Canadian Rockies Express - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this tour?

  The main highlights include spotting alpine wildlife in Banff, visiting the pristine waters of Lake Louise, enjoying local wine and craft beer in the Okanagan Valley, and experiencing the laid-back west coast vibes of Vancouver.

• What type of accommodation is provided on the tour?

  The tour uses comfortable 3-star hotels, lodges, and inns, typically with rooms that are double occupancy and have a private bathroom.

• Are meals included in the tour price?

  Yes, 5 breakfasts and 1 lunch are included in the tour price.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 12 travelers, with an average group size of 11.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  A Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will lead the group throughout the tour. They act as the group manager, leader, and driver, providing general knowledge and assisting with trip organization.

• What kind of transportation is used during the tour?

  Transportation is primarily by private 15-passenger vans for up to 12 people plus the CEO/Driver, and by walking. For groups of 8 or more, a trailer is used for luggage.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  This tour has a physical rating of 3, meaning an average level of fitness and mobility is required. Travelers should be able to walk without assistance, climb 3-4 flights of stairs, step on and off small boats, and carry their own luggage.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  Optional activities include a Hot Springs Soak, Sulphur Mountain Hike, Canoeing, and Cycling in Banff. In Whistler, options include rafting, the Peak 2 Peak Gondola Ride, and ziplining. Costs for these activities vary.

• What currency is used and what are the recommendations for spending money?

  The Canadian Dollar (CAD) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it is recommended to carry a combination of Canadian Dollars (preferably smaller bills) and credit cards. An emergency fund of at least USD $200 (or equivalent) is also advised.

• Is tipping customary in Canada?

  Yes, it is customary to tip service providers such as waiters, bartenders, and taxi drivers approximately 18-20%. Tipping local guides ($2-8 USD per activity) and your Chief Experience Officer ($10-15 USD per person, per day) is also appreciated.

• What is the policy for solo travelers regarding accommodation?

  Solo travelers on group trips are typically paired in shared accommodation with another traveler of the same sex, and there is no single supplement for this arrangement. A 'My Own Room' option may be available for an additional cost.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory for all participants. It must include a minimum medical coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue.

• Are there any age restrictions for this tour?

  The minimum age to travel unaccompanied is 18. For minors traveling with a guardian aged 21 or older, the minimum age is 12. The maximum age for this tour is 100.

• What is the legal drinking age in Canada on this tour?

  The legal drinking age in most of Canada is 19, though in Alberta and Quebec it is 18. These laws are strictly enforced.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are generally available at least once a week in cities or at some private campgrounds, usually using coin-operated machines.

• What happens if I have a pre-existing medical condition?

  Travelers with a pre-existing medical condition are required to complete a short medical questionnaire, signed by their physician, to ensure they have the necessary fitness and mobility to comfortably complete the trip.

• What are the main highlights of this Canadian Rockies Express tour?

  The tour highlights include spotting alpine wildlife in Banff, visiting the pristine waters of Lake Louise, sipping local wine and craft beer in the Okanagan Valley, and experiencing the laid-back west coast vibes of Vancouver.

• What kind of accommodation is used on this trip?

  This trip uses comfortable 3-star hotels, lodges, and inns. They are well-located in cities or near park entrances, offering double occupancy rooms with private bathrooms.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 5 breakfasts and 1 lunch. Meals are generally prepared from local ingredients, with breakfasts often consisting of breads and cereals, and lunches being light meals like sandwiches or salads.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  No, our group trips are designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Solo travelers are paired in twin or multi-share rooms with someone of the same sex. If you book the 'My Own Room' option, you will receive a single room for all nights except where specified.

• Who will be leading the group?

  The trip is accompanied by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO), who acts as the group manager, leader, and driver. The CEO is experienced in the routes and provides general knowledge about the countries visited, offering suggestions and recommendations.

• What transportation methods are used on the tour?

  We primarily use 15-passenger vans for up to 12 people plus the CEO/Driver. For groups of 8 or more, a trailer is used for luggage. Transportation is via private vehicle, and there will also be opportunities for walking.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  You must be 18 years old to travel unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• What is the physical rating of this tour?

  The tour has a physical rating of 3. While not physically demanding, an average level of fitness and mobility is required, meaning travelers should be able to walk unassisted, climb stairs, and carry their own luggage. There will be some long driving days.

• What optional activities are available during the tour?

