Experience the best of Western Canada in just five days - from Vancouver to the stunning Canadian Rockies - on a vacation featuring Rocky Mountaineer

Your journey into the Rockies begins today as you arrive on Canada's West Coast in the cultural city of Vancouver. Nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the mountains, this city is a haven for outdoor adventures while also boasting a dynamic cityscape filled with history. Make your own way to your hotel for check-in, and then you are free to begin discovering the city's allures at leisure.

One of the most beloved locations within Vancouver is Stanley Park, and here, you could admire its ocean views while walking along the seawall or seek out the famous First Nations Totem Poles. Vancouver also has a wonderful array of neighborhoods to explore, including historic Gastown and Chinatown. Fantastic eateries dot these neighborhoods, with culinary offerings ranging from seafood to global favorites, giving you plenty of options for dinner this evening.

There is so much to see and experience in this cultural city; should you wish to explore Vancouver further, speak to a Rail Specialist about adding additional nights and sightseeing. Overnight Vancouver.

With an included transfer to Vancouver's train station this morning, step aboard the iconic Rocky Mountaineer for a journey across British Columbia's wild landscapes.

There is ample space to relax in your SilverLeaf Service* seat on this full-day journey, with breakfast and lunch served to your seat. As you savor the fresh, local ingredients and incredible storytelling by the onboard Hosts, watch as the city and the coastline fade into the distance and the deep emerald hues of the Fraser Valley appear.

The panoramic windows of Rocky Mountaineer provide an incredible opportunity to admire the stunning scenery. Today's train ride takes you along the expansive Thompson River, and past the rushing rapids of Hell's Gate. Admire rolling hills, forested peaks and beautiful water views before entering the arid, desert-like Thompson-Okanagan region. Upon arrival in Kamloops later this afternoon, you are transferred to your hotel for check-in, and then you are free to dine independently this evening. Overnight Kamloops.

*Please note: Upgrades to GoldLeaf Service in bi-level train cars are available by speaking to a Rail Specialist.

Your journey continues eastward into the mighty Canadian Rockies and the province of Alberta this morning after a transfer back to Kamloops train station. Settling into your seat, you will once again see a spectacular array of vistas as you travel across ranchlands, along rocky lakeshores, over high mountain passes and through the remarkable tunnels that form part of the rich rail history of the Canadian Rockies.

Today's highlights include Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, and the climb over Rogers Pass. Look out the windows to see Kicking Horse Canyon, the Spiral Tunnels, and, of course, the glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Your rail journey ends as the train pulls into the resort town of Banff later today.

An included transfer takes you to your hotel, and upon checking in, you are free to get acquainted with Banff's shops, restaurants and natural splendors at your own pace. Overnight in Banff.

Some of the most awe-inspiring sights in the Rockies lie ahead today as you set out on a guided tour of Banff National Park this morning. With a guide, uncover truly inspiring views while visiting Bow Falls, Surprise Corner and Two Jack Viewpoint. In addition to reveling in all these views from the ground, you also have included admission to the Banff Gondola, which takes you to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for panoramic scenes of the Bow Valley. For departures after May 16, this tour also includes a cruise on Lake Minnewanka.

Alternatively, after May 1, you can switch to an alternative tour. Following your chosen adventure, you can continue your day at leisure, delving deeper into nature or exploring the townsite's culture and amenities. Overnight Banff.

Optional Excursions

Discover Banff & Its Wildlife With Gondola - A shorter version of the standard touring option, this 5 ½-hour excursion showcases the town of Banff and the wonders that lie in the surrounding national park. See highlights like Bow Falls, Surprise Corner, Two Jack Lake and Tunnel Mountain Drive, as well as stunning examples of Banff National Park's unique hoodoos. This tour also includes admission to the Banff Gondola to see the glories from above.

Discover Banff & Its Wildlife - The shortest of the touring options available in Banff, this 3-hour tour features the town of Banff and the many wonders that lie in the surrounding national park. See highlights like Bow Falls, Surprise Corner, Two Jack Lake and Tunnel Mountain Drive, as well as stunning examples of Banff National Park's unique hoodoos. The Banff Gondola is not included with this tour option.

