Group Package Dates
September 19 to 23, 2027

FINAL PAYMENT:  JULY 2027

Welcome to one of the most scenic train journeys in the world! This page will help answer many of the logistical questions you may have before we depart. 

I highly recommend travel insurance. You can choose to cover just your train trip or include airfare, hotels, and anything else you’ve added. Go with a policy that fits your situation and gives you coverage you feel good about. I often recommend Travel Insured, and their Worldwide Trip Protector is the most popular option, but you are free to choose whatever works best for you. Plan to have your insurance in place before making your final payment in next  July. 

Our official group package begins on September 19, 2027 in Vancouver and concludes on the morning of September 23, 2027 in Banff.  

After that, you're welcome to head home or extend your stay and continue exploring the beautiful Canadian Rockies on your own.

Vancouver International Airport (YVR)

Please plan to arrive any time on September 19th.

Our hotel is approximately 30 minutes from the airport. Both taxis and Uber are readily available upon arrival.

Fairmont Waterfront
900 Canada Place Way
Vancouver, British Columbia V6C 3L5

We will have an early morning wake-up on September 20th to board the Rocky Mountaineer, so please keep that in mind when booking your flights.

Our package includes one night at the Fairmont Waterfront.

If you'd like to arrive a day (or several days) early to explore Vancouver, or simply provide yourself a buffer in case of flight delays, I recommend booking your additional nights directly through the hotel (or I can book this for you, but it is outside of our train package).

Our included room category is a Fairmont Room.

If you decide to extend your stay, just let me know. I'll gladly contact the hotel and request that they keep you in the same room so you (hopefully) won't have to switch rooms.

If you're able to get an early flight into Vancouver on September 19th, you may feel comfortable skipping the extra night. Just remember that we board the train very early the following morning, and nobody wants a flight delay interfering with a bucket-list luxury rail journey.  Ben and I will arrive one day early to be safe, and because we love Vancouver. 

Calgary International Airport (YYC)

Our group package concludes on the morning of September 23rd.

If you're flying home that day, I recommend booking an afternoon flight from Calgary to allow plenty of time for the transfer from Banff.

If you're heading straight to the airport, the Banff Airporter is an easy option.

The shuttle picks up at our hotel, travels directly to Calgary International Airport, drops you at your airline terminal, and offers comfortable coaches with luggage storage. Transit time is approximately 2 hours, with multiple departures offered throughout the day.  You can also rent a car to explore if you are staying on in Banff and then head to the aiport, or book a private transfer, but this shuttle is simple and economical.

Welcome to beautiful Vancouver!

Arrive any time today and make your way to the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax after your travels or get out and explore one of Canada's most vibrant waterfront cities.

Overnight: Fairmont Waterfront

This morning we'll board the legendary Rocky Mountaineer and begin our journey through the spectacular landscapes of British Columbia.

Relax in GoldLeaf Service as we travel past rivers, forests, dramatic canyons, and mountain scenery while enjoying gourmet meals and exceptional service onboard.

Breakfast and lunch included.

Overnight: Kamloops

Our second day aboard the Rocky Mountaineer brings us into the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

Today's highlights include the Continental Divide, Spiral Tunnels, Kicking Horse Canyon, Rogers Pass, and some of the most spectacular mountain scenery anywhere in North America.

We'll arrive in Banff this evening and settle into Moose Hotel & Suites.

Breakfast and lunch included.

Overnight: Moose Hotel & Suites

We'll meet in the hotel lobby at 8:30 AM for a fun day exploring some of Banff's highlights together.

Our plans include riding the Banff Gondola for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and enjoying a scenic cruise on beautiful Lake Minnewanka. We'll also spend some time exploring the Banff area before returning to town.

The remainder of the evening is yours to relax, shop, or enjoy dinner in Banff.

Breakfast included.

Overnight: Moose Hotel & Suites

Our official Rocky Mountaineer group package concludes after breakfast.

If you're heading home, you can transfer to Calgary International Airport (YYC) for an afternoon flight.

