Icefields Parkway | Credit: Destination Canada
Freedom of Choice
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Journey through the Clouds Rail and Self-Drive
Thumbnails
Icefields Parkway | Credit: Destination Canada
Credit: Rocky Mountaineer
Lake Louise | Credit: Travel Alberta
Sentinel Pass in Banff National Park | Credit: Paul Zizka
Glacier Skywalk | Credit: Rocky Mountaineer
Credit: Rocky Mountaineer
Crescent Falls Bighorn River | Credit: Travel Alberta
Maligne Lake | Credit: Parks Canada Ryan Bray
Canada

Journey through the Clouds Rail and Self-Drive (Tour code: 12291)

Starts and Ends
Vancouver to
Calgary
Travel Periods
30 Apr 24 - 08 Oct 24
Experience
Travel Style
Rail Journeys
Embark on an extraordinary travel experience through the heart of Canada's magnificent landscapes with a combination of Rocky Mountaineer rail and Self-Drive.

Highlights

Banff's downtown area is a charming and vibrant hub, offering a unique blend of boutique shops, galleries, and restaurants

Enjoy freedom of choice activities in the mountain towns of both Jasper and Banff

The self-drive experience along the Icefields Parkway is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth

Relax in spacious, glass-dome coaches that provide panoramic views, ensuring you don't miss a single moment of the stunning landscapes

7 days
From
AUD 5,803
per person, twin share
Travelling with kids? Read more 
All services are subject to availability.

Book Now

Only $100pp deposit to Book Now

Visit our Agent Portal for more info.

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Overview

Commence your package with a journey in SilverLeaf Service onboard the Rocky Mountaineer. Travel through scenic valleys, along the mighty Fraser River, through Hell’s Gate, and past the magnificent Pyramid Falls. This Rocky Mountaineer rail route, only accessible by train, also features the majestic Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies.

Upon arrival in Jasper, collect your car rental and explore the majestic Canadian Rockies. Drive one of the most scenic drives in the world, the Icefields Parkway. Allow time to visit highlights along the way, including Athabasca Falls, Bow Summit, and Crowfoot Glacier. Take in the Ice Explorer onto the Athabasca Glacier as well as the Skywalk attraction at the Icefields.

Overnight in the beautiful and iconic town of Lake Louise before heading on to Banff. Drive along the Bow Valley Parkway for views of Castle Mountain and Johnston Canyon. On arrival in Banff, enjoy two nights to explore the town in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. From Banff, drive to Calgary where you will return your rental car for your onward journey.

 

Inclusions

2 days onboard Rocky Mountaineer in SilverLeaf Service
1 night in Kamloops
2 nights at the Forest Park Hotel Jasper
1 night at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
2 nights at the Banff Caribou Lodge
5 days Intermediate size car rental including GPS
2 breakfasts and 2 lunches onboard at Rocky Mountaineer
Ice Explorer ride onto Athabasca Glacier
Glacier Skywalk Admission
National Parks Pass
Freedom of Choice Days
Freedom of Choice

Our Freedom of Choice program offers flexibility, by allowing you to choose from different options on pre-selected days.

Our per person price includes one tour on each Freedom of Choice day, as follows:

  • One "Freedom of Choice" tour on day 3
  • One "Freedom of Choice" tour on day 6

Expand the itinerary below for more details.

Please note, if more than one room is selected during the booking process, our team will contact you afterwards to discuss options.

Rail Onboard Rocky Mountaineer - SilverLeaf Service

Picture yourself onboard the world’s leading luxury rail experience. From the moment you set foot onboard, experience hosts that will go above and beyond to make your journey as comfortable as it is unforgettable. The custom-designed glass-dome coaches provide you with panoramic views – or get a bit closer by stepping into the outdoor viewing area. See the sights by day, sleep in a hotel at night. With Rocky Mountaineer, you get the best of both worlds: maximum views, and maximum comfort.

SilverLeaf Service Inclusions:

  • Breakfast and lunch served in the comfort of your seat
  • Complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
  • Gourmet sweet and savoury snacks
  • Reclining, comfortable pre-assigned seating
  • Attended by up to three Hosts, plus one culinary team member
  • Luggage handling
  • Small outdoor viewing platform
  • Custom-designed single-level dome
Breakfast, Lunch
Onboard Rocky Mountaineer - SilverLeaf Service
Silverleaf Service | Credit: Rocky Mountaineer

Day 1 Rocky Mountaineer: Vancouver Kamloops

Just minutes from downtown Vancouver board the Rocky Mountaineer train. Pass through the rich fields of the Fraser River Valley and the towering peaks of the Coastal Mountains before entering the Fraser Canyon. Follow the Thompson River through spectacular landscapes to historic Kamloops.

