Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta with Rocky Mountaineer Silverleaf Option, Small Group
Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta with Rocky Mountaineer Silverleaf Option, Small Group
9 Days Starting in Calgary, Canada and ending in Vancouver, Canada
Visiting: Calgary, Kananaskis, Banff, Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Yoho National Park, Columbia Icefield, Athabasca Glacier, Jasper National Park, Kamloops, Vancouver
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SAGVLSM20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Alberta with the "Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta" tour. This small group adventure offers a unique blend of cultural insights and natural wonders, starting in Calgary and concluding in Vancouver. Experience the majestic beauty of the Canadian Rockies aboard the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer train, with options for SilverLeaf or GoldLeaf service. Highlights include exploring the vibrant Moraine Lake, the stunning Icefields Parkway, and the serene Maligne Lake. Delve into First Nations culture with a local Cree Iroquois expert in Banff, and enjoy luxurious accommodations at iconic lodges like Fairmont Banff Springs. With guided walks, scenic drives, and a narrated cruise, this tour promises an enriching and relaxing escape into Canada's pristine wilderness.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Kananaskis
Location: Calgary, Kananaskis
Accommodation Name: Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Autograph Collection
Meals Included: Dinner
Your stay at a historic mountain resort in Banff awaits. After your arrival at Calgary airport, if you have purchased an airport transfer, your driver will transport you to the hotel. Built in the distinctive Canadian Château style, it is one of the earliest examples of the country’s grand railway hotels. Tonight, join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for dinner.
Day 2: Exploring Banff
Location: Banff
Accommodation Name: Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Connect with nature as you join a memorable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a First Nations Cree Iroquois Local Expert. Discover the significance of First Nations culture, including the importance of plants and animals like bears. This authentic dive into the First Nations Cree community is not only enlightening but also helps assure the sustainability of the community and culture. Embark on a guided walk in the Boreal Forest and learn the Indigenous world of plant medicines as well as the historical and modern-day uses of plants and listen to fascinating stories about the First Nations. This afternoon, visit The Whyte Museum and enjoy artwork inspired by the local Rockies. Or, learn about the history of the Fairmont Banff Springs from a knowledgeable ambassador. Hear stories of events that took place around and at this hotel and receive a self-guided map of highlight locations for you to discover.
Day 3: A Trip To Lake Louise Relaxed Start
Location: Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Banff
Accommodation Name: Fairmont Banff Springs, Banff National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
The Three Sisters Peak or Mt Assiniboine will impress on this morning’s optional helicopter flights (weather dependent). Make your way to Moraine Lake (seasonal) – the largest glacially fed lake in Canada – for a photo stop before a decadent lunch at Chateau Lake Louise. Marvel as you're surrounded by soaring peaks and the majesty of the Victoria Glacier. Capture a photo or two of the turquoise Lake Louise and rugged backdrop of one of the most famous mountain vistas in the world before returning to Banff and enjoying the rest of your day at leisure. This evening, opt for a scenic end to your day by taking the Banff Gondola ride.
Day 4: Lakes, Mountains And Glaciers
Location: Yoho National Park, Columbia Icefield
Accommodation Name: Glacier View Lodge, Jasper National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
The glaciers, waterfalls and peaks of Yoho Park are revealed on this morning’s visit to Yoho National Park. Your journey includes photo opportunities at Emerald Lake (seasonal) before taking the Icefields Parkway, one of the most beautiful drives on the planet. Admire the dramatic scenery of the Rockies with plenty of photo opportunities. A warm welcome greets you at the country’s first and only glacier-view resort over a Champagne reception and nibbles. Before dinner, take advantage of the long daylight hours and set out for an after-hours visit to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-floored walkway above the Sunwapta Valley featuring waterfalls and wildlife. After your Skywalk visit, indulge in a delicious, Canadian-inspired, locally sourced dinner, sip cocktails and marvel at the spectacular glacier views surrounding the restaurant.
Day 5: Glacier Adventure Relaxed Start
Location: Athabasca Glacier, Jasper National Park
Accommodation Name: Forest Park Hotel, Jasper National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Before other travellers arrive, venture onto the Athabasca Glacier in a massive Ice Explorer for your special, before-hours visit. Join your Local Expert and walk on the frozen flow of ice. Discover the beauty and immensity of the glacier as you learn about the history and geology of the region. Continue along the magnificent Icefields Parkway further into Jasper National Park with its soothing mineral hot springs, colourful meadows and majestic mountains.
Day 6: Exploring Jasper Relaxed Start
Location: Jasper National Park
Accommodation Name: Forest Park Hotel, Jasper National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a relaxed start this morning or join the fun and experience an optional easy rafting, scenic float trip down the Athabasca River, a designated Canadian Heritage River. Later, join your Travel Director on an informative walk in Maligne Canyon, the deepest gorge in Jasper National Park. As you cruise across the crystal waters of magical Maligne Lake (seasonal), fed by the glaciers of Jasper National Park and glide past the jagged mountain peaks, you'll discover why it's been declared the "Best Boat Cruise in Canada.”
