Extended stay in Alaska and the Canadian Rockies

Pick up your rental car at the Calgary airport.

Drive from Calgary International Airport to Banff, in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Banff. 

Half-day hike with a private guide in the Rockies.

Today you’ll explore one of the Rocky Mountain parks with an experienced guide. First, we’ll work with our guide to assess your expectations and fitness level so we can plan the day’s itinerary together.

Here area few examples:

1. Hike in Jasper National Park, around the Maligne Valley or Canyon, or venture further uphill to see a glacial lake.
2. Hiking in Banff National Park. As you make your way through the park’s forests, you’ll discover a rich natural environment and may even spot some wildlife.
3. Want to get away from the crowds, especially during peak season? At the gateway to the Rockies, Kootenay National Park is striking for its contrasting landscapes, ranging from turquoise-blue glacial mountain rivers to steaming hot springs. You’ll be surprised to discover canyons and waterfalls that are easily accessible.
4. Yoho National Park. Today you’ll set out to explore the park’s 400 kilometers of hiking trails, located on the western slope of the Canadian Rockies. You’ll traverse landscapes of high mountains, valleys, forests, rivers, and waterfalls. Among the most beautiful spots, Emerald Lake, O’Hara Lake, Takakkaw Falls, and Natural Bridge will leave you with wonderful memories.

Free afternoon in Canmore and Banff.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Banff.

A Day of Discovery in the Canadian Rockies Around Banff.

Get ready for a day full of color!

1. Explore the lively town of Banff and its surroundings. From its colorful downtown to its hot springs and the cable car ride up to Mount Sulphur, you’ll have plenty of activities to choose from.
2. Hop aboard the cable car to Mount Sulphur, at an elevation of 2,281 meters, for a 360-degree view of the Rocky Mountains. You can choose between going for a hike, having a drink at the Sky Bistro restaurant, or strolling around while taking in the scenery.
3. Finally, you’ll cruise on one of the most majestic lakes in the Rockies, Lake Minnewanka. Its emerald hues in the summer delight photography enthusiasts.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Banff. 

The route between Banff and Jasper, along the legendary Highway 93, commonly known as the Icefields Parkway, one of the most beautiful roads in the country.

It is one of the most beautiful roads in the country: stretching 229 kilometers, it is home to the treasures of the Rockies—more than 100 ancient glaciers, trailheads for hikes to green and blue lakes, ice fields, waterfalls, and cascades.

We’ll point out the best stops along the way:

• Crowfoot Glacier & Lake Bow: The Icefields Parkway runs alongside Lake Bow, the starting point for longer hikes. At its far end is an ideal viewpoint to admire Crowfoot Glacier, much of which has now disappeared.
• Peyto Lake: sparkling blue amidst mountains and lakes. You’ll need to climb a bit to reach the magnificent viewpoint overlooking the lake on a short 2.1-kilometer hike (moderate difficulty).
• Columbia Icefield: Just a short walk from the road, you can admire this vast, 325 km² white landscape that encompasses eight major glaciers, including the Athabasca Glacier. The ice here ranges in thickness from 100 to 360 meters. You can walk across the glass-bottomed walkway (the Glacier Skywalk) for a breathtaking view of the glaciers (optional admission: contact us for details).
• Sunwapta Falls: in our opinion, the most beautiful on the route! We recommend taking the short 2.6-kilometer round-trip hike (easy level) to reach the lower falls, which consist of three large cascades.
• Athabasca Falls: Located 30 km south of Jasper, these falls are impressive for their power and stand 23 meters high.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Jasper. 

The goal of the day is to explore the Rockies in all their splendor!

In the heart of Jasper National Park, you’ll head into the Maligne Valley to discover spectacular scenery—the very same landscapes featured in the stunning photos for which the Rockies are famous.