Or... if you're anything like Ben and me, you may decide that two days in the Rockies simply isn't enough! This is a wonderful opportunity to extend your stay and continue exploring everything this incredible region has to offer.

Once our group package ends, there is so much more to see if you'd like to extend your adventure.

Some travelers may simply enjoy another day wandering through Banff's shops and restaurants. Others may want to visit Lake Louise, hike to alpine lakes, search for wildlife, enjoy a spa day, the hot springs, or spend more time soaking in the incredible mountain scenery.  This is one of the most beautiful places on our planet.

Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, there's truly something for everyone here.

For our group package, we'll be staying at Moose Hotel & Suites in a Superior Room.

If you'd like to extend your stay in Banff, I recommend booking the same Superior Room category directly with the hotel.   (or I can book this for you, but it is outside of our train package).

If you decide to extend your stay, just let me know. I'll gladly contact the hotel and request that they keep you in the same room so you (hopefully) won't have to switch rooms.

The Moose is in a fantastic location, just a short walk from downtown Banff, making it an excellent home base for exploring the area.  It also is well known for it's rooftop heated pool with panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies.  They have a great spa as well.

If you're celebrating a special occasion, or simply want to experience one of Canada's most iconic luxury hotels, you may want to consider spending a night at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

Situated directly on the shores of the famous turquoise lake, the hotel offers incredible views of Lake Louise and Victoria Glacier. Guests can enjoy canoeing, lakeside walks, afternoon tea, hiking, spa treatments, and some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Canada.

It certainly isn't inexpensive, but for many travelers it's a once in a lifetime experience and one of the country's most legendary places to stay.

I can help get you booked if you decide to live your best life at Lake Louise.

Even if you don't spend the night, I highly recommend making time to visit the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Perched directly on the shores of Lake Louise, this legendary hotel is one of Canada's most famous destinations. Stop in for lunch, afternoon tea, or a drink with an unforgettable view, then stroll the lakeshore, rent a canoe, or head out on one of the many hiking trails that begin right behind the hotel. It's an easy day trip from Banff and well worth adding to your itinerary.

 September is one of the VERY BEST times  to visit the Canadian Rockies. Expect cool mornings, comfortable afternoons, and chilly evenings. Weather can vary quite a bit throughout the day, especially as we travel from Vancouver into the mountains, so dressing in layers is the key to staying comfortable.

During our time in Vancouver, daytime temperatures are often in the 60s °F with cooler mornings and evenings. By the time we reach Banff, daytime highs are commonly in the 50s to low 60s °F, while mornings and evenings can dip into the 30s and 40s °F. 

There is no formal dress code onboard Rocky Mountaineer. Most guests wear comfortable casual clothing, with many opting for "smart casual." Think nice jeans, hiking pants, casual dresses, polos, sweaters, or quarter-zips. You'll spend much of the day relaxing, enjoying the scenery, and moving between your seat and the dining room.

Because temperatures can vary throughout the day, I recommend wearing layers that are easy to add or remove.

Aside from the obvious things such as medications, pajamas, etc., I recommend bringing:

• Comfortable walking shoes 
• A lightweight rain jacket or waterproof shell 
• A fleece, sweater, or light insulated jacket 
• T-shirts or long-sleeve shirts for layering 
• Comfortable pants or jeans 
• One nicer outfit if you'd like to enjoy a special dinner in Banff 
• Sunglasses 
• Hat and sunscreen (yes, even in September!) 
• Reusable water bottle 
• Small daypack for sightseeing and hiking 
• Phone charging cable and portable battery pack 
• A swimsuit

If you're planning to join us for some hiking after the group package ends, I'd also recommend packing:

• Hiking shoes or boots with good traction 
• Moisture-wicking socks 
• Hiking poles, if you normally use them 
• A warmer jacket for early morning starts 
• Gloves and a lightweight knit hat, especially if you'll be hiking at higher elevations 

One item I never travel to the mountains without is a pair of binoculars.

