North American Glaciers & National Parks
North American Glaciers & National Parks
$3615
North American Glaciers & National Parks
12 Days Starting and ending in Calgary, Canada
Visiting: Calgary, Glacier National Park, Spokane, Kelowna, Hinton, Jasper National Park, Banff National Park, Banff
Tour operator:
Tour code:
CGNP20
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of North America with the "North American Glaciers & National Parks" tour. Starting and ending in Calgary, this adventure takes you through the stunning natural beauty of Canada and the USA. Discover the rich traditions of Indigenous people in Calgary, explore the awe-inspiring Glacier National Park in Montana, and marvel at the majestic peaks of Jasper and Banff National Parks. Experience the vibrant city life of Spokane and Kelowna, with opportunities for wine tasting and exploring scenic trails. From hiking across Grinnell Glacier to trying your hand at ice hockey in Canmore, this tour offers a perfect blend of cultural immersion and outdoor adventure. With comfortable accommodations and delicious meals included, prepare for an epic journey filled with unforgettable memories and stunning vistas.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Calgary
Location: Calgary
Accommodation: Days Inn by Wyndham Calgary South (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Days Inn by Wyndham Calgary South (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Hey there! Welcome to this epic, nature-studded adventure. This evening, you’ll meet your Trip Manager and Contiki fam before we grab a delicious welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Calgary
Location: Calgary
Accommodation: Days Inn by Wyndham Calgary South (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Days Inn by Wyndham Calgary South (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wakey wakey, it’s our first full day of exploration. And we’ll begin by ticking off Calgary’s awesome city sights. Then, you’ll head off into the forest to meet Indigenous locals and learn all about their traditions (and even precious forest-survival skills!). Then, you’ve got the rest of the evening to spend just the way you like.
Day 3: Calgary To Whitefish Via Glacier National Park
Location: Glacier National Park
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Kalispell (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Express Kalispell (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Goodbye, Canada (just for a lil’ while). After breakfast, we’ll hop South of the border into Montana. Brace yourself for surreal views (and grab your camera!). Oh yes - we’re finally inside Glacier National Park. It’s a jaw-dropping show of giant glaciers, alpine meadows, spectacular valleys, and spell-binding lakes. We’ll be back here tomorrow to explore the wilderness even more. But for now, let’s head to our hotel.Goodnight, sleeping beauties. Get some rest for tomorrow. Not before you help yourself to a delicious included dinner, though.
Day 4: Whitefish (Including Glacier National Park)
Location: Glacier National Park
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express Kalispell (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Express Kalispell (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Aaaand, this is what you’ve been waiting for. Our vehicle for the day? A classic Jammer bus!Lace up your boots. Stretch your legs. Grab your water bottle. And get exploring! You’ll hike the trail across Grinnell Glacier - passing by pristine turquoise lakes, icy plains, rocky mountains and dense forests on the way. Mother Nature really understood the assignment with this one…Tonight, we’ll walk around town and grab dinner at a local spot. Then, it’s time to get some well-deserved rest for the adventures that await us tomorrow.
Day 5: Whitefish To Spokane
Location: Spokane
Accommodation: Hotel Indigo (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Hotel Indigo (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Morning, travellers. With no time to waste, we’ll make our way straight to our next stop - Washington.You’ve got an afternoon to yourself in the wonderful Lilac City. You can spend it by exploring the city on foot. Or choose to join us on a horse riding adventure through the scenic trails. Ya already know what we’d choose…
Day 6: Spokane To Kelowna
Location: Kelowna
Accommodation: Accent Inns Kelowna (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Accent Inns Kelowna (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spokane, our fate has spoken (soz). It’s time to say goodbye, because we're heading back to Canada today!Welcome back to the Land of Maple Leaf! After a quick city orientation tour led by your Trip Manager, you’ll have some time to grab lunch. Then, we’ll wind down with wine. Yep, you’ll visit a local winery for a tour and tasting. What next? Well it’s all up to you and your crew to do whatever you please.
Day 7: Kelowna
Location: Kelowna
Accommodation: Accent Inns Kelowna (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Accent Inns Kelowna (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rise and shine, you’ve got the ENTIRE day to explore Kelowna however you like. There are so many ways to explore the scenery here. You can choose to take a hiking tour with a local guide. Or if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, ride an ATV through Okanagan Valley. It's views on views on views.
