Experience the stunning beauty and rich culture of Canada on this unforgettable journey through the Rocky Mountains. Marvel at breathtaking landscapes, explore iconic national parks, and discover the unique charm of Canada’s western provinces that attracts nature lovers, adventure seekers, and cultural enthusiasts alike.
Extend your tour with a stay in the nature bound utopia of Vancouver. Enjoy free time in the city to explore the sights at leisure, peruse world-class museums, sample a host of cuisines that span the globe and stroll downtown's promenade during this essential Canadian highlight.
Depart from the UK on your scheduled flight to Calgary. Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Take the rest of the day to unwind or start exploring this dynamic city, known for its striking skyline and rich western heritage. For breathtaking panoramic views, head to the top of the Calgary Tower, or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the scenic Prince’s Island Park. To immerse yourself in the city's lively atmosphere, visit Stephen Avenue Walk, where you’ll find an array of shops, restaurants, live performances, and bustling bars—perfect for kicking off your Canadian adventure.
Breakfast
This morning, start your sightseeing tour of Calgary. Discover the city’s blend of modern attractions and historic sites, including the Olympic Plaza, a historic site from the 1988 Winter Olympics and the famous Stampede Grounds, to learn about the city’s cowboy heritage. Later, depart for Banff, a charming mountain town set against the backdrop of the stunning Canadian Rockies. En route, enjoy a scenic drive along Tunnel Mountain Drive, offering breathtaking views of Bow Valley. Upon arrival in Banff, take a gondola ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Enjoy the evening at leisure in Banff’s lively town centre.
Breakfast
Enjoy a full day at leisure in Banff, Canada’s first national park. You can take a scenic hike along Tunnel Mountain, visit the iconic Banff Springs Hotel, soak in the rejuvenating Banff Upper Hot Springs, or visit the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, where you can learn about the discovery of Banff’s famous hot springs and the birth of Canada’s national parks. For adventure seekers, wildlife-spotting tours are available. The day is yours to immerse yourself in the beauty of this breathtaking alpine setting.
Breakfast
Today’s journey takes you along the spectacular Icefields Parkway, one of the world’s most scenic drives. Stop at the mesmerizing turquoise waters of Moraine Lake and the famous Lake Louise, both nestled amidst towering peaks. Keep your camera ready as you traverse rugged landscapes home to wildlife such as grizzly bears, moose, and timber wolves. A highlight of the day is the Columbia Icefield, where you’ll board an Ice Explorer vehicle for an exhilarating ride across the Athabasca Glacier. Continue your journey to Jasper, where you’ll settle in for the night.
Breakfast
Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Jasper National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Visit Maligne Canyon, a stunning limestone gorge with cascading waterfalls, or take an optional cruise to Spirit Island on Maligne Lake, known for its striking blue waters and surrounded by towering mountain peaks and one of the most photographed locations in the Rockies.
Enjoy an afternoon at leisure, if you’re looking for more adventure, Jasper offers numerous hiking trails, from gentle lakeside walks to more challenging alpine treks. The Valley of the Five Lakes trail is a popular choice, leading you past a series of brilliantly coloured lakes. Alternatively, explore the pristine Pyramid Lake and Patricia Lake, ideal spots for simply enjoying the tranquillity of nature.
As the day winds down, return to Jasper town to relax and enjoy its laid-back mountain charm. Dine at one of Jasper’s cosy restaurants, where you can savour locally inspired dishes like Alberta bison, fresh trout, and wild berry desserts. For an unforgettable evening, consider a stargazing experience at the Jasper Dark Sky Preserve, one of the world's largest accessible dark sky preserves, offering incredible views of the night sky free from light pollution.
Depart Jasper and embark on a scenic journey southwest to Kamloops, passing through some of Canada’s most breathtaking landscapes. Travel along the Yellowhead Highway, a route that winds through the stunning valleys and dense forests of the Canadian Rockies. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as elk, black bears, and mountain goats that often roam near the roadside. One of the highlights of the day is an unforgettable Wildlife River Safari on the Blue River. This guided boat tour takes you deep into the untouched wilderness, offering an up-close look at the region’s incredible wildlife in their natural habitat. Glide through serene waters as you watch for bears foraging along the shore, bald eagles soaring overhead, and moose wading in the shallows.
Upon arrival in Kamloops, check into your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the evening at your leisure. This charming riverside city offers a variety of activities, from exploring local craft breweries and restaurants to strolling along the picturesque Riverside Park, where you can unwind by the waterfront and watch the sun set over the Thompson River.
Leaving Kamloops this morning, journey towards the stunning mountain resort of Whistler, traveling along the scenic Cariboo and Sea-to-Sky Highways. Along the way, gaze at breathtaking landscapes, including towering peaks, lush forests, and deep river canyons. Stop at the spectacular Shannon Falls, where you can take in the cascading waters of one of British Columbia’s highest waterfalls.
