Ultimate British Columbia Road Trip: Vancouver to Victoria - 12 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Vancouver (British Columbia), Seaplane Tour, City & Seal Boat Cruise

Welcome to the picturesque coastal city of Vancouver in Canada's westernmost province, British Columbia. Upon arrival at the airport, pick up your rental car and drive to your hotel in the city to check in. When you're ready, you'll discover the city in style in a seaplane departing from Coal Harbour. As the plane gently lifts off from the sparkling waters, you'll be treated to aerial views of the city's iconic skyline, green parks, and surrounding mountains. After 20 minutes in the air, touch down in the harbor and switch to a boat to continue exploring from the water.

Cruise along English Bay and under Lions Gate Bridge, enjoying panoramic views of the coastline and landmarks like Stanley Park with its famous Seawall. Continue to Lighthouse Park, where the iconic Point Atkinson Lighthouse stands tall and a seal colony resides. Watch these charming creatures bask in the sun and play in the waves before cruising back to the city. The return journey takes you into False Creek, home to Granville Island, known for its public market, artisan shops, and theaters. Following the 1.5-hour boat cruise, the rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish.

Day 2: Drive to Kelowna, Visit Summerhill Pyramid Winery

Say goodbye to Vancouver for now as you hit the road on a four-hour drive northeast to Kelowna, a charming city situated on the shores of Okanagan Lake, surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. You won't be bored on the drive as you pass through the Cascade Mountains and lush Okanagan Valley, but if you want to stop anywhere to stretch your legs, consider the municipality of Hope. Known for its provincial parks and historic railway tunnels, you could easily spend a few hours here. Closer to the city, detour around Okanagan Lake to visit the different markets and beaches in Peachland or Summerland.

After refreshing at your hotel, set out to explore more of the area. You could head to Summerhill Pyramid Winery, named after its pyramid-shaped wine cellar, believed to enhance the aging process. Tour the property, enjoying views of the surrounding hills and shimmering lake, and learn about the winery's organic viticulture practices. In the tasting room, you can sample a variety of award-winning wines, including crisp rieslings, rich pinot noirs, and the renowned Cipes Brut sparkling wine. If you're hungry, dine at the on-site restaurant featuring locally sourced ingredients before returning to your hotel.

Day 3: Drive to Banff (Alberta) via Yoho National Park, Sunsets & Stars Walking Tour

After a restful night in Kelowna, it's time to return to the open road on an epic 6-7-hour drive east to Banff, a charming town in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Traverse the rolling hills and forests of the Thompson River Valley and drive along the Trans-Canada Highway through Glacier National Park, where you can marvel at the towering peaks. As you near the British Columbia-Alberta border, stretch your legs in Yoho National Park. Known for its lush forests and waterfalls, consider pausing at Emerald Lake or Takakkaw Falls for a worthwhile snapshot of the natural beauty.

Back in the car, drive for one more hour to get to your hotel in Banff. In the evening, you'll go on a sunset and stars walking tour within Banff National Park. See the sun dip below the horizon, transforming the sky into hues of orange, pink, and gold, then follow your guide down a 3.5-mile (5 km) trail lit only by your headlamps, trying to spot nocturnal creatures like owls, coyotes, and foxes. Don't forget to look up to see the sky full of stars uninterrupted by city lights. After two hours of exploring the national park and admiring the stars, transfer back to your hotel.

Day 4: Self-Guided Hike, Ride the Banff Gondola, Evening Wildlife Safari

Lace up your hiking boots and start your day with a self-guided trek in Banff National Park. There are plenty of trails to choose from depending on your interests and activity level, but if you're looking for an easy option, Johnston Canyon has well-maintained paths featuring sturdy catwalks and bridges to take you to picturesque waterfalls. Those who want a moderate trek can drive 40 minutes to Lake Louise to hike to the historic Lake Agnes Tea House. The hike to the Plain of Six Glaciers also begins at Lake Louise if you want more of a challenge.

