9-Day Canadian Rockies & Waterton Hidden Gems Tour

Tour Overview

This premium escorted tour through Western Canada is an adventure that promises to discover the region's hidden gems and enchanting landscapes. Departing from Vancouver, take off-the-beaten-path roads to the captivating Okanagan Valley, Canada's only desert and a delightful wine region. Indulge in exquisite wine tastings, set against the stunning backdrop of the Kootenay Rockies and the rolling prairies of Southern Alberta. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and culture of the First Nations peoples, with included experiences like the Nk’Mip Cultural Centre, and the historic Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump.

The meticulously crafted 9-day itinerary invites you to savor the charm of Osoyoos, the allure of Nelson, and the magnificence of Waterton Lakes National Park. Stay in the iconic town of Banff for two nights, with the option to extend your exploration aboard the Rocky Mountaineer from Banff to Vancouver, or stay with your group to continue on to Calgary, Alberta for the last night. Some of the curated experiences included in this tour are a Waterton Lake Cruise, beer tasting in Nelson, and a special prohibition tour at Eau Claire Distillery. Join this voyage for an immersive and unforgettable journey through Western Canada's breathtaking vistas and cultural treasures.

• Duration: 9 days, 8 nights
• Travel dates: June 23-July 1, 2024 OR September 22-30, 2024 (Sunday-Monday)
• Group size: 22 pax max.
• Tour type: Guided tour
• Price*: Double occupancy from CA$3,494 (US$2,725) per person

Highlights

• Take the road less traveled to discover the hidden wonders of Canada's interior
• Explore Canada’s only desert -the Okanagan Valley- and indulge in a wine tasting of the region
• Marvel at the magnificent landscape of Waterton Lakes National Park
• Immerse yourself in the heritage and culture of the First Nations people of southern Alberta
• Add-on the famed Rocky Mountaineer (2 days, 1 night) from Banff to return Vancouver (additional cost)

Inclusions

• 8-nights hotel accommodations: OSOYOOS - 2 Nights | NELSON - 1 Night | WATERTON - 2 Nights | BANFF - 2 Nights | CALGARY - 1 Night
• Roundtrip mini-coach transportation from downtown Vancouver
• Experienced, knowledgeable and friendly guide
• Daily breakfast
• Admission to the Nk’Mip Cultural Centre
• Waterton Lake Cruise 
• Visit of Head-smashed-In Buffalo Jump National Historic Site
• Admission to the Banff Gondola
• Wine tasting in Osoyoos
• Beer tasting in Nelson
• Spirit tasting and special prohibition tour at Eau Claire Distillery
• Scenic sightseeing stops along the way
• Option to return to Vancouver on the Rocky Mountaineer at a special rate
• 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 Osoyoos

Start your adventure from Vancouver's Canada Place, and soak in the picturesque views as you take the less-travelled roads of the Fraser Valley and Manning Park. Explore Canada’s only desert at the Nk'Mip Desert Cultural Centre in the Okanagan, where you will enjoy a wine tasting from the Nk'Mip Cellars. Arriving and checkin in to your resort in Osoyoos in the evening and take your time to explore the hotel's amenities, the lakeside tranquility, and the charm of the town.

Day 2 - Osoyoos

After a delightful breakfast at your hotel, have time at leisure in the morning to unwind by the lake or explore Osoyoos. In the afternoon, treat yourself to a visit to select wineries (included), sampling award-winning wines in the warmest region of British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley—an area renowned for wineries that have received more recognitions than any other in Canada. Conclude your day with a relaxed evening at your own pace.

Day 3 - Osoyoos to Nelson

Savour a breakfast included at your hotel before venturing to Kokanee Creek Provincial Park, situated along the West arm of Kootenay Lake. Immerse yourself in the allure of the town of Nelson as you explore its charming streets on a city tour. The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing you to discover the unique attractions and experiences that Nelson has to offer at your own pace.

Day 4 - Nelson to Waterton

This morning, after breakfast at the hotel, you will embark on a scenic journey through the marvelous Purcell Mountains, transitioning into the expansive vistas of Alberta's rolling prairies. Arrive at Waterton Lakes National Park, where you will check in to your hotel for 2 nights, and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of this captivating destination.

Day 5 - Waterton & Waterton Lakes National Park

Begin your day with a complimentary breakfast at your hotel, then join in a scenic cruise on Upper Waterton Lake, navigating through the breathtaking Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. In the afternoon, you have the option to go on a short hike with your guide, offering an immersive opportunity to explore and appreciate the natural beauty of the surrounding area.

Day 6 - Waterton to Banff

Set the stage for a day filled with cultural and scenic discoveries during breakfast at your hotel. Begin with a visit to the UNESCO-designated Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, preserving and interpreting over 6,000 years of Plains Buffalo culture. Continue your journey with a visit to the Eau Claire Distillery, where you'll participate in an exclusive Prohibition tour, included in your package. Later, arrive in the famous town of Banff and explore the townsite on a coach tour, including iconic landmarks like Bow Falls, the HooDoos, and the Banff Springs Hotel. End your day by checking in to your centrally located hotel, with the evening at leisure to relax, go shopping, or grab dinner at your own pace.

Day 7 - Banff

Today is the day for adventure in the heart of the Rockies! Begin with breakfast at your hotel, and then ascend to new heights with the Banff Gondola, rewarding you with breathtaking views of the majestic Rocky Mountain landscape—all included in your experience. Then travel to gaze at the pristine beauty of the world-famous Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, where there's the option to rent a canoe for those seeking an extra touch of exploration. Return to Banff and have free time in the evening to soak in the charm of this iconic destination for one more night.

Day 8 - Banff to Calgary (OR Rocky Mountaineer)

Have breakfast at your hotel, and continue your tour towards the dynamic city of Calgary. Upon arrival, take in the urban charm with a city tour and admission to the renowned Calgary Tower. Check in to your hotel, and have the evening at leisure to explore and discover the vibrant energy of the city.

An alternative option for today is to join a scenic journey aboard the majestic Rocky Mountaineer First Passage to the West* route. This is a 2-day, 1-night excursion from Banff to Vancouver that we can arrange at an additional cost (subject to availability), and before the tour departure date.

Day 9 - Calgary (OR Return to Vancouver)

Enjoy breakfast included at your hotel to put an end to your escorted tour with the group. From here, you may make your own arrangements to return home, extend your stay in Calgary, or travel to your next destination. Let Uniglobe Specialty Travel assist you with seamless post-tour planning, ensuring your experience continues to be as exceptional as your explorations through Western Canada. We can arrange pre and post tour flights, accommodation, car rentals, activities, and travel insurance, among others.

For those who opted for the Rocky Mountaineer return to Vancouver, you will arrive to the end station in the evening.

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