THE BEST OF BRITISH COLOMBIA AND THE INSIDE PASSAGE
THE BEST OF BRITISH COLOMBIA AND THE INSIDE PASSAGE
Embark on a 17-day adventure through the landscapes and cities of British Columbia and the Inside Passage. This itinerary offers a perfect mix of urban exploration, breathtaking nature, and thrilling outdoor activities. From the streets of Vancouver to the serene beaches of Tofino, and from whale watching in Prince Rupert to the historic charm of Victoria, each day brings new experiences and unforgettable memories. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, a well-planned route with car hire, and a variety of excursions that showcase the best of this diverse region.
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Start Location: Vancouver
End Location: Vancouver
TOP HIGHLIGHTS
- Included hire car, allowing you to explore British Columbia at your own pace.
- Experience the amazing sight of humpbacks, orcas, and other marine wildlife with guided tours in Prince Rupert and Campbell River.
- Take a 8-minute ride across Canada’s most iconic locations on the FlyOver Canada experience.
- Travel from Prince Rupert to Port Hardy on a scenic 16-hour ferry ride through one of the most beautiful coastal routes in the world.
- Stroll through 55 acres of stunning floral displays at Victoria's Butchart Gardens.
SAMPLE ITINERARY (CUSTOMIZABLE)
Day 1 - Arrive in Vancouver
Your journey begins with your arrival in Vancouver. Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the city at your own pace after checking into your hotel. From the vibrant streets of downtown to the trendy neighborhoods of Yaletown and Gastown, Vancouver offers plenty of attractions to discover before your adventure truly begins.
Overnight: Vancouver
Day 2 - Hop On Hop Off Tour & FlyOver Canada
Today you will collect your rental car and then spend the day exploring Vancouver's top attractions with a flexible hop-on-hop-off tour. Visit popular highlights such as Stanley Park, Granville Island, Gastown, Yaletown, Chinatown, and Robson Street. In the evening, experience FlyOver Canada, an exhilarating 8-minute journey across the country's most iconic locations, complete with state-of-the-art special effects, making for an unforgettable end to your Vancouver adventure.
Overnight: Vancouver
Day 3 - Osoyoos
Today, collect your rental car and begin on a scenic drive to Osoyoos, a picturesque town situated in the southern region of the Okanagan Valley. Upon reaching Osoyoos, check into the next hotel and have the entire day free to immerse yourself in the charm and beauty of this desert oasis. Osoyoos is renowned for its warm climate, stunning landscapes, and abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can spend the day exploring the town's unique attractions, such as the Osoyoos Desert Model Railroad, which showcases intricately detailed miniature landscapes, or the Osoyoos Desert Centre, where you can learn about the local ecosystem and wildlife.
Day 4 - Kelowna
Today, drive to the city of Kelowna, a vibrant city nestled in the heart of the Okanagan Valley. Explore the beauty of Okanagan Lake with its picturesque surroundings, offering a plethora of family-friendly activities.
Overnight: Kelowna
Day 5 - Kelowna
A perfect summer getaway is in the beautiful Okanagan! Kelowna has miles of beautiful parkland, and several sandy beaches. Some of the best activities to enjoy include boating, swimming, water-skiing, windsurfing and fishing. As well, you can golf at one of the many golf courses nine months out of the year. The surrounding area is also home to many stunning wineries and orchards. Make sure to stock up on freshly picked BC fruit!
Overnight: Kelowna
Day 6 - Sun Peaks
Today, head to the picturesque surroundings of Sun Peaks Resort, a premier year-round destination nestled in the Thompson-Okanagan region of British Columbia. Known for its extensive ski terrain, Sun Peaks has evolved into a world-class resort offering an array of recreational activities for every season.
Day 7 - Prince George
On Day 7, you will take a scenic drive from Sun Peaks to Prince George. As you drive north, take the opportunity to stop at charming small towns and enjoy the natural beauty along the way. This evening, unwind and explore the local area, perhaps enjoy a leisurely walk along the Fraser River.
Overnight: Prince George
Day 8 - Drive to Prince Rupert
Today you'll embark on a journey from Prince George to the coastal town of Prince Rupert. Upon arriving in Prince Rupert, you'll have free time to explore this port city at your own pace. Stroll through the historic downtown area, visit local shops, or dine at one of the waterfront restaurants offering fresh seafood.
Overnight: Prince Rupert
Day 9 - Prince Rupert Whale Watching
Today you will take a whale watching tour from Prince Rupert. This excursion takes you into the remote waters of the Pacific Northwest, one of North America's most reliable whale-watching locations. You may encounter grey whales feeding around kelp beds, humpback whales displaying their unique tails, orca whales following migrating salmon, and porpoises gliding alongside the boat.
