ROCKIES EXPRESS
ROCKIES EXPRESS
Embark on a captivating six-day journey through the Canadian Rockies, starting with a scenic drive from Calgary Airport to Banff. Enjoy optional adventures en route before experiencing Banff's historic charm and natural beauty. Cruise Lake Minnewanka and ascend Sulphur Mountain on day two, then venture to Jasper on day three, exploring landmarks like Lake Louise and the Columbia Icefields. Experience Jasper's sights with a SkyTram ride and a Maligne Lake cruise. Conclude your trip with a scenic VIA Rail journey to Kamloops.
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Start Location: Calgary
End Location: Kamloops
TOP HIGHLIGHTS
- Scenic drive through the Canadian Rockies from Calgary to Banff
- Lake Minnewanka cruise and Sulphur Mountain gondola ride in Banff
- Exploration of Jasper National Park, including a visit to the Columbia Icefields
- Breathtaking views from the Jasper SkyTram and a serene cruise on Maligne Lake
- Relaxing VIA Rail journey from Jasper to Kamloops with stunning mountain views
SAMPLE ITINERARY (CUSTOMIZABLE)
Day 1 - Drive to Banff
Your adventure begins by picking up your rental car at Calgary International Airport and embarking on a scenic drive to Banff. As you traverse the stunning landscapes of Alberta, the majestic peaks of the Canadian Rockies will gradually come into view, providing a glimpse of the natural beauty that lies ahead. Upon reaching Banff, you'll check into your centrally located hotel. With the remainder of the day at your leisure, explore the charming streets, unique shops, and inviting restaurants of Banff, immersing yourself in the mountain atmosphere and gearing up for the exciting adventures to come.
Overnight: Banff
Day 2 - Lake Cruise & Gondola Ride
On the second day, dive into the beauty of Banff, starting with a serene cruise on Lake Minnewanka, the largest lake in Banff National Park. As you glide across the water, take in the majestic peaks and rugged shoreline, keeping an eye out for wildlife such as bighorn sheep and bald eagles. Your guide will enrich the experience with tales of native folklore and the submerged village of Minnewanka Landing. Following the cruise, ascend Sulphur Mountain via the Banff Gondola. This eight-minute ride in a modern gondola cabin offers a spectacular bird's-eye view of six mountain ranges. At the summit, stroll along the ridgetop boardwalk and soak in the panoramic vistas. Explore the state-of-the-art summit facility, which includes new restaurants, interactive exhibits, a multi-sensory theatre, and a 360-degree rooftop observation deck. This day seamlessly blends tranquil lake scenes with awe-inspiring mountain views, making it a standout in your Rockies adventure.
Overnight: Banff
Day 3 - Drive to Jasper
Today, journey on a scenic drive from Banff to Jasper via the historic Bow Valley Parkway. Your first stop is the iconic Lake Louise, where you can take in its stunning turquoise waters and majestic mountain backdrop. Continue your journey along the breathtaking Icefields Parkway, famous for its abundant wildlife, ancient glaciers, and pristine lakes, providing countless photo opportunities. In the afternoon, visit the Columbia Icefields Discovery Centre and board the Ice Explorer for an exhilarating tour onto the Athabasca Glacier, the largest non-polar icefield in the world. Experience the thrill of walking on the glacier and tasting its pure, fresh waters. Next, take a walk along the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-floored walkway that offers incredible views of waterfalls, wildlife, and ancient fossils. After a day filled with unforgettable sights, arrive in Jasper National Park and settle into the quaint and charming town of Jasper.
Overnight: Jasper
Day 4 - Jasper SkyTram and Maligne Cruise
Ride Canada's longest and highest aerial tramway to Jasper National Park's alpine tundra. From the upper terminal of Whistler's Mountain, marvel at the unrivaled views of six mountain ranges, glacial-fed lakes, meandering rivers, and the picturesque Jasper Town site, gaining over 973 meters in elevation. Later, enjoy a peaceful 14-kilometer cruise on Maligne Lake, passing majestic peaks and glaciers on your way to the serene Spirit Island. Your onboard guide will share fascinating stories about the lake's history, geology, and wildlife. Upon reaching Spirit Island, disembark to explore a short nature trail that leads to a viewing platform, ideal for capturing the perfect iconic photo.
Overnight: Jasper
Day 5 - Train to Kamloops
After returning your rental car, you'll board a VIA Rail train for a picturesque 9-hour journey from Jasper to Kamloops. This scenic trip through the stunning Canadian Rockies offers comfortable, spacious seating, access to the Skyline Car, and a variety of food and beverages available for purchase. This eco-friendly travel option provides a relaxing way to fully immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty.
Overnight: Kamloops
Day 6 - Depart Kamloops
Your journey ends upon check out of your Kamloops hotel.
DATES & PRICES
Availability:
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
ACCOMMODATION
START PLACE
END PLACE
PRICE FROM
All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.
