Ice Magic Festival

Experience the beauty of the Alberta in winter, travelling from the charming alpine hamlet of Banff to the frozen shores of magical Lake Louise. On this 6 night journey, you’ll have the chance to observe cold weather wildlife in their natural habitat, ride a sleigh through snowy mountain meadows and visit the world-class Ice Magic Festival, which celebrates the skill of talented ice carvers from around the world.

This is not a group tour but a recommended sample itinerary. We can easily extend or shorten the itinerary to include more or fewer nights in an area, and can mix and match the accommodation to suit.

7 days/6 nights
Hotels
Departs daily ex Banff
13-23 Jan 2018

Highlights:

  • Experience the magic of winter in Alberta
  • Visit the pretty alpine hamlets of Banff and Lake Louise
  • Look for cold-adapted native wildlife such as moose and bighorn sheep
  • Ride a sleigh through the snow and be part of the amazing Ice Festival
  • Enjoy picture-perfect landscapes of snow-capped mountains and evergreen forests

Want to find out more about our Canada tours?
Call one of our travel specialists on 1300 363 302.

Ice Magic Festival Tour Sample Itinerary

7 days/6 nights Independent Tour

Days 1-3: Banff
Arrive at Calgary airport where you are met and transferred to your cosy, contemporary hotel, steps from the quaint streets and vibrant nightlife of downtown Banff. The next day, take a half-day tour of Banff, visiting local landmarks and learning about its history. You’ll also have the opportunity to scour the World Heritage Site of Banff National Park for deer, bighorn sheep, elk and other distinctive Canadian Rocky Mountains wildlife.

On Day 3, wrap yourself up in warm, woollen blankets and ride a sleigh through a snowy mountain meadow. Take in spectacular views of the surrounding valley and keep your eyes peeled for more native species.

Days 4-6: Lake Louise
Transfer by coach to your historic chateau-style luxury hotel on the shores of Lake Louise. If you arrive early, take advantage of the hotel facilities or explore the natural playground that surrounds the property. It’s possible to ski, snowboard, take a snowmobile tour or even go ice skating.

On Day 5, enjoy a fun-filled day at the Ice Magic Festival, where you’ll have the chance to admire the works of talented ice carvers from all over the world. Ask questions, watch the artists at work and take as many photos as your heart desires.

The whole of Day 6 is yours to experience the many activities and attractions Lake Louise has to offer.

Day 7: Tour ends Calgary
Bid farewell to the Rocky Mountains as you transfer by coach to Calgary, where your holiday concludes.

Canada Overview

Why Canada?: Spanning the top of north America from the Pacific to the Atlantic, this huge country offers majestic scenery, unspoiled wilderness and incredible wildlife and adventure opportunities. At the same time Canada is a modern country with sophisticated cities, world class accommodation and excellent rail, road and air network.

When to Go: From May to September is the best time for cruising and touring in Canada when the weather is at its finest. Temperatures and daylight hours vary depending on latitude, and the coast is more moderate than inland regions which have long hot summers and very cold winters.

Grizzly bear viewing is generally good from June until October and Polar Bear viewing around Churchill is possible from July to November. November to April is the time for winter wonderland experiences, skiing, dog sledding and the Northern Lights.

Combine With: Alaskan holidays like Inside Passage cruising and wildlife viewing. Canada can also be combined with Arctic cruising and ice based adventures.

Getting There: Fly to Vancouver in British Columbia for west coast touring and cruising, or to Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal or Quebec City for eastern Canada.

Canada and Alaska Brochure

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All of our tours are tailor made.

Contact us now to start customising your Canada holiday.

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