Walking Canada’s Sunshine Coast

9 days
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Self-Guided / Independent Tour
Tucked into the southwest corner of mainland British Columbia, this 180km stretch of paradise is lovingly known as the Sunshine Coast. Only accessible by plane or boat, this extraordinary shoreline stretches from Howe Sound to Desolation Sound. You'll become immersed in vibrant communities, reconnect with nature, and enjoy spectacular scenery as you explore t...
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Overview

Trip type
Self-Guided / Independent Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star

Highlights

    • Reconnect with nature as you explore this captivating coastline at your own pace
    • Sweeping ocean vistas and woodland creeks with rare flora and fauna
    • Stay in remarkable waterfront retreats, surrounded by beauty and tranquillity
    • Add on a 5 night rail journey through the Rockies with the unforgettable Rocky Mountaineer
    • Add on 3 or 4 nights at the incredibly unique, Indigenous Klahoose Wilderness Resort

What's this trip about?

    Tucked into the southwest corner of mainland British Columbia, this 180km stretch of paradise is lovingly known as the Sunshine Coast. Only accessible by plane or boat, this extraordinary shoreline stretches from Howe Sound to Desolation Sound. You'll become immersed in vibrant communities, reconnect with nature, and enjoy spectacular scenery as you explore this inspiring coastline which remains under the radar - for now! With rugged mountains bordering these beautiful inlets, on foot is truly the best way to uncover the Sunshine Coast's hidden gems. Walking trails are plentiful and incredibly varied, from majestic forests and mountains to sweeping ocean vistas, you're spoilt for choice. The area is rich with fauna and flora, home to black bears, cougars, and wolves, as well as many species of interesting plants, flowers, and berries. Your accommodation is equally as unique and beautiful as the Sunshine Coast itself. Set in tranquil, waterfront locations, these remarkable resorts are fantastic hideaways, surrounded by nature and often with paddleboards or kayak rental should you wish to explore the nearby waters. Add On - Rocky Mountaineer: Embark on an unforgettable rail journey through the spectacular Canadian Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer. Begin or end in Vancouver or Banff and visit Kamloops on this legendary 'First Passage to the West' adventure. You can choose between Silver Leaf or Gold Leaf Service which will also determine which high-quality hotels you'll stay in. Silver Leaf offers a single-level glass-dome coach, full glass-dome windows, outdoor viewing area, a delicious breakfast and lunch served in the comfort of your seat, and complimentary beverages and snacks. Gold Leaf offers a bi-level glass-dome coach, oversized glass-dome windows, a large, exclusive outdoor viewing platform, a gourmet breakfast and lunch served in a lower-level dining room, and complimentary beverages and snacks. A National Parks Pass is included with both Silver & Gold Leaf. Please see itinerary for more information. Add On - Klahoose Wilderness Resort: This is a once in a lifetime experience like no other. Incredibly unique, Klahoose Wilderness Resort is an immersive, Indigenous cultural experience which reflects the Klahoose people's traditional values and explores the pristine region within the heart of Desolation Sound, British Columbia. Only accessible by boat or seaplane, this off-grid resort sits between the Coast Mountain Peaks of the Sunshine Coast and the Salish Sea, on the edge of BC's Great Bear Rainforest. Rich in diverse wildlife, you'll take part in immersive marine and terrestrial viewings to see Orca Whales, Humpback Whales, Porpoises, Dolphins, Sealions, Seals, and Eagles. From late August to mid-October, you can also join Grizzly Bear viewing tours in Toba Inlet. There are many other activities included in your stay: Guided Indigenous cultural activities and excursions, cedar weaving, sea kayaking, stand up-paddle boarding, ocean swimming, woodfire cedar sauna, rainforest nature walks, campfires and dark sky gazing, and ocean and forest foraging. You'll stay in a stunning waterfront lodge for 3 or 4 nights. Everything is included, accommodation in a lodge room or cabin, all meals, transfers, and activities. With a typical stay of around 12 guests, your experience is small and personal. Your friendly lodge hosts are local guides from the Klahoose Nation who take pride in providing an extremely personalised service as they welcome you into their traditional Klahoose Nation territory. Please see itinerary for more information. Combine all three: Take the trip of a lifetime beginning with our 8-night walking tour of Walking Canada's Sunshine Coast', followed by a truly unique 3 or 4-night stay at Klahoose Wilderness Resort! Return to Vancouver to end with an unforgettable 5-night Rocky Mountaineer rail journey from Vancouver to Banff. We recommend returning home from Calgary airport (approx. 1.5hrs from Banff). Please enquire for prices.Walk the beautiful Sunshine Coast