• Hike through Maligne Canyon, with magnificent views of the waterfalls from the bridges.
• Admire Medicine Lake, fed by meltwater from the surrounding glaciers, followed by a short hike through the subalpine forest in search of bears and moose. Note that elk and deer are also often spotted in the valley.
• Take a cruise on Maligne Lake, with its emerald hues, to Spirit Island, an ideal vantage point for taking memorable photos. You’ll be impressed by the area’s geology and the mountain landscapes surrounding the emerald lake, which make it one of the most photogenic spots in the region.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Jasper. 

A canoe trip on one of Jasper National Park’s majestic lakes.

Today you’ll enjoy a relaxing time in the heart of a postcard-perfect setting. Accompanied by your guide, you’ll admire the spectacular Rocky Mountain scenery from the water. You’ll go birdwatching and, with a little luck, spot other wildlife. This unique experience in an authentic canoe is the perfect way to get away from the crowds and enjoy Jasper at your own pace.

Half-day at leisure in Jasper.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Jasper. 

The route between Jasper and Clearwater, British Columbia.

Wildlife viewing from the river, with a special focus on bears.

Deep in the forests of Blue River, you’ll set out today on a water safari in search of wildlife. Aboard a small catamaran and then a boat designed to navigate shallow rivers surrounded by mountains, you’ll cruise along calm waters in search of wildlife, including grizzly bears. You may also spot other animals such as eagles or even moose!

Overnight stay at a hotel in Clearwater.

A free day in Wells Gray Provincial Park, located in the Cariboo mountain range.

This park is one of the wildest in British Columbia and is home to many animal species. Known for its many waterfalls—including the majestic Helmcken, Dawson, and Moul Falls—Wells Gray Provincial Park is, above all, a beautiful introduction to the Canadian mountains before heading to the Rocky Mountains.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Clearwater.

Route between Clearwater and Whistler.

This inland route will take you past some stunning panoramic views along Highway 1 and the Fraser Canyon. You’ll explore the Cariboo region, with its ranches and 1850s-era atmosphere, reminiscent of the Gold Rush.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Whistler.

A free day in the village of Whistler, which hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics.

In both summer and winter, the village attracts more and more travelers looking for outdoor activities and hiking.

Garibaldi Park, Blackcomb Mountain, Whistler Mountain… it’s simple—the village is surrounded by mountains! From easy hikes to more challenging ones, there’s something to delight every hiker. The Whistler Blackcomb ski resort is one of the most renowned in North America. The village itself has retained its charm with its many wooden chalets, its market, and its laid-back atmosphere. 

Suggestions for hikes and activities will be included in your travel journal.

Sound and light show in Whistler.

In the heart of winter or on summer evenings, nestled among Whistler’s mountains and forests, discover a breathtakingly beautiful show. Amid sounds, lights, and stardust, you’ll be transported for an evening into a magnificent setting enhanced by nature. The Vallea Lumina show is a magical outing for families—an open-air tale of Whistler’s legends, told through light projections and soundtracks.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Whistler.

Drive from Whistler to the Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal along the Sea to Sky Highway.

Ferry crossing from Vancouver to Nanaimo on Vancouver Island.

Vancouver Island, about the size of Belgium, is located on Canada’s Pacific coast. During the crossing, you’ll pass through numerous straits offering magnificent scenery, and you may occasionally spot whales, depending on the season.

Drive from Nanaimo to Victoria, with a few stops in some of the region’s charming, picturesque villages.

First, a stop in the town of Chemainus, famous for the many murals that adorn its walls. Stop to admire some of the most beautiful paintings that depict the region’s history and take a stroll down the small shopping street, which is very lively in the summer. Continue on to Duncan and its collection of totem poles dotted throughout the downtown area. The town is lively, as exemplified by the Garage Cafe, a gathering spot for artists and restaurant owners.

Next, you’ll hit the road again to the village of Cowichan Bay, where the colorful wooden houses surrounding the bay lend the village a tremendous charm. Many local artisans and producers have made their homes in these traditional houses.

Finally, head back on the road toward the provincial capital, Victoria, with its “so British” vibe.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Victoria. 

A half-day guided walking tour to explore the capital of British Columbia.

You’ll travel back through the centuries as you stroll through the iconic streets and alleys of the British era.

The tour begins on the pleasant waterfront, offering breathtaking views of the neo-Baroque Parliament Building, the Fairmont Empress Hotel, the harbor, and the comings and goings of seaplanes.

You’ll then stroll through the capital’s streets, making a few key stops:

1. Thunderbird Park, home to numerous First Nations totem poles.
2. Buildings and squares dating back to the British Empire, including St. Ann’s Academy, Bastion Square, Market Square, and the buildings along charming Government Street.
3. Chinatown. Victoria is home to Canada’s oldest Chinatown, just a short walk from the British-inspired streets. You’ll be immersed in this neighborhood, which has retained all its original character, as exemplified by Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest shopping alley in North America.

Since this is a private tour, we can tailor it to your preferences by including places you’d like to visit, such as: Craigdarroch Castle, Victoria’s Inner Harbour, the Fairmont Empress Hotel, the British Columbia Legislature, and Fisherman’s Wharf

Afternoon at leisure to explore Victoria at your own pace.

As the capital of the province of British Columbia, you’ll be charmed by the city’s British flair. A multitude of parks and beaches surround the city, offering a wealth of activities and things to discover.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Victoria. 

A Day of Hiking in the Victoria Area.

Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is surrounded by nature. With easy access, you’ll find breathtaking views just 30 minutes from the city. You’ll have the opportunity to explore the views of the Olympic Mountains in the United States from Sooke Provincial Park or the rainforest with its Douglas firs from Juan de Fuca Provincial Park. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hiker, there are trails for all skill levels.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Victoria. 

Drive from Victoria to the Swartz Bay ferry terminal.

Ferry crossing from Victoria to Vancouver.

Drive from the Tsawwassen ferry terminal to Vancouver.

Half-day in the Steveston neighborhood, south of Vancouver.

This small fishing village is best known for its rich history of fishing and canning. Once British Columbia’s largest fishing port, it has retained its maritime atmosphere and old-world charm. Today, visitors come here for the Canning Museum (a must-see!), its quaint shops, fresh seafood restaurants, and beautiful waterfront. Fishermen sell their catch directly from their boats—freshness guaranteed! Connoisseurs will recognize the filming locations from the TV series *Once Upon a Time*.

Return your rental car in Vancouver.

Overnight stay at a hotel in downtown Vancouver. 

Walking tour of Vancouver’s iconic neighborhoods with a private guide.

Every neighborhood in Vancouver deserves a visit of its own. To give you a good overview of this cosmopolitan city, we offer a walking tour of the city’s iconic neighborhoods. In half a day, with the help of your experienced guide, you’ll discover:

• Gastown: designated a National Historic Site in 2009, it is one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. Home to the famous 5-meter-tall steam clock that plays the Westminster chimes while shooting a jet of steam, the neighborhood is steeped in history.
• Chinatown, the largest in the country. Strolling through the bustling streets of this colorful neighborhood will transport you straight to Asia.
• You’ll also be introduced to the arts of First Nations communities through the works on display at the Bill Reid Gallery, named in honor of the famous Haida artist. This gallery features contemporary Indigenous art.

Free afternoon in Vancouver to explore the city’s many facets at your own pace.

An up-and-coming city in North America, Vancouver stands out for its perfect contrast between ocean and mountains, tradition and modernity, serenity and bustle. This creates a unique atmosphere that plunges us into the heart of a cultural whirlwind, which you’ll discover as you explore the city’s various neighborhoods.

Overnight stay at a hotel in downtown Vancouver.

Self-arranged transfer between Vancouver and the Vancouver airport.

International flight between Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, and Anchorage, Alaska.

Pick up your rental car at the Anchorage Airport.

Drive from the Anchorage Airport to Anchorage.

Overnight stay at a hotel in downtown Anchorage.

The route between Anchorage and Denali National Park.

This park is home to the country’s highest peak, Mount Denali (6,194 meters). The park is strictly protected; only the first 25 kilometers of the park’s only road are accessible to private vehicles.

Spend half a day exploring Denali National Park on a hike.

