Whales & Grizzlies
Stay at a floating wilderness lodge to search for grizzly bears and whales.
Unveiling the most visually stunning landscapes of Canada, this adventure journeys from Vancouver Island to the iconic Canadian Rockies.
As one of the most sought after routes through western Canada, this journey explores a selection of quintessentially iconic locations to give a comprehensive introduction to British Columbia and Alberta. Immerse in the wild coastal scenery of the Inside Passage and spend days scouting for grizzly bears. Travel aboard one of the world’s most iconic train journeys, before a self-drive adventure through the pristine beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Head out by helicopter to access remote glaciers and aqua-green lakes or hike a backcountry trail veiled by an amphitheatre of mountains. Without doubt, this journey is a hand-picked collection of the most remarkable sceneries of Canada.
Key Highlights of this Itinerary
2
Rocky Mountaineer
Spend two days aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, one of the world’s most spectacular rail journeys.
3
Icefields Parkway
Drive one of the top routes in the world, flanked by over 100 ancient glaciers.
Canoe Moraine Lake
Stand on the banks of the world-renowned lake, and head out on canoe or hike the nearby trails.
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Days 1-3
Vancouver
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Day 4
Vancouver - Campbell River
Fly from Vancouver City to Campbell River
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Day 5
Campbell River - Knight Inlet
Fly by scenic floatplane to Knight Inlet Lodge
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Day 6
Knight Inlet
Grizzly bear and wildlife viewing at Knight Inlet
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Day 7
Knight Inlet - Campbell River - Vancouver
Fly by scenic floatplane to Campbell River. Fly Campbell River - Vancouver
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Day 8
Vancouver - Kamloops
Travel aboard the Rocky Mountaineer
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Day 9
Kamloops - Jasper
Travel aboard the Rocky Mountaineer
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Day 10
Jasper
Explore Jasper National Park and Maligne Lake
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Day 11
Jasper - Lake Louise
Pick up hire car and self-drive to Moraine Lake
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Days 12-13
Lake Louise
Hiking, wildlife viewing and canoeing at Moraine Lake
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Day 14
Lake Louise - Calgary
Self-drive to Calgary. Drop hire car
Days 1-3
Vancouver
Spend these days exploring the city. Cycle through Stanley Park, visit the North Shore or simply sit and watch the seaplanes in the harbour.
Day 4
Vancouver - Campbell River
Day 5
Campbell River - Knight Inlet
Day 6
Knight Inlet
From the comfort of a flat bottom boat, navigate the estuary of Knight Inlet in search of grizzly bears or visit a bear viewing stand to experience the iconic salmon run. Scenic estuary tours search for whales and other wildlife that are in abundance nearby.
Day 7
Knight Inlet - Campbell River - Vancouver
Day 8
Vancouver - Kamloops
Be whisked away on one of the world’s greatest train journeys from Vancouver to Jasper. Travel in Gold Leaf Service to experience the ultimate panoramic views and outdoor viewing platform.
Day 9
Kamloops - Jasper
Day 10
Jasper
Head out with a local guide to experience the landscapes of Jasper National Park. Take a boat cruise on Maligne Lake, one of the most iconic sceneries of western Canada.
Day 11
Jasper - Lake Louise
Days 12-13
Lake Louise
Explore Banff and Yoho National Parks with an expert guide, exploring the offbeat trails of the Canadian Rockies. End the day with a hike around Moraine Lake or head out in a canoe onto the azul green waters with a panorama of mountains at every turn.
Day 14
Lake Louise - Calgary
More Details
Wander Over Water & Climb Mother Nature's Staircase
Journey on foot through the seaport city of Vancouver, uniquely characterised by its conflicting backdrops of snow-capped mountains and sandy beaches. When not sipping your way through the local craft beer breweries, take a gondola ride to the top of Grouse Mountain (or hike its arduous “Mother Nature’s Staircase”), amble around the city on a guided gastronomy tour, or watch an ice hockey match to experience the electric atmosphere of the national sport. We can arrange skip-the-line access to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, whale watching adventures, an exhilarating jet ski tour in Howe Sound or even a private sailing boat charter that takes in sweeping views of Vancouver’s majestic skyline.
The Salmon Run: Scout for Grizzly Bears
From the comfort of a flat bottom boat, journey through Knight Inlet to navigate its estuaries in search of the grizzly bears that are synonymous with British Columbia. With the goal of watching them pluck salmon from the rushing water (and the possibility of seeing mothers with their cubs fishing further downstream), travel through this famous region to see these normally solitary bears in iconic congregation. Set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, this is a remote and wild region that houses the largest concentration of grizzlies in western Canada as well as porpoises, sea lions, humpback whales and even orcas.
All Aboard: Ride the Rocky Mountaineer to Jasper
Be whisked away on one of the world’s greatest train journeys from Vancouver to Jasper, hurtling through lush valleys, winding river canyons and panoramic landscapes on the Rocky Mountaineer. Following the route of the Fraser River, pass the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate, the shores of Kamloops Lake and the majestic Mount Robson (the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies). Add a gourmet kitchen, story-telling hosts and oodles of sweet fresh mountain air and this journey through Alberta and British Columbia becomes truly extraordinary. If budget allows, consider upgrading to the unparalleled panoramic Gold Leaf carriage with its glass-domed coach, exclusive outdoor viewing platform and luxurious overnight accommodations.
