16 Day Discover The Canadian Rockies & Alaska
This tour is categorised as 1 out of 5
Explore at your own pace: Discover your destination at your own pace with our self-guided itinerary. Options include driving, rail, or cruising (excluding expeditions). Enjoy included guided day trips for sightseeing as outlined in your itinerary.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. If your tour includes multiple countries, you will be met by a new tour leader in each country and any internal flights included will be unescorted.
✓ Return international airfares with a full-service airline
✓ All airport & port transfers
✓ 6 nights in quality accommodation
✓ Enjoy a 7-night luxury Alaska Inside Passage cruise onboard Celebrity Solstice
✓ 13 Breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners
✓ Fully escorted by an expert English-speaking guide throughout the Rockies
✓ Incredible sightseeing including Banff National Park, Lake Louise, Jasper National Park, cosmopolitan Vancouver and the Alaskan wilderness
✓ Comfortable, dedicated private transportation throughout
✓ All tipping and gratuities
✓ 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.
Get ready for your incredible trip through the Canadian Rockies. Board your flight to Calgary via connecting cities. On arrival take a shuttle transfer to your hotel.
Please note: Some flights may depart the day before.
Check-in: Passengers will be arriving at various times throughout the day from as early as 6am through to late evening. If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available, as there are generally no scheduled activities on Day 1 of the itinerary.
Today we travel to Banff in the morning and embark on a scenic road trip of breathtaking Banff National Park along the Bow Valley Parkway, between the iconic mountain resort towns Banff and Lake Louise. Marvel at glorious Moraine Lake with a panoramic view of the Valley of the Ten Peaks, followed by a leisurely hike to the Lower Falls of Johnston Canyon. Then stroll along the picturesque shores of Lake Louise, crowned as the ‘Jewel of the Rockies’. Conclude the day with a quick stop at world famous Bow Falls.
Ride the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain, with breathtaking panoramic views of the Rockies.
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.
Today’s highlight is a jaw-dropping road trip to Jasper National Park. Be prepared to take in the world’s most scenic glaciers, lakes and mountain peaks as we traverse the Icefields Parkway, passing by sub-alpine forests on the way to the immense Columbia Icefield, one of the largest accumulations of ice south of the Arctic Circle. Next is a quick stop at the powerful waterfall of Athabasca Falls before heading into the beautiful alpine town of Jasper.
Ride aboard the massive Ice Explorer snow coach onto the surface of Athabasca Glacier. You can also experience the optional cliff-edge Glacier Skywalk once at the Athabasca Glacier should you feel daring.
Starts: approx: 12:00pm
Duration: approx: 20 minutes (duration at the glacier)
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.
Step out on a cliff-edge walkway where giant glaciers perch above you and the spectacular Sunwapta Valley spreads out below. The Columbia Icefield Skywalk experience features waterfalls, wildlife, fossils and more on an exciting 1-kilometre walkway that leads to a platform where glass is all that separates you from a 918-foot (280 m) drop. The walk is presented in an interpretive storytelling format that will connect you to the natural world in a deep and meaningful way.
Starts: approx: 1:30pm
Duration: approx: 45 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.
Step into UNESCO World Heritage Site Mount Robson Provincial Park, home to the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies and recognised for its vast natural beauty and mountain landscapes containing rare species, peaks, glaciers, lakes, waterfalls, canyons, limestone caves, and fossils. Tonight we overnight in Kamloops where the North and South Thompson rivers meet.
Travel up small rivers, gliding over water only inches deep and going where it seems no boat has gone before, you are sure to fall witness to a variety of active wildlife always seen on these riverbanks. Explore up to 12 kilometers of the spectacular Grizzly Bear Valley – where the bears decide when and for how long we stop along the way!
Starts: approx: 10am
Duration: approx: 1 hour
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.
Set out on a fun hike at Othello Tunnels, a series of old train tunnels and bridges that cut through the solid granite walls and pass over the wild Coquihalla River near the town of Hope, location of the film ‘Rambo – First Blood’. After lunch, enjoy a mini tour of cosmopolitan Vancouver city, stopping by bustling Granville Island Public Market, a food lover’s paradise. Located at the southwestern corner of the coastal province of British Columbia, Vancouver is well known for its majestic natural beauty, as it is nestled between the Coast Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. It is frequently ranked as one of the "best cities to live in" and is certainly a beautiful destination to visit.
Cross the border into the United States of America through to the Port of Seattle to embark on your week-long Alaska Glacier Cruise for your chance to witness the undisturbed wildlife and jaw-dropping natural wonders of the Alaskan wilderness. Step on board your 5 star Celebrity cruise, voted as the 'best premium cruise line' for 10 consecutive years.
Enjoy the day at sea as we sail through the natural wonders of British Columbia and Alaska. Spend the day acquainting yourself with all that your 5-star ship has to offer.
Cruise to Ketchikan, arriving early at 7am. The ‘Salmon Capital of the World’ is a popular port of call for Alaska cruises. If you’re up for an adventure, take a canoe and nature trail excursion (optional and additional expense), or a wilderness exploration followed by a scrumptious crab feast (optional and additional expense). We sail out at 4pm.
