Experience British Columbia and Alberta on this fun-filled Canadian vacation. Start your trip in Vancouver with a city sightseeing tour before taking a ferry to Vancouver Island, where you make stops in Victoria, Chemainus, and Port Hardy. Your tour in Victoria includes world-famous Butchart Gardens, a floral extravagance with 55 acres. Cruise one of the world’s most beautiful ocean voyages on the Inside Passage to Prince Rupert. The breathtaking scenery includes towering mountains, roaring waterfalls, endless islands, and virgin rainforest. Watch for sea lions, eagles, and porpoises. In Prince Rupert, board Canada’s VIA Rail®’s Skeena train to Prince George. On this train journey, watch for soaring bald eagles, black bears, moose, and majestic mountains. Leave British Columbia and cross the border into Alberta, where you overnight in both Jasper National Park and Banff National Park. Other fabulous highlights on this vacation include Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies; Columbia Icefield, where you take a thrilling Ice Explorer ride in an all-terrain vehicle on ice measuring 1,200 feet (365 meters); Lake Louise; and Yoho National Park, one of Canada’s most popular recreational areas. Your vacation ends back in Vancouver. To see spectacular scenery by land, train, and boat, this vacation offers it all!
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Day 1VANCOUVER
Enjoy some time at leisure to relax or to do some independent exploring. Your Tour Director is on hand this evening to answer any questions.
Day 2VANCOUVER–FERRY CROSSING–VICTORIA
Morning sightseeing focuses on Vancouver’s Chinatown, Gastown, the beautiful beaches and harbor, and lovely Stanley Park. Afterward, set sail across the Strait of Georgia through the spectacular Gulf Islands, an area known for its Mediterranean-like climate. Afternoon sightseeing in Victoria includes world-famous BUTCHART GARDENS, Bastion Square, and Thunderbird Park with its unusual collection of totem poles.
Day 3VICTORIA
Be sure to discover some of the attractions this splendid city has to offer, including the Royal British Columbia Museum, afternoon tea at the Empress Hotel, a whale-watching cruise on the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and fine shopping along Government Street. This evening, join our optional excursion in Chinatown, complete with colorful lanterns and dinner at a first-class restaurant.
Day 4VICTORIA–CHEMAINUS–PORT HARDY
An early departure from Victoria follows the eastern coastline of Vancouver Island, stopping at Chemainus, the unique village with more than 30 murals depicting pioneer settlement of the area. Then, it’s through the port of Campbell River, the “Salmon Capital of the World.”
Day 5PORT HARDY–INSIDE PASSAGE CRUISE–PRINCE RUPERT
Early this morning, embark on BC Ferries for what is referred to as one of the world’s most beautiful ocean voyages. The scenery is spectacular, with towering mountains, roaring waterfalls, endless islands, and virgin rainforest. Animal and marine life abound, often with sightings of sea lions, eagles, and porpoises—you may even spot a killer whale! Late-evening arrival in Prince Rupert.Note: Cruising time through the Inside Passage is approximately 15 hours. Please come prepared with all medications, eyeglasses, and any other items you will need.
Day 6PRINCE RUPERT
Depart for an orientation tour of Prince Rupert, then visit the NORTH PACIFIC HISTORIC FISHING VILLAGE for a guided tour of British Columbia’s oldest cannery village. Learn of the canning process and what life was like in the village during peak production earlier this century. With your free time this afternoon you may opt for an outing to learn the secrets of the totem. See a totem pole being carved and visit a longhouse to gain a better understanding of the day-to-day lifestyle of the First Nations culture. (The native people in Canada are referred to as the First Nations.)
Day 7PRINCE RUPERT–VIA RAIL SKEENA TRAIN–PRINCE GEORGE
This morning, board VIA Rail®’s Skeena train for the trip of a lifetime. The Skeena winds its way through the majestic Coast Mountains, follows the mighty Skeena River—often referred to as the “River of Mists”—and concludes in the Pacific Coast rainforest. You’ll retrace ancient First Nations trading routes and follow the paths of the earliest fur traders. Soaring bald eagles, inquisitive black bears, browsing moose, and other wildlife may be spotted from the glassed-in observation dome that provides 360-degree views. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 8PRINCE GEORGE–MOUNT ROBSON–JASPER
As we continue onward to Jasper National Park the peak elevations grow, culminating with Mount Robson, the highest of Canada’s Rockies at almost 13,000 feet. Overnight in Jasper.
