Day 1
Fly into Victoria*
Arrive in Victoria, pick up your rental car and head to your downtown hotel. Take the rest of the day to create your own west coast island adventure amid the port lands, parks, restaurants and gardens of British Columbia’s capital city.
* depending on your flight schedule you may wish to overnight in Vancouver before going to Victoria and extend the itinerary by 1 day.
Day 2
Victoria
Today you embark on a fascinating wildlife viewing adventure aboard a fast-moving Zodiac rigid boat. A certified marine biologist provides insight into the environment and habits of orca, minke and grey whales as well as oernther marine wildlife. Return to your hotel afterwards for an evening at leisure.
Day 3
Victoria to Tofino (197 miles)
Be sure that you have your camera at the ready – a panorama of scenic beauty is about to unfold before you. Your road leads across Vancouver Island to the Pacific Coast winding through ancient rainforests and provincial parks. You’re venturing into true wildlife territory, exemplified by The Pacific Rim National Park - a marvel of ecological and geographical diversity.
Day 4
Tofino
Today you board a Zodiac boat to take a captivating bear watching excursion and speed along the lush coastline to the bears’ feeding grounds. When the tide goes out the bears emerge from the forests and forage along the shores in search of rock crabs, providing the perfect opportunity to see these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. Back on dry land, you’re free to explore the rugged coastline along the network of hiking trails or to walk the shoreline in search of shells and driftwood. Perhaps enrich your experience with a visit to the Himwitsa Art Gallery and marvel at the collection of authentic pieces native to the Tofino area.
Day 5
Tofino to Sonora Resort via water taxi from Campbell River (168 miles)
This morning, the spectacular winding road takes you back to the eastern coast of Vancouver Island. Your route will introduce you to many gems you may wish to stop at for a brief visit at the native rock carvings at Sproat Lake or the picturesque falls at Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park. Upon arrival in Campbell River, you board a water taxi for the short boat ride to the stunning Sonora Resort. Settle in for the night at this quintessential west coast resort and prepare yourself for tomorrow’s day of adventure and discovery! Dinner included.
Day 6
Sonora Resort
You have the entire day at this luxurious wilderness resort. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy unlimited hiking, swimming, and tennis throughout their stay. Today you enjoy one of two thrilling nature adventures:
Eco nature Tour (May 1 – Aug 9 departures) featuring a fascinating tour of the surrounding wilderness conducted by a knowledgeable guide. Bear watching by Boat (Aug 10 – Oct 9) takes participants by boat to the prime feeding and gathering areas of the mighty grizzly bear. The guide communicates by headphones to passengers, ensuring the creatures are seen in their most natural an undisturbed state. In the evening, sit down to a gourmet dinner, sip a fine wine on a terrace, or mingle with other guests in one of the lounges or games room. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Day 7
Sonora Resort to Vancouver via water taxi to Campbell River then BC ferry from Nanaimo port to Horseshoe Bay (97 miles)
Today you board the water taxi for your return trip to Campbell River where you continue your drive south along the eastern shores of Vancouver Island. Small seaside towns such as Comox offer delightful spots to stop for a quick lunch or some shopping for reminders of your west coast experience. Arriving in Nanaimo, you board a BC Ferries vessel and sail across the Strait of Georgia to arrive in Vancouver where the remainder of the day is at leisure. You may wish to dine out at one of Vancouver’s many excellent restaurants, offering everything from Canadian/ European fusion to authentic Far East Asian cuisine. Breakfast and lunch included.
Day 8
Vancouver
Today is yours to explore this vibrant cosmopolitan city. Boutique shoppes line Robson Street, offering everything from high fashion to aboriginal artwork. Perhaps pay a visit to Khot-La-Cha Art Gallery and Gift Shop, featuring masks, prints, gold and silver jewellery, wood carvings, textiles and clothing produced by First Nation artists. Explore the likes of Stanley Park, Granville Island, and Grouse Mountain, visit the Museum of Anthropology or discover nearby beaches and trails. The boardwalks along the seawall provide sweeping views of the water and the rising mountains of the mainland. Discover the charms and sights of this truly magnificent city on the water.
Day 9
Vancouver
Return to Vancouver International Airport to drop off your car rental and check-in for your departure flight.