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeSmall Group - 24 max
Age range12 years and up
Flights and transportN/A
Start CityVancouver
End CityVancouver

Travel Themes

  • Hiking & Walking

Destinations

  • North America

Attractions

  • Banff
  • Vancouver

Activities

  • Hiking

Trip includes

    • 8 nights in unique accommodation
    • All breakfasts
    • Management by your local Headwater-appointed agent
    • Headwater navigation app
    • Rental car for 9 days
    • Ferries as per itinerary (x4 included)

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive in Vancouver

Upon your arrival at Vancouver International Airport, you'll collect your rental car and drive to your first hotel in Vancouver to rest up before beginning your walking trip (approx. 30mins). Overnight Fairmont Hotel, Vancouver.

Day 2 Around Gibsons, Sechelt & Roberts Creek

Drive to Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal (approx. 1h) for your ferry to Gibsons (45mins). Check in to your accommodation before heading out on your first Sunshine Coast walk. There are many walks to choose from throughout the week, these are some of our favourites. Choi...

Day 3 Mount Elphinstone Summit Trail

Walk along Mount Elphinstone Summit Trail (12.5km), one of the highest peaks on the lower Sunshine Coast. Through forest, you'll follow the coloured markers as you climb along the ridge with glimpses of Langdale creek down below. From the summit, you'll be rewarded with expansive views to Vancouver, Gibsons, Bowen Island, and much of Howe Sound. Overnight Shades of Jade Inn & Spa, Gibsons.

Day 4 Around Gibsons, Sechelt & Roberts Creek

Choice of walks in Gibsons (2.7km/2km), Sechelt (8km/3km), and Roberts Creek (10.3km). Explore lush fern valleys, powerful waterfalls, mossy canyons, and alpine lakes across these incredibly varied walks. Overnight Shades of Jade Inn & Spa, Gibsons.

Day 5 Madeira Park & Halfmoon Bay

Choice of walks in Madeira Park (1.8km/2.5km/4.4km) and Halfmoon Bay (4.2km/7.6km). Visit the rocky outcrop of Smugglers Cove, loop around a forest lake, or visit the Garden Bay Marine Provincial Park with a protected archaeological site. Overnight Painted Boat Resort & Spa, Madeira Park.

Day 6 Around Madeira Park & Egmont

Choice of walks in Madeira Park (1.8km/2.5km/4.4km) and Egmont (7.5km). Embark on a scenic beach walk to a small lighthouse with an arbutus tree grove or take a forested walk to a rocky outcrop with views of the changing tidal waters, creating unique rapids and whirlpools. Overnight Painted Boat Resort & Spa, Madeira Park.

Day 7 Around Powell River

Take the ferry from Earls Cove to Saltery Bay (1h), then drive to Powell River (approx. 30mins). After arriving on the ferry, we'd recommend a favourite walk amongst Powell River locals. As part of the renowned Sunshine Coast Trail, this relatively easy trail follows...

Day 8 Around Powell River

Choice of walks in Powell River (14.5km/18.3km). Enjoy a gentle trail through the forest with spots to swim or embark on a longer trail up Tin Hat Mountain to an iconic viewpoint and hut that sits at the halfway point of the Sunshine Coast long-distance trail. Tin Hat...

Day 9 Around Lund. Return to Gibsons & Vancouver

Choice of walks in Lund (4.5km/8.7km/10.4km). Wind your way through vibrant forest with views of Okeover Inlet and the Salish Sea. Another walk takes you to the mossy rainforest of Malaspina Provincial Park and Wednesday Lake or follow a picturesque trail along the co...

Day 10 Optional Extensions - Klahoose Wilderness Resort and/or Rocky Mountaineer

Klahoose Wilderness Resort: Add on 3 or 4 nights at the incredibly unique, Klahoose Wilderness Resort. This is a once in a lifetime Indigenous cultural experience, reflecting the Klahoose people's traditional values and exploring the diverse wildlife of Desolation Sou...

Day 11 Optional Extension - Rocky Mountaineer

Day 2 - Enjoy the day with free time to relax or book your own activities at your leisure. Vancouver has activities for all interests, including visiting historic Gastown or dining in lively Yaletown. No matter what you choose to do, the Coast Mountains and the Pacific Ocean surround you. Overnight Vancouver.