Overnight: Prince Rupert
Day 10 - Sail to Port Hardy
Day 10 involves a scenic 16-hour sail from Prince Rupert to Port Hardy through the stunning Inside Passage. Enjoy breathtaking views of BC's rugged coastline, dense forests, and tranquil waterways. Keep an eye out for diverse marine life and take advantage of the ferry's comfortable amenities for a relaxing journey.
Overnight: Port Hardy
Day 11 - Campbell River Whale Watching
Drive from Port Hardy to Campbell River for an exciting whale-watching adventure. Experience a marine tour aboard a modern, comfortable boat, exploring the Salish Sea for humpbacks, orcas, dolphins, sea lions, and more. Learn about local First Nations culture as you search for iconic marine mammals and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Spend the night in Campbell River, enjoying the serene coastal surroundings.
Overnight: Campbell River
Day 12 - Drive to Tofino
On Day 12, drive from Campbell River to Tofino, enjoying the scenic coastal route. Pass through charming small towns and take in the sights, including Little Qualicum Falls along Highway 4. Stop at Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park to marvel at the towering ancient trees. Fuel up in Port Alberni before continuing your journey. As you turn onto the Pacific Rim Highway, catch your first glimpse of the ocean as you descend towards Long Beach, arriving in Tofino.
Overnight: Tofino
Day 13 - Tofino Bear Watching
Today, enjoy a morning bear-watching adventure in Tofino. The local black bears, a unique subspecies with webbed paws, emerge from their winter rest to forage along the shorelines. At low tide and during cooler periods, watch these magnificent creatures overturn rocks and boulders in search of crabs and other food. Savor your morning coffee or tea amidst the fresh air of Clayoquot Sound as you witness the bears in their natural habitat.
Overnight: Tofino
Day 14 - Drive to Nanaimo
On Day 14, you will drive from Tofino to Nanaimo for a one-night stay. Enjoy the scenic journey as you travel back through the beautiful landscapes of Vancouver Island. Upon arrival in Nanaimo, take some time to explore this charming harbor city. Stroll along the waterfront, visit local shops and restaurants.
Overnight: Nanaimo
Day 15 - Victoria
Drive from Nanaimo to Victoria and explore the iconic Butchart Gardens, showcasing fifty-five acres of floral splendor. Founded in 1904, these gardens are a century-old testament to horticulture and hospitality. Afterward, enjoy free time to discover Victoria's historic charm, local shops, and culinary delights.
Overnight: Victoria, BC
Day 16 - Ferry to Vancouver
Take the scenic ferry from Victoria to Vancouver, enjoying breathtaking views of the coastal landscape. Upon arrival in Vancouver, settle in for your final night in this city.
Overnight: Vancouver
Day 17 - Depart Vancouver
On the final day of this adventure, the journey concludes in Vancouver as the rental car is returned and you have checked out of your 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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Tour Code
17IP
The Best of British Colombia and the Inside Passage
17 days
Created On: 21 Dec 2024
Highlights
- Included hire car, allowing you to explore British Columbia at your own pace.
- Experience the amazing sight of humpbacks, orcas, and other marine wildlife with guided tours in Prince Rupert and Campbell River.
- Take a 8-minute ride across Canada’s most iconic locations on the FlyOver Canada experience.
- Travel from Prince Rupert to Port Hardy on a scenic 16-hour ferry ride through one of the most beautiful coastal routes in the world.
- Stroll through 55 acres of stunning floral displays at Victoria's Butchart Gardens.
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
Vancouver
Vancouver
$4,290 USD
All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive in Vancouver
Your journey begins with your arrival in Vancouver. Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the city at your own pace after checking into your hotel. From the vibrant streets of downtown to the trendy neighborhoods of Yaletown and Gastown, Vancouver offers plenty of attractions to discover before your adventure truly begins.
Overnight: Vancouver
Day 2 - Hop On Hop Off Tour & FlyOver Canada
Today you will collect your rental car and then spend the day exploring Vancouver's top attractions with a flexible hop-on-hop-off tour. Visit popular highlights such as Stanley Park, Granville Island, Gastown, Yaletown, Chinatown, and Robson Street. In the evening, experience FlyOver Canada, an exhilarating 8-minute journey across the country's most iconic locations, complete with state-of-the-art special effects, making for an unforgettable end to your Vancouver adventure.
Overnight: Vancouver
Day 3 - Osoyoos
Today, collect your rental car and begin on a scenic drive to Osoyoos, a picturesque town situated in the southern region of the Okanagan Valley. Upon reaching Osoyoos, check into the next hotel and have the entire day free to immerse yourself in the charm and beauty of this desert oasis. Osoyoos is renowned for its warm climate, stunning landscapes, and abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities. Visitors can spend the day exploring the town's unique attractions, such as the Osoyoos Desert Model Railroad, which showcases intricately detailed miniature landscapes, or the Osoyoos Desert Centre, where you can learn about the local ecosystem and wildlife.
