Great Rail Journeys · Independent

Canada's Rocky Mountaineer

Eight-day independent Canada trip on the Rocky Mountaineer, Vancouver to Banff

Canada's Rocky Mountaineer, a rail journey with Great Rail Journeys

Great Rail Journeys offers this eight-day independent trip through western Canada, beginning with a direct flight from the UK to Vancouver and ending with a flight home from Calgary. Without a Tour Manager, travelers spend free days in Vancouver and Banff at their own pace, choosing hotels from 3 to 5-star options in each city. The centerpiece is two days aboard the Rocky Mountaineer in SilverLeaf or GoldLeaf service, travelling from Vancouver to Kamloops and on to Banff, passing the Fraser Valley, Craigellachie, Rogers Pass and Kicking Horse Canyon. In Banff, a sightseeing tour visits Bow Falls, Surprise Corner and the Hoodoos, with a ride on the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain. The trip finishes with a night in Calgary before the flight home. It suits independent-minded travelers who want a fixed rail journey through the Rockies combined with unstructured time in Vancouver and Banff.

What to know before you look closer

  • Hotel options across Vancouver, Banff and Calgary span 3-star to 5-star properties, for example the Banff Ptarmigan Inn up to the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel; which one you get depends on the tier you choose.
  • Several days, including Vancouver on day 2 and Banff on day 5, are unguided free time to explore at your own pace rather than escorted sightseeing.
  • The evidence lists no current departure dates for this package.

Day by day

  1. Day 0

    Outbound Travel – Getting to Vancouver

    A direct flight will carry you from the UK to Vancouver, arriving in the late afternoon.

  2. Day 1overnight: Vancouver

    Arrival in Vancouver

    Upon touching down in this captivating maritime city, you will be whisked away to your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and stunning surroundings of Vancouver during your evening in this fabulous destination.

  3. Day 2overnight: Vancouver

    Vancouver

    Enjoy the day with free time to unwind or delve into a variety of activities suited to your preferences. Vancouver boasts a wealth of attractions catering to every interest, from exploring the charming cobblestone streets of historic Gastown to indulging in delectable dining experiences in vibrant Yaletown. Take a leisurely stroll along the iconic Stanley Park Seawall and immerse yourself in the breathtaking vistas of the Coast Mountains and the tranquil Pacific Ocean.

  4. Day 3railovernight: Kamloops

    Rocky Mountaineer (Vancouver to Kamloops)

    Embark on an early morning adventure aboard the legendary Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Kamloops, nestled in the heart of British Columbia's scenic interior. Landscapes transform throughout the day's journey, from the verdant expanses of the Fraser Valley to enchanting forests and meandering river canyons enveloped by the majestic peaks of the Coast and Cascade Mountains. Be captivated by the exhilarating rush of Hell's Gate in the Fraser Canyon and marvel at the rugged terrain and rock formations along the Thompson River. As the sun sets, the train meanders along the tranquil shores of Kamloops Lake.

    Meals: Lunch

  5. Day 4railovernight: Banff

    Rocky Mountaineer to Banff

    Set off early to venture eastward toward the majestic Canadian Rockies and the captivating province of Alberta. Traverse vast ranchlands, skirt rocky lakeshores, ascend high mountain passes, and traverse historic tunnels. Today's adventure is punctuated by iconic landmarks such as Craigellachie (where the final spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven), the climb over Rogers Pass, the rugged beauty of Kicking Horse Canyon, and the engineering marvel of the Spiral Tunnels. Your unforgettable rail journey culminates in the picturesque resort town of Banff.

    Meals: Lunch

  6. Day 5overnight: Banff

    Banff

    Take the day to unwind and immerse yourself in the charm of Banff at your own pace. Whether you're seeking relaxation in the soothing Banff hot springs, eager to explore the vibrant town, or yearning for outdoor wildlife encounters, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Delight in the tranquility of the mountain surroundings or embark on an adventure tailored to your interests.

  7. Day 6overnight: Calgary

    Banff Sightseeing & Calgary

    Start your day with a delightful sightseeing tour of Banff, exploring captivating spots like Bow Falls, Surprise Corner, and the mystical Hoodoos. Before bidding farewell to Banff, immerse yourself in the breathtaking views atop the Banff Gondola. You'll travel on to the charming city of Calgary, where you'll spend the night.

    Meals: Breakfast

  8. Day 7

    Calgary & Homeward Bound

    Savour a leisurely day to discover the wonders of Calgary, immersing yourself in its vibrant atmosphere and captivating attractions. Whether you choose to stroll through the bustling streets, uncover hidden gems, or indulge in local cuisine, Calgary offers endless possibilities for exploration and adventure. Later in the afternoon you'll transfer to Calgary airport for your direct flight back to the UK.

    Meals: Breakfast

  9. Day 8

    Arrive Home

    Arrive back in the UK carrying cherished memories of adventure through the magnificent Canadian Rockies.

The moments this trip is built around

  • Day 3The Rocky Mountaineer departs Vancouver for Kamloops, crossing the Fraser Valley, forests and river canyons beneath the Coast and Cascade Mountains.
  • Day 4The Rocky Mountaineer continues from Kamloops to Banff, passing Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, and climbing over Rogers Pass.
  • Day 6A sightseeing tour of Banff visits Bow Falls, Surprise Corner and the Hoodoos, with a ride on the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain.
  • Day 6After the Banff tour, the trip continues by coach to Calgary for the night.

Included

  • 6 nights in hotels in Vancouver, Kamloops, Banff and Calgary
  • 2 days Rocky Mountaineer SilverLeaf or GoldLeaf Service
  • Direct flights from London to Vancouver and Calgary to London
  • Airport transfers in Vancouver and Calgary
  • 2 breakfasts
  • 2 lunches (Eastbound, on Rocky Mountaineer)
  • National Parks Pass
  • Banff Gondola

Not included

  • Cancellation & Travel Insurance

Questions travellers ask

Is the train travel included?
Yes, 2 days aboard the Rocky Mountaineer in SilverLeaf or GoldLeaf service, travelling from Vancouver to Banff via Kamloops.
Is it escorted or independent?
Independent. The tourType is listed as 'Independent', with no Tour Manager mentioned; free days in Vancouver and Banff are at your own pace.
What hotels are used?
Hotels vary by tier and city, ranging from 3-star options like the Banff Ptarmigan Inn to 5-star properties like the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel.
What is included in the price?
6 nights in hotels across Vancouver, Kamloops, Banff and Calgary, 2 days on the Rocky Mountaineer, direct flights from London to Vancouver and Calgary to London, airport transfers, 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, a National Parks Pass and the Banff Gondola.
What is not included?
Cancellation and travel insurance.

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