Drive the Icefield Parkway & Sail to Spirit Island
Explore Jasper and Banff both independently and in the company of an expert local guide, taking a boat trip on Maligne Lake to the world-famous Spirit Island and learning about the local history, fascinating glaciology and unique wildlife species along the way. In a hire car, journey along the 140-mile-long Icefield Parkway, as it winds past alpine lakes and jagged peaks through the heart of the Rockies. Travel to the glittering green waters of Lake Louise, cross the Great Divide into Yoho National Park, and embark on anything from canoeing trips to horseback rides. We can arrange remarkable stargazing experiences in Jasper Dark Sky Preserve, scenic helicopter flights over 900-foot-tall waterfalls and private rafting experiences over the wild white rapids of Kicking Horse.
Let the Kids Lead the Way
With its wide open spaces, breath-taking scenery, thrilling outdoor pursuits and extraordinary wildlife, Canada really is an enchanting destination for a memorable family adventure. Whether riding the waves of the nation’s surf capital of Tofino, joining a bobsleigh tour, finding the wild beaches of the Clayoquot Sound or zip-lining over bear-inhabited forests, Canada has plenty to keep the whole family entertained. We can arrange everything from sleepovers at the Vancouver Aquarium to nights spent under canvas in the middle of bear country, creating highly tailored itineraries that consider everything from swapping long drives for seaplanes to selecting wildlife-viewing programmes where the children set the pace.
Suggestion: Flying Safari in British Columbia
Those with more time to spend in the province might consider embarking on a flying safari over British Columbia, which offers a unique opportunity to observe the landscapes from above and have access to remote (and otherwise unreachable) wilderness. Fly by helicopter to remote glaciers and far off alpine meadows, utilising the journey as a vehicle for rare photographic opportunities. Then, just when you might think it is not possible to get any closer to this untapped wilderness, settle in to your own private glamping tent on a mountain peak for a night under the stars with views that stretch for over 40 miles.
A note on price
Prices will vary depending on the time of year you are travelling. Prices do not include international flights. Please ask one of our Travel Experts for an accurate quote. Flights purchased through Steppes Travel departing from the UK are ATOL protected.
This Itinerary
Price
From £5,405 Per person
When to travel
Canada in January
January is an undoubtedly cold time of year in Canada, with temperatures reaching negative daily. However, visiting during this time can be a good chance to avoid the overwhelming busy times of the festive season and school holidays.
Canada in February
Winter in Canada offers an array of sporting and cultural events both indoors and out. Banff, Whistler and Jasper offer phenomenal ski resorts or perhaps be a spectator of an ice hockey match, arguably the country’s favourite sport.
Canada in March
While March can be a good off-peak time to visit, it is worth being prepared for drastic weather changes. However, this also means lower costs and fewer crowds. The mountains are still open for the ski season and cities are ideal as they are fewer tourists.
Canada in April
April marks the start of spring across Canada, a time to avoid crowds and discover all that the country has to offer with comfortable temperatures on average.
Canada in May
May is a favourable time to visit Canada, with temperatures rising, avoiding school holidays and off-peak rates.
Canada in June
For many travellers, June is the ideal time to visit Canada. Just before peak season, the weather is favourable and most of the trails and seasonal activities will have opened.
Canada in July
Summer in Canada calls for longer days to explore the natural beauty that awaits outdoors whether it’s hiking, fishing or camping. Temperatures average around 25, making cities quite warm but head into the wilderness or by the coast and enjoy the open air.
Canada in August
Summer is considered the peak season with warm temperatures and all attractions open. It is worth noting this time of year can be quite busy as it is school holidays.
Canada in September
As autumn rolls in and temperatures lower, September is a great time to avoid massive crowds and experience all that the country has to offer in comfortable weather. September is also the beginning of the salmon run, a peak time to see the bears fishing.
Canada in October
Temperatures continue to drop in October, also bringing cloudy days and rain. The autumn foliage is in full bloom across the countryside. This can also be a good time to take advantage of off-peak rates, however, it is worth bearing in mind that the weather can vary and some coastal towns will have started to close for the season.
Canada in November
November is a good time of year to visit the cities of Canada. It is too late to view the foliage and a bit too early to skiing yet, but a good time to explore cities across the country, in temperatures averaging 5 degrees.
Canada in December
The build-up to the festive season is in full swing across the country. Snow may have already started, making the perfect scene for ice skating and markets.
Holiday Inspiration
Our experts have created and curated these tailor-made holiday ideas to get you started. Take the time to search through them and find something that is the spark for your unique adventure.
Why Choose Steppes?
Our knowledge and expertise set us apart. So too our curiosity. It is this that drives us to create a journey that is really bespoke to you, all the while ensuring we travel and operate sustainably.
Are you ready to discover extraordinary once again?
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