Between the train journey and time spent in Banff, there's a good chance we'll spot elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, deer, and maybe even bears. Binoculars also make it much easier to appreciate distant waterfalls, glaciers, and mountain peaks from the train and scenic overlooks.

Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD).

As a general rule, your U.S. dollar goes a little farther in Canada. At the time this guide was written, $1 USD is worth approximately $1.40 CAD. Exchange rates fluctuate daily, but this provides a good estimate when budgeting for your trip.

Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Vancouver, Banff, Lake Louise, and most places you'll visit during the trip. In fact, many businesses prefer card payments, so there is no need to carry large amounts of cash.

I do recommend having $50 to $100 CAD on hand for small purchases, local markets, or the occasional business that may prefer cash.

Visa and Mastercard are accepted virtually everywhere. American Express is accepted in many places, but not all, so it's always nice to have a Visa or Mastercard as a backup.

Be sure to notify your credit card company of your travel plans if required by your bank.

When paying by credit card, you'll often be asked whether you'd like to pay in Canadian Dollars or U.S. Dollars. I recommend selecting Canadian Dollars, as your credit card company will typically provide a better exchange rate than the merchant.

Tipping customs in Canada are very similar to those in the United States.

Typical guidelines are:

• Restaurants: 18 to 20% for good service 
• Bartenders: $1 to $2 CAD per drink, or 15 to 20% 
• Taxi or rideshare drivers: 10 to 15% 
• Hotel housekeeping: $3 to $5 CAD per night 
• Hotel bell staff: $2 to $3 CAD per bag 

Tipping onboard the Rocky Mountaineer is completely optional, but many guests choose to leave a gratuity if they receive exceptional service.

You do not need to carry cash. Gratuities can be made by credit card at the end of your journey, and your onboard hosts will provide information about the process during the trip.

ATMs are easy to find throughout Vancouver and Banff should you need additional Canadian cash during your trip.

Personally, I rarely carry much cash in Canada. I use my credit card for almost everything and keep a small amount of Canadian currency in my wallet just in case. It's simple, convenient, and you'll usually receive the best exchange rate by paying with your credit card in Canadian Dollars.

There is no need to exchange money before you leave home unless you want to. Between airport ATMs, widespread credit card acceptance, and the ability to tip onboard the Rocky Mountaineer by credit card, it's easy to travel without carrying much cash at all.

If you're staying in Banff, you may not need a car at all. Moose Hotel & Suites is in a fantastic location, just a short walk from Banff's restaurants, shops, and many attractions.

Guests of Moose Hotel & Suites also receive a complimentary Roam Transit pass, making it easy to hop on the local bus system and explore Banff without worrying about parking. Roam Transit also provides service to many popular destinations throughout the area, including the Banff Gondola, Lake Louise, and other attractions. 

If you're planning to do more extensive exploring after the group package ends, a rental car offers the most flexibility.

Ben and I plan to rent a car after our group package concludes. We found that Enterprise offers one-way rentals, allowing you to pick up your vehicle in Banff and return it at Calgary International Airport (YYC) before your flight home. The rental office is within walking distance of Moose Hotel & Suites, making pickup very convenient.

Driving in the Canadian Rockies is easy, with well-maintained roads, excellent signage, and some of the most spectacular scenery you'll ever experience. Having a car allows you to explore at your own pace, stop at scenic overlooks whenever you'd like, and drive portions of the legendary Icefields Parkway.

Both taxis and Uber are available in Banff, although they are not nearly as plentiful as they are in larger cities. They're a great option for getting around town or making a short trip, but I wouldn't recommend relying on them if you're planning to spend several days exploring the region or visiting multiple destinations.

If you're simply extending your stay to enjoy Banff, restaurants, shopping, and a few nearby attractions, you can comfortably get around without renting a car.

If you'd like to visit Lake Louise, spend a day driving the Icefields Parkway, hike beyond the Banff townsite, or explore at your own pace, I think renting a car is well worth it. That's exactly what Ben and I plan to do after our official group package concludes.