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Discover the Canadian Rockies by Rail

On board Rocky Mountaineer's all-dome fleet, travel through otherwise inaccessible terrain to unlock the unparalleled beauty of British Columbia, Alberta, and the Canadian Rockies. Journey through breathtaking prairies and revel in the grand landscapes of some of Canada’s most mesmerizing mountain vistas.


NOTE: Tour information is current as of 4/26/2024.

Program Highlights

– Enjoy a panoramic city tour of Vancouver's must-see sights. 

– Delight in luxurious GoldLeaf Service on board the Rocky Mountaineer, which includes: bi-level coach with full-length panoramic windows; reclining upper-level heated seats; exclusive access to a private outdoor viewing platform; unlimited beverages (including beer, wine, and premium spirits), à la carte meal service in a lower-level dining room; and gourmet meals that feature locally sourced ingredients prepared by an onboard culinary team.

– Embrace the sights from the train’s glass-domed coach as you traverse over Fraser Canyon, by Shuswap Lake, and along the Continental Divide.

– Take advantage of the Rocky Mountaineer’s private outdoor viewing platform to spot the passing wildlife, which may include elk, bighorn sheep, black and grizzly bears, and soaring eagles.

– Admire the brilliant turquoise waters of iconic Lake Louise, surrounded by towering mountain peaks that carve through the serene landscape.

– Relish three nights in the Canadian Rockies with leisure time to explore the area, or perhaps choose to visit the inviting thermal waters of nearby Banff Hot Springs. 

– Discover the epic natural beauty of Banff National Park during a scenic gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain.

What's Included

  • 6 nights deluxe hotel accommodations
  • 2 full days traveling on the Rocky Mountaineer in premium GoldLeaf Service
  • 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, special welcome reception and farewell dinner
  • Full guiding services of an Orbridge Travel Director
  • All activities listed on the 7-day itinerary
  • Private deluxe motor coach transportation with air conditioning and reclining seats.
  • Luggage porterage
  • Gratuities for Orbridge Travel Director, Rocky Mountaineer staff, drivers, porters, housekeeping, and wait staff for included meals
  • Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

Itinerary

Day 1: En Route from U.S. | Arrive in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
After settling into your hotel, venture out to capture the sights and sounds of this bustling metropolis. Or perhaps indulge in the luxurious amenities at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver. Known as the “Castle in the City,” the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver received a 2024 Forbes Travel Guide four-star rating and TripAdvisor's Certificate of Excellence.

This evening, meet fellow travel companions for a welcome reception.
Overnight: Fairmont Hotel Vancouver (R)

Day 2: Vancouver
Following breakfast, depart for a guided tour of Vancouver and Gastown, Vancouver's oldest neighborhood. Covering 12 city blocks, this stylish area blends hip with heritage. It's best known for beautiful Victorian-style architecture, where visitors of Water Street find cobblestones, vintage lamp posts, and a statue of the man who started it all, Gassy Jack Deighton. Stop to see the city's infamous attraction, the whistling Steam Clock, along with a mix of souvenir stores, boutiques, restaurants, clubs, and art galleries.  

Then enjoy leisure time to explore Granville Island on your own. Art lovers will enjoy the island's dozens of galleries and studios highlighting work from local artists, plus the opportunity to witness the creation of jewelry, leather goods, and more. Shoppers can browse the Railspur District, featuring extensive collections of pottery and ceramics in addition to other handmade (and even delicious) goods. Outdoor enthusiasts can take joy in the forest, ocean, and city at the same time by walking the seawall, a path that extends for miles along Vancouver's waterfront. Birders have an opportunity to spot the island's many varieties of ducks, mergansers, geese, and cormorants. Architecture and history buffs will appreciate Granville Island's original buildings, preserved and repurposed to house boutiques, artisans, and vendors of today.
Overnight: Fairmont Hotel Vancouver (B)

Day 3: Vancouver | Rocky Mountaineer | Kamloops
Early this morning, board the Rocky Mountaineer for freshly baked scones and a welcome toast on your way to Kamloops through Fraser Canyon and the fertile Thompson Valley. Riding the rails through the Canadian Rockies is an adventure like no other, combining breathtaking natural beauty and delicious samplings of regional cuisine with insightful educational content. Your enthusiastic Canadian hosts will tell you stories and describe in detail all the places you pass. This train and its world-class staff are beloved by Canadians, and you'll see people coming out to wave at you all along the route. They love the smiles and waves back!

Sit back and unwind, perhaps trying some Canadian libations served at your seat from the open bar. Canada's national cocktail is the "Caesar," which is similar to a Bloody Mary. At its simplest, this drink is made with vodka, Clamato juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, served in a glass rimmed with celery salt and garnished with a stalk of celery. For those wishing to kick that up a notch, throw in a tablespoon of horseradish to the classic recipe. The train also has a selection of Canadian wines to consider, all complimentary in your gold-class seating.