Applicable taxes vary depending on travel destination and are not included. Please ask your sales agent what extra taxes will be payable for your tour.
WHY CHOOSE ANDERSON VACATIONS?
Anderson Vacations
Other Companies
Independent Travel
See what you want, where you want, how you want. Solo, with a friend, or with a group of friends.Canadian Travel Experts
With at least 30 years of experience.Min. 95% Satisfaction Rate
From past guests.Accreditation and Consumer Protection
Feel confident booking because of a membership in all the following organizations:
Sustainability
Planting one tree for every passenger that travels with us.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Accommodation in the listed pre-selected hotels as agreed
- All attractions as listed specifically within the itinerary
- Sightseeing tours and entrance fees as listed within the tour itinerary
- All travel between locations as detailed
EXCLUSIONS
- Airfare unless specified as included within the itinerary
- Taxes as applicable (separately mentioned)
- Travel Insurance and Cancellation Protection (strongly recommended)
- Gratuities for Local Guides, Tour Managers and/or Bus Drivers
- Meals not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary
- Items ( attractions and sightseeing & entrance fees) not listed as included in the itinerary
Why Take A Custom Tour?
Private & Customizable
You can see what you want, when you want, how you want. A trip that's perfectly timed and well organized.
Unique Experience
Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way. Can combine your trip with our group tours. Advice to help you get the most out of your trip.
Freedom to Explore
Time to enjoy and take in each place. Add days in places you want to explore. Do only the activities you want to do.
Can't find what you're looking for?
Our specialists can take away the stress and create a custom trip tailored to your exact interests and budget.
Get A Custom Quote
OR CALL
1.866.814.7378
Custom Trip Plans
You can see what you want, when you want, how you want.
Unique Experiences
Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way.
Freedom To Explore
Time to take in each place with only the tours you want to do.
Booking & Flight Questions
Do you arrange airport transfers?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking airport transfers for you! Some tours have airport transfers included already. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Can you assist with booking additional accommodation?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking additional nights of accommodation for you before and/or after your fully escorted tour! Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Can you assist with booking flights?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking your flights for you! We do not recommend you book any flights until you receive your booking confirmation directly from Anderson Vacations Tours, as some tours are not pre-guaranteed. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Is it possible to book a triple share accommodation?
Yes, it is possible to book triple share accommodations on select trips. Please inquire about this option, as pricing may also vary and it will be subject to availability.
Can we book this tour with our exclusive group?
Anderson Vacations Tours can work with private groups to customize a tour to your needs. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Tour Questions
What is the average age of passengers for this tour?
Our tours are suitable for all age demographics. The average age of travelers is typically 45+
I am a solo traveler. Is there a single surcharge?
There are options for single travelers to join most tours. Solo Travelers can choose to pay the single supplement and have their own room throughout the tour. For those willing to share, we also have a Twin Share option that is offered for the majority of our tours. This means you will be sharing the hotel rooms with another single, same gender traveller who also books the Twin Share option. If this is the case, there will be no single supplement charged to either of you. If we are unable to match you with another Twin Share traveler, there may be a single surcharge applied to cover the full cost of the rooms on some of our longer tours. Please enquire before finalizing your booking for full details.
How physically demanding is this tour? Are you able to accommodate people with mobility restrictions/limitations?
This tour has a low level of physical demand, although there may be some activities or sightseeing tours that require walking short distances. Please inquire if you have any mobility restrictions before completing your booking to ensure this tour is right for you.
How much luggage should I bring?
Each passenger may bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag. The weight limit for this suitcase is 32 kilograms/60 pounds. Baggage handling is provided at the hotels in our tour packages. Please advise our reservations staff if you will be bringing additional items such as a cane, walker or wheelchair. You may also bring one small soft-sided carry-on bag, which should easily fit into the overhead shelf of the coach. Each person is responsible for his/her own carryon luggage. Remember to check your airline baggage restrictions if you are flying, as they may differ from Anderson Vacations Tours guidelines.
What is your recommended spending amount for non-included meals?
The suggested allowance for non-included meals is $40.00 — $60.00 CAD per day (includes tipping).
Can you accommodate passengers with dietary restrictions (food allergies, vegan, vegetarian etc.)?
Yes! There are many meals included on our fully escorted tours. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so we can ensure there are alternative meal choices and arrangements made for you.
Are gratuities included in the tour cost?
For your convenience, gratuities for local guides and meals stated on the itinerary are included in the price of the tour. For meals not included in your tour package please remember that it is customary to tip your server 15-20% in North America. Gratuities for your Motorcoach Driver and Tour Director are left to your discretion. We recommend $4.00 - $5.00 CAD per person, per day for your Motorcoach Driver and $6.00 - $7.00 CAD per person, per day for your Tour Director. if you can't find your
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Over 25 years offering custom trips and small group tours.
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Seasoned Tour Guides
Get a deeper understanding with storytelling tailored to your interests.
Space To Breathe
We never max out buses even if we use the same size bus as the competition.