Day 9JASPER–COLUMBIA ICEFIELD–BANFF
Winding our way down the western fringe of Alberta, our journey takes us through some of the Canadian Rockies’ most breathtaking wilderness. Our first highlight on today’s agenda is a stop at the COLUMBIA ICEFIELD to experience the Ice Explorer, an all-terrain vehicle that travels on ice measuring 1,200 feet (365 meters) thick. Precipitous gorges, snowcapped mountain ranges, and lakes of exquisite blues and greens come into view as the motorcoach scales two mountain passes on the journey south to Banff.
Day 10BANFF
Banff is one of Canada’s favorite year-round resorts, with summer activities including hiking, boating, horseback riding, and fishing. Cosmos has arranged for an optional helicopter ride high over the Canadian Rockies. This evening, join the optional excursion to Oh Canada Eh for a 5-course dinner and musical entertainment.
Day 11BANFF–LAKE LOUISE–YOHO NATIONAL PARK–KELOWNA
This morning’s visit takes us to Lake Louise. Its cold waters perfectly mirror the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Afterward, enter the spectacular beauty of YOHO NATIONAL PARK, one of Canada’s most popular recreational areas and the site of pre-Cambrian fossil finds. On to GLACIER NATIONAL PARK, where the motorcoach climbs 4,379-foot-high Rogers Pass, a perfect spot for photos of the impressive surrounding mountain cliffs and glaciers. Continue on to the resort city of Kelowna, attractively set on the shores of Okanagan Lake.
Day 12KELOWNA–CASCADE MOUNTAINS–VANCOUVER
Today, continue through the fertile Fraser Valley with grand vistas of vineyards and orchards. Next, travel over the towering Cascade Mountains into Vancouver.
Day 13VANCOUVER
The trip ends today with guests departing on individual schedules. Transfers to Vancouver International Airport are included.
BOOK YOUR FLIGHTS WITH US
Learn more about booking an air-inclusive vacation - the reasons why include, you'll receive free airport transfer on published dates and your air will be coordinated with your vacation.
AIRPORT TRANSFER TIMES
View details and pricing on airport transfer times and extra nights. Learn more about what's included with your vacation and how you can personalize it.
INCLUDED FEATURES
In Vancouver and Victoria; Stanley Park; Butchart Gardens; orientation tour of Prince Rupert; guided visit to the North Pacific Historic Fishing Village; Columbia Icefield (Ice Explorer ride). Inside visits as shown in UPPERCASE in the tour description, including admission charges where applicable.Note: The Canadian Rockies are blessed with stunning lakes, exquisite mountain scenery, and extraordinary outdoor attractions. Visiting and participating in activities in these locations is subject to favorable weather conditions.
SCENIC HIGHLIGHTS
Strait of Georgia, Gulf Islands, coastline of Vancouver Island, Campbell River, Skeena River, Pacific Coast rainforest, Jasper National Park, Lake Louise, Yoho National Park, Glacier National Park, Rogers Pass, and the Cascade Mountains.
INSIDE VISITS
Inside visits and special features are shown in the description, including admission charges when applicable.
GUIDES
Services of a professional Tour Director.
STANDARD INCLUDED FEATURES
Learn more about transportation, hotels, and other standard included features offered.
Here's a list of optional excursions you can enjoy during your vacation. Whether it's a special dinner, a local show or a special behind-the-scenes glimpse into an historical site, optional excursions are a wonderful way to enrich your vacation even further. Plus, they give you flexibility. We include the must-see sites and experiences, and we also understand that people take interest in different activities and may want to craft a more personal vacation by hand-picking optional excursions that appeal to them.
Availability is subject to sufficient participation, weather conditions, seasonal suitability, days of operation, group interests, and general feasibility for your vacation. The approximate value listed gives you a good, general idea of what you can expect to pay but may vary once you are on your vacation. Some information provided might be in a foreign currency; you can use our online
currency converter for exchange rate information.
CITY: BanffBanff Gondola A scenic 8-minute Gondola ride will give you 360 panoramic views of Banff, the Bow Valley and the Rocky Mountains. Witness the breathtaking views in every direction or go up into the restaurant area where you can sit in comfort and still admire the view. Above the restaurant level is the upper observation deck for the best view yet! Afterwards, we'll visit thundering Bow Falls where plenty of great photo opportunities await you.
Approximate value: CAD $31 per person
Royal Canadian Helicopter Tour This 25-minute helicopter flight offers a magnificent overview of the Rocky Mountains and the Banff area. The Olympic Nordic Center, Sundance Range, and Spray Lakes are just some of the highlights you will see. Additional helicopter excursions available; please consult your Tour Director.
Approximate value: CAD $230 per person
Oh Canada Eh?! Dinner Show Come join a fun-filled musical celebration of Canada, featuring totally Canadian music in a log cabin type building. During the show, costumed performers also serve a five course family style dinner. Everything about this award winning show is Canadian.
