14 Day Northern Lights & Rockies Winter
✓ Return international airfares with a full-service airline
✓ All internal airfares between Edmonton, Whitehorse and Vancouver
✓ Return airport transfers
✓ 8 nights in 4 to 5 star accommodation, including iconic Fairmont properties in the Canadian Rockies
✓ 3 nights at a remote lodge in the heart of the Yukon
✓ Winter clothing package during your stay in the Yukon
✓ Daily breakfast, 3 dinners
✓ Incredible sightseeing – the stunning northern lights in the Yukon winter sky, the pristine beauty of Lake Louise, the endless natural beauty and outdoor adventure of the Rockies
✓ Dedicated, comfortable transportation throughout
✓ 24/7 customer service and your own Dedicated Support Agent
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Canada! You’ll be met at Calgary International Airport and transferred to your Banff hotel.
Banff, the flagship town of the Rockies, is located within Banff National Park, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The luxurious Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is nicknamed the ‘Castle in the Rockies’. You’ll understand why when you see this opulent stone castle, in its majestic mountain setting.
A year-round resort destination, there’s plenty to see and do, in and around this mountain town. A trip up Sulphur Mountain on an enclosed gondola offers sweeping views of the snow-covered valley, or a thrilling ice hike reveals the majesty of a frozen waterfall chain. The Banff Upper Hot Springs are located just out of town and open year-round for you to “take the waters”.
Wander the quaint high street of Banff, with restaurants, galleries and shopping, and of course – that amazing view of Cascade Mountain looming over the town.
Please note: In addition to the optional activities, Fairmont properties offer a broad range of winter activities including cross country or downhill skiing, snowshoeing, sleigh rides, ice skating on Lake Louise, snow tubing and more. You can arrange these activities by speaking to the concierge during your stay.
An excellent way to see these dramatic landscapes is by helicopter – this 12 minute tour of the Spray Lakes and Spray Valley takes you over the forested slopes of Mt Buller, a favourite destination for many intermediate climbers. The tree line stops well short of the summit, offering a dramatic view of the shale patterns and rocky outcrops of the surrounding mountains of the Goat Range as they tumble into the trees of the Spray Valley.
Enjoy this majestic mountain scenery with a breathtaking ascent to the pinnacle of Sulphur Mountain for an awe-inspiring 360-degree panorama. Enjoy the interpretative hiking trails that lead along the ridge of the mountain. After an invigorating hike, feel free to enjoy one of the two excellent restaurants at the summit.
Starts: approx: 4pm
Duration: approx. 40 minutes
Please note the start and duration times outlined are subject to change based on factors beyond our control such as traffic and weather conditions. Your Tour Guide will confirm operation times with you whilst on-tour and can answer any further questions you may have.
On this three-hour tour you will visit Banff’s landmarks and view the Rockies’ fascinating wildlife in their natural habitat. Hear the history of how the Bow Valley changed when three railway workers re-discovered a hidden treasure. See and learn about the wildlife – behaviour, habitat, and their winter survival adaptations.
This four-hour guided walking tour leads you through the natural wonders of Johnston Canyon in all its winter glory. You’ll trek across steel walkways built into the canyon walls and witness breathtaking views of the gorge below. The catwalks lead you into the frozen lower waterfalls and through a cave before your final stop at the upper falls, framed by gigantic ice pillars and frequented by ice climbers. Your tour includes ice cleats and hiking poles, hot chocolate and maple cookies.
You’ll travel the scenic highway through Banff National Park to iconic Lake Louise, following the Bow River through the valley between Castle Mountain and Mount Bell.
Like the rest of this region, Lake Louise is a dream location for photography. Imagine postcard-perfect views of calm turquoise waters against a backdrop of rocky mountain peaks. It’s usually busy, for good reason. In summer, visitors come to canoe or paddle board and in winter, it transforms into a skating rink.
Staying at this fairytale property will make you feel absolutely immersed in the Rockies. You can enjoy the early morning stillness before the tourists descend, or take your time and enjoy the glowing sun dropping behind Mount Victoria late in the day. The clear night skies are perfect for stargazing.
It’s a free day for you to enjoy this incredible area. During winter, Lake Louise is a veritable playground. Ice skate on the lake, take a sleigh ride or try dog sledding. Be enchanted by the view of the glacier over afternoon tea, or perhaps take a snowshoe tour to the top of the mountain for an incredible view. And of course, it goes without saying it’s a skier’s paradise around here. The slopes cater to skiers of all skill levels.
Hiking trails wind up to the famous Lake Agnes Tea House for spectacular views. If it’s a relaxing walk you’re after, the lakeshore stroll takes about an hour or so. There’s a sightseeing gondola here, too – it’s about a 14 minute trip and will give you a bird’s eye view of this stunning winter scenery.
The trip to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway, through Jasper National Park, is sure to be a highlight of your trip. It’s about 230km from Lake Louise all the way to Jasper, undoubtedly one of the most scenic routes on the planet. You’ll pass some of Canada’s highest mountains and most magnificent glaciers. It’s hard to grasp the magnitude, the sheer majesty of the Rocky Mountains until you’re actually surrounded by them. Jagged peaks, brilliant blue lakes, waterfalls, impressive glaciers – this is what you’ve imagined. The wildlife won’t disappoint, either. Perhaps you’ll pause to watch a passing moose or elk!
