8-Day Discover Vancouver Island Premium Tour

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the unparalleled beauty of Vancouver Island on this intimate 8-day premium guided tour. Your adventure departs from Vancouver, and begins with a BC Ferries crossing to Victoria, the charming capital city of British Columbia, where you will enjoy a two-night stay. Immerse yourself in the enchanting, world-renowned Butchart Gardens, and have ample time to discover the city at your own pace.

Indulge in a 3-night retreat in the laid-back haven of Tofino, situated on the West Coast of Vancouver Island. Surrounded by untouched natural wonders; from serene lakes and inlets to ancient rainforests and pristine sandy beaches. The scenic route along the Pacific Rim Highway will reward you with captivating views of rugged coastlines and lush rainforests.

Continue your venture on to Northern Vancouver Island and Campbell River, renowned for its tranquil landscapes that offer solitude, secluded beaches, and glimpses of wildlife in their natural habitat. Each moment is curated to provide an exclusive and enriching experience for a small group of guests, ensuring an exploration of Western Canada's treasures in ultimate comfort and style.

• Duration: 8 days, 7 nights
• Travel dates (Sunday-Sunday):
  • June 23 - 30, 2024
  • July 7 - 14, 2024
  • July 21 - 28, 2024
  • August 18 - 25, 2024
  • September 1 - 8, 2024
  • September 22 - 29, 2024
  • October 13 - 20, 2024
• Group size: 22 pax max.
• Tour type: Guided tour
• Price*: Double occupancy from CA$3,194 (US$2,491) per person

Highlights

• Visit the renowned Butchart Gardens, the Naa’Waya’Sum Coastal Indigenous Gardens, and the Malahat SkyWalk
• Discover the splendor of Tofino's pristine beaches, offering surfing, kayaking, or serene relaxation
• Walk through secluded trails in ancient rainforests within the Pacific Rim National Park, the Elk Falls Provincial Park, and more
• Immerse in breathtaking vistas of rugged coastlines and lush rainforests
• Add on exciting optional activities, such as whale or bear watching

Inclusions

• 7-nights hotel accommodations: VICTORIA - 2 Nights | TOFINO - 3 Nights | CAMPBELL RIVER - 2 Nights
• Roundtrip mini-coach transportation from downtown Vancouver
• Roundtrip BC Ferries fees to Vancouver Island
• Experienced, knowledgeable and friendly guide
• Daily breakfast
• Admission to The Butchart Gardens in Victoria
• Admission to the Malahat SkyWalk in Vancouver Island
• Admission to The Naa’Waya’Sum Coastal Indigenous Gardens (formerly the Tofino Botanical Gardens)
• Sea cider tasting in Victoria
• Scenic sightseeing stops along the way
• Discounts on optional activities to add on to your itinerary
• All taxes and park fees

Itinerary

Please note that this is a sample itinerary and it is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, such as weather or road closures.

Day 1 - Vancouver to Victoria

Start your journey from Canada Place in Vancouver, and take a scenic ferry ride through the Salish Sea and the Gulf Islands on the way to Swartz Bay in Vancouver Island. Visit the famous Butchart Gardens and indulge in a Sea Cider tasting before arriving to your hotel in downtown Victoria, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Day 2 - Victoria

Join a city tour around the capital of BC, including visits to Beacon Hill Park, Chinatown, Fan Tan Alley, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Government Street. Enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure to stroll along the downtown area, go shopping, or visit the impressive Royal BC Museum. You also have the option to enjoy Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel, rent an e-bike, or join a food tasting tour.

Day 3 - Victoria to Tofino

Depart in the early morning and drive along the Malahat Highway, where you will enjoy beautiful views on the way to the Malahat SkyWalk - the newest outdoor experience on Vancouver Island. Walk along the elevated walkway through an expansive Arbutus and Douglas Fir forest, leading to a spiral tower lookout that rewards you with 360-degree vistas of islands, inlets, fjords, forests, and mountains in Canada and the USA. Visit Dunca, the City of Totems, for a brief tour and free time for lunch before departing for Tofino. Travel across Vancouver Island and arrive to the West Coast in the evening to check into your hotel. Your guide will tell you about all the great onsite amenities and best places for dinner tonight.

Day 4 - Tofino & Pacific Rim National Park

This morning you have the option to join your guide for a short hike to Long Beach, or explore Tofino on your own. Then visit The Naa’Waya’Sum Coastal Indigenous Gardens (formerly known as the Tofino Botanical Gardens), home to a coastal rainforest and its many living species. Navigate the enchanting trail system through the forest and along the waterfront to observe, reflect, and appreciate nature’s wonders. Additionally, have the opportunity to view the Nuu’chah’nulth art exhibit and interact with the totem carvers in action!

Day 5 - Tofino & Pacific Rim National Park

Today you will have a full day at leisure to discover more of Tofino at your own pace, relax by the beach, or join an exciting optional activity, such as a Hot Springs Cove cruise, a kayaking tour or a surfing lesson.

Day 6 - Tofino to Campbell River

Travel back to the East Coast of Vancouver Island this morning. On the way to Campbell River, stop at Coombs Market for lunch, famously known for the goats that live on the market's rooftop, and the best ice cream on the Island! Continue your journey along coastal communities and beautiful landscapes. Stop in Comox for dinner before arriving to your hotel in Campbell River, where you will be able to explore the resort, watch the sunset, and enjoy the peaceful environment.

Day 7 - Campbell River & Northern Vancouver Island

Enjoy today's morning at leisure to join an optional experience, including whale watching or a full-day bear watching tour. Visit the breathtaking Elk Falls Provincial Park, and explore the hiking trails, suspension bridge, and the elevated viewing platform that offers an incredible view of Elk Falls. Have the rest of the evening at leisure back in your hotel.

Day 8 - Return to Vancouver

Time to wrap up your adventure! Stop at Morningstar Farm in Parksville, featuring local food, self-guided tours, a seasonal "calfé", and a petting farm, before arriving in Nanaimo to take your afternoon ferry back to the Mainland. Return to downtown Vancouver at approximately 6:30 pm.

For more information, bookings, add-on experiences, and other travel needs such as flights, accommodation or travel insurance, please contact sepideh@uniglobespecialty.com