Agatha Christie in Canada

Day 1 - Arrive in Victoria

Arrive in Victoria and make your way to the Fairmont Empress for your 3-night stay. Victoria is where Agatha began her Canada adventure with a stay at the Empress overlooking Victoria Harbour.

Day 2 - Whale Watching Experience

Today, enjoy your morning at leisure before taking part in a spectacular whale watching experience. Experience the majesty of the Salish Sea and its wildlife, from whales surfacing in unison to bald eagles soaring overhead. Cut through the Strait of Juan de Fuca's currents in search of orcas and humpback whales, and listen to our marine mammal experts bring the animals? stories to life from downtown Victoria. The vessel features a main interior cabin that is heated and includes comfortable seating next to windows. The upper deck is open and covered seating for guests that want to view from outside. A snack bar is serving light food with hot and cold drinks available for purchase, the revenue generated is donated to Wild ARC Foundation to assist in rehabilitating sick and injured wildlife.

Day 3 - Victoria

Enjoy a day at leisure to explore Victoria, speak to your consultant if you wish to add on one of our Victoria experiences including Butchart Gardens. 

Day 4 - Victoria to Vancouver

Today transfer from Victoria to Vancouver. Driving north to Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal for a for a 90-minute sail through the serene beauty of the Gulf Islands waterways and historic shipping channels. Marine wildlife sightings from the outdoor ship decks are common, especially eagles, sea lions and whales. Onboard BC Ferries enjoy the scenery of the Gulf Islands as you cross the Strait of Georgia. All South Coast ferries facilities include restaurants, cafes, indoor lounges with large viewing windows, and a large outdoor viewing deck to take in the BC Coastal Island views.

Spending the remainder of your day in Vancouver at leisure.

Day 5 - Vancouver City Highlights

Experience the best of Vancouver, on this insightful city tour. 

Prepare to experience the unique history and unfolding splendour as you tour through the modern streets of Vancouver. Drive by the most renowned sights and learn how Vancouver became the city it is today. Situated on the edge of the Pacific Ocean and framed by British Columbia's imposing mountains, it's easy to fall in love with this astonishing city. Drive through historic neighbourhoods such as Gastown, Chinatown, scenic English Bay and the picturesque Vancouver Harbour. Stops in Stanley Park feature Indigenous Peoples' Totem Poles, spectacular views of the mountains and the Lions Gate Bridge. Also includes the opportunity to wander through the charming farmer's market at Granville Island.

Day 6 - Rocky Mountaineer - Vancouver to Kamlopps

Board Rocky Mountaineer in the urban oasis of Vancouver and journey through the farmlands of the Fraser Valley. From fertile greenery, the landscape transforms to the towering peaks of the Coast Mountains. You’ll see the mighty Fraser River and the raging white waters of Hell’s Gate. The train will slow to fully appreciate this narrow canyon where the volume of water rushing through is about three times greater than Niagara Falls. Then, the landscape undergoes another transformation and you’ll find yourself amid scrub brush and desert. You will pull in to overnight at a hotel in the city of Kamloops.

Hotel in Kamloops is provided by Rocky Mountaineer. 

Day 7 - Rocky Mountaineer - Kamloops to Banff

Now your venture into the heart of the mountains begins in earnest. Continuing east along the South Thompson River, you’ll witness historic Craigellachie. This spot marks where the Last Spike was driven home on the Canadian Pacific Railway line, uniting the nation. You’ll marvel at man’s ingenuity as Rocky Mountaineer enters the Spiral Tunnels, bored through solid rock beneath a mountain over a century ago. You’ll gaze in wonder at cascading waterfalls and icy glaciers spilling over the lips of the peaks above, on your way to the charming alpine town of Banff and the brilliant waters of Lake Louise. All of this craggy wilderness is yours to embrace, from the comfort of your luxurious Rocky Mountaineer coach.

The Fairmont Banff Springs is a historic building and one of the few Grand Railway Hotels in Canada still standing. Originally built in 1887 by the Canadian Pacific Railway it's one of the grand hotels Agatha would have seen on her travels.

Day 8 - Discover Banff & Wildlife with Gondola

This small group tour is the perfect introduction to Banff and includes some of Banff's most scenic and historically significant highlights such as the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, Bow Falls, Surprise Corner Lookout, and Banff's largest lake, Lake Minnewanka. Plus, enjoy hot chocolate or fresh water (depending on the time of year) and maple cookies at one of the scenic stops. You'll then be transported to the base of Sulphur Mountain and ride the Banff Gondola to the top at 7,486 feet. At the summit, marvel at the unsurpassed view of Banff, the Bow Valley and a 360-degree view of six scenic mountain ranges. You'll feel like you're on top of the world when you are standing on the spacious main level observation deck. After your download on the Banff Gondola, the guide will transport you back to your Banff hotel. It's a great tour for seeing wildlife, so don't forget your camera!

Day 9 - Banff Cowboy Cookout

Enjoy a relaxed morning at your leisure perhaps treat yourself to a traditional afternoon tea at the Fairmont, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

This evening, we’ve included the unforgettable Cowboy Cookout experience, offering a taste of Western life in the heart of Banff. Saddle up for a scenic horseback ride along the base of Sulphur Mountain, breathing in the fresh mountain air as you make your way to 3 Mile Cabin near Sundance Canyon Trail.

Here, you’ll enjoy a hearty BBQ dinner while your guides prepare your meal over an open fire. Try your hand at calf roping or join a friendly game of horseshoes before your return ride along the tranquil banks of the Bow River.

Day 10 - Banff to Ottawa

Transfer from Banff to Calgary Airport for your onward flight to Ottawa.

Upon arrival in Ottawa check into your Ottawa hotel spending the remainder of your day exploring Canada's capital.

Day 11 - Explore Ottawa

We have included the Hop on Hop off Bus to help you explore the city. Experience Ottawa's original and most comprehensive Hop-on-Hop-off City Tour aboard one of our London Style open top Double Deckers or turn of the century Trolleys. Tour officially starts on the corner of Sparks and Elgin Streets, however one can hop on at any of over 12 stops located throughout the National Capital Region. Your ticket is valid for 24 hours, which allows you to tour our Nation's Capital at your own pace, or join us for a two hour fully narrated tour. Highlights: Parliament Hill, Canadian Museum of Civilization, Notre Dame Basilica, Rideau Hall, RCMP Museum and Stables, Canadian Aviation Museum Byward Market.

We recommend a visit to the National Gallery, where both historical and contemporary artworks are beautifully showcased. Explore Canada’s rich cultural heritage through the Indigenous galleries, and don’t miss the impressive collection of European masterpieces, the largest in the country.

Day 12 - End of Tour

Today marks the end of your journey through Canada, following in the footsteps of Agatha Christie’s 1922 adventure. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward flight home. If you’d like to extend your stay in Canada, feel free to speak with your consultant to explore additional options.