Day 4 - Kelowna
Today, drive to the city of Kelowna, a vibrant city nestled in the heart of the Okanagan Valley. Explore the beauty of Okanagan Lake with its picturesque surroundings, offering a plethora of family-friendly activities.
Overnight: Kelowna
Day 5 - Kelowna
A perfect summer getaway is in the beautiful Okanagan! Kelowna has miles of beautiful parkland, and several sandy beaches. Some of the best activities to enjoy include boating, swimming, water-skiing, windsurfing and fishing. As well, you can golf at one of the many golf courses nine months out of the year. The surrounding area is also home to many stunning wineries and orchards. Make sure to stock up on freshly picked BC fruit!
Overnight: Kelowna
Day 6 - Sun Peaks
Today, head to the picturesque surroundings of Sun Peaks Resort, a premier year-round destination nestled in the Thompson-Okanagan region of British Columbia. Known for its extensive ski terrain, Sun Peaks has evolved into a world-class resort offering an array of recreational activities for every season.
Day 7 - Prince George
On Day 7, you will take a scenic drive from Sun Peaks to Prince George. As you drive north, take the opportunity to stop at charming small towns and enjoy the natural beauty along the way. This evening, unwind and explore the local area, perhaps enjoy a leisurely walk along the Fraser River.
Overnight: Prince George
Day 8 - Drive to Prince Rupert
Today you'll embark on a journey from Prince George to the coastal town of Prince Rupert. Upon arriving in Prince Rupert, you'll have free time to explore this port city at your own pace. Stroll through the historic downtown area, visit local shops, or dine at one of the waterfront restaurants offering fresh seafood.
Overnight: Prince Rupert
Day 9 - Prince Rupert Whale Watching
Today you will take a whale watching tour from Prince Rupert. This excursion takes you into the remote waters of the Pacific Northwest, one of North America's most reliable whale-watching locations. You may encounter grey whales feeding around kelp beds, humpback whales displaying their unique tails, orca whales following migrating salmon, and porpoises gliding alongside the boat.
Overnight: Prince Rupert
Day 10 - Sail to Port Hardy
Day 10 involves a scenic 16-hour sail from Prince Rupert to Port Hardy through the stunning Inside Passage. Enjoy breathtaking views of BC's rugged coastline, dense forests, and tranquil waterways. Keep an eye out for diverse marine life and take advantage of the ferry's comfortable amenities for a relaxing journey.
Overnight: Port Hardy
Day 11 - Campbell River Whale Watching
Drive from Port Hardy to Campbell River for an exciting whale-watching adventure. Experience a marine tour aboard a modern, comfortable boat, exploring the Salish Sea for humpbacks, orcas, dolphins, sea lions, and more. Learn about local First Nations culture as you search for iconic marine mammals and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Spend the night in Campbell River, enjoying the serene coastal surroundings.
Overnight: Campbell River
Day 12 - Drive to Tofino
On Day 12, drive from Campbell River to Tofino, enjoying the scenic coastal route. Pass through charming small towns and take in the sights, including Little Qualicum Falls along Highway 4. Stop at Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park to marvel at the towering ancient trees. Fuel up in Port Alberni before continuing your journey. As you turn onto the Pacific Rim Highway, catch your first glimpse of the ocean as you descend towards Long Beach, arriving in Tofino.
Overnight: Tofino
Day 13 - Tofino Bear Watching
Today, enjoy a morning bear-watching adventure in Tofino. The local black bears, a unique subspecies with webbed paws, emerge from their winter rest to forage along the shorelines. At low tide and during cooler periods, watch these magnificent creatures overturn rocks and boulders in search of crabs and other food. Savor your morning coffee or tea amidst the fresh air of Clayoquot Sound as you witness the bears in their natural habitat.
Overnight: Tofino
Day 14 - Drive to Nanaimo
On Day 14, you will drive from Tofino to Nanaimo for a one-night stay. Enjoy the scenic journey as you travel back through the beautiful landscapes of Vancouver Island. Upon arrival in Nanaimo, take some time to explore this charming harbor city. Stroll along the waterfront, visit local shops and restaurants.
Overnight: Nanaimo
Day 15 - Victoria
Drive from Nanaimo to Victoria and explore the iconic Butchart Gardens, showcasing fifty-five acres of floral splendor. Founded in 1904, these gardens are a century-old testament to horticulture and hospitality. Afterward, enjoy free time to discover Victoria's historic charm, local shops, and culinary delights.
Overnight: Victoria, BC
Day 16 - Ferry to Vancouver
Take the scenic ferry from Victoria to Vancouver, enjoying breathtaking views of the coastal landscape. Upon arrival in Vancouver, settle in for your final night in this city.
Overnight: Vancouver
Day 17 - Depart Vancouver
On the final day of this adventure, the journey concludes in Vancouver as the rental car is returned and you have checked out of your hotel.
