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Wonders of Canada and The Rocky Mountaineer

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14 days From £6,195 £5,695 per person
4.3 stars(64 reviews)
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From the dramatic Pacific Ocean setting of Vancouver to lakeside Toronto, this ultimate Canadian adventure takes us across the country on two iconic rail journeys

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Save up to £500pp on Worldwide 2025 holidays when you book by 31st October 2024.

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Mobility Rating 2

2025 Tour code: TCJ25

About the tour

Delve into the remarkable landscapes of Canada on this overland journey on world-famous trains.

Our exploration begins with a guided tour of beautiful Vancouver on the Pacific coast before we enjoy two daytime trips on the amazing Rocky Mountaineer to the astonishing Canadian Rockies. Based in gorgeous Banff and charming Jasper, we admire awe-inspiring Lake Louise and the Athabasca Glacier.

An epic three-night journey carries us across central Canada's varied scenery on our way to cosmopolitan Toronto, where we take a cruise to view the natural wonders of Niagara Falls.

Unforgettable experiences

Journey through spectacular scenery on the Rocky Mountaineer
Journey through spectacular scenery on the Rocky Mountaineer
From coastal Vancouver to the snow-capped mountains of Banff National Park, enjoy two breathtaking daytime journeys on the First Passage to the West route, admiring amazing mountain passes and rushing rivers from panoramic carriages.
The stunning beauty of Banff and Jasper national parks
The stunning beauty of Banff and Jasper national parks
Located in the Canadian Rockies, the popular mountain towns of Banff and Jasper are surrounded by astonishing natural wonders. Admire glistening Lake Louise and Emerald Lake, the ethereal Athabasca Glacier and the wonderful Icefields Parkway.
Travel across the heartlands on the epic Canadian train
Travel across the heartlands on the epic Canadian train
View central Canada’s ever-changing scenery – from mountains to prairies, forested wilderness and bustling towns – from the comfort of your berths or the observation car on a three-night journey aboard VIA Rail’s amazing Canadian.
Experience Vancouver’s charming atmosphere and vibrant food scene
Experience Vancouver’s charming atmosphere and vibrant food scene
Embark on an expertly guided sightseeing tour of this beautiful and characterful city, discovering rejuvenated Gastown, the historic totem poles of expansive Stanley Park and Granville Island’s appealing food markets.
Cruise into the mist of the majestic Niagara Falls
Cruise into the mist of the majestic Niagara Falls
Absorb the awe-inspiring power of nature at Niagara Falls on a full-day guided excursion from Toronto. Enjoy a jaw-dropping cruise amid the spray and thunderous roar before viewing these natural wonders from Table Rock.

What’s included

Itinerary

Day 1 – Our great Canadian adventure begins in Vancouver

Meeting our fellow travellers and Tour Manager at London Heathrow this afternoon, we board a flight to the west coast of Canada, arriving in characterful Vancouver early evening local time.

The Pacific coast city is regularly regarded as one of the world's most desirable places to live, thanks to its charming atmosphere amid the incredible setting of mountains and sheltered bays and harbours. Cosmopolitan Vancouver effortlessly impressive its many visitors with a blend of culture and the spectacular surrounding scenery.

Our hotel is a short distance from both Downtown and this picturesque city's gorgeous harbour. After check in there is a free evening to unwind or venture out to try some of western Canada's finest cuisine. Top class seafood, such as salmon, oysters and Dungeness crab can be found in many of the city's popular restaurants. With a multicultural population, you can also find delicious local versions of Asian and Mexican dishes.

Day 2 - Exploring vibrant Vancouver and expansive Stanley Park

An enjoyable early morning tour of Vancouver's most characterful and historic districts with a local guide awaits us on our first full day in Canada.

As Vancouver's original Downtown, rejuvenated Gastown is the city's most historic area. Redbrick Victorian buildings dot the tree-lined streets surrounding pretty Maple Tree Square. Many upmarket fashion boutiques, trendy coffee shops, art galleries and the famous Gastown Steam Clock can be found in this area named after talkative Hull-born sailor and barman 'Gassy' Jack Deighton.

Crossing East Hastings Street, we arrive in Canada's largest Chinatown, where we relish the sights and sounds of the beautifully adorned streets. From leafy Stanley Park, where we view colourful totem poles celebrating the native history of the region's indigenous Coast Salish people, we travel to Granville Island. Boasting mouthwatering food markets, this is where our tour concludes just after noon.

The rest of the day is free to explore independently. You could stay on Granville Island to enjoy the craft stalls or visit North Vancouver to find the Capilano Suspension Bridge hanging 450 feet above the forest floor.