Upon arrival, settle in to your hotel room in Kamloops for a restful night's sleep. If a "nightcap" is desired, grab a local craft beverage and experience Canadian life at such small town favorite pubs as The Noble Pig or the Frick and Frack Taphouse. 
Overnight: Kamloops Lodging (B,L)

Day 4: Kamloops | Rocky Mountaineer | Banff, Alberta
Gliding from the interior of British Columbia, embrace the dramatic changes in scenery from the outdoor viewing platform—a perfect spot to capture photographs of the enigmatic landscape and take in the fresh Rockies air. There will be no shortage of images worth capturing and remembering on this special trip. 

Today’s highlights include Craigellachie—where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, the climb over Rogers Pass, the Spiral Tunnels, Kicking Horse Canyon, and the glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies.

Keep a keen eye out for wildlife. Animals often spotted along the rail route include grizzly and black bears, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, elk, and eagles. Your engineers and onboard hosts are also on the lookout, and they will notify guests when any creatures are spotted.

Later, arrive at the acclaimed Rimrock Resort Hotel, ideally situated directly across from Banff Hot Springs. As free time allows, perhaps visit the nearby thermal waters for an authentic heritage experience, a treasured activity of both locals and visitors. There will be free time on the afternoon of day five for added flexibility to enjoy these waters. 
Overnight: The Rimrock Resort Hotel (B,L)

Day 5: Banff 
Today, soar to the top of Sulphur Mountain in a modern, fully enclosed four-passenger gondola cabin and bask in endless views of six magnificent mountain ranges, the Bow Valley, and the town of Banff. During free time at the top, visit the interactive interpretive center and the Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk, or grab a snack at one of the restaurants. From the observation decks at the summit complex, viscerally experience just why Banff is a part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Return to the base of the mountain by gondola and enjoy leisure time strolling Banff's charming Main Street to peruse the quaint shops and boutiques. Afterwards, enjoy a free afternoon to explore why this town of less than 8,000 people counts more than four million visitors a year and is a jewel in the Canadian Rockies.
Overnight: The Rimrock Resort Hotel (B)

Day 6: Banff | Lake Louise | Moraine Lake
An hour's drive takes us to Lake Louise—a pristine setting world famous for its turquoise lake set amongst the Victoria Glacier and marvelous peaks. Enjoy free time to walk along the lakeshore and take advantage of photo opportunities. Head inside the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for a delicious lunch. Elegant and polished, yet relaxed and inviting, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and recognized globally for progressive environmental stewardship and responsible tourism.

Set in the rugged Valley of the Tean Peaks, Moraine Lake is surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and rock piles, creating a scene so stunning it almost seems unreal. Take pleasure in this stop by admiring the intense blue-green hue of the water up close, or venture up the path to get an overhead view.

This evening, join fellow travelers (and new friends) for a farewell dinner commemorating this memorable tour. 
Overnight: The Rimrock Resort Hotel (B,L,D)

Day 7: Banff | Calgary | Depart for U.S.
After breakfast, guests departing during the suggested time take the complimentary group transfer to Calgary International Airport for flights home. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level

Moderate

The majority of the program's activities will take place outdoors, and you can expect a fair amount of walking on varying terrain. Many of the parks have dirt trails, but they are usually fairly smooth for walking. Some have paved pathways and boardwalks. 

We expect that guests on this program can enter and exit a motor coach without assistance and be sure-footed on inclines and varying terrain. Guests also should be comfortable boarding and disembarking trains without assistance, walking and moving between coaches while the train is in motion, and navigating stairs to the upper level of the coach. 

If you can walk a moderately paced mile, you will be able to enjoy all of the excursions. Also, keep in mind that you will experience altitudes rising up to 7,705 feet. You may not be accustomed to these higher elevations, and it will be important to keep hydrated, get plenty of rest, and not overexert yourself. 

Accommodations

Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

Opened in 1939 in a partnership between the Canadian Pacific and Canadian National Railways—and just in time for a visit by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth—this opulent gem, known as the "Castle in the City," quickly became a landmark in Vancouver. The hotel has hosted many famous entertainment acts and was once even home to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. The recently renovated hotel features distinguished restaurants and lounges, a gym, and a spa.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, pillow top bed, flat-screen HDTV, Wi-Fi (additional fee), coffee and tea maker, minibar, bathrobes, iron and ironing board, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.

Kamloops Lodging

Accommodations in Kamloops are determined by Rocky Mountaineer. Kamloops properties are considered moderate three-star hotels or motor inns, satisfy our standards of cleanliness and comfort, and are the best available in the area. 

The Rimrock Resort Hotel

Prepare for a truly remarkable experience that features superb hospitality, deluxe amenities and unmatched décor. Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies—on Sulphur Mountain in Banff National Park—The Rimrock Resort Hotel offers exceptional views of the Rockies, delightful fine dining options, and a luxury spa.

The property is a quick five-minute drive to the village of Banff and just steps from the Banff Upper Hot Springs and Banff Gondola.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, safe, mini-fridge, coffee and tea maker, bath robes, and en suite bathroom with Paul Mitchell sundries and hair dryer.

Deluxe Accommodations Package (availability limited)
While all accommodations are exceptional, guests wishing the ultimate indulgence may choose to purchase the Deluxe Accommodations Package, which includes the following upgrades:

• Fairmont Hotel Vancouver: Upgrade to Junior Suite, featuring a larger room with sitting area.
• The Rimrock Resort Hotel: Upgrade to Deluxe View Room, featuring mountain views.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

Optional Pre-Tour

Victoria


Enjoy two nights in delightful Victoria—British Columbia’s picture-perfect capital. Savor the island's relaxing pace as you explore vibrant gardens, admire historical architecture, and take in the city's friendly ambience.

Itinerary

Day +1: Arrive in Victoria, British Columbia
Settle into your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Explore some of Victoria's most beautiful downtown sites, including: Christ Church Cathedral, with its gothic stone architecture, magnificent stained glass windows and Helmuth Wolff organ; Craigdarroch Castle, a stunning Victorian mansion; Bastion Square, site of the original Fort Victoria, with its spectacular views of the local harbor; or the renowned Royal British Columbia.
Overnight: Fairmont Empress

Day +2: Victoria
After a light breakfast join your guide for an easy walking tour of Victoria, featuring samplings of delicious local foods while learning about important sites along the way. As your guide reveals the history and quirks of beautiful Victoria, enjoy stops to sample local specialties such as chocolate, cheese, tea and other treats.

The afternoon is open for additional opportunities to explore more of this charming city. Enjoy a walking tour of the downtown to appreciate its history and culture or a whale-watching cruise to see the wildlife-filled waters off the coast. Take time for a carriage ride or stroll through some of Beacon Hill Park's 200 acres. There is an endless array of ways to fill your day. You may even choose to end the day with a renowned haunted Victoria tour or a visit to one of the many craft breweries in town. Your local guide or hotel concierge can help set up a day perfect for you.
Overnight: Fairmont Empress (B,L)

Day +3: Depart Victoria | Vancouver | Main Program Begins
Following breakfast meet your guide for a panoramic tour of Victoria through Chinatown and past the Parliament Buildings.

Continue to world-famous Butchart Gardens—a national historic site of Canada replete with lush greens and colorful blooms. Blossoming for more than 100 years, it offers 55 acres of gardens with 900 bedding plant varieties, 26 greenhouses, and 50 full-time gardeners who create a wonderland of beauty everywhere you look.

Afterward take a short 20-minute ride to the ferry terminal to cruise over to mainland Vancouver—a passage providing unlimited scenery with a likelihood of spotting various marine wildlife. 

After arriving in Vancouver for the main program join fellow travelers at the hotel for a welcome reception. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch

Pre-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level

Moderate

It is our expectation that guests on this program are able to walk a mile at a moderate pace, get in and out of a motor coach, and walk up a flight of stairs without assistance.

Accommodations

Fairmont Empress

Welcome to Canada's "Castle on the Coast!" Located on Victoria's Inner Harbour, this luxury hotel offers unparalleled hospitality and comfort. The Fairmont Empress has been named a Condé Nast Readers' Choice and Gold List hotel and honored by Travel+Leisure as a top Canadian hotel. Also a National Historic Site, the Empress is an alluring blend of classic and contemporary; of vintage and cutting-edge. Guests can enjoy the various on-site amenities, including a full spa, fully equipped gym, and indoor heated pool. Or perhaps experience Tea at the Empress—a daily tradition since 1908.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, cable TV, high-speed internet and Wi-Fi (additional fee), coffee and tea maker, bathrobes, safe, and en suite bathroom with hair dryer.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

What's Included

  • 2 nights accommodations at the Fairmont Empress (or similar) 
  • 2 breakfasts and 1 lunch
  • A guided walking tour and panoramic city tour
  • Admission to Butchart Gardens
  • 1.5 hour ferry cruise from Victoria to Vancouver across the Strait of Georgia
  • Gratuities to Orbridge Travel Director, local guides, drivers, porters, housekeeping, and wait staff for included meals
  • Private group airport transfer for guests arriving at the suggested times

Terms and Conditions