All Inclusive
No hidden expenses along the way. Competitors offer activities as an extra - we don't
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Tour Code
6RE
Rockies Express
6 days
Created On: 21 Dec 2024
Highlights
- Scenic drive through the Canadian Rockies from Calgary to Banff
- Lake Minnewanka cruise and Sulphur Mountain gondola ride in Banff
- Exploration of Jasper National Park, including a visit to the Columbia Icefields
- Breathtaking views from the Jasper SkyTram and a serene cruise on Maligne Lake
- Relaxing VIA Rail journey from Jasper to Kamloops with stunning mountain views
Inclusions
- Accommodation in the listed pre-selected hotels as agreed
- All attractions as listed specifically within the itinerary
- Sightseeing tours and entrance fees as listed within the tour itinerary
- All travel between locations as detailed
Exclusions
- Airfare unless specified as included within the itinerary
- Taxes as applicable (separately mentioned)
- Travel Insurance and Cancellation Protection (strongly recommended)
- Gratuities for Local Guides, Tour Managers and/or Bus Drivers
- Meals not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary
- Items ( attractions and sightseeing & entrance fees) not listed as included in the itinerary
Dates & Prices
ACCOMODATION
START PLACE
END PLACE
PRICE FROM
Moderate Accomodation
Calgary
Kamloops
$2,630 USD
All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Drive to Banff
Your adventure begins by picking up your rental car at Calgary International Airport and embarking on a scenic drive to Banff. As you traverse the stunning landscapes of Alberta, the majestic peaks of the Canadian Rockies will gradually come into view, providing a glimpse of the natural beauty that lies ahead. Upon reaching Banff, you'll check into your centrally located hotel. With the remainder of the day at your leisure, explore the charming streets, unique shops, and inviting restaurants of Banff, immersing yourself in the mountain atmosphere and gearing up for the exciting adventures to come.
Overnight: Banff
Day 2 - Lake Cruise & Gondola Ride
On the second day, dive into the beauty of Banff, starting with a serene cruise on Lake Minnewanka, the largest lake in Banff National Park. As you glide across the water, take in the majestic peaks and rugged shoreline, keeping an eye out for wildlife such as bighorn sheep and bald eagles. Your guide will enrich the experience with tales of native folklore and the submerged village of Minnewanka Landing. Following the cruise, ascend Sulphur Mountain via the Banff Gondola. This eight-minute ride in a modern gondola cabin offers a spectacular bird's-eye view of six mountain ranges. At the summit, stroll along the ridgetop boardwalk and soak in the panoramic vistas. Explore the state-of-the-art summit facility, which includes new restaurants, interactive exhibits, a multi-sensory theatre, and a 360-degree rooftop observation deck. This day seamlessly blends tranquil lake scenes with awe-inspiring mountain views, making it a standout in your Rockies adventure.
Overnight: Banff
Day 3 - Drive to Jasper
Today, journey on a scenic drive from Banff to Jasper via the historic Bow Valley Parkway. Your first stop is the iconic Lake Louise, where you can take in its stunning turquoise waters and majestic mountain backdrop. Continue your journey along the breathtaking Icefields Parkway, famous for its abundant wildlife, ancient glaciers, and pristine lakes, providing countless photo opportunities. In the afternoon, visit the Columbia Icefields Discovery Centre and board the Ice Explorer for an exhilarating tour onto the Athabasca Glacier, the largest non-polar icefield in the world. Experience the thrill of walking on the glacier and tasting its pure, fresh waters. Next, take a walk along the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-floored walkway that offers incredible views of waterfalls, wildlife, and ancient fossils. After a day filled with unforgettable sights, arrive in Jasper National Park and settle into the quaint and charming town of Jasper.
Overnight: Jasper
Day 4 - Jasper SkyTram and Maligne Cruise
Ride Canada's longest and highest aerial tramway to Jasper National Park's alpine tundra. From the upper terminal of Whistler's Mountain, marvel at the unrivaled views of six mountain ranges, glacial-fed lakes, meandering rivers, and the picturesque Jasper Town site, gaining over 973 meters in elevation. Later, enjoy a peaceful 14-kilometer cruise on Maligne Lake, passing majestic peaks and glaciers on your way to the serene Spirit Island. Your onboard guide will share fascinating stories about the lake's history, geology, and wildlife. Upon reaching Spirit Island, disembark to explore a short nature trail that leads to a viewing platform, ideal for capturing the perfect iconic photo.
Overnight: Jasper
Day 5 - Train to Kamloops
After returning your rental car, you'll board a VIA Rail train for a picturesque 9-hour journey from Jasper to Kamloops. This scenic trip through the stunning Canadian Rockies offers comfortable, spacious seating, access to the Skyline Car, and a variety of food and beverages available for purchase. This eco-friendly travel option provides a relaxing way to fully immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty.
Overnight: Kamloops
Day 6 - Depart Kamloops
Your journey ends upon check out of your Kamloops hotel.