Denali National Park has few hiking trails, a deliberate choice made to preserve the park’s flora and fauna. The existing trails range from 1 to 3.5 kilometers in length. You’ll choose the trails based on what you’re in the mood for that day: lakes, canyons, glaciers, wildlife viewing, and/or plant life.

Overnight stay at a hotel near Denali.

Guided hike focused on exploring Denali National Park.

Your guide will select the best hikes suited to your skill level and interests. You’ll enter the park via its only road access, Park Road. It’s not uncommon to spot animals along the roadside there. Many hiking trails are accessible from this road and are sparsely marked. Depending on your preferences, your guide will take you to admire landscapes featuring rivers, canyons, and glaciers, all set against a panoramic backdrop of the tundra.

Hiking in the heart of Denali National Park is a true encounter with nature… A mystical experience, dominated by an abundance of flora and fauna, and by the spectacle of Mount Denali, rising to 6,194 meters. Denali is home to many mammals: you won’t be surprised to encounter a grizzly bear or a herd of caribou, moose, or wolves. You’ll observe a unique and unspoiled ecosystem, as well as a tundra that is dotted in places with stunning wildflowers. Many species of migratory birds are also prominent in this park, including the whooping swan and the golden eagle. Weather permitting, you’ll get close to the Nenana River.

Spend a half-day exploring Denali National Park on a hike.

Overnight stay at a hotel near Denali.

Drive between Denali National Park and Talkeetna.

Half-day at leisure in Talkeetna.

Talkeetna is a charming, artisanal town. It is located at the confluence of three rivers and takes its name from the Talkeetna River. Founded in 1919, it now offers many activities such as rafting, kayaking, and scenic flights to Mount Denali. The town itself is picturesque, with its colorful wooden houses, cabins adorned with caribou antlers, and craft shops along the main street. Its rustic and picturesque atmosphere makes it a unique place in Alaska.

Drive from Talkeetna to Palmer.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Palmer.

A Day of Exploration in the Wasilla/Palmer/Hatcher Pass Region.

There are many wonderful things to do in this region—here’s a glimpse. We’ll then provide more specific recommendations based on your interests.

• Head up to Hatcher Pass via the magnificent scenic mountain road, with its panoramic views of the Chugach Range. At the end of the road, let yourself be amazed by the historic Independence Mine State Historic Site. This former gold mine is quite unique; in fact, there were very few mining sites in this southern part of Alaska. Perched at an elevation of 1,184 meters, it was in operation from 1886 to 1951. On site, you can learn more about mining techniques and life in the historic village, where a few buildings still stand.

• Hiking on the Matanuska Glacier. This glacier once extended all the way to the town of Palmer. Depending on your skill level, you can hike on the glacier or explore it more thoroughly—including its ice caves—using crampons and ropes, accompanied by experienced guides.
• Kayaking on the Matanuska River.
• Salmon fishing. This is a very traditional activity in Alaska. You’ll set out to explore the rivers around Wasilla to learn all about king salmon, silver salmon, and chum salmon.

Drive between Palmer and Seward.

The route winds through Kenai Fjords National Park. Some of the viewpoints are breathtaking: various stops will allow you to admire the beauty of nature, from forests to glaciers. In the heart of the Kenai Mountains lies the majestic Exit Glacier, which you’ll see on a short hike.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Seward.

A day of marine wildlife exploration and kayaking around the Aialik Glacier.

Early in the morning, you’ll meet your guide to board a small boat headed for Aialik Bay. Your captain will navigate the calm, sheltered waters off the eastern flank of Kenai Fjords National Park, looking for whales (including humpback whales and orcas), sea otters, seals, and bird colonies.

Once you arrive in the bay, you’ll set out in a kayak about 4.5 km from the Aialik Glacier. This glacier is one of the most active on the peninsula. Your guide will teach you how to paddle through the icy waters while following safety guidelines. The glacier’s raw power is impressive. You’ll paddle close to it, through waters dotted with ice debris and icebergs caused by the constant calving of ice.