Overnight in Kamloops 

Breakfast, Lunch
Rocky Mountaineer:  Vancouver → Kamloops
Credit: Rocky Mountaineer

Day 2 Rocky Mountaineer: Kamloops Jasper

Back on board the Rocky Mountaineer, follow the Thompson River through rolling plateaus to the snowy peaks of the Monashee Mountains. View Pyramid Falls and the expansive glaciers of the Albreda Icefields. Pass by Mount Robson, which at 3954 metres is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. 

Overnight in Jasper a the Forest Park Hotel

Breakfast, Lunch
Rocky Mountaineer: Kamloops → Jasper
Jasper | Credit: Rocky Mountaineer

Day 3 Jasper

Collect your rental vehicle this morning in Jasper. Today, it's time to enjoy your pre-selected tour from our Freedom of Choice options below.

Overnight in Jasper at the Forest Park Hotel


Freedom of Choice Options

  • Maligne Lake Cruise:

    Cruise at Maligne Lake, where you can marvel at the magnificent shoreline and Spirit Island.

OR

  • Jasper River Float:

    Enjoy a gentle rafting tour on the Athabasca River for a unique perspective of Jasper National Park.

OR

  • Jasper Nature Walk:

    A guided nature walk featuring a spectacular array of rolling hills, jagged peaks, forests, meadows, marshes, streams, and stunning glacial lakes.

Jasper
Athabasca Falls | Credit: Tourism Jasper

Day 4 Jasper Lake Louise

Today, travel through the spine of the Canadian Rockies along the amazing Icefields Parkway and encompass the ultimate glacier exploration. From walking on ancient ice with the Ice Explorer ride, to standing on a glass platform almost one thousand feet in the air at the Glacier Skywalk (included), today’s experiences will leave you with a special appreciation for this treasured region of the Rockies.

Overnight in Lake Louise at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise 

Jasper → Lake Louise
Icefields Parkway | Credit: Rocky Mountaineer

Day 5 Lake Louise Banff

Today we suggest taking the scenic Bow Valley Parkway route which runs parallel to the Trans-Canada highway. Be sure to stop at Johnston Canyon and walk along the paved footpath to either the lower or upper waterfalls.

Overnight in Banff at Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa

Lake Louise → Banff
Yoho National Park | Credit: Destination BC Dave Heath

Day 6 Banff

It's time to explore Banff! Enjoy a pre-selected tour from our Freedom of Choice options below.

Overnight in Banff at Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa


Freedom of Choice Options

  • Banff Gondola:

    Maximize your views of Banff National Park with minimal exertion on a round-trip gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain.

OR

  • Lake Minnewanka Cruise:

    Admire views of the Canadian Rockies by boat as you cruise across the turquoise-hued Lake Minnewanka and over to Devil’s Gap.

OR

  • River Explorer Canoe Tour:

    Enjoy the serenity of the Bow River and marvel at the surroundings. A fun and interactive way with your guide to explore the waterways of Banff National Park. Perfect for families. No paddling experience necessary.

OR

  • Bow River Horseback Adventure:

    Saddle up for a journey through the celebrated landscape of Banff National Park on this guided horseback riding adventure.

Banff
Bow Lake | Credit: Rocky Mountaineer

Day 7 Banff Calgary

Today, it's time to say goodbye to the fresh mountain air and majestic sights of the Rockies. Drive to Calgary to drop off your rental car and begin your journey home.

Banff → Calgary
Calgary | Credit: Travel Alberta

Accommodation

Forest Park Hotel

Jasper
Set amidst the breathtaking Canadian Rockies, the Forest Park Hotel (formerly the Sawridge Inn) is a resort style hotel that offers the rustic charm you’d expect in Jasper National Park. Beautiful guest rooms, on-site spa, decadent dining and heated pool with jacuzzi and steam room add to the luxury you want in your mountain getaway. 
 

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Lake Louise
Surrounded by soaring mountain peaks, the majestic Victoria Glacier and a glistening emerald lake, the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise hotel is located in Alberta's Banff National Park. Discover endless outdoor recreational activities including hiking, canoeing, horseback riding, fishing, mountain biking and river rafting.

Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa

Banff
Located in Banff National Park, the Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa offers a mountain lodge hotel, a great steakhouse restaurant and a full service spa, all in one outstanding location. This ideal vacation spot is located on Banff Avenue, the main street in the town of Banff. Surrounded by mountains, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy.

