vancouver Tours Canadian Family Discovery

Itinerary:

Day 1 Vancouver        
Welcome to one of the most picturesque cities in the world, Vancouver. Perhaps enjoy a stroll around this cosmopolitan city to get your bearings or treat yourself to some moreish maple cookies in Stanley Park, a 400-hectare wonderland where you can see the authentic totem poles erected in the 1920s. The kids can make the most of the playground with a pool and a waterslide. Vancouver is a family-friendly city and once you've done some exploring, a welcome meeting will be held in your hotel.        

Days 2-3 Vancouver to Whistler        
After a scenic drive, set up camp near Whistler in the heart of British Columbia. Whistler is a fantastic destination all year-round, with incredible scenery and loads of activities on offer. Why not take a leisurely gondola ride and see the views from above, rent bikes and wind your way along the trails, or even take to the tree tops with some adventurous zip lining? Whether you're a family of adrenaline junkies or simply like to enjoy some leisurely time together surrounded by nature, there's something for everyone in Whistler.        

Days 4-5 Whistler to Wells Gray Provincial Park  
Next up is Wells Gray Provincial Park - the fourth largest in British Columbia, covering the highest regions of the Cariboo Mountains. Take a walk to the impressive Helmcken Falls, one of the reasons for the creation of Wells Gray Provincial Park in 1939. You'll stay in rustic guest ranch cabins for two nights and after each night's dinner, you can kick back and experience authentic ranch hospitality. Take part in a BBQ cookout, where you'll create a hearty meal of fresh meat and fish (plus a vegetarian option) for everyone to feast on after a busy day exploring.        

Days 6-7 Wells Gray Provincial Park to Jasper NP  
Jasper National Park is much less developed than other areas of Western Canada and offers a true wilderness feel. You may want to start your visit by taking the cable car for a bird's-eye view of this wonderful park. There's also the chance to experience mountain biking and hiking amidst fantastic lakeside scenery, or to visit Mount Edith Cavell for tremendous views of Angel Glacier, a beautiful hanging glacier in the shape of angel wings.

Days 8-9 Jasper NP to Yoho NP  
The Icefields Parkway cuts through the heart of the Rockies, travelling past hanging glaciers, sheer rock walls and broad sweeping valleys. It's been called one of the world's most scenic drives, and you'll definitely want to keep your cameras at the ready for some stunning views.  Visit Peyto Lake and be amazed by its incredible turquoise hues, before traversing a portion of the imposing Athabasca Glacier, on an included guided hike. Continuing to the town of Golden and Yoho National Park, considered the hidden gem of the Canada national parks system. If any of your family are budding photographers, exploring Yoho will provide them with ample opportunities to hone their skills as you wander through a pristine alpine landscape which includes mountains, lakes and waterfalls. In your free time you can get up close and personal with the Kicking Horse River on an optional half-day white water rafting excursion, or you can choose to canoe or hike at the magnificent Emerald Lake. Walking the challenging trails overlooking Takakkaw Falls is an excellent alternative option.        

Day 10 Yoho NP to Banff NP      
With its snow-capped peaks, ancient pine forests and enchanting turquoise waters, Lake Louise is simply stunning. It's always been a popular tourist destination, so it's no surprise that it's the most photographed destination in the Canadian Rockies! There are also many walking trails to enjoy, you can either wander around the lake or hike to a nearby teahouse to be rewarded with some of the best chocolate cake in Canada!        

Day 11 Banff NP        
Banff National Park is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise with plenty of opportunity for walking and hiking. With an abundance of wildlife in the park, there's always a chance of seeing bears from a safe distance. Alternatively, take a scenic ride on the gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain to take in views of the surrounding landscape. For a completely different perspective, another exciting optional activity is to fly overhead in a helicopter - an amazing experience that your family will never forget. Later enjoy an included soak in the Sulphur Mountain Hot Springs.    

Day 12 Banff NP to Calgary    
After a free morning to absorb your last taste of the Canadian wilderness, make the short journey to the city of Calgary where your journey ends.  

Departs: