Vancouver Island Explorer

Day 1 Fly to Vancouver: On arrival collect your car and proceed to your hotel.

Days 2-3 Vancouver: Two full days at leisure to explore. We have a variety of fascinating pre- bookable experiences which you may wish to consider (see Excursions). If you’re happy to simply wander and see as many sights as possible, you’ll find Vancouver a very walkable city. Top spots include lush Stanley Park, Gastown, Chinatown, the shops of Robson Street and the fascinating public market on Granville Island. For those with a head for heights, admire the views from the Vancouver Lookout or the nearby Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain gondola ride.

Day 4 Vancouver/Victoria: Travel by ferry across the Georgia Strait to Vancouver Island and drive onwards to Victoria, the capital of British Columbia.

Day 5 Victoria: Explore the beautiful Inner Harbour of Victoria or perhaps visit one of the city's museums. Allow time also for world-famous Butchart Gardens, where whatever the season you’ll see spectacular displays.

Day 6 Victoria/Cowichan Bay: Drive onwards to the Cowichan Valley, a fertile crescent of rich farmland, lush vineyards, heritage river systems and scenic backroads in the south eastern corner of Vancouver Island. The village of Cowichan Bay and the surrounding area is home to a host of artists, craftspeople

Day 7 Cowichan Bay/Tofino: Travel to Tofino, regarded as the jewel of the west coast thanks to its stunning location in the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. An ideal destination for lovers of the great outdoors as well as foodies, with a variety of excellent restaurants.

Day 8 Tofino: At leisure in this nature lover’s paradise where activities available include fishing, kayaking, whale watching, bear watching, hiking to name but a few.

Day 9 Tofino/Campbell River: Drive across Vancouver Island to Campbell River on the east coast. Along with breathtaking scenery Campbell River enjoys a sterling reputation among anglers from all corners of the globe.

Day 10 Campbell River/Knight Inlet: Morning transfer and departure by floatplane (30 minute flight) to Knight Inlet Lodge. Once settled embark on a small boat excursion in the estuary. In the afternoon begin with a two hour bear viewing tour (by boat in spring and summer, or on a viewing platform late August to October) of Glendale Cove, home to one of the largest concentrations of grizzly bears in British Columbia. This is followed by a two hour Knight Inlet sightseeing cruise. On each tour you are accompanied by a knowledgeable guide to ensure you don’t miss a thing. This evening, relax whilst a guide gives an interpretive presentation.

Day 11 Knight Inlet/Nanaimo: Morning bear viewing trip before you return to Campbell River by floatplane. On arrival drive south to Nanaimo where you have time to stroll around the lovely harbour and bustling waterfront.

Day 12 Nanaimo/Vancouver: Return by ferry across the Georgia Strait to Vancouver where you have time for last minute shopping and sightseeing.

Day 13 Vancouver: All too soon it’s time to return you car at Vancouver airport where your tour concludes with your onward journey.