Day 1 ARRIVE IN CALGARY, ALBERTA
Stetsons and Skyscrapers Welcome to Calgary, where cowboys still ride tall in the saddle below the skyline of Alberta’s “Cow Town.” At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink
Day 2 CALGARY–LAKE LOUISE
City Slickers and Sapphire Shores Take an orientation drive through cosmopolitan Calgary before heading to Lake Louise. Upon arrival, take a leisurely [LF] guided heritage walk along the legendary lakeshore. Free time this afternoon and evening at the exclusive Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. (B,D)
LOCAL FAVORITE
WILDERNESS IN WATERCOLOR Explore the breathtaking shores of Lake Louise where its bright blue surface mirrors the sky between Banff’s high peaks. Hear the storied history-from the early Stoney Nakoda First Nations people who named it “lake of the little fishes” to the bold railroad barons of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Learn fascinating stories of frontiersmen and First Nations who first discovered the exquisite waters of Lake Louise.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT Named for a Victorian princess, Lake Louise is the perfect setting for the architecture, amenities, and atmosphere of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise-designed to pamper the heartiest of alpine adventurers. Slip into the indoor pool and hot tub, soothe the soul at the fitness center and spa, hike in the lush green forest, canoe on Lake Louise’s famous turquoise blue water or enjoy horseback riding on a nearby trail. With attention to your comfort and enjoyment amid the rugged Rocky Mountains, you’ll enjoy concierge service, gift shops plus a variety of restaurants and activities
Breakfast
DinnerDay 3 LAKE LOUISE–JASPER
Natural Wonders in the Rockies Scenic drive on Icefields Parkway reveals spectacular vistas, including the picturesque Peyto Lake (weather permitting). Drive through Banff’s mountain cathedrals that tower above Natural Bridge, Kicking Horse River, and Emerald Lake. Next stop, Jasper National Park, a Dark Sky Preserve and the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. Enjoy free time this afternoon. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
PICTURE PERFECT Nestled between the pines and peaks, see for yourself why Peyto Lake is one of the most photographed natural beauties in North America. This azure alpine lake strikes the pose as a model of perfection, delivering a visual feast you must see to believe!
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT Settle in for a cozy cabin-style 2-night retreat in superbly appointed guest rooms. The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge delivers all the comforts of home with a touch of luxury in the wilderness. Set deep in the Canadian Rockies, the lodge’s rugged elegance makes it the embodiment of peace, tranquility, and natural beauty. Enjoy a wide variety of onsite amenities to welcome you home from a day of exploring with views of surrounding mountains and Beauvert Lake
Breakfast
DinnerDay 4 JASPER. EXCURSION TO MALIGNE LAKE
The Wilderness Spirit A scenic cruise on Maligne Lake to Spirit Island reveals the wild beauty of an alpine wonderland. Free time this afternoon and evening in Jasper National Park. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS Between the silver and green glacial peaks, experience the views from the largest natural lake in Jasper National Park on a cruise across the waters of Maligne Lake. Glide on the water to Spirit Island, one of the most photographed spots on Earth. Keep your camera ready for further chances to capture a photo of deer, moose, eagles, or bears in this Rocky Mountain paradise
BreakfastDay 5 JASPER–COLUMBIA ICEFIELD–BANFF
Spend your day your way in Banff Depart Jasper with a scenic drive on Icefields Parkway en route to Columbia Icefield. Explore how landscapes are shaped with an epic ride aboard the mighty Columbia Ice Explorer all-terrain vehicle. Continue through Banff National Park to discover breathtaking beauty beyond imagination. Explore more of Banff with your choice between included Globus Choice excursions.
Free time this evening. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
EPIC RIDE Be moved by an expedition across the Athabasca Glacier. Traverse this massive glacier aboard the all-terrain Columbia Ice Explorer and walk on the surface where the Earth’s geology is changing beneath your feet. Feel the force of nature’s strength on an ancient glacier that still carves the face of the Rocky Mountains today
BreakfastDay 6 BANFF
Peak Perfection and Royal Tradition Explore Banff National Park with a scenic drive around Tunnel Mountain and witness the wonder of Bow River Falls with views of the peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Later, take advantage of an optional helicopter flightseeing trip with dramatic aerial views of the Rocky Mountains and Banff, or stroll the town’s colorful streets. Meet an [LF] officer of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police to hear tales in true Mounties tradition. Farewell dinner this evening. (B,D)
LOCAL FAVORITE
HEROES ON HORSEBACK As the song goes, Canadian Mounties “always get their man.” Since the early days of the Northwest Territory, the brave members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police have patrolled the mountains of Alberta and beyond with dignified duty. While visiting Banff, visit with a Canadian Mountie as a tip of the signature wide-brimmed hat begins the tales of adventure including the tradition behind the famous red jackets and regulation jodhpurs.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT For over a century, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, has been the destination for luxury in the heart of Alberta’s Canadian Rockies. The Scottish-style “Castle of the Rockies” welcomes guests to retire each night and enjoy delightful dining choices and lounges plus activities at the hotel. Walking history tours, glowing evening campfires, wilderness or twilight walks, and guided bike rides showcase the hotel grounds. In Scottish tradition, a 27-hole golf course offers, with added diversions of a spa, tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pool, hot tub, horseback riding, gift shops, convenience store, and concierge service
Breakfast
DinnerDay 7 BANFF–ROCKY MOUNTAINEER–KAMLOOPS, BRITISH COLUMBIA
All Aboard in Banff! This morning, wave goodbye to your Tour Director and Driver in Banff before boarding Rocky Mountaineer to travel over the Continental Divide and along the Kicking Horse River. Continue westward to Shuswap Lake, then overnight in Kamloops. Tonight, enjoy free time in Kamloops. (B,L)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
TRAIN SPOTLIGHT Travel in style aboard the legendary Rocky Mountaineer train service from Banff to Kamloops. Ride in style with exceptional service as you take in the panoramic views through your custom-designed glass-dome coach. Snap the perfect shots of spectacular landscapes from the comfort of your seat or step out on the outdoor viewing area for a wide-open view. Enjoy Rocky Mountaineer’s SilverLeaf service with everything you need and more to experience the majesty of the Rocky Mountains in luxury: panoramic views, delicious meals and beverages brought right to your seat, friendly hosts and miles and miles of memories
BreakfastLunchDay 8 KAMLOOPS–ROCKY MOUNTAINEER–VANCOUVER
End of the Line, Vancouver! Back aboard your Rocky Mountaineer train, your journey passes through the fertile Thompson Valley and the Fraser Canyon. This afternoon, arrive in Vancouver, where you’ll be transferred to your hotel for a 2-night stay. (B,L)
ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE in Vancouver with your pick of the freshest seafood in the Canadian Rockies. The buzzing downtown scene is rich in culinary delights from sushi or wild-caught salmon to pizza and pasta. Don’t forget to indulge in British Columbia’s iconic Nanaimo Bar—a coconut, chocolate, and nutty confection
BreakfastLunchDay 9 VANCOUVER
Beautiful City of BC A full day at leisure to explore this vibrant city. (B)
ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE of Vancouver and the surrounding sights with a free day to taste wine, dine, or explore. Ask your Tour Director for tips and find more suggestions and maps on your GlobusGO mobile app!
BreakfastDay 10 VANCOUVER (EMBARKATION)
Alaskan Adventure by Sea Wave goodbye to your Tour Director and Driver in Vancouver before embarking on your 7-night Alaska Inside Passage cruise. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS You’re in for one wild and wonderful week on a roundtrip cruise on the incredible Inside Passage through the spectacular ports of Alaska. Cruise from Vancouver to discover spellbinding scenery from narrow fjords to scattered islets and towering peaks. Get close to massive glaciers in Glacier Bay National Park and wait breathlessly for ice to calve off and plunge into the ocean. Inside Passage waters are as smooth as it gets, while on shore you’ll find endless thrills and chills
Breakfast
DinnerDay 11 CRUISING: INSIDE PASSAGE, ALASKA
Glacial Fjords & Grand Forests Alaska’s Inside Passage is a protected network of waterways that wind through glacier-cut fjords and lush temperate rain forests along the rugged coast of Southeast Alaska. Arguably one of the greatest cruising routes in the world, the Inside Passage stretches through stunning landscapes, from Misty Fjords National Monument to famed Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. (B,L,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
WILD BY NATURE Sailing the Inside Passage offers opportunities to spot some of Alaska’s most iconic wildlife, with humpback whales and orcas plying the bountiful waters alongside the ships, bald eagles soaring overhead and brown bears lumbering on the shoreline
BreakfastLunch
DinnerDay 12 CRUISING: TRACY ARM–JUNEAU, ALASKA
Coastal Cliffs & The Catch of the Day Steep cliffs and glacier-covered mountains flank the Tracy Arm fjord, fringed by the largest intact coastal temperate rainforest in the United States. Old-growth trees colonized Tracy Arm's mouth long ago as the Ice Age retreated. Continue cruising to Juneau, Alaska and visit the most remote state capital in the United States. Surrounded by water, forest and mountain sights, visitors in Juneau can hike a glacier, eat fresh-caught fish on a seaside patio and tour a grand capitol building all in one day. (B,L,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
UNTAMED WILDERNESS Even more glorious than nearby Glacier Bay, Tracy Arm is part of the 5.7 million acres (or around 23,000 square kilometers) of pure wilderness sheltered by the Tongass National Forest (America's biggest). Visitors often see bears, whales, and mountain goats roaming across various corners of this pristine area—not to mention chubby baby seals resting on the ice floes. Summer temperatures average 35 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (0 to 16 degrees Celsius), so pack warm clothing. And pack your waterproof gear in preparation for the more than 60 inches (1 ½ meters) of rainfall each year!
BreakfastLunch
DinnerDay 13 SKAGWAY
The Rush for Gold At the height of the Klondike Gold Rush, the port town of Skagway served as the primary gateway to the legendary gold fields, and quickly grew into Alaska’s largest settlement. It was then a raucous frontier hub packed with trading posts, saloons, and guesthouses. As the gold rush faded into the 1900s, so did Skagway—but today it has been reinvigorated as a gateway for a new kind of visitor: those looking to explore Alaska’s colorful history, pristine wildlife, and unrivaled natural beauty. (B,L,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDS & LORE At every turn, you’ll find yourself immersed in gold rush lore in the town of Skagway, from the infamous Red Onion Saloon that still keeps a pistol that Wyatt Earp left behind on his way to the Klondike, to the narrow-gauge White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad, traversing rugged mountains, waterfalls, and towering glaciers on its course to Whitehorse deep in the Yukon
BreakfastLunch
DinnerDay 14 CRUISING: GLACIER BAY NATIONAL PARK
Ice Dancing On your cruise to Glacier Bay (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), close your eyes and take in the sounds—the creaks and groans of “living” ice, the shrill cries of gulls and soaring eagles, the splash of a breaching humpback whale. Frosted peaks towering over mossy forests, wide tidewater glaciers (there are seven in the park), and frequent wildlife sightings on Glacier Bay cruises are just a few of the thrilling experiences in this unique and beautiful biosphere. (B,L,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
WILD DISCOVERIES With the serene majesty of snow-flecked and forested mountains defining its shores, Glacier Bay National Park offers some of the most dramatic scenery in the world. Keep your binoculars and camera handy as you cruise Glacier Bay to the mile-wide Margerie Glacier for the chance to witness ice calving. Wildlife abounds in Glacier Bay, you never know when you will see the fluke of a humpback rise out of the water or spot a lone brown bear patrolling a windswept beach
BreakfastLunch
DinnerDay 15 KETCHIKAN
Port of Call Experience an adventure in Ketchikan, Alaska home to picturesque fjords of the Inside Passage, where the town clings to the banks of the Tongass Narrows, flanked by green forests nurtured by abundant rain. Consider an optional guided rainforest walk in the Tongass National Forest and a visit to the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center to explore the rich Alaska Native culture and coastal rainforest ecosystem during your time in Ketchikan. (B,L,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORY & TRADITION Ketchikan has long been an important hub of the salmon-fishing and salmon-packing industries. Savor the fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants or take a fishing excursion to catch your own! Ketchikan is one of the best spots along the Inside Passage to explore the rich culture of Native Alaskan nations like the Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian. See intricately carved totem poles at the Totem Heritage Center and Totem Bight State Park and visit the Saxman Village just outside of Ketchikan to see Tlingit heritage in action, with working carvers and a dance show in the clan house
BreakfastLunch
DinnerDay 16 CRUISING: INSIDE PASSAGE
Where the Wild Things Are Scenic cruising through the Inside Passage again offering opportunities to spot some of Alaska’s most iconic wildlife. Enjoy the amenities and entertainment onboard the ship, recharge with a spa service or savor the last full day of sailing from the observation deck. (B,L,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ALASKAN ADVENTURE Relish the last day of leisure on the ship and watch the horizon for humpback whales and orcas plying the bountiful waters, bald eagles soaring overhead and brown bears lumbering on the shoreline. One of the greatest cruising routes in the world, the Inside Passage stretches through stunning landscapes, from Misty Fjords National Monument to famed Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve
BreakfastLunch
DinnerDay 17 VANCOUVER, BC (DISEMBARKATION)
Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. Schedule departing flights from Vancouver after 12:00 pm. Want to explore more of Vancouver? Extra nights are available for purchase. (B)