Western Canada

Join us on an unforgettable small group journey through Western Canada’s majestic landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

We’ll spend 12 days exploring British Columbia and Alberta -the two westernmost provinces in this beautiful country on a ‘National Geographic Journey’ itinerary. Discover the awe-inspiring scenery and legendary wildlife of western Canada on a voyage across the craggy Rocky Mountains. Explore historic Banff and Whistler, marvel at the astonishing natural beauty of Lake Louise and the Victoria Glacier, take the ferry to Vancouver Island, and breathe in fresh mountain air while soaking in hot mineral springs and hiking in Jasper National Park. Along the way, gain fascinating insights from knowledgeable local experts and First Nations people. This tour includes economy flights, airport transfers, accommodations, breakfast daily & 1 dinner, all activities listed in the itinerary, and the services of a Cardinal Lakeshore Tours host! You won’t want to miss out on this Bucket List Canadian experience!

Please note that this is a very active tour and is not suitable for those with mobility restrictions.

Day 1 – May 23, 2026 | Depart Home

The time has come for our Western Canadian Adventure! Board our transfer vehicle at one of our pre-selected pickup locations this afternoon for Pearson International Airport. Here we will board our flight from Toronto to Calgary!

Day 2 – May 24, 2026 | Calgary/Banff (B)

After breakfast drive west towards the peaks of the Rocky Mountains. Upon arrival in Banff, take a walk back in time through the historic resort town alongside an expert from the Whyte Museum, dedicated to the history and culture of the Canadian Rockies. As you explore local landmarks on foot, discover how the construction of the Canadian Pacific railroad served as a stepping stone towards opening up western Canada.

Day 3 – May 25, 2026 | Banff/Lake Louise (B)

Continue to magnificent Lake Louise, with its legendary emerald-blue waters. Take time to soak up the world famous beauty of this alpine lake and the scenery of the Victoria Glacier. Opt to join a hike to the historic Lake Agnes Tea House, following a forested trail past Mirror Lake and cascading waterfalls to the shores of Lake Agnes, where a remote tea house built in 1901 serves loose-leaf teas and other refreshments.

Day 4 – May 26, 2026 | Lake Louise/Jasper National Park (B)

Pass lush coniferous forests, soaring mountains, turquoise lakes, and epic glaciers as we travel the winding Icefields Parkway—considered one of the world’s most scenic drives—to Bow Lake, stopping along the way to enjoy photo opportunities and wildlife encounters. At the Columbia Icefield, step foot on the lower Athabasca Glacier with an expert guide for a firsthand experience of this active glacial landscape. Continue on to Jasper National Park.

Day 5 – May 27, 2026 – Jasper National Park (B)

Spend the day at leisure enjoying Jasper’s friendly mountain hospitality. Choose your own adventure among an array of optional activities: Hike to Maligne Canyon, cruise glacially fed Maligne Lake, or rent a bike or canoe to explore on your own. This evening, rejoin your fellow travelers for an unforgettable soak in Miette Hot Springs, where spacious pools of hot mineral springs offer panoramic views of the spectacular Fiddle River Valley.

Day 6 – May 28, 2026 | Jasper National Park/Blue River (B, D)

Float down the serene Athabasca River, tracing the historic route of fur traders and navigating gentle rapids while spotting wildlife like bears, moose, and eagles. Visit Mount Robson, the Rockies’ highest peak, before crossing into the charming community of Blue River.

Day 7 – May 29, 2026 | Blue River/Whistler (B)

Travel through the Caribou Mountains, once crossed by gold prospectors, and witness a dramatic shift from grasslands to the Coast Mountains. Stop at Kamloops Lake and turquoise Seton Lake before arriving in Whistler, a 2010 Winter Olympics co-host.

Day 8 – May 30, 2026 | Whistler (B)

Spend today exploring Whistler and the surrounding parks on your own. Stroll through the village, and opt to ride the gondola up the mountain for 360-degree views, choose to hike one of the many beautiful trails in the area, or enjoy a whitewater rafting trip.

Day 9 – May 31, 2026 | Whistler/Victoria (B)

Experience the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, a showcase for First Nations customs, art, and music. Join an indigenous guide on an interpretive walk through the forest, hear how First Nations people lived off this land. Then take part in a traditional tea ceremony while listening to ancestral stories and legends. Later, drive the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway and catch the ferry to Vancouver Island. Get off the boat in Nanaimo and transfer to Victoria.

Day 10 – June 1, 2026 | Victoria (B)

Today is free to explore the charming city of Victoria. Wander along the waterfront and choose among an array of optional activities. Discover the famous Butchart Gardens, peruse the Royal British Columbia Museum, enjoy high tea at a historic hotel or opt to cruise the sea in a Zodiac boat in search of gray whales, sea lions, seals, orcas, and other marine creatures.

Day 11 – June 2, 2026 | Victoria (B)

Board the scenic ferry to Vancouver. Head downtown to explore the lush gardens, beaches, woodlands, and miles of trails around Stanley Park, considered one of the world’s greatest city parks. Then venture to historic Gastown, and stroll cobblestone streets past Victorian buildings that now house lively restaurants, galleries, and boutiques.

Day 12 – June 3, 2026 | Depart for Home (B)

Our time in Western Canada comes to an end this morning after breakfast at the hotel. We’ll be transported to the airport this morning to board our flight home. On arrival in Toronto, our transfer will await us to return us to our original pickup locations!