Canada-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Canadian Adventure: Exploring the Rockies & City Life

This itinerary blends the stunning natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies with the vibrant culture of Vancouver.

Visa Requirements:

Transportation:

  • Flights: Fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC) and out of Vancouver International Airport (YVR). Consider booking a round-trip flight with stopover in Calgary.
  • Car Rental: Recommended for exploring the Rockies. Book in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Public Transportation: Vancouver has excellent public transportation (SkyTrain, buses).

Currency: Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Budget: Expect to spend around $150-$250 CAD per day per person, depending on accommodation and dining choices.

Day 1: Calgary Arrival & Rocky Mountain National Park

  • Arrive in Calgary, pick up your rental car, and drive to Banff National Park (~1.5 hours).
  • Things to Do: Stroll through Banff townsite, visit the Banff Gondola for breathtaking views, take a dip in the Banff Upper Hot Springs.
  • Accommodation: Stay in a charming hotel or lodge in Banff.

Day 2: Iconic Lake Louise & Moraine Lake

  • Drive to iconic Lake Louise and marvel at its turquoise waters surrounded by towering mountains. Take a canoe ride on the lake (weather permitting).
  • Hike to the scenic viewpoint overlooking Moraine Lake for stunning panoramic views.
  • Things to Know: Parking can be limited, arrive early or utilize shuttle services.

Day 3: Johnston Canyon & Wildlife Spotting

  • Hike through the beautiful Johnston Canyon and admire its cascading waterfalls.
  • Drive along the Bow Valley Parkway, known for wildlife sightings (elk, deer, bears). Remember to keep a safe distance from animals.

Day 4: Yoho National Park & Emerald Lake

  • Explore Yoho National Park, home to stunning natural features like Takakkaw Falls and Emerald Lake.
  • Things to Do: Rent a canoe on Emerald Lake, hike the short trails around the lake, or enjoy a picnic lunch with breathtaking views.

Day 5: Travel to Vancouver & Stanley Park Exploration

  • Drive from Banff to Vancouver (~8 hours). Consider breaking up the drive with stops in Kamloops or Revelstoke.
  • Things to Do: Arrive in Vancouver and check into your hotel. Head to Stanley Park, a massive urban park with scenic trails, beaches, and totem poles.

Day 6: Granville Island Market & Gastown Charm

  • Visit the bustling Granville Island Market, filled with fresh produce, artisan goods, and local eateries.
  • Explore the historic Gastown district, known for its cobblestone streets, Victorian architecture, and steam clock.

Day 7: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Departure

  • Experience the thrill of walking across the Capilano Suspension Bridge, high above a rainforest canyon.
  • Things to Do: Enjoy lunch with a view at the bridge park’s Cliffwalk or Treetops Adventure. Depart from Vancouver International Airport (YVR).

Other Things of Interest:

  • Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for bears, elk, deer, and mountain goats in Banff National Park.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, biking, kayaking, and canoeing are popular activities in the Rockies.

Remember to pack layers as weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Enjoy your Canadian adventure!