Nestled within the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the Banff-Canmore region boasts some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. From the serene turquoise waters of Lake Louise to the dramatic peaks of the Valley of the Ten Peaks, this full-day tour promises an unforgettable experience. Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy the region’s stunning landscapes, hike through the renowned Johnston Canyon, and explore the charming towns of Banff and Lake Louise. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, avid hiker, or simply seeking to capture the perfect photo, this tour offers a chance to truly connect with the raw beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
Key Points
- The tour offers a full-day excursion (8-10 hours) to explore the stunning natural landscapes of Banff National Park, including Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Johnston Canyon.
- Pricing ranges from €70.10 to €103.09, with up to 32% savings, and includes transportation, park passes, a local guide, and roundtrip service.
- Seasonal adjustments ensure the tour adapts to showcase Banff’s natural beauty year-round, with Moraine Lake visits available from June 1 to October 14.
- The tour includes a mix of photo stops, hiking, and free time for shopping and dining, providing a comprehensive experience of the region.
- Customer feedback is highly positive, with an overall rating of 4.7/5 based on 335 reviews, praising the knowledgeable guides and value for money.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The full-day tour of Banff National Park offers visitors the chance to explore some of the region’s most breathtaking natural wonders, from the iconic Lake Louise and Moraine Lake to the serene Johnston Canyon.
Priced at a savings of up to 32%, the tour costs between €103.09 and €70.10 per person, with a duration of 8-10 hours. Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot with a pay later option.
The tour includes transportation, park passes, a local guide, and roundtrip service, though meals and travel insurance aren’t covered.
With an impressive 4.7/5 overall rating based on 335 reviews, the tour promises a well-paced itinerary and knowledgeable guides.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Banff.
Itinerary Highlights
Starting points for the tour include the Canalta Lodge, the Travel Alberta Canmore Visitor Information Centre, and the Delta Hotels Calgary Downtown, allowing for convenient access from various locations. The itinerary highlights several key stops, including:
Stop | Duration |
---|---|
Lake Louise | 1 hour photo stop |
Moraine Lake | 1 hour photo stop |
Johnston Canyon | 70 minutes hiking |
Lake Louise Village | 45 minutes for lunch (extra fee) |
Vermilion Lakes | 15 minutes photo stop |
Banff Avenue | 45 minutes free time for shopping and sightseeing |
After the tour, participants are dropped off at the same locations as the starting points.
Seasonal Adjustments
Moraine Lake visits are available only from June 1 to October 14, given the seasonal nature of snowmelt and accessibility.
During the winter months, from October 15 to May 31, the road to Moraine Lake is closed, and it isn’t possible to visit. Instead, the tour will visit an alternative destination, Lake Minnewanka, which offers stunning scenery and opportunities for photography year-round.
This seasonal adjustment ensures that the tour can provide the best possible experience for visitors, regardless of the time of year. By adapting the itinerary, the tour can showcase the natural beauty of Banff National Park in a safe and accessible manner.
Included Services
The tour package includes several valuable services to enhance the overall experience. Travelers receive round-trip transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned van, as well as a pass to access Banff National Park. A knowledgeable local guide accompanies the group, providing insightful commentary throughout the journey. While meals are not included, the tour operator suggests a tip of $12 per person in cash to show appreciation for the guide’s expertise.
Included Services | Details |
---|---|
Transportation | Air-conditioned van |
National Park Pass | Included |
Local Guide | Provides commentary |
Roundtrip Transfer | To/from starting points |
Meals | Not included |
Travel Insurance | Not included |
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Tourists have shared overwhelmingly positive experiences with the tour, as evidenced by its impressive 4.7 out of 5 overall rating based on 335 reviews.
Customers have praised the knowledgeable guides and well-paced itinerary, rating the transportation 4.7 out of 5 and the value for money 4.6 out of 5.
Some suggestions include packing a lunch for a leisurely picnic and reserving seats, especially for families.
Starting Points and Drop-off Locations
For the full-day tour of Banff National Park, guests can choose from three convenient starting points: the Canalta Lodge, the Travel Alberta Canmore Visitor Information Centre, or the Delta Hotels Calgary Downtown.
This allows for flexibility in meeting the tour group, whether you’re staying in Banff, Canmore, or Calgary. At the end of the day, the tour will drop you off at the same locations, ensuring a seamless start and finish to your excursion.
With this range of pick-up and drop-off options, the Banff National Park tour caters to the diverse needs and locations of its participants.
Key Stops
A highlight of the Banff National Park tour is the series of key stops that showcase the area’s natural beauty.
The tour includes a 1-hour photo stop at the iconic Lake Louise, surrounded by the stunning Victoria Glacier. Next, visitors explore Moraine Lake, a glacial lake nestled in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, for another 1-hour photo opportunity.
The tour then takes guests on a 70-minute hike through the picturesque Johnston Canyon, where they can admire the lower and upper falls.
Plus, the tour includes:
- A photo stop at the serene Vermilion Lakes
- 45 minutes of free time for shopping and sightseeing on Banff Avenue
Lunch and Free Time
After exploring the natural wonders of the area, the tour builds in time for a lunch stop in the charming Lake Louise Village. Here, visitors can enjoy a 45-minute break to refuel and recharge. While lunch is not included in the tour price, there are several dining options to suit various tastes and budgets.
Dining Options | Cuisine | Price Range |
---|---|---|
Trailhead Café | Casual, Sandwiches, Salads | €€ |
Poppy Brasserie | Upscale, Canadian/International | €€€ |
Laggan’s Bakery & Deli | Snacks, Baked Goods | €€ |
Following the lunch break, the tour provides 45 minutes of free time for shopping and sightseeing along the picturesque Banff Avenue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Interests?
The tour operator allows some customization to suit travelers’ interests, though the core itinerary highlights popular sights. Guests can discuss preferences with the guide to adjust the time spent at each location within the overall tour duration.
How Do I Choose the Best Starting Point for My Location?
To choose the best starting point, consider your location. The tour offers three convenient options – Canalta Lodge, Travel Alberta Canmore Visitor Information Centre, and Delta Hotels Calgary Downtown. Select the one closest to your starting point.
Are There Any Additional Stops or Activities Available?
The tour also offers optional additional stops, such as Vermilion Lakes for scenic photo opportunities, and free time in Banff Avenue for shopping and sightseeing, providing a well-rounded experience for visitors.
Can I Bring My Own Food or Drinks on the Tour?
Absolutely, guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour allows for a lunch stop in Lake Louise Village, providing an opportunity to enjoy a picnic or purchase a meal.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration, but customers can choose to explore further on their own after the scheduled activities. The itinerary is designed to provide a comprehensive experience within the set 8-10 hour timeframe.
Recap
This full-day tour offers an unforgettable experience, showcasing the breathtaking landscapes and natural wonders of Banff and Canmore. From the iconic Lake Louise and Moraine Lake to the stunning Johnston Canyon, visitors are immersed in the region’s natural beauty. With ample time for photography, hiking, and exploring charming towns, this tour provides a well-rounded and memorable adventure in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tour Reviews in Banff
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- Banff: 3-Day Lake Louise, Yoho N.P. & Columbia Icefield
- Banff: Sunset and Stars Evening Walking Tour
- Lake Louise, Moraine Lake & Johnston Canyon Tour
- Banff: Bow Lake and Columbia Icefield Parkway Tour
- The Sights of Banff: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour
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