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Vancouver Island Explorer

  • Begin in Vancouver and travel across to Vancouver Island

  • Explore the vibrant cityscape and cultural highlights of Vancouver

  • Discover the rugged coastlines and wilderness of Tofino

  • Visit remote Port Hardy and experience untouched landscapes

  • Enjoy wildlife encounters including whale watching and bear spotting

  • Hike through ancient rainforests and explore charming seaside towns

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BOOK THIS TRIP

From £1,137 per person (excluding flights)

This is based on 2 people travelling, with 9 nights’ 3* standard accommodation on a room only basis, listed excursions, ferries and intermediate car hire for duration of stay.

Note: This trip can be tailored to your requirements. Speak to our team if you’d like a customised itinerary.

This roughly converts to 1,353 EUR | 1,467 USD

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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Departure Days: This trip operates daily from May to Mid-October

Note: The FIFA World Cup is taking place between 11 June – 19 July 2026, with Vancouver and Toronto hosting multiple matches. Hotel availability will be limited in both cities during this period.

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ITINERARY

Pick up your rental car at Vancouver International Airport and make your way to downtown Vancouver. Depending on your arrival time, explore the city's diverse neighbourhoods, dine at world-class restaurants, or take a stroll along the scenic Seawall.
 
Photo Credit: Destination BC - Hurbert Kang
Head south to Tsawwassen to catch the ferry to Vancouver Island. Keep your camera ready, wildlife including orcas, seals, and eagles are often spotted during the crossing. Once in Victoria, explore the Inner Harbour, visit the stunning Butchart Gardens, or enjoy afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel.
 
Driving Distance: 64 km & ferry
 
Photo Credit: Destination Canada
Drive north along Vancouver Island, stopping in Coombs to visit the famous Goats on the Roof Market, where local produce, fresh ice cream, and unique gifts await. Continue weaving your way through the island’s scenic heartland before reaching Tofino, a rugged coastal town known for pristine beaches and untamed wilderness.
 
Driving Distance: 316 km
 
Photo Credit: Destination Vancouver 

Tofino is a paradise for outdoor lovers. Spend the day whale watching, kayaking, or hiking through the lush temperate rainforests of Pacific Rim National Park. The region’s vast beaches are perfect for beachcombing, while the wild Pacific waves attract surfers year-round. Food lovers seeking fresh, locally-sourced culinary experiences will also be spoilt for choice in Tofino, the town offers a wide variety of options, from fine dining seafood to casual food trucks.

Optional wildlife watching excursions can be included in your itinerary, including whale and bear watching boat tours - contact us for further details.

 

Drive back east through Port Alberni, passing through the resort areas of Parksville and Qualicum Beach before continuing north to Port Hardy, located at the island’s remote northern tip.
 
Driving Distance: 501 km
 
Nestled on the edge of the Queen Charlotte Strait, Port Hardy is the gateway to the Inside Passage. Discover Kwakwaka’wakw First Nations culture, explore remote coastal trails, or take a boat tour through the region’s untouched wilderness.
 
Photo Credit: Destination BC 
Drive south to Campbell River, one of the world's best salmon fishing destinations. Explore the town’s coastal walkways, or add-on an incredible whale-watching and wildlife tour, where you might encounter humpback whales, killer whales, dolphins, and sea lions in the surrounding waters.
 
Driving Distance: 234 km
 
Photo Credit: Destination Vancouver - Hubert Kang
Make your way south to Nanaimo and board the scenic ferry to Horseshoe Bay. From there, it’s a short drive into downtown Vancouver, where you can enjoy the evening in the city.
 
Driving Distance: 175 km & ferry

Discover the highlights of vibrant Vancouver with a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour, covering the city's top attractions. Walk or cycle through Stanley Park, explore the bustling markets of Granville Island, visit the historic streets of Gastown and Chinatown, and experience the modern energy of Yaletown.

For those seeking adventure, cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge, perched 137 metres above the Capilano River, or take on the Cliffwalk, a thrilling cantilevered walkway high above the canyon floor.

Vancouver Hop-on, Hop-off 24 Hour Discoverer Tour Pass

Vancouver Hop-on, Hop-off 24 Hour Discoverer Tour Pass

Take in the highlights of Vancouver on a Hop-On, Hop-Off bus tour, an ideal way to experience the city’s diverse attractions, landmarks and stunning natural scenery at your own pace. This convenient and flexible bus tour takes you through iconic spots like Stanley Park, Granville Island, Yaletown, Chinatown and Gastown. Engaging on-board commentary offers interesting insights into Vancouver’s rich history and culture, and two self-guided walking tours are also available through a complimentary downloadable App.
Enjoy some last-minute sightseeing or shopping before making your way to Vancouver International Airport for your flight home.

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