Endicott Arm Fjord marks the southern edge of Ford’s Terror Wilderness area. Drifting icebergs, deep blue waters and a spectacular tidewater glacier only add to this natural spectacle’s appeal. Glacier Harbour Seals: Endicott Arm is one of the largest breeding grounds for harbour seals on the planet. Along the shore, you might also glimpse brown bears, bald eagles, sea ducks, deer, moose and wolves. End with a front-row view of Dawes Glacier. This very active ice cap is known for its spectacular calving displays which produce the huge, chunky icebergs that float in the area. Then, cruise to Juneau, where you’ll spend the afternoon.
Cruise to Skagway, arriving at 7am. The great Klondike Gold Rush lives on in Skagway's charming downtown of restored 19th-century buildings and its historic railway. Located on the edge of the wilderness, this small town saw its fair share of gold rush, get rich dreamers pass through. Today, its residents are more than welcome to share the stories of its untamed past. Discover Dyea, or go horseback riding through the majestic forests (optional and additional expense). Continue sailing through Alaska's Inside Passage, a complex labyrinth of fjords and bays where whales and sea lions find refuge during the summer months. We sail out at 6pm.
Enjoy the day at sea as we sail through the natural wonders of Alaska.
The seaside capital of British Columbia, Victoria is located on Vancouver Island at the southern tip of Western Canada. Named after Queen Victoria, this one-time British colony has retained much of its colonial charm with decorative English gardens and castles, but also reflects its modern landscape with bohemian shops, coffee bars and international cuisines. The year-round moderate temperatures are perfect for exploring this incredible city. Arrive at 5.30pm and depart at 11.59pm.
Disembark from the cruise after breakfast. Begin your tour of ‘Emerald City’ Seattle as we head downtown for a familiarisation drive stopping at scenic views as we pass by distinct neighbourhoods sitting high on hilltops or afloat on the calm waters. Explore the colourful Pike Place Market overlooking Elliot Bay, Seattle’s most popular tourist destination and home to a large variety of shops and restaurants with waterfront views.
Scale the iconic Space Needle and view the dazzling skyline from 158 meters on the observation deck. Also, view the amazing collection of blown glass art and sculptures of Chihuly Garden & Glass. The artist has his work is included in more than 200 museum collections worldwide. He has been the recipient of many awards, including twelve honorary doctorates and two fellowships from the National Endowment for the Arts.
Starts: approx: 2pm
Duration: approx: 1.5 - 2 hours
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.
Bid farewell to beautiful USA, Canada and Alaska, with a transfer to the airport for your homebound or onward flights via connecting cities.
Check-out: Passengers will be departing at various times throughout the day. Standard hotel check-out times will apply no matter what time your flight is scheduled to depart. Check-out time is generally anywhere from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or, alternatively, please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. Please note this service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost. Your tour guide (or hotel staff) will confirm the time of your airport transfer with you directly.
Crossing over the date-line.
Arrive home today. We hope you have enjoyed your inspiring journey through the Canadian Rockies and Alaska.
For detailed information on your cruise, click HERE.
If you wish to upgrade your ship cabin the following amounts are payable in addition to the package price:
Please request your preferred cabin type in the ‘Special Requests’ field prior to making your purchase, and you will then be contacted by your Dedicated Support Agent who will confirm availability and arrange payment.
Deposit & Payments
Booking Process
Airfare Information
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 $600 per person applies if you wish to arrange your own airfares and transfers. 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 $350 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, or booking a tour extension. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre and post-tour accommodation and arrival and departure airport shuttle transfers
A $350 per person supplement plus any fare difference applies if you wish to confirm your early arrival or stay behind.
Early arrival airfare surcharge: Calgary from $350pp
Stay behind airfare surcharge: Seattle from $350pp
Extra night accommodation in Calgary or Seattle available before or after your tour:
Arrival and departure airport transfers:
Please note - if booking the Land Only option, the early arrival/stay behind surcharge does not apply.
Please note - the transfers are not private and you may be grouped with other Inspiring Vacations customers.
Please specify in the 'Special Request' field when making your purchase your preferred travel arrangements and if you would like our team to book additional nights' accommodation and/or airport transfers. The additional cost for these land arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
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 a choice of the following optional activities:
Prices are per person.
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. Optional tours is not available for individual purchase on site. Alternative activities may not be available in the vicinity and cannot be arranged. Non-participants must wait for the group to complete the activities.
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 “2”.
2 – Easy Tour: An average level of fitness and mobility is required for this tour. There is a considerable amount of free time throughout the cruise portion of this itinerary, though some sightseeing may be conducted on uneven terrain, including some incline and walking over short distances. For Safari tours, you will be required to get on and off vehicles with minimal assistance.
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.
Tipping
Tipping is included as part of your package.
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $2,999 per person in addition to the twin share price.
Triple Share
Available (on request). Please purchase 3 x $4,999.
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 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 - 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
20-40 people
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).