Day 3 - Into the Rocky Mountains on the First Passage to the West

Early this morning, we head to the train station ready for a spectacular journey into the Rocky Mountains in panoramic carriages providing 180-degree views of the sky and soaring mountain peaks.

Enjoying breakfast on board the Rocky Mountaineer in SilverLeaf Class*, we wind our way through deep forests and fertile fields along the banks of the Fraser River before the scenery becomes even more impressive as the imposing peaks of the Coast Mountains close in. Passing the rushing waters of Hell's Gate, we admire the impressive Fraser Canyon and keep our eyes open in this dazzling landscape for native Canadian wildlife such as bears, elk and moose.

After Lytton, our route follows the Thompson River and the scenery changes once again. Here, we traverse an almost desert-like environment as arid mountains roll out before our windows. A three-course lunch is served at our seats as we admire wonderful views.

Disembarking in the early evening in Kamloops for a night at a local hotel, there is time to explore and dine independently.

*Upgrades to GoldLeaf Class are available. Please call us on 01904 734359.

Day 4 - Kamloops to Banff on the remarkable Rocky Mountaineer

The Canadian Rockies continue to inspire awe this morning as we continue eastwards on the Rocky Mountaineer. With breakfast and lunch served on board, we can sit back at marvel at the beautiful sights enroute. Look out for the mythical Shuswaggi - an eight-foot monster similar to Nessie said to reside in Shuswap Lake.

Nearly 3,000 miles of trans-Canadian railway were connected by the shores of the Eagle River in 1885 as the 'last spike' was driven into the track. This followed surveyor AB Rogers setting out in 1881 to locate an accessible route through the mountains. His name is remembered by the Rogers Pass under which the five-mile Connaught Tunnel runs.

Climbing the dramatic Kicking Horse Pass, we twist through the magnificent Spiral Tunnels. More striking scenery awaits as we cross the Continental Divide, passing photogenic Morant's Curve and iconic Castle Mountain before arriving in Banff.

After checking in to our centrally located hotel, the rest of the day is free to explore this charming mountain town or savour some delicious local cuisine in one of Canada's burgeoning foodie destinations.

Day 5 - Glistening lakes on a tour of the Rockies’ national parks

We explore this sensational part of the world on an amazing coach tour today. Our first destination is the glacial Emerald Lake, so-called due to its remarkable colour.

The first non-indigenous person to record seeing the lake was Tom Wilson in 1882, who was pursuing horses that had bolted. On encountering the lake, Wilson stopped to enjoy its beauty. A backcountry expert, Wilson was also the first non-indigenous person to view our next destination: Lake Louise, a turquoise glacial lake framed by towering snow-capped mountains. This famed picture-perfect lake has become intrinsically linked with the region but is equally impressive in person, and here is free time to soak up this spectacular view.

Wilson also played a role in discovering a pass through the mountains for the Canadian Pacific Railway. Having travelled this remarkable route yesterday, we view the Spiral Tunnels from the lookout point - hopefully seeing a train twisting its way through.

Returning to Banff this evening, you are free to dine on your own.

Day 6 - The breathtaking Icefields Parkway to picturesque Jasper

A journey along the famous Icefields Parkway awaits today as we leave charming Banff by coach. This 144-mile road framed by astonishing mountain scenery links Banff and Jasper. Recognised as one of the most scenic drives in the world, there are more than 100 glaciers visible enroute.

Enroute, we pass beautiful lakes and admire the surroundings of rugged mountains and the blanket of pristine pine forests, before arriving at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre. Here, we stop to marvel at the otherworldly Athabasca Glacier squeezing between the peaks. There is the option to enjoy lunch or a ride over the ice field by giant, all-terrain Snocoach (payable locally). Afterwards, we make a short stop at the Athabasca Falls, where thundering waters cascade their way through the idyllic mountain scenery.

One of the most important towns for miles around, our destination of Jasper manages to retain a calm, small-town feel. Charming buildings line streets peppered with interesting shops and enticing restaurants. After checking in to our hotel, you are free to explore this picture-perfect town this evening.

Day 7 - Free time in Jasper National Park and stargazing evening

You are free to explore at leisure today. A scenic excursion deep into the UNESCO-listed Jasper National Park that surrounds the charming town is a popular choice. Heading into the sublime Maligne River valley, you will be greeted by a spectacular showcase of Canada's grandest landscapes, including craggy, snow-dusted mountains, plunging waterfalls, hot spring as crystalline lakes. The main attractions here are the otherworldly Maligne Canyon, a deep limestone gorge, and gorgeous Maligne Lake - the largest glacier-fed body of water in the region - where you could enjoy a wonderful cruise (payable locally).