Day 8: Kelowna To Hinton
Location: Hinton
Accommodation: Best Western Plus Hinton Inn and Suites (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Best Western Plus Hinton Inn and Suites (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Buckle up, folks. We’re heading further up Northeast, driving through the swoops and slopes and curves of the Rockies. Keep your cameras at the ready, we’ve got some stunning stops on the way. You’ll be able to catch epic panoramas of the sprawling fields of Similkameen Valley, Okanagan Corridor, and the very handsome Mount Robson.The quaint little town of Hinton’s our stop for the night today. Why? Glad you asked. Well, it’s just a small hop away from Jasper National Park, and that’s where we'll be heading tomorrow!
Day 9: Hinton (Including Jasper National Park)
Location: Jasper National Park
Accommodation: Best Western Plus Hinton Inn and Suites (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Best Western Plus Hinton Inn and Suites (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Another day, another national park. After breakfast, we’ll head out to immerse ourselves in the wild wonders of Jasper. Take a deep breath. Because these gorgeous views of towering cliffs. serene lakes and majestic peaks are going to leave you breathless. We’ll stroll along the scenic trails and visit the amazingly azure Maligne Lake too. What a long and satisfying day it has been. Tonight’s your final chance to explore Hinton’s local eats before tucking into your cosy, cosy beds.
Day 10: Hinton To Canmore Via Banff National Park
Location: Banff National Park
Accommodation: Canmore Inn and Suites (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Canmore Inn and Suites (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Hinton, you were wonderful. But Banff’s calling our name!Welcome to our very last national park of this trip. Don’t worry, you’ve got a couple of days to check out the postcard-worthy spots here. Today, you’ll walk over the picturesque Athabasca Glacier. Plus, you’ll see the iconic Lake Louise, and even check out the oh-so-pretty Peyto Lake.We’ll step right outside Banff tonight to get some sleep at our hotel in Canmore. Today’s already been epic. But my oh my, we just can’t wait for tomorrow.
Day 11: Canmore (Including Banff)
Location: Banff
Accommodation: Canmore Inn and Suites (or similar)
Accommodation Name: Canmore Inn and Suites (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The sun's out! And, you guessed it. We’re heading back into Banff today.We can’t leave Canada without trying our hand at ice hockey, can we? Today’s your chance to do just that (and with pro hockey players, ofc!) Then, we’ll make our way to admire the mighty Mt Norquay and even check out the Iron Path AKA Via Ferrata! With our souls satisfied, it’s time to satisfy our hungry tummies with an included dinner. Then, it’s back to your beds for the night.
Day 12: Canmore To Calgary
Location: Calgary
What? It’s the last day? Already? Oh, we better make it epic then. This morning, you'll have the chance to catch a birds-eye view of all the jaw-dropping beauty at Banff on an unforgettable helicopter ride (!). Then, we'll make our way back to Calgary. And we’re back to where it all began. It’s time to exchange socials, contacts, and (sadly) goodbyes. Not for too long though - there are so many more peaks in the world to explore!
What's Included
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Welcome Dinner
Enjoy a delicious welcome dinner at a local restaurant in Calgary on the first day of the tour.
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Accommodation
Stay at various accommodations including Days Inn by Wyndham Calgary South, Holiday Inn Express Kalispell, Hotel Indigo, Accent Inns Kelowna, Best Western Plus Hinton Inn and Suites, and Canmore Inn and Suites (or similar).
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Meals
The tour includes 3 dinners and 10 breakfasts.
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Guided Tours
Experience guided tours in locations such as Calgary, Glacier National Park, Kelowna, Jasper, and Banff.
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Classic Jammer Bus
Explore Glacier National Park on a classic red jammer bus.
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Winery Tour and Tasting
Visit a local winery in Kelowna for a tour and wine tasting.
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Ice Hockey Experience
Learn to play ice hockey with professional players in Canmore.
What's Not Included
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Personal Expenses
Any personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and activities not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as horse riding in Spokane and ATV rides in Okanagan Valley are not included in the tour price.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Flights
International and domestic flights to and from the starting and ending points of the tour are not included.