Return to Seward by boat in the late afternoon to once again admire the spectacular scenery of the Kenai Peninsula and enjoy more opportunities to spot wildlife.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Seward.

A day exploring Seward and its surroundings.

You’ll be captivated by the variety of landscapes and the many hiking trails—both on land and along the coast—that you can explore from the town. This small town of fewer than 3,000 residents has an interesting history that you can explore in its small museums. A cornerstone of the Kenai Peninsula, it now offers numerous opportunities for boat trips and hikes.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Seward.

The drive between Seward and Homer.

You’ll arrive in Homer, a town known worldwide for sport fishing and the halibut fishing capital. The route winds through Kenai Fjords National Park before reaching the coast. Several photo stops are scheduled along this scenic route.

Free day to explore Homer at your own pace.

As the terminus of the Sterling Highway, which runs along the west coast of the Kenai Peninsula, Homer is well worth exploring to immerse yourself in its history and natural beauty. The “town” area is a maze of narrow streets lined with colorful wooden houses, small cafés, and great spots to sample the famous king crab legs. The fishing harbor alone speaks to the importance of halibut fishing. And for photographers, the colorful mosaic of buoys will delight your lenses. The “Spit”—a seven-kilometer strip of land jutting out into the sea—is impressive. There you’ll find shops, restaurants, and lovely walking paths. Venturing along the seashore is breathtaking; the strong waves add to the wild, untamed feel of the place.

Finally, the area surrounding the town is perfect for beautiful hikes, both along the coast and inland among the mountains of Kachemak Bay.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Homer.

Set out on a day of adventure—by light aircraft and on foot—with the goal of observing Alaska’s brown bears.

Depending on the day’s weather conditions, you’ll fly by light aircraft to one of the following areas:

1. Katmai National Park and Preserve. More than 2,000 brown bears (grizzlies and Kodiak bears) live there, feeding mainly on salmon and seafood. This park also features more than 14 active volcanoes, and you’ll fly over some of them. The colorful panorama during the flight will take your breath away.
2. Lake Clark National Park and National Preserve, accessible only by small plane, reveals some of Alaska’s most beautiful landscapes. Nestled among mountains, the sea, and glaciers, the park is a prime location for wildlife viewing.

Wearing waterproof suits, you’ll set out with your pilot-guide—an expert on brown bears—to get as close as possible to these animals, while maintaining a distance that doesn’t disturb them. Depending on where they are that day, you’ll observe them along the riverbank catching salmon or on the shoreline hunting for clams.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Homer. 

Guided Kayaking Day Trip in Kachemak Bay.

For true adventurers seeking the vastness of Alaska, this authentic day trip is perfect for you! Between the two bays, you’ll paddle through a variety of landscapes, from the calm waters of the bay to the open sea, encountering marine life along the way. You’ll get up close to the bird colonies on Gull Island, including magnificent Atlantic puffins and other seabirds. The scenery changes as the day progresses, with coastal cliffs giving way to beautiful beaches—perfect for short hikes to break up the day and, above all, to admire the panoramic views.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Homer. 

Drive between Homer and Anchorage.

Half-day at leisure in Anchorage.

Explore the largest city in the state of Alaska. Anchorage isn’t a particularly charming city, but it was the starting point for the construction of the famous Alaska Railroad. The city has gone through various eras, from the visit of British explorer James Cook to the discovery of gold and oil decades later. You’ll stroll through the various streets of downtown and, from an observation deck, view one of the continent’s most important urban fishing spots—an iconic site for the migration of king, coho, and pink salmon.

Next, we highly recommend a visit to the Alaska Native Heritage Center, the province’s largest center for understanding Indigenous cultures. You’ll journey through 10,000 years of history through exhibits, dance and art demonstrations, games, films, and by visiting the traditional habitats of these cultures. A fascinating and highly interactive experience.

Overnight stay at a hotel in downtown Anchorage.

Drive from Anchorage to Anchorage Airport.

Return your rental car at Anchorage Airport.

Board your international flight.