Rocky Mountains Jasper and Banff Tour 5 day

The Rocky Mountains Jasper and Banff Tour 5 day offers an in-depth exploration of some of Canada’s most breathtaking scenery. Priced at $6,264.71 per group (up to 3 people), this private experience delivers personalized attention and a well-paced itinerary ideal for those with 5 or 6 days to dedicate to discovering the Canadian Rockies. The tour includes private transportation, water bottles and coffee each day, and covers highlights from Jasper National Park to Banff National Park, with strategically planned overnight stays in both locations.

While the tour covers a lot of ground and offers plenty of photo-worthy stops, it is best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as some activities involve walking or easy hikes. It does not include hotel accommodations or meals, so those are extra costs to consider. This tour strikes a balance between comprehensive sightseeing and personalized comfort, making it ideal for those who want to soak in the Rockies’ beauty without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• Private transportation and personalized tour experience for up to 3 guests
• Includes notable highlights such as Maligne Lake, Sky-Tram gondola, Columbia Icefield, Lake Louise, and Moraine Lake
• Two nights in Jasper and two nights in Banff allow for relaxed exploration
• Activities include scenic drives, easy hikes, boat cruises, and gondola rides
• Additional costs apply for boat cruises, gondolas, and Columbia Icefield attractions
• Tour duration of 5 days offers a comprehensive Rockies experience without rushing

Starting the Journey: Vancouver to Clearwater and Waterfalls

The tour begins in Vancouver and departs early in the morning, with pickup included. After approximately 6 hours of driving, the group stops in Kamloops for lunch before heading to Clearwater. Here, the focus is on enjoying stunning waterfalls such as Spahats, Dawson, and Helmcken waterfalls in the surrounding parks. The overnight stay in Clearwater provides an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty up close, with waterfalls serving as a perfect introduction to the Rockies’ scenic grandeur.

Exploring Jasper: Sky-Tram, Maligne Lake, and Maligne Canyon

The second day covers driving from Clearwater to Jasper, with a series of iconic stops. The Sky-Tram gondola offers sweeping views of the mountain range, allowing visitors to reach the peak of Whistler Mountain comfortably. The easy Maligne Canyon hike provides a close-up view of rugged rock formations and waterfalls, accessible for most fitness levels.

At Maligne Lake, visitors can opt for a one-hour boat cruise, providing a different perspective of the lake’s tranquil waters and surrounding peaks. The day concludes with a visit to the Medicine and Pyramid Lakes viewpoints, which showcase additional stunning scenery characteristic of Jasper National Park.

From Jasper to Banff: Icefields and Lakes

On the third day, the journey continues southward from Jasper to Banff, with numerous stops along the way. The Columbia Icefield is a major highlight, where travelers can explore the Athabasca Glacier and experience the Sky Walk Adventure. These attractions involve some extra costs but promise incredible views of the expansive icefield and surrounding mountains.

Additional stops include Bow Lake and Peyto Lake, both known for their vibrant colors and dramatic mountain backdrops. The tour also visits Lake Louise and Lake Moraine, two of the Rockies’ most famous lakes, renowned for their stunning turquoise waters and majestic mountain settings.

Discovering Banff: Gondola Rides and Lake Cruises

In Banff on the fourth day, visitors can take the Banff Gondola to enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies and the town below. The Lake Minnewanka boat cruise offers a relaxing way to see the lake’s expansive waters and surrounding peaks. The itinerary includes visits to Bow Falls, Vermilion Lakes, Surprise Corner, and the historic Banff Springs Hotel, each providing picturesque vistas and photo opportunities.

The day balances scenic sightseeing with leisure, as the group stays overnight in Banff, allowing ample time to soak in the mountain town’s charm.

Final Day: Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Johnston Canyons

The tour concludes with a focus on Lake Louise and Lake Moraine, both known for their vibrant waters and striking mountain scenery. An easy one-hour hike to Johnston Canyons offers a chance to see waterfalls and enjoy the peaceful wilderness, rounding out the Rockies experience.

On the fifth day, the group departs for Vancouver, with stops at Natural Bridges and Emerald Lake for photos. After a lunch stop in Kamloops, the journey ends in Vancouver around 8 pm.

Logistics and Practicalities

This private tour departs from Vancouver at 8:30 am and includes private transportation, making the travel between stops smooth and comfortable. Water bottles and coffee are provided daily, helping keep energy levels up during busy days of sightseeing. Since the tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, expect some walking and easy hikes, but no strenuous activity.

Notably, the tour does not include hotel accommodations or meals, and some attractions like boat cruises, gondola rides, and the Columbia Icefield require additional admission fees. These costs should be planned for separately.

What Sets This Rockies Tour Apart

The private nature of this experience ensures personalized attention and flexibility in your schedule. The carefully curated stops cover Jasper and Banff’s most iconic sites, and the inclusion of activities like Sky-Tram rides and boat cruises adds variety. The two-night stays in each national park allow for a more relaxed pace compared to day-trip options, giving travelers time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

The small group size (up to 3 people) enhances the comfort and intimacy of the journey, making it ideal for couples or small families seeking an immersive Rockies adventure.

Final Thoughts on the Rocky Mountains Jasper and Banff Tour

This 5-day private tour from Vancouver offers a thorough and scenic exploration of the Canadian Rockies, with highlights like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Maligne Lake easily accessible. The personalized approach and well-planned itinerary make it suitable for travelers who appreciate comfort and want to see the Rockies’ top sights without the stress of planning.

While additional costs for attractions are not included, the overall package provides clear value considering the private transportation and expert guidance. It is an ideal choice for those with moderate physical fitness looking for a comprehensive, personalized Rockies experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes private transportation, water bottles, and coffee each day. It covers most scenic stops but does not include hotel stays, meals, or attraction admissions like boat cruises and gondolas.

How long is each day’s activity?
Most days involve around 8 to 9 hours of sightseeing and driving, with some days including longer drives and multiple stops.

Are the activities suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, activities involve easy hikes and scenic rides, making them suitable for those with moderate physical fitness. Some attractions like the Sky-Tram and boat cruises are gentle and accessible.

What attractions require extra payment?
Adventures such as the Columbia Icefield exploration, Athabasca Glacier, Sky Walk, boat cruises on Maligne Lake and Minnewanka Lake, and gondola rides are not included in the base price.

Is hotel accommodation included in this tour?
No, guests need to arrange their own hotel stays in Jasper and Banff.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 6 days prior do not qualify for a refund.

When does the tour start each day?
The tour departs from Vancouver at 8:30 am, with pickup included.

Can I customize this tour?
As a private tour, there is some flexibility to tailor the experience, but any changes should be confirmed with BC Grand Tours.

How accessible are the stops?
Most locations are accessible for those with moderate mobility, but some activities like the easy hikes and boat cruises may require standing or walking.

Are drinks and snacks provided?
Yes, water bottles and coffee are included daily, but additional snacks or meals are not provided and should be brought or purchased along the way.

Is this tour suitable for photography enthusiasts?
Absolutely. The stops at Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Peyto Lake are especially photogenic, offering stunning views perfect for capturing memorable shots.