This small group tour showcases the very best of Vancouver Island. Begin this full-circle itinerary with a scenic BC Ferries crossing from Vancouver to the island’s capital, Victoria, where you’ll spend two nights exploring the famous Butchart Gardens and enjoying leisure time to discover the city at your own pace.
Next, head to the relaxed coastal town of Tofino for three nights, surrounded by wild natural scenery, including lakes, inlets, ancient rainforests, and sandy beaches.
The drive along the Pacific Rim Highway offers breathtaking views of rugged coastline and lush forests. Finally, venture to Northern Vancouver Island, a region of rugged beauty, secluded beaches, and abundant wildlife, offering a true sense of solitude and connection with nature.
This affordable holiday takes in the highlights of Vancouver Island. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way and a variety of included experiences, you also have the option to add excursions (at an additional cost) to personalise your adventure.
Itinerary
Depart downtown Vancouver and cruise through the Gulf Islands on a scenic ferry ride. Arrive on Vancouver Island and wander the world-famous Butchart Gardens, with admission included. Continue to Sea Cider for a guided tour and a refreshing cider tasting. Check into your centrally located hotel in downtown Victoria and enjoy a free evening to explore the city at your own pace.
Take a guided Victoria city tour this morning, taking in Beacon Hill Park, Chinatown, Fan Tan Alley, Fisherman’s Wharf and Government Street. The rest of the day is yours to explore. Stroll along Government Street, visit the renowned Royal BC Museum, or opt for a classic Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel (additional cost).
Depart early and drive along the Malahat Highway, enjoying sweeping views of the Southern Gulf Islands. Stop first at the Malahat SkyWalk, Vancouver Island’s newest outdoor attraction, where a 600-metre elevated walkway winds through a lush Arbutus and Douglas Fir forest. Climb the 10-storey spiral tower for stunning 360-degree views of islands, inlets, fjords, forests, and distant mountains. Continue to Duncan for a brief tour of the City of Totems and some free time for lunch. Arrive in Tofino in the evening
Today, explore Tofino and its stunning beaches, including the famous Long Beach, with the option to join your guide for a scenic hike. Visit the Ucluelet Aquarium (admission included) to discover a fascinating variety of local marine life and learn about the region’s unique ecosystem. You can also take an optional guided walk along the Wild Pacific Trail’s Lighthouse Loop to enjoy dramatic coastline views and sweeping ocean panoramas. Spend the evening at your leisure.
Today is yours to enjoy however you wish! Perhaps take a boat cruise to Hot Springs Cove, go kayaking or surfing (additional cost), hike through one of the island’s lush rainforest trails, or simply relax on the beach. In the evening, explore the charming town of Tofino at your leisure.
Travel back toward the east coast of Vancouver Island and stop at Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park for a walk through the old-growth Douglas Fir rainforest. Continue to Coombs Market, famous for its rooftop goats, fresh local produce and some of the island’s best ice cream. Take in picturesque seaside communities and stunning landscapes along Coastal Highway 19A, with a stop in Comox for dinner. Arrive in Campbell River and spend the evening at your leisure, perhaps watching the sunset, and soaking in the tranquil surroundings.
Enjoy a leisurely morning with optional activities such as kayaking, fishing, or whale watching (additional cost). You can also choose a full-day Grizzly Bear Expedition into the Bute or Toba Valley, available from August 18 to October 15. Return to your hotel in the evening and enjoy free time for dinner.
Depart Campbell River in the morning for Elk Falls Provincial Park. Here you can explore a network of walking and hiking trails, cross the Elk Falls Suspension Bridge, and enjoy breathtaking views from the elevated cantilevered viewing platform. Continue to Morningstar Farm in Parksville, a local food hub offering self-guided tours, a farmgate store, and scenic trails. Stop in Nanaimo for a stroll along the Harbourfront and don’t miss the chance to try the famous Nanaimo Bars. Finally, board the ferry from Nanaimo to Horseshoe Bay and return to downtown Vancouver.
Prices
What's Included
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7 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast
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Coach transportation from Vancouver
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Experienced, friendly and fun tour guide
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BC Ferries to Vancouver Island (round trip fees included)
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Sea Cider Tasting
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Admission to: The Butchart Gardens / Malahat SkyWalk / Ucluelet Aquarium
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All taxes and park fees
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24 hour emergency assistance from our team during your holiday
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No surcharge guarantee
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Full financial protection
From £2218 Excluding Flights
7 Nights
May-Oct
Group size: Maximum 22 passengers.
Prices are per person based upon 2 sharing, subject to availability. Your Travel Specialist will confirm the exact price based upon your tailored requirements, inclusions, and travel dates.
Our holiday prices exclude flights. Why? Because we want to offer you the best value, tailored to your needs. Flight prices and offers change daily, so when you’re ready to book, we’ll provide a bespoke quote based on the best options from your local airport. This way, you’ll always get the best prices and the flexibility to choose what works best for you.
Make this trip yours
Every destination and itinerary you see here can be adapted to suit you – so reach for that bucket list and start imagining your next adventure here.
Rosie
47
47 brown bears spotted in one day in Alaska
4
Sea turtles snorkelled with
We create holidays that are as individual as you are. And we’ve been doing it for 40 years, crafting each and every holiday using our in-depth knowledge and enthusiasm for our destinations. Whatever your brief, we’ll create an amazing trip for you to get excited about. That might mean adapting one of our existing itineraries or we’ll build you one from scratch.
Experts with real experience
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Eric
Travel Specialist
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Darren
Travel Specialist
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Samantha
Travel Specialist
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Jo
Travel Specialist
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Gary
Travel Specialist
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Jenna
Travel Specialist
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Dawn
Head of Customer Experience
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Rosie
Travel Specialist
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Freya
Travel Specialist
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