Upon arrival in Whistler, you will have an orientation tour of this world-renowned alpine resort, famous for its pedestrian-only village, lively atmosphere, and year-round outdoor activities. Discover the Olympic Plaza, built for the 2010 Winter Olympics, and explore Whistler Village’s array of boutique shops, cafés, and top-rated restaurants. For those seeking adventure, opt for a ride on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which connects Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and alpine meadows. If you prefer to explore on foot, take a scenic hike or bike ride along the extensive network of trails.
In the evening, relax and soak in the beauty of this enchanting mountain town, whether by dining in one of its acclaimed restaurants or simply strolling through its picturesque streets under the starlit sky.
Head to Victoria via the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway, enjoy breath taking coastal views as you make your way to the ferry terminal. Board a ferry for a picturesque journey across the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver Island. Upon arrival in Victoria, you will visit the renowned Butchart Gardens, a stunning 55-acre floral paradise featuring themed gardens, tranquil ponds, and vibrant seasonal displays. Spend the rest of the day exploring Victoria’s Beacon Hill Park or the Victorian Craigdarroch Castle, completed in 1890, discover the opulence and grandeur of this mansion nestled in the heart of Victoria.
Discover Victoria’s rich history and British colonial charm on a guided walking tour. Begin your day in the picturesque Inner Harbour, one of the most iconic waterfronts in Canada, where the sparkling blue waters are framed by grand heritage buildings and lush gardens. As you stroll along the harbour, admire the magnificent Parliament Buildings, an architectural marvel that dominates the waterfront with its stunning limestone façade and copper domes. Learn about the history of the British Columbia legislature and the city’s role in the province's development. In the afternoon, enjoy some free time to explore the best of Victoria. For a more immersive experience, consider booking a whale-watching tour from the harbour. Victoria is one of the best places in the world to spot orcas, humpback whales, and other marine life, and a boat tour offers a front-row seat to these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Breakfast
Board a scenic ferry back to the mainland, taking in the stunning coastal views as you make your way to Vancouver, Upon arrival, embark on a guided orientation tour of this diverse city, highlighting some of Vancouver’s most iconic landmarks. Explore the lush beauty of Stanley Park, a 1,000-acre urban oasis where towering trees, serene lakes, and scenic waterfront paths offer a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Granville island is home to some of Vancouver's best eateries, where you can sample fresh seafood straight from the Pacific Ocean.
This morning, visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, where you can walk among the treetops and cross the iconic suspension bridge for spectacular views of the rainforest below. Spend the afternoon at leisure, with the option to explore Vancouver’s diverse This morning, embark on an unforgettable visit to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, where you’ll have the opportunity to walk among the towering treetops and cross the famous suspension bridge. As you make your way across the 137-meter-long bridge, enjoy breathtaking views of the lush rainforest canopy below, with the peaceful sounds of the Capilano River flowing through the gorge. For an even more immersive experience, explore the park’s treetop walkways and the Cliff walk, a thrilling journey that hugs the canyon’s edge, offering panoramic views of the surrounding forest and mountains.
In the afternoon, enjoy some free time to explore Vancouver at your own pace, Stroll through the bustling streets of Yaletown, or head to the eclectic Main Street, where you’ll find a mix of vintage shops, independent bookstores, and lively cafés. For art lovers, a visit to the Vancouver Art Gallery is a must, where you can admire impressive collections of Canadian and Indigenous art, as well as contemporary exhibitions.
If you're in the mood for relaxation, take a leisurely sunset stroll along English Bay, where you can watch the sun dip below the horizon and the city’s skyline light up. The bay’s sandy beach and peaceful atmosphere make it the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure.
Enjoy some more time in Vancouver at leisure, exploring the city at your own pace or relaxing as you please.
Bringing your Canadian adventure to a memorable close, either transfer to the airport for your flight back to the UK.
Your flight lands back in the UK today.
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The order of events and sightseeing may vary according to local conditions or for operational purposes. The schedules of the domestic airlines in country are subject to frequent changes. For this reason, we have indicated approximate times only. Your local guide will inform you of any schedule changes as they are informed of them. The driving times listed are point to point and do not include the duration of excursions or stops en route. Some road construction and/or weather conditions may lengthen the driving times. Our intention is to adhere to the day-to-day itinerary as printed; however, order of events and sightseeing may vary according to local conditions.
If booking more than 12 weeks before departure a deposit of £295.00pp will need to be paid at the time of booking with the full amount payable at 12 weeks prior to departure. The deposit applies to adults and children. If you are within 12 weeks of travel then the full balance of the holiday will be payable.
To enter Canada, your passport must be valid for the length of your planned stay. To enter or transit through Canada, most people need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) – not both, you must apply for the eTA online before you travel.
Contact the Canadian High Commission in the UK if you are unsure about visa requirements or your eligibility to enter the country.
Alternatively, we work closely with The Travel Visa Company who will be able to arrange the ESTA visa on your behalf. Please call them on 01270 250590 and quote 'Mercury Holidays'. When Calling the Travel Visa Company they will advise you of any changes to the fees or procedure, they will also advise you all of the information they will require to apply for the visa.
