British Columbia’s West Coast Highlights

Day 1 - Arrive Vancouver

Arrive in Vancouver and transfer to your downtown hotel spending the remainder of your day at leisure. 

Day 2 - Vancouver City Highlights

Today we have including a morning city highlights tour of Vancouver. 

Prepare to experience the unique history and unfolding splendour as you tour through the modern streets of Vancouver. Drive by the most renowned sights and learn how Vancouver became the city it is today. Situated on the edge of the Pacific Ocean and framed by British Columbia's imposing mountains, it's easy to fall in love with this astonishing city. Drive through historic neighbourhoods such as Gastown, Chinatown, scenic English Bay and the picturesque Vancouver Harbour. Stops in Stanley Park feature Indigenous Peoples' Totem Poles, spectacular views of the mountains and the Lions Gate Bridge. Also includes the opportunity to wander through the charming farmer's market at Granville Island.

Spending the remainder of your day at leisure. 

Day 3 - Vancouver to Campbell River

This morning, you'll pick up your car hire and begin your drive towards the Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal. Board the BC Ferries for your journey across the Strait of Georgia. The crossing from Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay offers stunning views of the Pacific coastline, nearby islands, and perhaps even sightings of marine wildlife.

Once the ferry docks at Departure Bay in Nanaimo, you'll officially be on Vancouver Island. From there, begin your picturesque coastal drive northward toward the vibrant community of Campbell River. As you travel along Highway 19, enjoy the changing landscapes from lush forests to glimpses of the rugged shoreline as you make your way to Campbell River.

Day 4 - Campbell River Whale Watching

Enjoy an unforgettable small group marine adventure to see whales with an experienced marine wildlife guide. Modern and comfortable boats ensure that you can safely enjoy the Salish Sea in search of humpbacks, orcas, dolphins, sea lions, other marine mammals, and a variety of sea birds in their natural habitat. BC's Coast Mountains provide a magnificent backdrop to the Discovery Islands, which is home to the Homalco, the northern-most Coast Salish people. Join a captivating whale watching experience enhanced by a fascinating glimpse into the world of local First Nations.

Day 5 - Campbell River to Telegraph Cove

Embark on a scenic journey from Campbell River to Telegraph Cove, along Highway 19. As you travel north through the heart of Vancouver Island, you'll pass through dense forests, remote lakes, and charming small towns like Sayward and Woss. The route offers glimpses of wildlife, rugged mountain backdrops, and a sense of peaceful wilderness that grows stronger the farther north you go. This stretch of road is a gateway to adventure, leading you to the remote beauty and rich Indigenous culture of northern Vancouver Island. 

Day 6 - Port McNeill/Telegraph Cove Exploring

Enjoy a day at leisure to explore Telegraph Cove and nearby Port McNeill. Speak to our Canada Experts about adding on a wildlife experience. 

Day 7 - Port Hardy to Great Bear Nature Lodge

By floatplane, you will be departing Port Hardy approximately 15.00 to join the pristine wilderness. While journeying to the site, you will be traveling past the breath-taking scenery of the central coast and over the rich waters of Queen Charlotte Strait, the home of orca, grey and humpback whales. Upon your arrival at the lodge, your hosts will be on the dock to welcome you to your wilderness retreat then you will be able to settle into your private room at the lodge. In the afternoon, your grizzly bear experience begins, and you will be taken to a viewing site where the bears will be most active. The viewing blinds on the river have been constructed with the photographer in mind and are optimal and comfortable places from which to view bears. Returning to the lodge that evening, you will be treated to a wilderness-gourmet meal. 

Day 8 - Great Bear Lodge

In the morning, you will be on the trail of the grizzly bear again after some good coffee and breakfast. After a morning of adventure, you will return to the lodge for lunch and a chance to relax. Spend the early afternoon exploring the surrounding area with a guide. A popular activity is the interpretive rainforest walk, examining bear sign and the general ecology of the area. In mid afternoon you will venture out to see the bears before returning to the lodge for dinner. On clear nights, the stars are amazing. 

Day 9 - Great Bear Lodge

For the afternoon recreation today, you may take a boat cruise to explore the glacier-carved inlet, or you may prefer to relax and enjoy the view from the lodge. The Great Bear Rainforest is home to many animals, including grey wolves, otters, black bears, mink and bald eagles. One of guest’s favourite dishes to have served for dinner is marinated salmon baked on a cedar plank. When you’re planning your next bear viewing, note that the bears are generally most active in the early morning and late afternoon. If you wish to just relax, enjoy the view from your large deck that is set around the lodge. 

Day 10 - Great Bear Lodge to Port Hardy

After your parting session with the bears, you will enjoy lunch at the Great Bear Lodge. You will be scheduled to return to Port Hardy in the afternoon between 4pm and 6pm, at which time you will be transferred to a hotel in Port Hardy for the evening. Settle into your provided Port Hardy hotel to prepare for a day of travel tomorrow.

Hotel in Port Hardy is provided by Great Bear Lodge. 

Day 11 - Port Hardy to Parksville

The drive from Port Hardy to Parksville takes you on a captivating southbound journey down Vancouver Island's Highway 19. As you leave the remote wilderness of Port Hardy behind, the road winds through lush forests, rugged mountains, and quiet communities like Woss and Sayward. Along the way, you'll pass scenic rivers, lakes, and occasional coastal views before reaching the vibrant central island region. As you approach Parksville, the landscape softens into open farmland and seaside charm, known for its sandy beaches and laid-back atmosphere  a perfect contrast to the island’s wild north.

Day 12 - Parksville

Spend the day at your leisure discovering the charm of Parksville. Unwind on the town’s renowned golden sand beaches or dive into adventure with a variety of water sports and coastal activities.

Day 13 - Parksville to Whistler

The journey from Parksville to Whistler is a scenic and varied adventure that includes both ferry and mountain driving. Begin by heading southeast to Nanaimo, where you'll board the ferry to Horseshoe Bay on the mainland. From there, follow the world-famous Sea-to-Sky Highway (Highway 99), a breathtaking route that winds along the coast with dramatic views of Howe Sound, towering cliffs, and alpine forests. As you ascend into the Coast Mountains, the landscape becomes increasingly rugged and beautiful, leading you to the alpine resort town of Whistler.

Day 14 - Whistler

Today is yours to discover the vibrant mountain town of Whistler, a world-renowned alpine destination nestled in the Coast Mountains. Wander through the charming village filled with boutique shops, cafes, and art galleries, or immerse yourself in the area's natural beauty with hiking trails, bike paths, and mountain lakes.

As a highlight of your day, we've included the Peak 2 Peak Gondola an unforgettable experience that links Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Soar high above the valley floor and take in panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, dense forests, and glacial landscapes

Day 15 - Whistler

Another full day to explore Whistler. Speak to our Canada Experts if you wish to add on one of our Whistler Experiences. 

Day 16 - Whistler Return

Your adventure across British Columbia's west coast comes to an end today. Make your way to Vancouver airport returning your car hire before your onward drive home.