a Local Expert.

  • What can I expect during the Rocky Mountaineer journey?

    During the Rocky Mountaineer journey, you will travel through the Canadian Rockies and the province of Alberta, experiencing spectacular views and flavourful food. Highlights include Craigellachie, Rogers Pass, Kicking Horse Canyon, the Spiral Tunnels, and the glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies. The journey continues to Vancouver, showcasing dramatic changes in scenery from desert-like environments to lush green fields and forested river canyons.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, optional activities such as helicopter flights over the Three Sisters Peak or Mt Assiniboine, rafting trips down the Athabasca River, and a scenic Banff Gondola ride are available during the tour.

  • What kind of dining experiences are included?

    The tour includes a variety of dining experiences such as an evening reception at the Glacier View Lodge, a flavourful dinner at the Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, and a decadent lunch at Chateau Lake Louise. There are also opportunities to enjoy cocktails and locally sourced dinners with spectacular glacier views.

  • What wildlife might I see during the tour?

    During the tour, especially on the Athabasca River float trip, there is a chance to see wildlife such as elk, deer, moose, coyotes, wolves, eagles, ospreys, mountain sheep, and bears.

  • 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.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • 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.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • 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.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

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Wednesday - Thursday

Jun 11, 2025 - Jun 19, 2025
$8275 $7786

Operator discount: -$489

Prices last published on 01-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • 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.

  • 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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