Jasper National Park, the largest of all the Rockies national parks, feels a bit more rugged and remote than Banff and Lake Louise. It’s home to Alberta’s tallest mountain, Mount Columbia, and Maligne Lake, the second-largest glacial-fed lake in the world.
Jasper is known for winter adventure in the great outdoors, with a challenge to suit every taste and capability. Fancy snowboarding and skiing at Marmot Basin? Or perhaps climb aboard a traditional sled as your team of energetic dogs whisks you across the frozen landscape. Or strap into your climbing gear and ascend the face of a cliff of solid ice.
‘Fat biking’ in the snow is heaven for an adventure enthusiast. The super wide, low-pressure tyres make it possible to bike through the snow, but it’s certainly a workout.
There is the SkyTram to get the best views possible of the national park. You’ll feel like you’re up in the clouds – because you are. It’s a cool 2263 metres above sea level.
Today you’ll head north for the unforgettable wilderness of the Yukon. This remote getaway is another adventure playground, home to some of Canada’s most unusual wildlife. And it’s one of the best places in the world to see the mesmerising northern lights, aurora borealis, an item on many bucket lists.
You’ll be transferred to Edmonton Airport for your flight to Whitehorse, often referred to as the wilderness city. Upon arrival you’ll be met by a representative of Boréale Ranch for your transfer to the property.
After you check in, take some time to get acquainted with the property and its amenities and facilities. You’ll enjoy a delicious dinner featuring a selection of local dishes such as wild cranberries, elk, salmon and delicate Arctic char. After 10pm, venture outside to the viewing area for your first evening of northern lights – aurora borealis – viewing. This spectacle is every bit as thrilling as you’d hope, taking over the whole sky with brilliant, unusual colours.
Please note that some flights may arrive late evening.
The next two days are yours to explore and enjoy winter in the Canadian north. Soak in the outdoor 24-hour hot tub, or experience the thrills to be had sledding on the ranch’s toboggan hill.
Enjoy the company of friends around the bonfire as the sun slowly sets. Of course, the star of the show is the spectacular northern lights – a kaleidoscope of swirling greens, blues and reds playing across the sky in sweeping waves.
Spend the entire day riding with these impressive canine athletes. Learn about the lifestyle of being a dog musher and go further into the incredible Yukon wilderness.
Meet true Yukon huskies and enjoy the thrill of an exhilarating dog sled ride. What a ride! Whiz along spectacular trails with these powerful, graceful huskies.
It’s another free day for you to explore.
The vast expanse and sheer beauty of the Yukon really has to be experienced firsthand. It’s tranquil, awe-inspiring and there’s a stillness to this part of the world that is magical. Revel in the solitude of walking trails that encircle the property, or borrow some snowshoes and venture off-trail for some casual adventure. And don’t forget to marvel at the northern lights tonight from the comfort of your ranch.
You’ll be snowmobiling through the Yukon’s unspoiled wilderness, discovering places inaccessible by foot, snowshoe or dog team. Snowmobiling is a fast – and certainly fun! – way to cover plenty of ground and see these pristine winter landscapes.
After checking out of this adventure lodge, you’ll be transferred by the ranch shuttle to the airport for your flight to Vancouver. On arrival at Vancouver Airport, you’ll be taken to your downtown hotel, home for the next two nights.
It’s a free day for you to relax or explore at your own pace. Given the surrounding region, it’s no surprise that this big city still feels close to nature. With mountain and ocean views, Vancouver is actually quite compact and a great city to explore on foot. You can take the 3km loop around False Creek Olympic Village for great views of the city skyline.
Bike or walk through the urban oasis of Stanley Park. It’s larger than New York’s Central Park, with a seawall of nearly nine kilometres to protect it from winter storms. There’s a lake, gardens, totem poles and more.
It won’t be hard to find something interesting for lunch or dinner. Vancouver is an exciting foodie destination, whether it’s for fine dining, buzzing Granville Island market, or a bite of a famous Japadog, a small chain of street food stands selling Japanese-inspired hot dogs.
Enjoy a day of leisure in Vancouver today. Perhaps a visit to Chinatown, North America’s second largest. Or head to historic Gastown, Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood, and wander the cobblestone streets, admire old Victorian buildings and see the iconic Gastown Steam Clock.
Granville Island is a must-do, with its famous public market, art and craft shops and many cafes and restaurants.
Today marks the end of your magical winter adventure. You will be transferred to the airport to board your flight home.
We hope you’ve enjoyed this extraordinary journey.
Cross the international date-line.
Arrive home today after your amazing adventure, we hope you have been Inspired!
Deposit & Payment
Booking Process
Airfare Information
Full-service airline used will be Air Canada, Qantas, Virgin Australia, Air New Zealand, Cathay Pacific, United Airlines, Delta Airlines or similar.
Flights are not direct and include a maximum of two connections
If you would like to travel with a preferred airline, please ensure you mention this in the special request field. Please note that appropriate fare and tax difference will be applicable in order to confirm your request.