Day 12 Optional Extension - Rocky Mountaineer

Day 3 - Travel onboard Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Kamloops, located in the heart of British Columbia. You'll see dramatic changes in scenery, from the lush green fields of Fraser Valley, through forests and winding river canyons surrounded by the peaks of the...

Day 13 Optional Extension - Rocky Mountaineer

Day 4 - Continue east towards the mighty Canadian Rockies and the province of Alberta. Cross rocky lakeshores, over high mountain passes and through remarkable tunnels that form part of the rich rail history of the Rockies. Today's highlights include Craigellachie, wh...

Day 14 Optional Extension - Rocky Mountaineer

Day 5 - Enjoy a free day in Banff where you can take the gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain, relax in the hot springs, or book an excursion into the great outdoors. Overnight Banff.

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Dates & Availability

Price From $4,085
Price per day$454
Last Updated: 5/3/2024
Start Date
Finish Date
Double Standard
Availability
19 May 2024
27 May 2024
$4,085
8 spots left
20 May 2024
28 May 2024
$4,085
8 spots left
21 May 2024
29 May 2024
$4,085
8 spots left
22 May 2024
30 May 2024
$4,085
8 spots left
23 May 2024
31 May 2024
$4,085
8 spots left
24 May 2024
01 Jun 2024
$4,085
8 spots left
25 May 2024
02 Jun 2024
$4,085
8 spots left
26 May 2024
03 Jun 2024
$4,085
8 spots left
27 May 2024
04 Jun 2024
$4,085
8 spots left
28 May 2024
05 Jun 2024
$4,085
8 spots left

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Exodus Travels.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Exodus Travels Reviews & Ratings

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Tour Operator

Exodus Travels

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It is all about adventure. That is what Exodus was founded upon and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on.

At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved.

This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday.

Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments.

All our office staff have a passion for travel and adventure, and between us we’ve notched up experience that spans 171 different countries. That’s not all. In their former lives, our team members have been professional archaeologists, wildlife guides, overland drivers, mountain leaders, diving and ski specialists and mountain bike gurus – so no-one is better placed to create tours that appeal to a wide range of specialist interests.

Their care in putting all the details in place really shines through too. Extensive planning, research, fact-finding and training are a sign of our commitment to providing a holiday where your enjoyment, value for money and safety come first. It’s a telling reason why we remain one of the leading worldwide adventure tour companies. It is no exaggeration to say that our tour leaders can make a world of difference to the enjoyment of your holiday – so we choose them carefully. The result is that, in 2013, 93% of our clients stated that their leader exceeded their expectations. Where possible, we train and employ local leaders because they can provide invaluable insights that enrich the trip. What’s more, this investment in local staff really helps us benefit both them and their community.

Why we love this operator
With a huge range of trip styles and themes, they cater to basically every type of traveler out there- even those with super specific interests.
What they’re known for
Global trips to both classic and exotic destinations with a focus on themed adventures, exciting physical activities and discovery of local culture.

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Logistics

What's excluded

    • Travel insurance
    • Single accommodation (available on request - compulsory supplement)
    • Visas or vaccinations
    • Lunches & dinners
Cancellation policy

The cancellation policies of this trip when booked through Travelstride are determined by the stated policies of the tour operator - Exodus Travels.

If you or any other member of your party decides to cancel a confirmed booking you must notify Travelstride in writing. Your notice of cancellation will only take effect when it is received in writing by Travelstride and will be effective from the date on which we receive it.

If You Cancel Your Holiday
You, or any member of your party, may cancel your travel arrangements at any time. Written notification from the lead name or your travel agent must be received at our offices. 

