DAY 1: UK - Toronto.
Fly to Toronto where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.
DAY 2: Toronto - Niagara Falls - Toronto - VIA Rail® 'Canadian' train.
Begin the day with a sightseeing excursion to Niagara Falls - one of the world's most amazing natural wonders - offering you spectacular views of the waterfalls from scenic points on the rim of the gorge and from the decks of the Maid of the Mist, where you will experience the thundering water up close! Return to Toronto with time for dinner before transferring to Union Station for a late evening departure on the 'Canadian', VIA Rail's premier transcontinental train. Spend the next three days and nights on this classic trip across Canada's heartland.
Note: The operation of the Maid of the Mist cruise is subject to favourable conditions which exist from May to the end of October. When unfavourable conditions exist, a walking tour of the scenic tunnels will be offered.
DAY 3: VIA Rail® 'Canadian' train.
Watch the scenery as you whisk by the ever changing landscape and travel the full length of the Canadian National Railway's breathtaking mainline. Pass sparkling lakes and sun-dappled forests while enjoying the many great onboard features at your disposal. Your first class 'Sleeper and Touring' rail cars are refurbished Art Deco cars from the 1950's. Try the observation dome for unparalleled views, or relax in one of the comfortable lounges. (B, L, D)
DAY 4: VIA Rail® 'Canadian' train - Winnipeg.
After a brief stop in Winnipeg, re-board the 'Canadian' for a memorable journey through Manitoba's prairies and into Saskatchewan. (B, D)
DAY 5: VIA Rail® - Jasper.
Enjoy breakfast before the train arrives in Edmonton, set on the North Saskatchewan River. After a short break continue your train journey into the heart of the Canadian Rockies. You'll arrive at the beautiful mountain resort of Jasper early in the afternoon. End the day with a short tour to experience its unspoiled beauty, with the rest of the evening free. (B, L)
DAY 6: Jasper.
Begin the day with an optional excursion to Maligne Lake, and a narrated cruise. On the return journey, stop to view Maligne Canyon. With free time this evening you might take a hike and watch for elk.
DAY 7: Jasper - Columbia Icefield - Banff.
Journey through Jasper National Park, stopping along the way at the Columbia Icefield for an exciting snowcoach ride on the 1200-foot-thick Athabasca Glacier. Then continue down the Icefield Parkway to the lively mountain resort of Banff for two nights.
Note: Unfavourable weather conditions may affect the availability of the Columbia Icefield snowcoach excursion.
DAY 8: Banff.
For a spectacular start to the day, why not take the optional helicopter ride high over the Canadian Rockies? In the afternoon join our optional excursion to Sulphur Mountain for a thrilling gondola ride, and a stop at sparkling Bow Falls. The evening is free.
DAY 9: Banff - Lake Louise - Kamloops.
Travel to Lake Louise, its azure blue waters mirroring the surrounding mountains and glaciers, before proceeding over Kicking Horse Pass on the Continental Divide. Travel through Yoho National Park, where Precambrian fossils were discovered, and Glacier National Park, where recreational mountain climbing was introduced to North America a century ago. Late this afternoon arrive at the cattle ranching centre of Kamloops.
DAY 10: Kamloops - Vancouver.
Continue along Kamloops Lake, then follow the mighty Fraser River to Vancouver, spectacularly set on the Burrard Inlet. Upon arrival in Vancouver, your sightseeing tour will introduce you to many of the city's major sights including Stanley Park, Gastown and the harbour.
DAY 11: Vancouver.
Today, why not join an optional excursion to Vancouver Island and the charming city of Victoria. The excursion includes a visit to renowned Butchart Gardens, and the short ferry ride through the mediterranean Gulf Islands is a treat.
DAY 12: Vancouver.
With a full day at leisure, perhaps join an optional excursion to the world-famous Whistler resort and Shannon Falls or a short trip to the Capilano Suspension Bridge - 230 feet above the river.
DAY 13: Vancouver - UK.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK.
DAY 14: Home landing in the UK.
Maximum elevation on this tour is 7,500 ft.