There's plenty of wildlife to watch out for such as grey wolves, hoary marmot, caribou and moose. Elk can also be found wandering through the town of Jasper and out on the mountains, while ospreys, eagles and other birds circle overhead.

Late this evening there is an excursion to Jasper Planetarium for a telescope tour with expert guides explaining the wonders of the cosmos that we are viewing. Stargazing is a delight here in the Canadian Rockies, as the dark night sky is unpolluted by city lights.

Day 8 - Boarding the Canadian for an epic three-night journey

There is time to enjoy lovely Jasper this morning before we transfer to the train station for one of the world's most iconic and revered train journeys.

Boarding the evocative steel carriages of the Canadian, we settle into our berths for a three-night ride across Canada to Toronto. As we follow the Athabasca River, we wind down the Rocky Mountains into the verdant foothills. With lunch and dinner served on board, we can enjoy views of glaciers, plunging canyons, soaring mountains and endless pine forests.

As we cross further into the province of Alberta, the scenery changes as remote settlements and serene lakes dot the landscape. Leaving Edmonton this evening, we can relax and look forward to a laid-back day as the Canadian continues its remarkable journey.

Day 9 - Into the great wide open

Waking up on the Canadian, we are welcomed to Saskatchewan's vast prairies which we can view while enjoying our breakfast. The seemingly endless grasslands of the Great Plains stretch as far as the eye can see, with boundless farming communities passing by our windows as the Canadian rolls on.

With a population similar to that of Glasgow's and an area greater than France, Saskatchewan is ideal for sitting back and watching the world go by and the glass-roofed panoramic observation car is the ideal place to do this, either side of lunch. We travel through the southern plains of Saskatchewan, home to deer, eagles and, in select areas, antelope, moose and bison. Dinner is also served on board.

We later cross into Manitoba, a province with more than 100,000 lakes stretching all the way up to the shores of Hudson Bay. Its capital is Winnipeg, considered the geographical centre of Canada. Late this evening, the train pulls into this fascinating city, home to more than 50 ethnic communities before continuing eastwards overnight.

Day 10 - Crossing northern Ontario’s wilderness

Over breakfast on the VIA Rail Canadian train this morning, we cross the rocky ground of the Canadian Shield, a landscape pocked with primordial lakes and thick, verdant forests of ancient trees.

For the isolated communities we pass through, the Canadian Pacific Railway has been a lifeline for decades. While Ontario might be the most populous of Canada's provinces, the remote areas we travel through today are raw Canadian wilderness, with moose, lynx and black bears prowling its dense woodlands.

After lunch on board, the Canadian changes direction, continuing its journey in a southeasterly direction towards the Great Lakes. Spend some time in the observation car or lounge as we travel through this evocative scenery before dinner is served. The Canadian continues its epic journey overnight towards its destination.

Day 11 – Arrival in lakeside Toronto

Our final morning onboard the Canadian begins with a continental breakfast as we travel south towards Toronto. The views change from the mountains and prairies of the past few days to more familiar suburban scenes as we make our way round Lake Simcoe into the Greater Toronto area.

Brunch is served before our arrival in mid-afternoon at Toronto's Union Station, Canada's largest and most elegant train station. Built in 1927, this glorious Beaux-Arts structure is actually the third incarnation of the station - a testament to the importance of railways in connecting Canada. Nearby is the iconic CN Tower built by the Canadian National Railway Company and the world's tallest free-standing structure from 1975 until 2007.

We transfer to our Downtown hotel where there is time to unwind or explore Canada's most populous city at leisure. There is no shortage of restaurants nearby for you to find somewhere to eat - from steak and seafood to European and Asian cuisine.

Day 12 - Exploring spectacular Niagara Falls including cruise

Today is a highlight of our fantastic holiday as we are joined on a coach by an expert local guide for a full day trip to the incredible Niagara Falls.

Connecting the Great Lakes of Erie and Ontario, the Niagara River plunges down three astonishing waterfalls. When we arrive, we set sail on a 'Voyage to the Falls' cruise to get closer to one of the world's most impressive natural sights - with protective ponchos supplied. Marvelling at the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and the iconic Horseshoe Falls is an unforgettable experience as clouds of spray and thunderous roar emphasise the awesome majesty of nature.

Back on shore, there is time for lunch independently in one of Niagara's restaurants before admiring the falls from above at Table Rock. Continuing our exploration, we reach the whirlpool where the river bursts out of the Niagara Gorge.

We conclude our excursion at the pretty town of Niagara on the Lake, where there is time to stroll its quaint streets. Returning to Toronto this evening, you are free to dine on your own tonight.

Day 13 - Discovering Toronto at leisure and homeward bound

There is time at leisure today to enjoy this fantastic city and what better way to get to know a place than through its food? Canadian breakfasts range from light cereals and pancakes to the hearty peameal bacon sandwich, invented in Toronto.