Your flight to Canada is with British Airways, departing from London Heathrow, Terminal 5. Each passenger is entitled to 23kg of hold luggage (40cm/30cm/15cm) plus 1 item of hand luggage not exceeding in size and 1 personal item such as a handbag, briefcase, or laptop case. Weight restrictions will be finalised on your final documentation. Should you wish to take additional luggage you will need to pay extra at check-in. Check-In should be at least 3 hours before departure. IMPORTANT: Please note that final flight details will be confirmed on your final documentation which will be sent to you approximately 21 days before departure. Check in baggage is included with your flight. A printed E-ticket is no longer required at check-in, all you need to do is present your passport to the staff at the desk and your boarding pass will be given to you.
We strongly recommend that you and all members of your party are suitably insured as soon as you book your holiday. It is a condition of booking that you must have suitable travel insurance. It is important that you purchase travel insurance that suitably covers your participation in whatever activities you may undertake at the time that you make your booking. To assist you with this, we have arranged travel insurance in partnership with Holiday Extras, including up to a 20% discount, which is given to all Mercury Holidays customers. To arrange your insurance with Holiday Extras, please visit https://www.mercuryholidays.co.uk/info/insurance for more details. Please ensure you provide us with the name of your insurer, policy number and their 24 hour emergency contact number as soon as possible. Mercury Holidays will not be liable for any costs incurred by you due to your failure to take out suitable travel insurance from the date of booking.
It is your responsibility to check any health and vaccination requirements applicable to your booked arrangements. We can only provide general information about this. Health and hygiene facilities and disease risks vary from country to country. You should take health advice about your own needs as early as possible and in good time before your departure. Sources of information include; www.fco.gov.uk, http://travelhealthpro.org.uk/, www.hpa.org.uk, your General Practitioner or a specialist clinic.
This tour is accessible to most people with an average level of fitness and normal mobility. It involves moderate days of walking on uneven paths and small hills, and getting on and off coaches. This tour is not suitable for anyone with walking difficulties.
The currency in Canada is the Canadian Dollar. We recommend that you exchange your currency before you leave the UK.
As normal practice you may be asked for your credit card details on check-in at the hotel in order to cover any extras incurred during your stay. If you do not have a credit card, you may be asked for a cash deposit. MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted in hotels as well as American Express.
You will need to take some extra money with you to cover any meals and personal purchases, such as souvenirs, extra drinks and snacks. Approximately £500-£600 per person should be sufficient for the duration of your tour. Please also bear in mind that there will be several shopping opportunities throughout your tour. Tipping is at your discretion, however we would recommend approximately $7 per person per day. Tips are accepted in the local currency, however it is asked that if you do not tip in the local currency that you only pay with notes, as coins cannot be exchanged.
The minimum number of travellers in your group will be 20, and the maximum will be 40. If in the unlikely event there are less than 20 people booked on your tour date, we will endeavour to reduce any disruption to your holiday and try to operate your tour with lower passenger numbers. If we are not able to operate your departure date then you may be asked to change to a different date and a full refund will be made available to you should this alternative not be suitable.
There is no minimum number of travellers for this extension however the main tour passenger numbers will apply for the main part of the tour. If in the unlikely event there are less than the required number of people booked on your main tour date then you may be asked to change to a different date. A full refund will be made available to you should this alternative not be suitable.
This is an escorted tour, meaning the you will have the services of an English speaking guide during each excursion ensuring that you have first-hand knowledge at all times.
Private Tour: If you have booked a private tour then you will be accompanied by a Driver Guide or a Driver and Local Guides. These will be available to you during all scheduled sightseeing. Private Tours can depart on any day of the week depending on flight and train schedules and the opening days of the attractions. They will follow the itinerary as described in the brochure unless you have been advised otherwise and you will still have all of the same meals, sightseeing and local excursions included.
Vancouver City Stay: Your stay in Vancouver is not escorted by a tour guide. All internal transfers are included
Your accommodation is selected for convenience, location, comfort or character, and can range from business hotels to leisure hotels. Hotel accommodation is generally rated as local three to four-star standard, but please note there is no international classification system for hotels, and differences in facilities and quality do exist compared to what you might expect in the UK. All group tours hotels have private bathroom facilities and air-conditioning, where needed. Rest assured that all accommodation used by Mercury Holidays is regularly inspected by our staff and partners to ensure that standards meet your needs.
Breakfast is always western style and served in the hotel each morning. A variety of restaurants are visited giving you the chance to experience a range of dishes and flavours.
On your arrival in Calgary you will be met by a representative from our local agent, Go West Tours, holding a sign displaying: “Mercury Holidays”. The Mercury Holidays/ Go West Tours representative will show you to your transfer vehicle. Your national guide will be on hand 24 hours a day should you have any queries.
If you need to contact Go West Tours during your stay the details are:
Go West Tours head office: Telephone: 001 415 837 0154
Emergency contact information: Please find below the emergency contact details for Go West Tours 24hr Telephone: 001 415 837 0154 (business hours 08:30-17:30 USA Pacific Time) Out of hours West Coast Groups: 001 415 710 1913 Out of hours East Coast Groups: 001 415 793 6458
Text & WhatsApp Line 24/7 001 415 484 7201
