Rail with Bears & Whales: A Journey of a Lifetime Through the Heart of Canada
When it comes to travel, there are some experiences that stand head and shoulders above the rest—journeys that seem to offer more than just picturesque views, but a deep connection to the wilderness, the wildlife, and the very spirit of adventure. If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring the wild beauty of Canada, the Rail with Bears & Whales tour offers one of the most unique and breathtaking travel experiences available today. From the snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies to the lush expanses of the Great Bear Rainforest, this incredible journey combines two of the country’s most iconic experiences: the Rocky Mountaineer and Knight Inlet Lodge, all in one magical package.
Starting at £8,079 per person, this 12-night adventure is an unbeatable combination of luxury, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a nature lover, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply looking for a once-in-a-lifetime journey, this experience has it all. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through this incredible itinerary, highlighting what makes this tour so special, and why it should be at the top of your bucket list.
A Journey to the Heart of Canada’s Wilderness
Banff, Alberta: The Gateway to the Rockies
The adventure begins in Banff, a picturesque mountain town located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Banff is a place where the air is crisp, the waters are turquoise, and the towering mountains create a breathtaking backdrop at every turn. As one of the most famous national parks in the world, Banff is a mecca for nature lovers, offering a glimpse of Canada’s unparalleled natural beauty.
From Banff, the journey continues on the legendary Rocky Mountaineer—a journey unlike any other. Known for its luxurious trains and exceptional service, the Rocky Mountaineer offers a rail experience that combines adventure with comfort. For two days, you will be swept away by the beauty of the Canadian wilderness as you travel to Vancouver, passing through some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the world.
The Rocky Mountaineer: A Journey Like No Other
Imagine sitting in the comfort of a GoldLeaf Service carriage, with expansive glass dome windows that offer 360-degree views of the Canadian Rockies. The Rocky Mountaineer experience is designed for you to fully immerse yourself in the natural wonders around you, with all the comforts of luxury service.
The train ride itself is a work of art, with the Rocky Mountaineer passing by sparkling lakes, snow-capped peaks, and deep river valleys. During the journey, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy gourmet meals, sip on fine wines, and hear fascinating stories from your onboard hosts about the rich history and geology of the regions you’re passing through.
As you travel south toward Vancouver, you’ll pass through Jasper National Park, Glacier National Park, and Yoho National Park—each one more magnificent than the last. The sheer scale and beauty of the mountains, glaciers, and rivers are enough to leave you in awe. It’s the kind of experience that makes you feel both small and deeply connected to the vastness of nature.
Arrival in Vancouver: A City of Beauty and Contrast
Once you reach Vancouver, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city before continuing on to your next destination. Vancouver is a vibrant metropolis that effortlessly blends nature with urban sophistication. From the bustling streets to the stunning waterfront, there’s so much to discover here, including world-class restaurants, museums, and an exciting cultural scene.
Vancouver is also the gateway to one of the most remote and spectacular locations in Canada: Knight Inlet Lodge.
Knight Inlet Lodge: An Immersive Wildlife Experience
For wildlife enthusiasts, Knight Inlet Lodge is nothing short of a dream come true. Tucked away in Glendale Cove, deep within the Great Bear Rainforest, Knight Inlet Lodge is one of the best places in the world to view grizzly bears in their natural habitat. Accessible only by boat or floatplane, this floating lodge is a peaceful sanctuary for guests seeking to connect with the wilderness in the most intimate way possible.
At Knight Inlet Lodge, you’ll spend three nights in one of the most remote, pristine areas of Canada. The lodge’s unique location offers prime opportunities for grizzly bear viewing, with boat tours taking place during the spring and summer and viewing platforms available during the fall. Whether you’re watching these majestic creatures from the safety of a boat or from the lodge’s viewing platform, the experience is sure to leave a lasting impression.
But the grizzlies aren’t the only wildlife to be found here. The Great Bear Rainforest is home to a stunning array of animals, from black bears to bald eagles, sea otters, and even orcas. In fact, Knight Inlet is located within one of the few places on Earth where you can view the Kermode bear, or “spirit bear”—a rare, white variant of the black bear that is a symbol of British Columbia’s wilderness.
More Than Just Bears: An Abundance of Wildlife
Knight Inlet Lodge isn’t just about grizzly bears. The surrounding area is a haven for wildlife, including the chance to see whales up close. The whale watching tour in Victoria offers a chance to witness the majestic creatures of the ocean, including orcas, humpback whales, and grey whales. Victoria, located on Vancouver Island, is a prime spot for whale watching, and the tour promises to be a thrilling and awe-inspiring experience.
From the peaceful waters of Glendale Cove to the open ocean, this tour offers an unprecedented opportunity to experience Canada’s rich biodiversity in both the mountains and the seas.
What’s Included in the Rail with Bears & Whales Experience?
Here’s a quick look at what’s included in your adventure:
- International flights from the UK (economy class)
- 9 nights hotel accommodation across stunning locations
- Scheduled transfers from Calgary Airport to Banff
- 2 days on board the Rocky Mountaineer in GoldLeaf service (with breakfast and lunch onboard)
- 6 days intermediate car hire with fully inclusive insurance
- BC Ferries from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo (including vehicle)
- 3 nights at Knight Inlet Lodge, inclusive of a pre-night stay in Campbell River
- Scenic floatplane transfer between Campbell River and Knight Inlet Lodge
- Bear viewing tours and Knight Inlet sightseeing cruises
- Full board at Knight Inlet Lodge
- Whale watching tour in Victoria
- BC Ferries from Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen (including vehicle)
Why You Should Book the Rail with Bears & Whales Experience
There are plenty of reasons why this experience should be on your radar. First and foremost, it offers the rare chance to experience both the luxury of the Rocky Mountaineer and the untamed wilderness of the Great Bear Rainforest in one seamless journey.
Second, this adventure combines scenic beauty and wildlife viewing in a way that few other trips can. Whether you’re watching grizzly bears lumbering on the shores of Glendale Cove or spotting humpback whales breaching in the open ocean, every moment of this tour is filled with awe-inspiring encounters.
Third, the journey offers a blend of luxury and adventure that is hard to find anywhere else. From the opulence of the Rocky Mountaineer to the cozy, intimate experience of Knight Inlet Lodge, you’ll have the best of both worlds.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a vacation that offers more than just sightseeing—one that will leave you feeling deeply connected to nature and the world around you—then the Rail with Bears & Whales tour is the perfect choice. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of the world, this is an experience that promises to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.
Don’t miss out on this incredible journey through some of the most beautiful landscapes on Earth. Book your place today and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! 🌲🦋🐋🐻