In the afternoon, take a ride up Sulphur Mountain on the Banff Gondola. As you ascend, you'll be treated to panoramic views of towering mountain peaks, lush alpine meadows, and sparkling glacial lakes. At the summit, visit the Interpretive Centre to learn about the area's natural history and geology. Go for a stroll around the surrounding boardwalks or scenic trails for sweeping views, or grab a bite to eat at the mountaintop restaurant's outdoor patio.

 

Return to the national park in the evening for a wildlife safari led by an expert naturalist. As the sun descends behind the peaks and the temperature cools, wildlife like elk, deer, moose, and sometimes even bears or wolves emerge from their daytime hideouts to forage or roam. Your guide will drive you along paved roads carefully chosen to maximize your chances of encountering wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled. They'll also teach you about the park's conservation efforts to protect these incredible animals and their natural habitats. After spending two hours in the park, transfer back to your hotel. 

Day 5: Drive to Kamloops (British Columbia), Explore the City at Leisure

Bid farewell to Banff this morning as you start the 5-6-hour drive west to Kamloops, nestled amid rolling hills and the confluence of the North and South Thompson rivers. Leave the Canadian Rockies behind, then traverse the expansive plains of British Columbia's interior, where rolling hills and fertile valleys dominate the scenery. Along the way, notable stops include the picturesque town of Golden, nestled amid the Columbia Valley's mountainous terrain, and Revelstoke, renowned for its historic railway heritage and scenic vistas. 

When you arrive, check into your hotel, then enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace. You could enjoy a walk through Riverside Park or go golfing at one of the many courses, such as Tobiano Golf Course. Those who want a more relaxing day can book a wine tour at a local winery, like Monte Creek Winery, known for its scenic vineyards and tasting rooms. Finally, if you want to learn more about the city's history and culture, visit the Kamloops Museum and Archives. In the evening, stroll through the historic downtown core to shop and find a restaurant for dinner.

Day 6: Drive to Whistler, Ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola

Today, you continue your journey four hours west to Whistler, an alpine village nestled in the Coast Mountains. Traverse the rolling hills and ranchlands along the Trans-Canada Highway, passing through charming towns like Cache Creek and Lillooet, where the landscape transitions from arid plateau to rugged mountains. As you approach Pemberton, the scenery opens up to sweeping views of the Coast Mountains. When you arrive, head to the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which holds the Guinness World Record for the longest unsupported cable car span in the world.

Aptly named, the gondola connects Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain, so you can choose to depart at either peak. Glide 2.7 miles (4.4 km) across the sky, looking out at snowcapped peaks, dense forests, and alpine meadows. If you want to take advantage of the snow, the Blackcomb terminal is best for skiing or snowboarding. If you're visiting in summer and want to go hiking, end at the Whistler Mountain terminal to access trails like the Harmony Lake Loop. From here, you can also walk across the Cloudraker Skybridge, one of the world's highest and longest suspension bridges.

Day 7: Drive to Horseshoe Bay, Ferry to Nanaimo, Drive to Tofino

Leave the mainland behind today as you drive 1.5 hours south along the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway to Horseshoe Bay, where you can drive onto a ferry to Vancouver Island. After 1.5 hours, you'll arrive in Nanaimo on the east coast. From there, you'll drive three hours across the island to Tofino, known for its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and laid-back surf culture. Following the long drive, spend the rest of the day relaxing at the hotel or on the sandy shores of Chesterman Beach. In the evening, find a nearby restaurant to indulge in fresh seafood paired with a local craft beer.

Day 8: Kayak Tour in Clayoquot Sound, Visit Maquinna Marine Provincial Park

Start your day with a remote kayaking tour through the quiet waters of Clayoquot Sound, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve home to secluded coves, rugged coastlines, and temperate rainforests. Enjoy a scenic 25-minute boat ride from the marina to a floating dock in the heart of the reserve, where you can complete a safety briefing and board your single or double kayak. Paddle through the calm waters to discover the narrow channels and small islands. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like harbor seals, sea otters, and orcas in the water or bald eagles soaring overhead. 