Adelaide customers will likely require two stops in either direction
All tickets will include 20 kilos checked baggage per person, along with 7 kilos of hand luggage.
Despite the airlines baggage allowance, we recommend travelling with 20 kilos per person due to restrictions with internal flights (where applicable), as well as coach and train transportation. Also, you will be responsible for handling your luggage at all times as the services of porters is not included. If travelling over this amount, you will be liable for any excess baggage fees enforced by the airline, payable direct.
Once ticketed, flights are non-refundable; any changes will be subject to the airline rules and change fees
Full names as per passport (including all middle names) are required
Any airline schedule changes or cancellations are beyond our control
For Adelaide customers there is a $150 surcharge
For Perth customers there is a $300 surcharge
Premium Economy or Business Class upgrades
Please specify this as a 'Special Request' when completing your booking and you will be quoted for the additional fare. In the event your selection is unavailable, or that you are dissatisfied with the quote, you will be provided with a full refund.
Land Only discount
A reduction of $1,000 per person applies if you wish to arrange your own airfares. To purchase a land-only fare, please select this option in the booking process under 'Departure City'.
Please note, if you are not arriving or departing as per the group itinerary, airport transfers are also no longer included. If you would like us to arrange this service for you, please refer to the ‘Extra services’ section for pricing.
Extending Your Stay
Some customers like to enhance their holiday by extending their stay pre- and/or post-tour or including a stopover in another destination. If you wish to do so, please follow these steps:
By choosing to extend your stay, please note that a supplement of $150 per person, plus applicable fare and tax differences will apply. We will contact you via email with a quote and proposed flight itinerary, and then proceed with collecting the additional payment required to confirm your request.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour, adding a stopover package en-route or booking a tour extension. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Airport chauffeur
Take the hassle out of getting to the airport with private chauffeur transfers to and from your home airport. Your personal chauffeur will meet and greet you, attend to your luggage and drive you to your destination in a luxury vehicle.
Additional surcharges may apply depending on pick-up time, tolls and government levies.
Airport Chauffeur can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add this service, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance.
Airport lounges
Escape busy airport terminals and relax at a cosy and catered lounge instead. Departure lounge access in Sydney $70 per person (up to 6 hours); Melbourne & Brisbane $55 per person (up to 3 hours).
Airport lounge passes can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add this service, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance.
To enhance your journey, we're offering the following optional activities:
Please note: You may only select one optional tour per day. Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online or speaking with your Dedicated Support Agent for assistance.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 65 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers. As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available. This particular tour is categorised as a “3”:
3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide or driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision. For the services of your guide, it is suggested that you budget for CAD$5 per person, per day. Tipping of your driver is also appreciated and we would suggest CAD$4 per person, per day.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences however any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $1,999 per person in addition to the twin-share price.
Triple share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book comprehensive or budget cover simply by clicking HERE to arrange your policy.
Visa & Passport Information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of your return.
CANADA - An E-Visa waiver is required.
To begin your visa application please click HERE.
Information required:
Wait for it to be approved and you will be notified via email within approximately 48 hours.
USA (needed if transiting) - An E-Visa waiver is required.
To begin your visa application please click HERE.
Information required:
Wait for it to be approved and you will be notified via email within approximately 48 hours.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation including e-tickets and hotel details will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Group Size
This is a non-group package. It will not be fully escorted, some components will be independent, and you will have different guides and drivers throughout your experience.
Trip Style - Partially Escorted Tour
A section of this trip runs as a group tour, where you will be joined by up to 40 guests and escorted by an expert tour leader. Another section runs as a self-guided tour and you will travel between destinations on your own, with inclusions and free time to enjoy at your own pace. You’ll have access to a 24/7 local number to contact in case you need any assistance.
Children
Children must be 5 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are the same price as adults.
Tour Length
The total length of the tour in days includes time spent inflight and is subject to change, depending on the flight schedule. Please refer to the day-by-day itinerary for the time spent in your destination(s).
Refundable deposit within 28 days of purchase:
For cancellations made within 28 days of paying the deposit on any tour, your deposit can be refunded in full or can be transferred to a new booking should you decide to change to another package or destination. Please note this change of mind guarantee does not apply for bookings made within 90 days of departure, after which time our standard 48 hour cooling off period applies. After this time, your booking becomes non-refundable.
All cancellation or change requests must be advised in writing to our Customer Service Team at support@inspiringvacations.
Refund times will vary and the timeframe of which will be advised at the time of cancellation. Any refund of deposit will be issued back to the original form of payment.
Any bookings made prior to 13 March 2020 must abide by the original payment term conditions.
Transferrable second installment up until 90 days before scheduled departure:
Following the second installment payment and up until 90 days before your departure only, should you wish to postpone your travel or transfer to another package, we can provide you with a credit note of the current balance paid on your booking, to be used to rebook within 18 months of the credit being issued.
Any change request must be advised in writing to our Customer Service Team at support@inspiringvacations.
Any bookings made prior to 13 March 2020 must abide by the original payment term conditions.
Please refer to our full Terms and Conditions for more details
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