  Optional activities include hot springs soaks, Sulphur Mountain hikes, canoeing, and cycling in Banff. You can also take a Banff Gondola Ride, hike to Lake Agnes Tea House at Lake Louise, and in Whistler, options like rafting, hiking, a Peak 2 Peak Gondola Ride, and ziplining are available.

• What currency should I use, and what should I know about money exchange?

  The Canadian Dollar (CAD) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it is best to carry a combination of Canadian cash (smaller bills) and credit cards. ATMs are available, but ensure your credit/debit cards are compatible internationally and remember your PIN. An emergency fund of at least USD $200 (or equivalent) is recommended.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. It must include medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. Coverage for personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage is also strongly recommended.

• What rules should I be aware of regarding illegal drugs and prostitution?

  Illegal drugs are not tolerated and are against local laws. The exploitation of prostitutes is also contrary to the tour's philosophy. CEOs have the right to expel any group member found violating these rules.

• What is the legal drinking age in Canada?

  The legal drinking age in Canada is 19, except in Alberta and Quebec where it is 18. Many bars and clubs enforce ID checks, so underage travelers may not be able to participate in certain nightlife activities.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry facilities are available at least once a week. Some private campgrounds and most cities offer coin-operated laundromats. Your CEO will provide guidance on where to do laundry during the trip.

• What are the main highlights of the Canadian Rockies Express tour?

  The main highlights include spotting alpine wildlife in Banff, visiting the pristine waters of Lake Louise, enjoying local wine and craft beer in the Okanagan Valley, and experiencing the laid-back west coast vibes of Vancouver. The tour also includes a visit to the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre in Whistler.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

  This trip uses comfortable 3-star hotels, lodges, and inns, which are well-located in cities or near park entrances. The hotels vary in size and character but are of a very good standard, with rooms being double occupancy and having a private bathroom. You will stay in hotels for 7 nights.

• What type of transportation is used during the tour?

  For this trip, we use 15-passenger vans for up to 12 people plus the CEO/Driver. For groups of 8 or more travelers, a trailer is used to carry luggage. These vehicles are durable and equipped with air conditioning. Transportation also includes walking for explorations.

• What is the maximum and average group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 12 travelers, with an average group size of 11.

• Who will be leading the tour?

  The tour will be led by a Chief Experience Officer (CEO), who acts as the group manager, leader, and driver. They are experienced in the routes traveled and have broad general knowledge of the countries visited, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  The tour includes 5 breakfasts and 1 lunch. Meals are generally prepared from goods bought en route from supermarkets, local shops, and markets, consisting of breads and cereals for breakfast, and light meals like sandwiches or salads for lunch.

• Are international flights included in the tour price?

  No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. You should contact your airline for baggage allowances and check-in information.

• What optional activities are available on this trip?

  Optional activities include a Hot Springs Soak, Sulphur Mountain Hike, canoeing, and cycling in Banff. In Whistler, you can opt for rafting, hiking, a Peak 2 Peak Gondola Ride, or ziplining and treetop adventures. There's also a Lake Agnes Tea House Hike at Lake Louise and a Tunnel Mountain Hike near Banff.

• Is travel insurance required to participate in this tour?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You will need to show proof of medical coverage with a minimum of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue to your CEO before joining the group. It is also strongly recommended that the policy covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage and personal effects.

• What are the age restrictions for joining this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied. For minors traveling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• What should I know about currency and money management during the tour?

  The local currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but your bank may charge additional foreign purchase fees. ATMs are available, but it's recommended to carry a combination of CAD cash (preferably smaller bills) and credit cards. You should also have access to an emergency fund of at least USD $200 (or equivalent).

• Is tipping customary in Canada?

  Yes, it is customary in North America to tip service providers such as waiters, bartenders, and taxi drivers at approximately 18-20%, depending on the service. Tipping local guides is also appreciated, typically ranging from $2-8 USD per activity. For your Chief Experience Officer, a guideline of $10-15 USD per person per day is suggested, with more if they exceeded expectations.

• Will I have my own room on this trip?

  Group trips are designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Single travelers are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex. If you have booked the "My Own Room/Tent" option, you will receive your own single room for all nights, with some exceptions.

• What is the legal drinking age in Canada?

  The legal drinking age in most of Canada is 19, but in Alberta and Quebec, it is 18. Many bars and clubs strictly enforce ID checks, so underage travelers may not be able to participate in certain optional nighttime activities.

• Can I do laundry during the trip?

  Laundry can be done at least once a week while on tour. Some private campgrounds and most cities have laundromats with coin-operated machines, and your CEO will advise you on locations.