Since we incur costs in canceling your travel arrangements, you will have to pay cancellation charges as follows (see also the exceptions below): 

  • More than 42 days - No cancellation fee. Deposit can be transferred to a new booking departing within 2 years of date of travel of original booking. Any remaining balance will be refundedThis excludes all non-refundable costs as set out in clause 4 above (for example international and domestic flights and local services).
  • Between 41 and 21 days (inclusive) - No cancellation fee. Balance and deposit can be transferred to a new booking departing within 2 years of date of travel of original bookingThis excludes all non-refundable costs as further explained in clause 4 above (for example international and domestic flights and local services).
  • Between 20 and 15 days (inclusive) - 80% of the holiday cost
  • 14 days or less; or failure to join the holiday (inclusive) - 100% of the holiday cost

Certain trips may involve different cancellation charges; you will be advised if this is applicable to your holiday during the booking process.For Polar holidays, the following cancellation charges will be made for all Polar holidays. Period before departure in which you notify us: 

Cancelation charge

  • More than 133 days - Deposit only
  • 133 days or less (or failure to join the holiday) (inclusive) - 100% of the holiday cost

Notes (i) Your deposit is non-refundable, even if the cancellation charge calculated is lower than the deposit amount paid; (ii) If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges; (iii) certain travel arrangements may be subject to higher cancellation charges and could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements from the moment the booking is confirmed.

If You Change Your Booking

If, after our Booking Confirmation has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, for example your chosen departure date or accommodation, we will do our utmost to make these changes but it may not always be possible. Any request for changes to be made must be in writing from the lead name or your travel agent. You will be asked to pay an administration charge of $60, and any further cost we incur in making this alteration (including those charged by third party suppliers who provide the component parts of your booking).  You should be aware that these costs could increase the closer to the departure date that changes are made and you should contact us as soon as possible. Note: Certain travel arrangements may not be changeable after a reservation has been made and any alteration request could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.

You can transfer your booking to another person, who satisfies all the conditions that apply to this booking, by giving us notice in writing at least 7 days before departure provided that the new lead passenger accepts the transfer and these Terms and Conditions. Both you and the new traveler are responsible for paying all costs we incur in making the transfer. Please bear in mind that certain airlines and other transport providers treat changes as a cancellation and charge accordingly, up to 100% of the cost for that part of the arrangement. Where applicable these charges will be passed on to you.

If We Cancel Your Booking

Exodus reserves the right to cancel an itinerary before departure for any reason whatsoever, including too few participants ,logistical problems, a Force Majeure Event (as defined in Section 8), or any other circumstances that may make operation of the trip inadvisable. All trip payments received will be promptly refunded, and this refund will be the limit of Exodus’s liability without any further obligation on Exodus’s part. Exodus is not responsible for any expenses incurred by trip members in preparing for the trip, including non-refundable or penalty-carrying airline tickets, special clothing, visa or passport fees, or other trip-related expenses.

If We Change Your Booking

  1. Changes to the price. We can change your holiday price after you’ve booked, only in certain circumstances. Changes in the price of the carriage of passengers resulting from changes to the cost of fuel or other power sources, the level of taxes or fees imposed by third parties including tourist taxes, landing taxes or embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports, or exchange rates mean that the price of your travel arrangements may change after you have booked.

  2. Changes other than the price. It is a term of your booking that we are able to make changes to any aspect of your booking. If the change is insignificant, we will ensure that you are notified about it. Examples of insignificant changes include alteration of your accommodation to another of the same or higher standard. If we are forced by circumstances beyond our control to alter significantly any of the main characteristics of the travel services that make up your package you will have the rights set out below.

    2.1 - We will contact you and you will have the choice of accepting the change or having a refund of all monies paid. You can also accept an alternative holiday, where we offer one (we will refund any price difference if the alternative is of a lower value). We will tell you the procedure for making your choice. Please read any notification of changes carefully and respond promptly as if you do not respond to us within the timescale given your booking may be canceled.

    2.2 - If you choose to accept a refund then that is the only liability we have and we will not be liable for any further sums, compensation or otherwise and you are advised to adequately insure yourselves against cancellation for any reason

Please note that insurance premiums and amendments charges are not refundable in any circumstances. 

Once you have put down a deposit for a tour, you are unable to cancel and re-book within a promotional period and we reserve the right to amend the pricing on any new booking you make within that time. If you cancel a tour and book the same tour under a promotional code, we reserve the right to decline the booking.

Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended after they have been confirmed and any alteration or cancellation could incur a cancellation charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements in addition to the charge above.

If the reason for your cancellation is covered under the terms of your insurance policy, you may be able to reclaim these charges.

Where possible, we will deduct the cancellation charge(s) from any monies you have already paid to us.

For more additional details, see the booking conditions of TruTravels at the following web address: https://www.exodustravels.com/us/about-exodus/exodus-booking-conditions.

Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Age Requirements
12 years and up
Additional Information
Trip ID
exodus-W08SC

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