Dining Summary
- 3 Dinner (D)
- 10 Breakfast (B)
Included Experience
- Calgary: Wanna know more about the Indigenous people and their traditions? This is your chance. You'll learn all about their herbal medicines, hunting techniques and even fire lighting skills. Plus, they'll show you how to detect navigational cues in the forest.
- Calgary: We’ll check out Calgary’s bustling streets from the Calgary Tower, visit Fort Calgary, Studio Bell, the National Music Centre, Glenbow Arts and History Museum and get a view of the Peace Bridge, the Wonderland Sculpture, and even Prince’s Island Park. Calgary really does pack a punch.
- Glacier National Park: Packed with jaw-dropping scenery, ancient forests, and gentle meadows, this national park is year-round paradise.
- Glacier National Park: This epic 8km trail has been walked for over 100 years, and passes by the foundations of Glacier Hotel (that used to be boujee, back in the Victorian times!)
- Glacier National Park: There's only right one way to explore this national park - and that's on a classic red jammer bus. We don't make the rules!
- Kelowna: Wineries, craft breweries, distillers, beautiful landscapes, and the wonderful Lake Okanagan - we'll check out Kelowna on a city orientation tour.
- Kelowna: Take a guided tour of a sprawling winery in the Okanagan Valley. Plus, you'll have the chance to taste some of the finest wines that they produce too!
- Kelowna: Discover the lush farms and fields in Similkameen Valley - a hidden gem set against the backdrop of dramatic mountains.
- Kelowna: Drive along this scenic corridor that's world-famous for it's wineries and orchards.
- Mount Robson: Check out this epic mountain that's the poster child of the Rockies and the highest point on the Canadian side too!
- Jasper: Snow-capped peaks and turquoise lakes guaranteed. And you might even spot a grizzly bear or coyote.
- Jasper: Marvel at the azure waters and enjoy Insta-perfect views of the Rocky Mountains. This is why we travel.
- Banff: Cameras at the ready, folks! On our first day, we’ll visit Canada’s first ever National Park – known for its colourful lakes and beautiful mountains.
- Banff: Wrap up warm and see this hunk of ice in all its sparkling glory. Don’t forget to fill a bottle with glacial water.
- Banff: All year round you’re guaranteed epic views and soul-cleansing mountain air.
- Banff: Can anything make you feel more alive than turquoise lakes and snow-topped mountains? We think not.
- Canmore: Want a quintessential Canadian experience? Come learn how to play ice hockey and learn all about it's history, secrets and superstitions before heading to the rink in full gear to play with professionals.
Mode of Transport
Travel through stunning landscapes in a classic Jammer bus, with seamless transitions between Canada and the USA, ensuring a comfortable journey as you explore the breathtaking national parks and vibrant cities.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at Days Inn by Wyndham Calgary South, Holiday Inn Express Kalispell, Hotel Indigo, Accent Inns Kelowna, Best Western Plus Hinton Inn and Suites, and Canmore Inn and Suites, or similar accommodations, offering a cozy retreat after each day's adventures.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique cultural experiences are included in the tour?
In Calgary, you'll have the opportunity to meet Indigenous locals and learn about their traditions, including herbal medicines, hunting techniques, and forest-survival skills.
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What type of transportation is used in Glacier National Park?
In Glacier National Park, the tour includes a ride on a classic Jammer bus, which is a traditional way to explore the park.
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Are there any opportunities for wine tasting during the tour?
Yes, in Kelowna, you will visit a local winery for a tour and tasting, allowing you to sample some of the finest wines produced in the Okanagan Valley.
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What activities are available in Banff National Park?
In Banff National Park, you will have the chance to walk over the Athabasca Glacier, see Lake Louise and Peyto Lake, and even try your hand at ice hockey with professional players.
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Is there an opportunity to see wildlife during the tour?
Yes, in Jasper National Park, you might spot wildlife such as grizzly bears or coyotes while enjoying the snow-capped peaks and turquoise lakes.
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What is the final activity of the tour before returning to Calgary?
On the last day, you have the chance to take a helicopter ride for a bird's-eye view of Banff's stunning landscapes before returning to Calgary.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions