Tour Overview
Embark on the Canadian Train Odyssey, a breathtaking journey through the heart of Canada. Experience the charm of refurbished art deco rail cars and domed observation cars as you traverse the stunning landscapes from Toronto to Vancouver. Marvel at the majestic Niagara Falls, explore the serene beauty of Jasper and Banff National Parks, and witness the turquoise waters of Lake Louise. Travel through the historic Yoho and Glacier National Parks, and enjoy the vibrant cities of Toronto and Vancouver. This tour offers a unique blend of nature, wildlife, and cultural experiences, with comfortable accommodations and chef-prepared meals on board VIA Rail's premier transcontinental train, The Canadian. Whether you're cruising past waterfalls or hiking through alpine meadows, this adventure promises unforgettable memories. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Toronto
Location: Toronto, Eaton Centre, Toronto, Hockey Hall of Fame, Toronto, St. Lawrence Market, Toronto
Accommodation Name: Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Toronto
Welcome to Toronto! Your Tour Director is on hand from 3pm-6pm to answer any questions.Toronto is considered the most culturally diverse city in the world with its population representing a wide range of ethnicities and languages. Once checked into your hotel, perhaps do some shopping at nearby Eaton Centre or venture a little further and check out the Hockey Hall of Fame or try some local culinary treats at St. Lawrence Market, a city landmark over two centuries old. ...more ...less
Day 2: Toronto. Excursion To Niagara Falls
Location: Toronto, Niagara Falls
Accommodation Name: Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Toronto
Begin the day with an orientation tour of Toronto that includes City Hall, the downtown banking district, Rogers Centre, and the stunning CN Tower. Leave the city and travel along the shores of Lake Ontario to Niagara Falls. Sightseeing here includes a Niagara Falls cruise for an exhilarating ride to see the thundering Falls up close. Fall even more in love with the falls with an optional excursion to Skylon Tower for spectacular views and a buffet lunch. Return to Toronto and spend the evening exploring the city sights on your own.NOTE:Operation of the Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise is subject to favorable weather and/or river conditions. Favorable conditions usually exist from May to October. When conditions are unfavorable, a visit to Journey Behind the Falls will be substituted.
Day 3: Toronto,Via Rail The Canadian
Location: Toronto
Accommodation Name: On board The Canadian
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
This morning, transfer to Union Station for a departure on The Canadian, VIA Rail’s premier transcontinental train. Spend the next three days and nights on this classic trip across Canada’s heartland. Your Sleeper-Plus class rail cars are refurbished art-deco cars from the 1950s. Domed observation cars let you enjoy views of the Canadian countryside as you roll past Ontario’s landscapes. Chef-prepared meals offer a tempting array of soups, salads, main courses, and desserts.
Day 4: Via Rail The Canadian
Location: Montreal
Accommodation Name: On board The Canadian
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, watch the scenery as you whisk by the ever-changing Canadian landscape and travel the full length of the Canadian National Railway’s breathtaking mainline.
Day 5: Via Rail The Canadian
Location: Winnipeg, Saskatchewan
Accommodation Name: On board The Canadian
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Canadian glides through Winnipeg, before continuing the journey through Manitoba’s prairies and into Saskatchewan.
Day 6: Via Rail The Canadian,Jasper National Park
Location: Jasper National Park, Jasper
Accommodation Name: Tonquin Inn or Lobstick Lodge
Arrive in Jasper this morning and enjoy an orientation tour of the townsite. The remainder of your day is free to enjoy the ambiance of this wonderous mountain setting. Go with the flow on an optional scenic float trip on the Athabasca River.
Day 7: Jasper National Park
Location: Jasper National Park, Maligne Lake, Maligne Canyon, Jasper
Accommodation Name: Tonquin Inn or Lobstick Lodge
Today is at leisure. Make your day magical with an optional narrated cruise on Maligne Lake to the much-photographed Spirit Island*. On the return journey, stop to view mighty Maligne Canyon. This afternoon, perhaps hike on the trails and watch for wildlife, or stroll the streets of Jasper. *This optional excursion begins operating in late May/early June.
Day 8: Jasper National Park,Columbia Icefield,Lake Louise,Banff National Park
Location: Jasper National Park, Columbia Icefield, Lake Louise, Banff National Park
Accommodation Name: Rundlestone Lodge or Irwin's Mountain Inn
Board your motorcoach this morning and journey through Jasper National Park, stopping along the way at the Columbia Icefield to experience the Ice Explorer, an all-terrain vehicle that travels on ice measuring 750 feet (250 meters) thick! Continue down Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise, known for its stunning turquoise waters that mirror the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Arrive in Banff National Park for a leisurely 2-night stay. An orientation tour highlights Banff’s unspoiled beauty.
Day 9: Banff National Park
Location: Banff National Park
Accommodation Name: Rundlestone Lodge or Irwin's Mountain Inn
The day is free to independently explore. Perhaps stroll Banff Avenue, the main thoroughfare with boutiques and souvenir shops in this resort town or hike in some of the surrounding 2,564 square miles of parkland which are home to wildlife, including elk, deer, and grizzly bear. Take your day higher with an awe-inspiring optional helicopter ride over the Canadian Rockies! Your Tour Director can offer many suggestions for activities and dinner.
Day 10: Banff National Park,Yoho National Park,Glacier National Park,Kamloops
Location: Banff National Park, Yoho National Park, Glacier National Park, Kamloops
Accommodation Name: Best Western Premier Kamloops
This morning, leave Banff National Park and travel over Kicking Horse Pass on the Continental Divide. Travel through Yoho National Park, where pre-Cambrian fossils were discovered, and Glacier National Park, where recreational mountain climbing was introduced to North America a century ago. Late this afternoon, arrive at the cattle-ranching center of Kamloops.
Day 11: Kamloops,Ferry Crossing,Victoria
Location: Kamloops, Vancouver Island, Butchart Gardens, Victoria
Accommodation Name: Royal Scot Hotel & Suites
As you travel through the Coast Mountain Range to its majestic Pacific coastline, the vegetation changes from desert landscape to lush alpine forest. Board your afternoon ferry for the spectacular crossing to Vancouver Island. Upon arrival, take time to smell the roses on an optional excursion to see the 55-acres of incredible floral displays at world famous Butchart Gardens. Later, enjoy sightseeing in Victoria including the Inner Harbour, Bastion Square, and Thunderbird Park. This evening, consider taking a relaxing stroll along the lovely Waterfront Promenade.
Day 12: Victoria
Location: Victoria, Royal British Columbia Museum, Parliament Building, Empress Hotel, Government Street
Accommodation Name: Royal Scot Hotel & Suites
Enjoy a day at leisure with time to discover some of the attractions this splendid city has to offer. Visit the Royal British Columbia Museum, tour the Parliament Building, have Afternoon Tea at the Empress Hotel, or shop along Government Street. Perhaps have an adventure at sea on an optional whale and wildlife watching cruise.
Day 13: Victoria,Ferry Crossing,Vancouver
Location: Victoria, Vancouver, Stanley Park, Gastown, Chinatown
Accommodation Name: Sandman Suites on Davie
This morning, set sail across the Strait of Georgia and through the spectacular Gulf Islands, an archipelago known for its Mediterranean-like climate. In Vancouver, city sightseeing includes Stanley Park, Gastown, Chinatown, and many other famous landmarks. The remainder of the day is free to explore Robson Street and experience British Columbia’s premier shopping and entertainment location.
Day 14: Vancouver
Location: Vancouver, Sea to Sky Highway, Whistler, Grouse Mountain, Capilano Suspension Bridge
Accommodation Name: Sandman Suites on Davie
Today is at leisure for independent sightseeing or join us for unforgettable optional excursions, featuring one of the world’s most scenic drives along the Sea to Sky Highway to Whistler or elevate your adventure on an optional aerial tram ride up the mountain for exquisite views and a walk through a rainforest canopy at Grouse Mountain & Capilano Suspension Bridge.
Day 15: Vancouver
Location: Vancouver
Your vacation ends this morning.
What's Included
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Accommodations
Stay in comfort at selected hotels including Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Toronto, Marmot Lodge, Lobstick Lodge, Rundlestone Lodge, Best Western Premier Kamloops, Royal Scot Hotel & Suites, and Sandman Suites on Davie.