You might like to explore Union Station's historic Great Hall which looks every bit a temple to the railroad, while its resplendent limestone exterior is dominated by 22 Romanesque columns.

Those with a head for heights might like to observe Toronto from the observation decks of the piercing CN Tower, where there is the option to experience the glass floor. However, perhaps you'd rather see this friendly city from ground level. One of the best ways to do so is by catching a ferry over to verdant Ward's Island or Toronto Island Park.

In mid-afternoon, we reconvene at our Downtown hotel and transfer by coach to the airport for our overnight flight to London.

Day 14 - Arrival in London

Our exceptional Canadian adventure concludes as we land at London Heathrow early this morning.

This spectacular expedition has seen us journey on iconic trains from the Pacific coast to the Great Lakes, witnessing many highlights of the world's second largest country with new friends.

From the thriving cultural scene of Vancouver and the awe-inspiring views on the Rocky Mountaineer, we explored the national parks around Banff and Jasper on visits to Lake Louise and the Icefields Parkway. Boarding the incredible Canadian train for three nights provided a front-row seat to the varied landscapes before we arrived in vibrant Toronto. The unforgettable experiences continued as we visited the majestic Niagara Falls on a fantastic cruise.

We say farewell to our fellow travellers and Tour Manager with whom we will share these wonderful memories for a long time to come.

Additional information

Please note

Please note that while every departure of this tour will feature the same excursions, the order may differ from that shown above.

Departure times

Provisional departure and return times, where available, can be found together with our dates and prices by clicking on the 'Prices & Availability' button. We write to all booked customers approximately 10 weeks prior to the start of their tour to advise the exact departure and return time for their particular group.

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. If you’d like to discuss any particular holiday with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us.

Hotels

Banff Ptarmigan Inn

Banff Ptarmigan Inn, Banff

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Caribou Lodge, Banff

Caribou Lodge, Banff

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Mount Royal Hotel, Banff

Mount Royal Hotel, Banff

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Rundlestone Lodge, Banff

Rundlestone Lodge, Banff

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Forest Park Hotel

Forest Park Hotel, Jasper

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Jasper Inn & Suites, Jasper

Jasper Inn & Suites, Jasper

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Chelsea Hotel, Toronto

Chelsea Hotel, Toronto

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Blue Horizon Hotel, Vancouver

Blue Horizon Hotel, Vancouver

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Century Plaza, Vancouver

Century Plaza, Vancouver

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Trains

The Canadian Train
The Rocky Mountaineer

Enhance your holiday

Upgrades

Upgrade to Prestige Class on the Canadian train
Flight upgrades
London Hotels
UK rail connections
Upgrade to GoldLeaf Service on the Rocky Mountaineer train
Upgrade to a Sleeper Plus on The Canadian train

Extend your holiday

Grizzly Bears of Knights Inlet Lodge
Vancouver Island

Reviews

4.3 stars4.3 / 5 · 64 reviews

  1. 5 stars
    (29)
  2. 4 stars
    (26)
  3. 3 stars
    (6)
  4. 2 stars
    (1)
  5. 1 star
    (2)

Griff

3 stars

Submitted 4/Oct

A great journey with the most spectacular sights in the northern hemisphere

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Gary Taylor

5 stars

Submitted 4/Oct

this was our tenth vist to canada our first ever holiday was on the rocky mountaineer travelling east to west through the rockies this time we travelled west to east so it was really nice to have seen so much of canada from the train a must do journey for anyone doing canada for the first time.

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Graham Robinson

4 stars

Submitted 4/Oct

A wounderful trip but it would have been better if we could have gon to Jasper and picked up the train there

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Ledia Rivera

3 stars

Submitted 30/Sep

We enjoyed Vancour, Banff and the visit to Niagara Falls. We had a lot of time on our own and had to pay for local tours. The value for the money was not worth it. We were not prepared for the trains to run late and we missed dinner service on our travel to Toronto. Due to the fires in Jasper we went to Calgary, which as a disappointment. Banff was beautiful and would have enjoyed more time there. Our tour guide in Vancouver was very knowledgeable. Stanley Park was also beautiful and would have rather have more time there as well. We did not see much wildlife during the trip or fall colors during our trip.

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Thomas Ossola

4 stars

Submitted 30/Sep

We enjoyed the trip through the Rockies best. The trip across central Canada was a little long. We also felt the trip was somewhat overpriced as compared to other trips we have taken.

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Jen

5 stars

Submitted 25/Sep

Absolutely fabulous from beginning to end and out tour guide Richard was excellent

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Worldwide Holidays 2025

Worldwide Holidays 2025

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