Day 7: Journey To Kananaskis
Location: Kananaskis
Accommodation Name: Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Autograph Collection
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, enjoy a scenic drive down to Kananaskis, often kept as a secret mountain sanctuary for locals, away from the masses that visit neighbouring Banff National Park. Enjoy the late afternoon to yourself to discover the local trails surrounding your upscale hotel nestled in the wilderness, or head to the Nordic Spa located steps away from the lodge. Tonight, come together with your fellow travellers for a festive dinner and toast to your wonderful trip in the Canadian Rockies.
Day 8: Board The Rocky Mountaineer
Location: Banff, Kamloops
Accommodation Name: Assigned by Rocky Mountaineer, Kamloops
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
In the morning you will be transferred to Banff from Kananaskis to board the Rocky Mountaineer. Your journey starts Westward through the mighty Canadian Rockies and the province of Alberta. With more than three decades of fine tuning, Rocky Mountaineer has perfected the art of comfort and service. Whether you choose SilverLeaf Service or GoldLeaf Service, prepare for spectacular views and flavourful food—a celebration for the senses. Aboard Rocky Mountaineer, every element is carefully choreographed to create an effortless, unforgettable experience. You will see a spectacular array of scenery 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, the climb over Rogers Pass, Kicking Horse Canyon, the Spiral Tunnels and, of course, the glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Overnight in Kamloops.
Day 9: Continue Your Rocky Mountaineer Journey
Location: Kamloops, Vancouver
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Depart Kamloops this morning and continue your journey on the Rocky Mountaineer to the coastal city of Vancouver, in the heart of British Columbia's interior. As you travel along you will see dramatic changes in scenery, from the desert-like environment of the British Columbia interior, the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley, and forests and winding river canyons surrounded by the peaks of the Coast and Cascade Mountains. Highlights include the rushing waters of Hell's Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River. On arrival in Vancouver you will bid farewell to this incredible experience and make your way to the airport independently for your flight home, or alternatively choose to extend your stay in this exciting city. The train will arrive Vancouver between 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm.
What's Included
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Dining Summary
The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners with wine, and 1 dinner.
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Additional Included Highlights
Hotel and restaurant tips, taxes, and porterage charges at hotels are included. Personal radio headsets and complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi are also provided.
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Insight Experiences
Enjoy an after-hours visit to the Glacier Skywalk, a stargazing experience, and a visit to the Athabasca Glacier with a Local Expert.
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Well-being
Travel in comfort with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with enhanced hygiene protocols and physical distancing measures.
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Transport
Travel in style aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, a luxury train journey through the Canadian Rockies, offering SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf service options.
What's Not Included
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Airport Transfer
Airport transfer is not included unless purchased separately.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as helicopter flights and rafting trips are not included and may incur additional costs.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Flights
Flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, a luxury train journey through the Canadian Rockies, offering SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf service options. Enjoy scenic drives along the Icefields Parkway and comfortable transfers between destinations.
Accommodation
Experience the comfort of the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Fairmont Banff Springs, Glacier View Lodge, and Forest Park Hotel, offering luxurious stays amidst the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies. Enjoy upscale amenities and breathtaking views at each location.
Dining Summary
- 3 Dinner with Wine (DW)
- 8 Breakfast (B)
- 3 Lunch (L)
Additional Included Highlights
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- Our highly-skilled Travel Director will ensure your journey is seamless, serving as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas.
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
Insight Experiences
- Icefields Parkway: Enjoy an after-hours visit to the amazing Glacier Skywalk. Step onto the cliff-edged, glass-floored walkway rising 918 ft (280 meters) above the Sunwapta Valley offering sweeping views of the valley and Columbia Icefield.
- Icefields Parkway: After a delicious dinner, step out onto the viewing deck and stargaze. As you marvel at the dark night sky, relax with a drink in the library or hang out inside the Moraine Lounge with games and live entertainment. The perfect way to end any night.
- Icefields Parkway: Take a seat in a specially designed Ice Explorer for a visit onto the Athabasca Glacier before other travellers arrive. Follow your Local Expert as you stroll on its icy surface and experience the enormous glaciers up close.
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19. All Travel Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a memorable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a First Nations Cree Iroquois Local Expert, an after-hours visit to the Glacier Skywalk, a stargazing experience, and a visit to the Athabasca Glacier with a Local Expert.
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What is the Rocky Mountaineer SilverLeaf Option?
The Rocky Mountaineer SilverLeaf Option is a service level on the luxury train journey through the Canadian Rockies, offering spectacular views and flavourful food as you travel through scenic landscapes including the Spiral Tunnels and Kicking Horse Canyon.
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Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, optional activities such as helicopter flights and rafting trips are available but are not included in the tour package and may incur additional costs.
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What kind of dining experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes 8 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners with wine, and 1 additional dinner.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
You will stay at luxurious accommodations such as the Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Fairmont Banff Springs, Glacier View Lodge, and Forest Park Hotel, all offering upscale amenities and breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies.
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Is airport transfer included in the tour package?
Airport transfer is not included in the tour package unless purchased separately.
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What measures are in place for well-being and hygiene during the tour?
The tour features enhanced hygiene protocols, including sanitized luxury coaches with physical distancing measures, and all Travel Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Wednesday - Thursday
Jun 11, 2025 - Jun 19, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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