Optional Extras

GoldLeaf Upgrade

Features of GoldLeaf Service:

  • Bi-level dome with seating above and dining below
  • Full glass-dome windows with panoramic views
  • Gourmet à la carte meals in the lower-level dining room
  • Reclining, comfortable pre-assigned seating with ample leg room
  • Attended by up to four Hosts, plus a full culinary team
  • Complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
  • Gourmet sweet and savoury snacks included
  • Large exclusive outdoor viewing platform
  • Engaging Hosts with stories about historic sites, scenery and wildlife

Prices are dynamic based on travel dates. Please proceed to Book Now or Contact Us for details.

Additional information

Official language
French & English
Local currency
Canadian Dollars

2024 Dates

  • Apr - 30
  • May - 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, 24, 28, 31
  • June - 4, 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, 28
  • July - 2, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 30
  • August - 2, 6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 27, 30
  • September - 3, 6, 10, 13, 17, 20, 24, 27
  • October - 1, 4, 8

Excluded

  • International airfares and taxes
  • Domestic airfares and taxes, unless otherwise specified in our holiday package
  • Visa expenses, processing and issuance fees
  • Meals other than as specified in our holiday package
  • Travel Insurance or expenses of a personal nature (mini-bar, phone call, laundry, etc.)
  • Tips or gratuities to guides, drivers, porters, hotel, restaurant or boat staff, etc.
  • Or any other travel expense that has not been included in our holiday package
  • One-way car rental fees (if applicable). If any one-way surcharges apply, this will be advised at the time of booking and is payable locally upon collection of the vehicle.
  • Car rental rates exclude optional coverage such as Personal Accident Insurance Plus (PAI Plus) and Personal Effects Protection (PEP).

FAQs

Who are Entire Travel Group?

Welcome to Entire Travel Group. We offer exceptional travel experiences across our extensive range of Entire Holiday Packages, Entire Group Journeys, Entire Rail Journeys, and Entire Cruise Journeys. With our industry-leading Peace of Mind Booking Plan, you can Book Now with flexibility and confidence.

Entire Travel Group is celebrating over 50 years of passionately delivering unique and memorable travel experiences. We are an Australian, family-owned, award-winning business with a friendly team ready to match your expectations to the perfect holiday experience.

Entire Travel Group used to be known by the individual brands shown in the footer of the website. The company has not changed, but we have amalgamated under one brand - Entire Travel Group.

For more details please visit - About Us | Entire Travel Group

Is Entire Travel Group Australian owned and operated?

Entire Travel Group is proudly Australian family owned and operated and as it stands today represents 50 years of experience, progress, and evolution. We proudly support the community with our long-term commitment to many important charity organisations. We were awarded the best operator in our class at the most recent National Travel Industry Awards.

Is Entire Travel Group industry accredited?

Entire Travel Group is both ATAS and CATO Accredited. ATAS is actively administered by the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA). The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) is the trade association representing the land supply sector of the Australian Travel Industry.

Does Entire Travel Group have industry awards?

Entire Travel Group was honoured at the 2023 National Travel Industry Awards with Most Oustanding Wholesaler - Product / Service.

As our team works tirelessly to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, it was exciting to have this acknowledged with the highest recognition. The award is also a testament to the quality of our partners around the globe, and we take this opportunity to thank them for their tremendous support of our customers.

Are the Entire Travel Group holiday packages exclusive?

In some cases, we are the sole representative in Australia for the overseas travel operator. In other circumstances the product developed has been exclusively built for Entire Travel Group and can’t be found elsewhere.

What’s unique about Entire Travel Group Holiday Packages?

  • They are not group tours with set departures - they are pre-designed, purpose built, independent holiday packages full of unique and memorable experiences.
  • Our holiday packages have been exclusively built for us in collaboration with our handpicked suppliers, who also offer full on-ground support for the clients.
  • We are offering unique travel experiences which cannot be found elsewhere.
  • Many packages include our “Freedom of Choice” options which allow you to tailor the holiday experience. Like a sommelier matching wine to a meal, we have used our experience to carefully select and offer the right experiences in each location.
  • They include our Peace of Mind Booking Plan.
  • A wide selection of our packages are compliant with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Covid Safe Travels.

Our motto for Independent Holiday Packages is start your holiday when and with who you want!

Our Independent Holiday Packages are NOT group tours with set departure dates. Group Tours have specific set departure dates, and of course, you are travelling with unknown passengers in a coach. These tours are great for certain travellers and there are many reputable tour operators providing a wide range of options around the world.

At Entire Travel Group, our focus is Independent Holiday Packages. Available daily, they are pre-designed, purpose built, packaged itineraries full of memorable experiences delivered by our hand-picked local partners.

Our holidays suit every demographic, from couples to singles, to retirees to families and everyone else in between.

Why travel with Entire Travel Group?

