Rockies & Waterton Hidden Gems – Vancouver to Calgary (9 Days)

Set out on a remarkable 9-day journey from Vancouver to Calgary, enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the Canadian Rockies and the rich cultural heritage of the region. This comprehensive tour offers a perfect blend of natural wonders and cultural insights, with highlights that include wine and beer tastings, visits to indigenous cultural centers, and scenic cruises. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or a deeper understanding of the local communities, this meticulously curated itinerary promises an unforgettable experience. Discover why the Rockies and Waterton region are truly hidden gems worth exploring.

Good To Know

• This 9-day tour showcases the natural wonders and cultural heritage of the Canadian Rockies and Waterton Lakes region, starting from Vancouver and ending in Calgary.
• Highlights include wine and beer tastings, visits to Indigenous cultural centers, and exploration of UNESCO World Heritage sites like Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump.
• Outdoor adventures include hiking, scenic lake cruises, and wildlife viewing in Waterton Lakes National Park, complementing the cultural experiences.
• The tour is suitable for ages 6 and above, with a group size ranging from 12 to 22 travelers, and daily breakfasts are provided.
• Transportation is by coach or van, and the tour is not wheelchair accessible, requiring participants to navigate stairs and uneven terrain.

Tour Highlights

The tour’s highlights include a wine tasting in Osoyoos, a beer tasting in Nelson, and a visit to the Nk’mip Cultural Centre.

Travelers will also explore the Head-smashed-In Buffalo Jump National Historic Site and take a cruise on Waterton Lake.

The Eau Claire Distillery offers a spirit tasting and prohibition tour, providing a unique cultural experience.

Throughout the journey, guests will enjoy 8 nights of hotel accommodations with breakfast included.

The tour’s inclusions ensure a well-rounded exploration of the Rockies and Waterton region, offering a mix of cultural, culinary, and scenic highlights.

Accommodations and Meals

During the 9-day tour, guests enjoy 8 nights of hotel accommodations with breakfast included each morning.

The tour offers a variety of dining experiences, including:

• A wine tasting in Osoyoos, where guests can sample local vintages
• A beer tasting in Nelson, allowing them to discover the region’s craft breweries
• A spirit tasting and prohibition tour at the Eau Claire Distillery, providing a unique insight into the area’s history

Meals not included in the itinerary are at the traveler’s own expense, allowing them to explore the local culinary scene at their own pace.

Cultural Experiences

Alongside the culinary experiences, the Rockies & Waterton Hidden Gems tour immerses guests in the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Visitors can explore the Nk’mip Cultural Centre, which offers insights into the Indigenous Osoyoos people. At the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, guests learn about the traditional hunting practices of the Plains Indigenous peoples.

The tour also includes a prohibition-themed spirit tasting at Eau Claire Distillery, providing a glimpse into Alberta’s past.

These cultural encounters complement the natural wonders, giving travelers a well-rounded understanding of the Rockies and Waterton region.

Outdoor Adventures

Exhilarating outdoor adventures abound throughout the Rockies and Waterton region, captivating travelers with a diverse array of activities.

Explore the majestic scenery by hiking through the Waterton Lakes National Park, where visitors can spot wildlife and take in breathtaking vistas.

Adventure-seekers can embark on a thrilling boat cruise on the iconic Waterton Lake, gliding across the serene waters.

Plus, the tour includes a visit to the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where guests can learn about the indigenous hunting practices and view the dramatic cliffs.

• Hiking in Waterton Lakes National Park
• Waterton Lake boat cruise
• Visit to the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump

Transportation and Logistics

How does the tour’s transportation and logistics work?

The tour begins at the Vancouver Cruise Pier and ends at the Hilton Garden Inn Calgary Downtown. Participants will travel by coach or van throughout the 9-day itinerary.

The group size ranges from a minimum of 12 to a maximum of 22 travelers. Children 15 or younger must have a parent or guardian, while guests aged 16-18 can travel without a parent but must have one present on departure day for waiver signing.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Confirmation is received at booking, and the tour starts at 9:00 AM. Transport to the meeting point near public transportation isn’t included.

Traveler Requirements

Participants must meet certain requirements to join the Rockies & Waterton Hidden Gems tour. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 6 years old, and those aged 15 or younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Guests aged 16-18 can travel without a parent/guardian but must have one present on departure day for waiver signing.

The tour has a minimum group size of 12 and a maximum of 22 travelers. Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so participants must be able to navigate stairs and uneven terrain.

Booking Information

Confirmation is received at the time of booking for the Rockies & Waterton Hidden Gems tour.

The tour requires a minimum of 12 guests to operate, with a maximum of 22 travelers.

The meeting point is near public transportation, though the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Guests aged 16-18 can travel without a parent/guardian but must have one present on departure day for waiver signing.

Children 15 or younger must have a parent/guardian accompany them.

Most travelers can participate, with the tour starting at 9:00 am.

Additional Details

The journey through the Rockies and Waterton showcases a captivating blend of rugged landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unique local experiences.

Guests will have the opportunity to indulge in a wine tasting in Osoyoos, a beer tasting in Nelson, and a spirit tasting at the Eau Claire Distillery.

The tour also includes admission to the Nk’mip Cultural Centre and the Head-smashed-In Buffalo Jump National Historic Site, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s indigenous history.

Plus, you will enjoy a scenic cruise on Waterton Lake, seeing the stunning natural beauty of the area.

• Wine tasting in Osoyoos
• Beer tasting in Nelson
• Spirit tasting at Eau Claire Distillery

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but the operator provides breakfast each day. Any other meals and beverages outside the itinerary are the responsibility of the traveler.

Is There a Dress Code for the Cultural Experiences?

There is no specific dress code for the cultural experiences on this tour. Travelers are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing that allows them to fully participate in the activities.

Can I Extend My Stay at the End of the Tour?

The tour does not include any extension of the stay at the end in Calgary. Travelers who wish to extend their time in Calgary would need to book additional accommodations separately after the conclusion of the 9-day tour.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Meal?

Yes, travelers can request vegetarian or gluten-free meals. The tour operator accommodates dietary needs, but they’ll need to be communicated at the time of booking to ensure appropriate arrangements are made.

Can I Make Payment in a Different Currency Besides Canadian Dollars?

Payments for this tour can typically be made in Canadian dollars, but guests should check with the tour operator about the possibility of making payments in other currencies, as policies may vary.

The Sum Up

The "Rockies & Waterton Hidden Gems" tour offers a remarkable 9-day journey from Vancouver to Calgary, showcasing the breathtaking Canadian Rockies and the region’s rich cultural heritage. Travelers can expect comfortable accommodations, diverse dining experiences, and thrilling outdoor adventures, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to enjoy the natural wonders and cultural insights of this remarkable destination.