After the 4.5-hour tour, your day is free, so you could head to Maquinna Marine Provincial Park to unwind in the hot springs. To get there, take a 20-minute seaplane or board a 1.5-hour boat. Then, disembark and follow the 0.9-mile (1.5 km) boardwalk trail through an old-growth forest to reach the springs, where you can choose from seven natural geothermal rock pools, each one gradually cooling as you near the ocean. Soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters while you listen to the waves crashing against the shoreline before returning to Tofino.

Day 9: Drive to Victoria, Visit the Butchart Gardens

Trade the west coast of the island for the south today as you drive five hours to Victoria, the vibrant capital of British Columbia. Drive through the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, where dense rainforests meet the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean. Then, take an optional detour in the charming coastal town of Ucluelet, known for its pristine beaches and hiking trails, or Port Alberni, for a walk along the historic waterfront. After you cross over the island's mountain range, the final leg of your journey will bring you into the capital.

Once you've freshened up at your hotel, explore the city on your own or drive 30 minutes to the Butchart Gardens, established in 1904 in a former limestone quarry. Spend a relaxing couple of hours strolling the colossal grounds that showcase various floral displays in themed gardens, like the Japanese Garden or Rose Garden. Pause to admire the ornate fountains and sculptures or catch a breather in one of the serene gazebos. Treat yourself to afternoon tea in the on-site restaurant, and then return to the city for dinner and drinks along the waterfront. 

Day 10: Downtown Food & City Tour, Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure

You may want to skip breakfast this morning to save your appetite for today's food and city tour. Start with a light snack at the Steamship Terminal, then stroll along Victoria's harbor and learn the history of the Fairmont Empress and Legislative Assembly of British Columbia. Pause at seven foodie locations to sample an array of specialties, like halloumi and kale salad, Korean corn dogs, local cheeses, and artisan wine. You'll end the tour with a local dessert of decadent chocolate and fresh macarons.

With a full belly, head to the harbor for a whale watching tour. Board a sturdy Zodiac boat and set sail for the Salish Sea in search of orcas, humpback whales, and other marine creatures in their natural habitat. The open design of the Zodiac allows for close-up views and unparalleled agility, so the captain can navigate swiftly to where the action is. Make sure you always have your camera ready, as you never know what will pop up above water. After spending three hours searching for marine animals, cruise back to the harbor and enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants overlooking the water. 

Day 11: Drive to Vancouver, Self-Guided Visit to Granville Island

Your penultimate day in Canada takes you back to your starting point, Vancouver. Drive 30 minutes to the Swartz Bay Terminal, where you'll board a 1.5-hour ferry to Tsawwassen Terminal on the mainland. From there, it's a 50-minute drive to Vancouver, where you can enjoy some free time to explore more of the city. A good place to start is Granville Island, accessible by driving or taking a scenic ferry ride. Stroll the Granville Island Public Market to browse the stalls filled with gourmet delicacies such as local cheeses, freshly baked goods, and artisanal chocolates.

Explore the island's thriving art scene next by browsing the galleries and studios that showcase everything from pottery and glassblowing to painting and jewelry. Take a stroll along the waterfront promenade dotted with outdoor patios and street performers, then rent a kayak to paddle along the creek and admire the city's skyline. In the evening, eat at one of the restaurants overlooking the water or head to Gastown, the city's historic district. Grab a bite to eat at one of the trendy restaurants, and don't forget to stop at the Gastown Steam Clock, which chimes every 15 minutes.

Day 12: Visit Vancouver's Chinatown, Depart

Your 12-day road trip across British Columbia is drawing to a close today, but why not spend your last few hours in Vancouver exploring one of North America's largest Chinatowns? Wander through the narrow streets lined with traditional Chinese shops, herbal medicine stores, and souvenir shops. Stop in the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden or sample Asian delicacies, like steaming dim sum or handmade dumplings, before dropping off your rental car at the airport in time to catch your flight home. Safe travels!