Mountains, Lakes & Waterfalls - A full-day journey through Banff and Yoho National Parks, this tour delves into the natural features that make these parks so remarkable. Routes before early June follow the Bow Valley Parkway, whereas those after follow Takakkaw Falls Road. Standard highlights of each include the sparkling waters of Lake Louise, the innovative Spiral Tunnels and a delicious lunch beside Yoho National Park's Emerald Lake at Emerald Lake Lodge.

Please note: Departures prior to May 1 will have Discover Banff & Its Wildlife With Gondola as the standard touring option.

A spectacular introduction to the Canadian Rockies, this trip has been a scenic journey to remember from beginning to end. Traveling into the Canadian Rockies aboard the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer by daylight only provided the best perspective on little-seen views. Upon arrival in Banff, a mix of free time to explore and fantastic touring options allowed you to explore the mountains, lakes and pristine landscapes.

Your time in the Rockies comes to a close this morning with an included transfer to Calgary's airport for your return flight home. Transfer accommodates flights departing after 11:00 a.m. If you are not ready to end your vacation, speak to a Rail Specialist to add additional nights in Banff or Calgary.

Superior
• Hotels include Sheraton Vancouver Wall Center, Royal Canadian Lodge or similar; subject to availability at the time of confirmation. Kamloops hotel is included and will be confirmed upon check-in for the Rocky Mountaineer.
• Rocky Mountaineer accommodations are in SilverLeaf Service. Seats are in a single level dome car with oversized windows.
• Gourmet meal service is served to you at your seat on the Rocky Mountaineer.

Deluxe
• Hotels include Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, Fairmont Banff Springs or similar; subject to availability at the time of confirmation. Kamloops hotel is included and will be confirmed upon check-in for the Rocky Mountaineer.
• Rocky Mountaineer accommodations are in GoldLeaf Service. You will be traveling in a bi-level dome car with your seats being on the upper level of the car. You will have exclusive access to an outdoor viewing platform.
• Gourmet meal service is included on the lower level of the car on the Rocky Mountaineer.

Deluxe Plus
• Hotels include upgraded rooms at Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, Fairmont Banff Springs or similar; subject to availability at the time of confirmation. Kamloops hotel is included in a standard room and will be confirmed upon check-in for the Rocky Mountaineer.
• Rocky Mountaineer accommodations are in GoldLeaf Service. You will be traveling in a bi-level dome car with your seats being on the upper level of the car. You will have exclusive access to an outdoor viewing platform.
• Gourmet meal service is included on the lower level of the car on the Rocky Mountaineer.

Taxes are not included on rail portions and are subject to change.

Prices for triples and children are available upon request.

Please note all accommodations in Kamloops are of moderate standard.

The world-renowned Rocky Mountaineer train offers a unique and memorable trip through one of the most diverse countries in the world. On board, you'll see spectacular vistas that you can't experience through any other mode of travel, all viewed through a stunning panoramic glass dome so you won't miss a thing.

As you board the Rocky Mountaineer you are treated to a 5-star welcome with the highest attention to detail. There are two excellent levels of service, Silverleaf and Goldleaf. We travel in SilverLeaf Service as standard, which a single level dome carriage providing magnificent panoramic views. Meals are expertly prepared by award-winning chefs and served at your comfortable seat, with gourmet breakfast and lunch options served alongside complimentary local wine or beer.

Upgrades to the Goldleaf service are available, which offers two-storey carriages, unparalleled comfort and 360° views from fully glass-domed carriages. On both services the food is outstanding, but on the Goldleaf Service you can head downstairs to the restaurant for your gourmet meals. The train only operates in daylight hours so you don't miss a second of the incredible Canadian countryside.

Journey from the vibrant city of Vancouver to Banff, set within the stunning surroundings of the Canadian Rockies, aboard Rocky Mountaineer on its First Passage to the West route. The original course for the train, this route features incredible views of the Fraser and Thompson Rivers, crosses the Continental Divide, winds through spiral tunnels, and passes by beautiful mountain peaks in its pursuit of Banff. The journey takes place by daylight only, allowing travelers to capture all the route's majesty. 

Many of our guests choose to spend additional nights before or after their trip. Great Rail Journeys would be happy to make hotel arrangements for you.