Of Entire Travel Group's attributes, we have settled on "When Experience Matters" as the quality we believe adds the most value to our customers. We have the experience to ensure your itinerary makes the dream holiday possible. Our continually enhanced technology allows our team to provide a quality customer service experience, and our partnerships with outstanding operators ensure we are confident of the on-ground experience for our customers.

For more details please visit - About Us | Entire Travel Group

How does the Peace of Mind Booking Plan work?

Our Peace of Mind Booking Plan allows you to book with confidence in the new international travel environment. With low deposits, a cooling off period and a flexibility period where you can cancel and rebook later, we really do have you covered.

For more details please visit - Peace of Mind Booking Plan | Entire Travel Group

Is there a cooling-off period?

Look for packages with our Peace of Mind Booking Plan logo on the website.

  • We understand that occasionally plans may change, so we give you the confidence to proceed with a cooling off period.
  • You may cancel for any reason within 7 days, where you will receive a 100% refund of your $100 per person deposit.

For more details please visit - Peace of Mind Booking Plan | Entire Travel Group

What is Freedom of Choice?

At Entire Travel Group we understand that our customers have their own personal tastes and interests - so throughout our packages look for “Freedom of Choice” which gives you the ability to tailor your holiday from the various experiences offered on selected days. Like a sommelier matching wine to a meal, we have used our experience to carefully select and offer the right experiences in each location.

The Freedom of Choice options are included in the package price, and the price remains the same regardless of the choice you make on each day.

Our Freedom of Choice program offers flexibility, by allowing you to choose from different options on pre-selected days in the itinerary.

  • Our per person price includes one tour on each Freedom of Choice day in the itinerary.
  • The price of the package remains the same regardless of the choice you make on each day.

For more details please visit - Freedom of Choice | Entire Travel Group

What is Book Now?

Book Now offers you the ability to make a reservation on our website for Holiday Packages that include our Peace of Mind Booking Plan. But it’s not just a static offer – you have complete flexibility from travel dates, passenger numbers, single supplements, room upgrades, optional extras, flexible booking terms and more.

  • Our team will contact our overseas suppliers and confirm all arrangements.
  • A Confirmation from our reservation system will be sent in the coming days.
  • The Booking Number on this confirmation supersedes the website reference.

What forms of payment can be used at Entire Travel Group?

  • To confirm a booking using our on-line Book Now process, a credit card must be used to pay the refundable deposit.
  • For additional payments on the booking, Entire Travel Group supports bank transfer, credit card, TravelPay B2B, PaymentGate.
  • For further details please visit our Payments page.

How secure is the Entire Travel Group's on-line payment portal?

  • Entire Travel Group have partnered with TravelPay to ensure secure on-line credit card payments.
  • TravelPay is a level 1 PCI DSS compliant, which gives you peace of mind that your payment card data is in safe hands.
  • Entire Travel Group does not store any credit card information.

For more details please visit - Security and Compliance - TravelPay

Can you book my international airfares?

On some Islands Holiday Packages (e.g. Fiji), it is practical to include flights, so where we have done this it is indicated by the plane icon.

However, on the majority of our Holiday Packages, we do not include international flights.

We found that many customers may prefer to:

  • Travel on a specific airline of their choice
  • Have the flexibility to book flights with Frequent Flyer points
  • Select flight dates that may be different to our Holiday Package start/end dates
  • Use a Travel Credit already held with the airline
  • Use their travel agent for this service

We are able to assist with flights on any Holiday Package, so please just notify us during the Book Now process or contact our team.

Should I take travel insurance?

Travel insurance is strongly recommended. During the Book Now process please confirm you require assistance, and our team will be in contact with you.

What should I do before travelling?

Before you travel it is your responsibility to ensure you have the appropriate documentation including visas. If you are travelling on a passport other than Australian or New Zealand, you will require a permit to re-enter Australia. It is your responsibility as the traveller and/or travel booker to meet all government entry requirements.

For more information please visit - Before you travel | Entire Travel Group

How does a Travel Agent make a booking?

Please visit the Entire Travel Group's Agent Portal. We are here to support our industry partners with a range of informative updates, marketing collateral for campaigns and a reward & recognition program.

How do I start a Booking?

  • On any page that has Book Now simply follow the booking process.
  • You must select the Travel Agent tick box and provide correct details.
  • To confirm a booking only the refundable deposit is required.
  • An agency credit card must be used for this initial payment.

How do I contact Entire Travel Group?

For more information please visit - Contact us | Entire Travel Group

When experience matters
INDUSTRY ACCREDITED
AWARD WINNING
TRAVEL SUPPORT
50 YEARS EXPERIENCE
HANDPICKED SUPPLIERS
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