Approximate value: CAD $62 per person
CITY: JasperJasper Raft On The Athabasca River Follow the route of the old fur traders while traveling down the Athabasca River in rubber rafts. The excursion is under the supervision of experienced guides who will also point out the natural and human history of the area. This is a moderate trip with a few easy sets of rapids (class II) and calm stretches; guides do all the rowing so you can sit back & enjoy the majestic scenery. A truly remarkable way to experience Jasper! (Subject to favorable weather and water conditions.)
Approximate value: CAD $58 per person
Maligne Lake Cruise To Spirit Island A forty-five minute drive takes you to beautiful Maligne Lake. Enjoy the ninety-minute narrated cruise, with a brief stop at Spirit Island for photos of the magnificent mountains that surround you. Learn of the local history, geology, wildlife and glaciology of Maligne Lake and of Jasper National Park as some of the most spectacular scenery in the Rockies drift past your window. Note: subject to conditions on the lake, may not be available in April, May and October tours.
Approximate value: CAD $55 per person
CITY: Prince RupertSeaplane Flight To The Valley Of The Grizzly Bear Floatplane is the only way to truly appreciate the awe-inspiring scenery of "Beautiful British Columbia". This journey will take you through some of Mother Nature's greatest work. Fly over the pristine wilderness of the Khutzeymateen Valley, this valley is home to the largest population of grizzly bears in the world. Your flight will include magnificent scenery; lush rainforest, deep valleys, rugged mountain fjords and spectacular glaciers. Pass cascading waterfalls, winding rivers and remote freshwater lakes. Photographers be ready as you may see wildlife such as eagles, mountain goats, seals, porpoises or whales. Your flight will set down in a majestic inlet where you will float alongside a glacial waterfall as it plunges down the rocky mountain fjord. This flight seeing experience is a "must see". Flight is one-hour with a 10-minute stop at a waterfall.
Approximate value: CAD $331 per person
Discover Prince Rupert Flightseeing This 30 minute flight is an ideal introduction to seaplane aviation and a fantastic way to discover Prince Rupert's past, present and future. Depart Seal Cove Seaplane Base over the reversing tidal rapids at Morse Basin - "Butze Rapids". Fly to the mighty Skeena River; enjoy the spectacular scenery as you follow this magnificent river. Sternwheelers once frequented this busy waterway, which was scattered with settlements, trading posts, stores and seven canneries - "Cannery Row". Pass the grain & coal port terminals located at Ridley Island, these first class facilities are world leaders in the movement of grain & coal. See the newest container port being build constructed on the West Coast of North America. This "State of the Art" port development is poised to open a new trade corridor with the Asian Pacific market. Pass the active marine waterfront and the largest salmon processing cannery in North America. This journey is complete with a spectacular view of Prince Rupert / Kaien Island.
Approximate value: CAD $163 per person
Flavours & Traditions Of The North Coast People Tour Enjoy a short walk to the Museum of Northern British Columbia, the Tsimshian program begins with a tour of the collection focusing on the Feast, or potlatch. Hear about the complex protocol of feasting and view works of art, the ceremonial regalia that brings this important First Nations institution to life. Your tour continues on to the "Wiiwaabm Ts'msyeen" (Tsimshian Longhouse), a few minutes from the museum, where you will enter as if you were guests at a feast. Witness dancing and performance, hear ancient stories and songs, and taste indigenous foods. Your tour continues to the Waterfront Restaurant located in the Crest Hotel, where you will experience an exclusive north coast dinner menu while enjoying a spectacular view of Prince Rupert's Harbour.
Approximate value: CAD $88 per person
CITY: VancouverSunset Dinner Cruise It's like dining in a restaurant which looks out onto all of Vancouver's finest views. Enjoy a 2.5 hour leisurely cruise past the downtown skyline, the cruise ship terminal of Canada Place, the Mountains behind the North Shore, the West Vancouver shoreline and more. Take in the sights and sounds of the city as you enjoy live music and delicious West Coast-themed cuisine. You'll have the best spot in Vancouver to watch the sun slowly disappear into the Pacific Ocean. (Includes transportation)
Approximate value: CAD $105 per person
CITY: VernonDinner At O'Keefe Ranch Founded in 1867, O'Keefe Ranch was once one of the largest cattle ranches in British Columbia. Today, O'Keefe Ranch is a designated BC Heritage Site and a popular museum. You will have a tour of the property, followed by dinner with Western entertainment.
Approximate value: Please check back later per person
CITY: VictoriaVictoria Panorama This half-hour flight is an ideal introduction to seaplane aviation and includes spectacular vistas of downtown Victoria, and the Strait of Juan de Fuca with the Olympic Mountains in the distance. Enjoy unique views of the buildings ringing the harbour and grand houses perched above the rugged coastline. The exhilarating spray of the water is always a highlight during take-off and landing.
Approximate value: CAD $111 per person
Chinatown Dinner And Lantern Walk A fascinating tour of Chinatown, one of the oldest in Canada. Your expert local guide will offer you the opportunity to learn about the "East meets West" portals. Themes range from Feng Shui and the Chinese Zodiac to Brave Pioneers and World Developments. Food sampling along the way with dinner in a first-class restaurant. Finally, at dusk you will be given lanterns and lead through the narrow alleys to Bastion Square. A very unique and memorable way to experience Victoria.
Approximate value: CAD $74 per person
Marine And Wildlife Whale Watching Whale watching is an experience many say they will never forget. Spend two to three hours cruising the waters of the beautiful San Juan and Gulf islands, looking for whales, porpoises, seals, and eagles. A marine biologist will be on hand to answer all your questions. Bring your camera and your excitement because this will be a trip you will remember forever!
Approximate value: CAD $111 per person
View the following dates and prices to find just the right date for your vacation. Below you'll find the date you'll depart, the date the vacation starts and date you'll return.
Once you've selected your date, you'll move to the next step to get an airfare quote and to begin booking your vacation. When you book your flights with us, you'll find we offer competitive and hassle-free airfares, plus you'll receive free airport transfers, flights coordinated with vacation dates and you'll avoid strict Internet terms and conditions.
The price listed does not include your airfare. Once you click "Book Now", you will be able to receive an air quote.
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9/13/2010
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9/13/2010
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9/25/2010
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$2,279.00
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Not Available
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9/23/2010
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9/23/2010
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10/5/2010
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$2,279.00
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Not Available
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Single Room Supplement: $765
Triple Room Reduction per person: $126
* Indicates that this departure and vacation is available for 2011 early booking. 2010 saw the lowest prices to Europe in recent history. Get this vacation on the books and save by paying 2010 prices for your 2011 European vacation. Price protection only applies to those tours that currently offer 2011 dates and prices and only with full, per person deposit. All tours will be open for 2011 bookings in the Fall of 2010. Vacation upgrades and/or additions will not be available for early booking, as well as, any extra pre- or post-night pricing until the Fall of 2010. With the exception of Journeys Club coupons, future travel promotions are not applicable and are not retroactive on early bookings.
AIRPORT TRANSFERS & EXTRA NIGHTSView details and pricing on airport transfer times and extra nights. Learn more about what's included with your vacation and how you can personalize it.
US$ Price Details
Our Volume Buying Power Saves You Money!
-We may be able to provide you with flight arrangements from your gateway city.
-Additional accommodations before or after your vacation may be available at our low prices.
Additional Information:
-Departure/arrival taxes and fares from other cities will be advised at the time of booking.
-Vacation departures, itineraries and prices are subject to change.
Guaranteed air-inclusive prices:
Air is only available to passengers traveling from the United States and only available when booked in conjunction with a land vacation. An additional $250 non-refundable deposit is required for air booked in conjunction with any land vacation (i.e., air-inclusive vacation.) However, once your airfare is confirmed and Cosmos has received your full air and land deposit, your air-inclusive vacation price is guaranteed.
We also accept your reservation on a land-only basis:
While booking your vacation air-inclusive gives you various advantages, you can also choose the land-only option. But remember, airlines’ special fares generally apply to very brief periods. (Our low air-inclusive fares apply throughout the year.) Plus, to get these “deals” you often are required to pay full fare at the time of booking.
Taxes & fees
Taxes and fees are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full land and air deposit are received.
Applicable Taxes and Fees (Airfare & Charges Not Included in the Price)
Air-Inclusive Vacations
Air-inclusive prices provided online include a September 11th fee up to $10, passenger facility charges of up to $18, Federal domestic flight segment fees of up to $3.50 per segment and U.S. and International arrival and departure and other government imposed fees between $200-$375 depending on your itinerary. The total airfare price, the base airfare price, and the applicable government taxes and fees are broken-out line-by-line and shown while booking online and on the invoice after your travel is booked.
Not Included In Your Vacation Price (Air-Inclusive, Land-Only or Cruise-Only)
Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities: port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Tour or Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ships’ crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); additional excursions and activities not listed as 'included' in the itinerary; airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection premiums; excess baggage fees; and all other items of a personal nature.