Enjoy the serene beauty of Butchart Gardens and the Saanich Peninsula on a fully narrated tour. With a knowledgeable guide and private driver, you’ll explore this National Historic Site at your own pace, uncovering its rich history and diverse flora. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, this customizable itinerary accommodates all travelers, including those with mobility needs. Prepare to be captivated by the lush landscapes and gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s natural wonders. But that’s just the beginning – there’s more to discover on this unforgettable journey.
Good To Know
- The tour offers a fully narrated experience of the historic Butchart Gardens, providing insights into the gardens’ history and flora.
- A knowledgeable guide and personal driver are included, allowing for a customized and personalized exploration of the gardens.
- The tour is wheelchair accessible and accommodates up to 20 passengers, with hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience.
- The itinerary can be tailored to guest preferences, enhancing the overall experience and allowing for self-guided exploration at their own pace.
- Pricing starts at SEK 4,428.35 per group, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour.
Tour Overview and Highlights
What makes the Butchart Gardens tour so special? It offers a private, fully narrated experience of this National Historic Site in British Columbia.
Guests are accompanied by a knowledgeable guide and personal driver, and the itinerary can be customized to their preferences. The tour accommodates up to 20 passengers per vehicle, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.
While admission to the gardens isn’t covered, the guided experience ensures visitors make the most of their time in this renowned horticultural attraction. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a "reserve now, pay later" option is available.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Victoria.
Customizable Itinerary and Accessibility
The tour offers a customizable itinerary, allowing guests to tailor their experience to their preferences.
While admission to the Butchart Gardens isn’t included, visitors can work with the guide to design an itinerary that suits their interests.
The tour is fully narrated and includes a personal driver, providing a personalized experience.
Plus, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travellers of all abilities.
Guests must be accompanied by an adult if children are part of the group.
The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions, with alternatives or full refunds offered for cancellations due to poor weather.
Meeting Point and Logistics
The tour commences in Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, situated within the Capital Regional District on Vancouver Island.
The activity ends back at the meeting point in Victoria. Confirmation is provided upon booking, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.
Children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is subject to favorable weather, and alternatives or full refunds are offered for cancellations due to poor conditions.
A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the tour inside the gardens is self-guided per management rules.
Pricing and Cancellation Policy
Prices for the tour start from SEK 4,428.35 per group, accommodating up to 5 passengers. Customers have the flexibility to reserve now and pay later, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
| Pricing and Cancellation Policy | ||
|---|---|---|
| Price per Group (up to 5 people) | SEK 4,428.35 | |
| Free Cancellation | Up to 24 hours before experience | |
| Reserve Now, Pay Later | Available |
The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions, and alternatives or full refunds are offered if cancellations occur due to poor weather.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
A total of 14 reviews have been recorded for this tour, resulting in an overall rating of 4.0.
Customers have provided mixed experiences, with some expressing dissatisfaction regarding the narration and timing of the tour. There have also been complaints about miscommunication with the booking platform and vendor.
However, there have been positive remarks on the beauty of the gardens and the friendliness of the drivers.
Specific feedback suggests improvements could be made to the guides’ knowledge and the quality of transportation provided.
Common Issues and Responses
Several customers reported issues with the guided narration, feeling it was lacking in content or detail.
Some felt the experience was too rushed, with not enough time to fully explore the gardens.
There were also complaints about drivers not providing adequate information or being unprepared.
The host has acknowledged these concerns and made efforts to address them, offering refunds or clarifications where necessary.
However, the company maintains that the tour is designed to provide a comprehensive experience within the allotted timeframe.
Guests are encouraged to provide feedback to help improve the tour’s pacing and guide selection for future visitors.
Exploring the National Historic Site
On the grounds of this National Historic Site, visitors embark on a captivating journey through Butchart Gardens. The tour provides a fully narrated experience, allowing guests to learn about the gardens’ rich history and diverse flora. The customizable itinerary ensures each visitor can explore at their own pace, while the knowledgeable guide and personal driver add to the personalized experience.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Guided Tour | Fully narrated experience with a knowledgeable guide |
| Customizable Itinerary | Visitors can explore the gardens at their own pace |
| Personal Driver | Adds to the personalized and convenient experience |
| National Historic Designation | Underscores the cultural and historical significance of the site |
The tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the natural beauty and rich heritage of Butchart Gardens, a true Canadian gem.
Transportation and Hotel Accommodations
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Victoria, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience for participants.
An additional transportation fee of $5 per person applies for those needing transport to/from the ferry terminal, cruise terminal, or airport.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and children must be accompanied by an adult.
Guests should note that the tour inside the gardens is self-guided, per the management’s rules.
Favorable weather is required, and alternatives or full refunds are offered for cancellations due to poor conditions.
The pricing starts at SEK 4,428.35 per group (up to 5 people), with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does the Tour Typically Last?
The tour typically lasts several hours, though the exact duration isn’t specified. The itinerary is customizable, and customers can expect to spend time exploring the renowned Butchart Gardens at their own pace during the private, narrated experience.
Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?
Guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but the company doesn’t provide any catering. There are cafés and restaurants within the gardens where visitors can purchase refreshments during the self-guided portion of the experience.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
The tour operator does not currently offer any discounts for seniors or students. The pricing is a flat rate per vehicle, so group size and group composition don’t affect the cost. Visitors should book directly with the tour provider for the latest pricing and policies.
Can We Extend the Tour to Visit Other Attractions?
The tour can be extended to visit other attractions, but there may be an additional fee. Customers should speak with the tour operator to discuss customizing the itinerary and any associated costs.
Do the Guides Provide Recommendations for Local Restaurants?
The tour guides provide recommendations for local restaurants as part of the customizable itinerary. They can suggest dining options that complement the Butchart Gardens experience and highlight the culinary offerings of the Saanich Peninsula region.
The Sum Up
This guided tour offers a chance to take in the breathtaking beauty of Butchart Gardens and the Saanich Peninsula. With a knowledgeable guide and customizable itinerary, guests can explore the gardens at their own pace and learn about the rich history and diverse flora of this National Historic Site. The tour’s convenient transportation and accessibility make it an ideal choice for all travelers.
More Tours in Victoria
More Tour Reviews in Victoria
Not for you? Here's more nearby things to do in Victoria we have reviewed
- 25 Best Tours In Victoria
- Fully Narrated Tour of Butchart Gardens and Saanich Peninsula
- Private Transfer: Seychelles Airport to Victoria or Mahe Jetty
- Private Saanich Peninsula Wine Tour
- Victoria Whale Watching Tour on a Covered Vessel
- Vancouver Island Rainforest Guided Hike With Private Guide
- Vallee De Mai Tour (From Praslin)
- Private Small Group Transportation Cowichan Valley Wineries
- Victoria Craft Beer and Distillery Tour
- Victoria Panorama Seaplane Tour
- Private Transfer From Seychelles International Airport to Mahé
- Nature Trail – Morne Blanc (Mahe)