Stampede, Whales, Bears and Vancouver Island

After arriving in Calgary, transfer independently to your hotel for a three-night stay. The rest of the day is at leisure to further explore this world-class city.

Over the next two days we welcome you to the event most appropriately named “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth”. Included is one afternoon ticket to a rodeo with gate admission, and one evening ticket to the Chuckwagon Races and Grandstand show with gate admission. Overnights in Calgary.

Rodeo
On the afternoon of day 2, the best of the best saddle-up for a three hour ground shaking showcase of world- class rodeo action. There are Saddle Bronco and Bareback riding events followed by the most dangerous event of all - Bull Riding.

Rangeland Derby
On the evening of day 3, nine heart-stopping chuckwagon races explode in an all-out dash for the finish line. Chuckwagon racing is an amazing contest of nerves and horsepower - a challenge that ignites thousands of fans.

Grandstand Show
Following the Rangeland Derby is the outdoor stage spectacular. For 2 hours, you will be dazzled by the lavishly produced and choreographed non-stop musical variety grandstand show. Overnights in Calgary.

Today, you transfer independently to the airport for your short flight to Vancouver. Collect your rental car and make your way to your hotel which is conveniently located near the airport for an overnight stay.

Board the BC ferry from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay,. Arrive in Victoria at your downtown hotel and pick up your Canada Roadbook at the front desk as you check-in. Take the rest of the day to create your own west coast island adventure amid the port lands, parks, restaurants and gardens of British Columbia’s capital city. Overnight in Victoria.

Today you embark on a fascinating wildlife viewing adventure aboard a fastmoving Zodiac rigid boat. A certified marine biologist provides insight into the environment and habits of orca, minke and grey whales as well as other marine wildlife. Return to your hotel afterwards for an evening at leisure. Overnight in Victoria.

Be sure that you have your camera at the ready – a panorama of scenic beauty is about to unfold before you. Your road leads across Vancouver Island to the Pacific Coast winding through ancient rainforests and provincial parks. You’re venturing into true wildlife territory, exemplified by The Pacific Rim National Park - a marvel of ecological and geographical diversity. Overnight in Ucluelet / Tofino.

Today you board a Zodiac boat to take a captivating bear watching excursion and speed along the lush coastline to the bears’ feeding grounds. When the tide goes out the bears emerge from the forests and forage along the shores in search of rock crabs, providing the perfect opportunity to see these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. Back on dry land, you’re free to explore the rugged coastline along the network of hiking trails or to walk the shoreline in search of shells and driftwood. Perhaps enrich your experience with a visit to the Himwitsa Art Gallery and marvel at the collection of authentic pieces native to the Tofino area. Overnight in Tofino

This morning, the spectacular winding road takes you back to the eastern coast of Vancouver Island with. Your route will introduce you to many gems you may wish to stop at for a brief visit at the native rock carvings at Sproat Lake or the picturesque falls at Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park. Upon arrival in Campbell River, you board a water taxi for the short boat ride to the stunning Sonora Resort. Settle in for the night at this quintessential west coast resort and prepare yourself for tomorrow’s day of adventure and discovery! Overnight at Sonora Resort. Dinner included.

You have the entire day at this luxurious wilderness resort. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy unlimited hiking, swimming, and tennis throughout their stay. Today you enjoy a thrilling 1-hour Eco-Adventure Tour aboard an 8.53m Zodiac boat, accompanied by your knowledgeable wilderness guide. In the evening, sit down to a gourmet dinner, sip a fine wine on a terrace, or mingle with other guests in one of the lounges or games room. Overnight at Sonora Resort. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Today you board the water taxi for your return trip to Campbell River where you continue your drive south along the eastern shores of Vancouver Island. Small seaside towns such as Comox offer delightful spots to stop for a quick lunch or some shopping for reminders of your west coast experience. Arriving in Nanaimo, you board a BC Ferries vessel and sail across the Strait of Georgia to arrive in Vancouver where the remainder of the day is at leisure. You may wish to dine out at one of Vancouver’s many excellent restaurants, offering everything from Canadian/European fusion to authentic Far East Asian cuisine. Overnight in Vancouver. Breakfast and lunch included.

Today is yours to explore this vibrant cosmopolitan city. Boutique shoppes line Robson Street, offering everything from high fashion to aboriginal artwork. Perhaps pay a visit to Khot-La-Cha Art Gallery and Gift Shop, featuring masks, prints, gold and silver jewellery, wood carvings, textiles and clothing produced by First Nation artists. Stanley Park is interwoven with paved forested trails and features an enthralling zoo at its centre and the fascinating Klahowya Village. The boardwalks along the seawall provide sweeping views of the water and the rising mountains of the mainland. Discover the charms and sights of this truly magnificent city on the water. Overnight in Vancouver.

**Please note, for trips operating in reverse you will overnight in Whistler due to the FIFA World Cup**

Today you check out and proceed to Vancouver International Airport in time to check-in for your departure flight.