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Sightseeing Highlights
Enjoy the breathtaking views of Canada's landscapes from refurbished art deco rail cars and domed observation cars, marvel at Niagara Falls, explore the stunning Jasper National Park, travel through Yoho and Glacier National Parks, and experience the vibrant cities of Toronto and Vancouver.
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Transportation
Travel aboard VIA Rail's premier transcontinental train, The Canadian, for a classic trip across Canada's heartland. Experience the Ice Explorer on the Columbia Icefield and enjoy ferry crossings to Vancouver Island.
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UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Visit stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, and Yoho National Park.
What's Not Included
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Airfare
International and domestic airfare not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended but not included.
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Optional Tours
Optional tours and activities not included.
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Personal Expenses
Items of a personal nature, including souvenirs, laundry, and telephone calls, are not included.
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Meals not mentioned
Any meals not listed in the inclusions are not covered.
Meals
2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
Notes
Early departures may not be able to visit Columbia Icefield, which opens in early May, or take the Maligne Lake & Spirit Island optional excursion, which opens in mid to late May. Visiting and participating in other activities in this region may be subject to favorable weather conditions and vendor dates of operation.
Furnishings in your VIA Rail train cabin are arranged in armchair style by day. By night, beds are configured to upper and lower bunkbed-style arrangement requiring one guest be able to climb a ladder to the upper bed.
Maximum elevation on tour: 7,500 ft.
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UNESCO Sites
Banff National Park|Jasper National Park|Yoho National Park
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at selected hotels including Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Toronto, Tonquin Inn, Lobstick Lodge, Rundlestone Lodge, Irwin's Mountain Inn, The Thompson Hotel & Conference Centre, Royal Scot Hotel & Suites, and Sandman Suites on Davie.
Mode of Transport
Travel aboard VIA Rail's premier transcontinental train, The Canadian, for a classic trip across Canada's heartland. Experience the Ice Explorer on the Columbia Icefield and enjoy ferry crossings to Vancouver Island.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of train accommodations are provided on the Canadian Train Odyssey?
The tour includes travel aboard VIA Rail's premier transcontinental train, The Canadian, in Sleeper-Plus class rail cars, which are refurbished art-deco cars from the 1950s. The train features domed observation cars for scenic views and chef-prepared meals.
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What activities are available at Jasper National Park during the tour?
In Jasper National Park, you can enjoy an orientation tour of the townsite, and have free time to explore the area. Optional activities include a scenic float trip on the Athabasca River and a narrated cruise on Maligne Lake to Spirit Island.
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What is the Ice Explorer experience at the Columbia Icefield?
The Ice Explorer is an all-terrain vehicle that travels on ice measuring 750 feet thick at the Columbia Icefield. This experience is part of the journey through Jasper National Park to Lake Louise.
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What are some optional excursions available in Victoria?
In Victoria, optional excursions include visiting the Butchart Gardens to see its floral displays and a whale and wildlife watching cruise.
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What can I expect during the ferry crossing to Vancouver Island?
The ferry crossing to Vancouver Island offers spectacular views as you travel through the Coast Mountain Range to the Pacific coastline, transitioning from desert landscape to lush alpine forest.
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What are some highlights of the city sightseeing in Vancouver?
City sightseeing in Vancouver includes visits to Stanley Park, Gastown, Chinatown, and other famous landmarks. You will also have free time to explore Robson Street, known for shopping and entertainment.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1961
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Canadian Train Odyssey
15 Days Starting in Toronto, Canada and ending in Vancouver, Canada
Visiting: Toronto, Eaton Centre, Toronto, Hockey Hall of Fame, Toronto, St. Lawrence Market, Toronto, Niagara Falls, Montreal, Winnipeg, Saskatchewan, Jasper National Park, Jasper, Maligne Lake, Maligne Canyon, Columbia Icefield, Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Yoho National Park, Glacier National Park, Kamloops, Vancouver Island, Butchart Gardens, Victoria, Royal British Columbia Museum, Parliament Building, Empress Hotel, Government Street, Vancouver, Stanley Park, Gastown, Chinatown, Sea to Sky Highway, Whistler, Grouse Mountain, Capilano Suspension Bridge ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
8960-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Special diets catered:
Please Advise Request
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
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