Calgary Stampede and the Rockies

Step into the spirit of the Wild West with an unforgettable journey centred around the world-famous Calgary Stampede, one of Canada’s most iconic and exhilarating events. This vibrant itinerary places the Stampede at its heart, immersing you in the excitement of championship rodeo events, lively celebrations, and the unmistakable energy that transforms Calgary each summer.

Experience the thrill of daytime rodeo competitions and the spectacle of the evening Grandstand show, as the city comes alive with parades, live music, street entertainment, and true Western hospitality. From the buzz of Stampede Park to the festive atmosphere throughout the city, this is a celebration unlike any other.

After the excitement of the Stampede, escape into the serene beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Journey to the alpine town of Banff, where towering mountain peaks, pristine landscapes, and soothing hot springs provide the perfect contrast to Calgary’s high-energy festivities. With guided sightseeing, scenic experiences, and time at leisure, you’ll discover the natural wonders that make this region so unforgettable.

Combining iconic Canadian celebrations with stunning mountain scenery, this journey offers a perfect balance of excitement and relaxation.

What Should I Know About the Calgary Stampede?

The Calgary Stampede is one of Canada’s most iconic events, celebrated each July with rodeos, parades, live entertainment, and festival activities throughout the city. Advance booking is recommended for popular events such as the rodeo and evening Grandstand show, which can sell out quickly.

The Stampede is family-friendly, with attractions for all ages, and many visitors enjoy embracing the Western spirit by wearing cowboy hats or boots. Hotels and transport can be busier during this period, so we plan your itinerary to ensure smooth access to events and provide guidance on the best ways to get around.

Is this a Private Tour or a Group Tour?

All of our Canada tours are private, tailor-made itineraries, designed around your preferences. We can adjust every element to suit your interests, pace, and travel style. This particular Canada trip includes flights, accommodation, and car rental (where applicable). Many of our Canada tours also includes excursions.

What are the Departure Dates?

Since this is a private trip, there are no set departure dates. Let us know your preferred dates of travel, and we’ll find the best flights to fit your itinerary.

We can advise on the best times to visit each region of Canada — from the snowy peaks of the Rockies to the coastal beauty of British Columbia or the vibrant cities of the east. We’ll also guide you on when to avoid peak tourist seasons or when travel conditions may be affected by weather.

Which Airlines do you use?

We work with all major airlines flying to Canada. Depending on your departure city, we typically suggest carriers such as Air Canada, British Airways, or WestJet.

If you have a preferred airline or route, just let us know. We can also arrange flights from any regional UK airport. There are direct flights from the UK to several Canadian hubs, including Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, and Montreal.

Which Hotels do you use?

We carefully select hotels based on location, style, and quality, but we are guided by your preferences. We specialise in boutique hotels, charming historic properties, and smaller luxury hotels where available.

In major cities like Vancouver, Toronto, or Montreal, hotel rooms can sometimes be compact and modern in style. If you prefer larger rooms, heritage properties, or a specific ambience, we’ll tailor our recommendations accordingly. In more rural areas such as the Rockies or Vancouver Island, we can suggest beautiful lodges, cabins, and nature resorts that bring you closer to Canada’s stunning landscapes.

Please note that many hotels in Canada charge resort or facility fees covering amenities such as Wi-Fi, fitness centres, or pools. We try to include these in our pricing wherever possible, but as policies vary, we’ll confirm details at the time of booking.

Car Rental & Driving in Canada

Many of our itineraries include car rental, allowing you to explore Canada’s vast landscapes at your own pace, but there are a few practical points to note:

• One-way fees: Some itineraries involve picking up a car in one city and dropping it off in another. One-way fees can apply, depending on the rental company and locations. We will try to include these where possible.

• Parking: City hotels may charge for parking, and rates can vary. We will guide you on likely costs.

• Insurance & Navigation: We can advise on the best insurance coverage and suggest GPS or app-based navigation for ease of travel.

• Driver Requirements: A valid driver’s licence is required.

Ask us for more details so you can plan your trip with confidence.

Isn’t Canada expensive?

Canada offers a wide range of experiences to suit different budgets — from luxury lodges and scenic rail journeys to comfortable mid-range hotels and affordable self-drive adventures. We plan your trip to balance value and comfort, helping you get the most out of your accommodation, transport, and excursions.

Many of our itineraries include car rental, which gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. There’s plenty to see and do without spending much, from scenic drives and hiking trails to charming small towns and local markets.

Entrance fees to national parks, museums, or attractions are generally reasonable but vary by location. Private guided trips can be more expensive, but there are also plenty of small-group options available, which allow you to enjoy expert guidance while keeping costs manageable. We can mix and match this to suit your itinerary. Dining in Canada can suit every budget, from cosy diners and casual cafés to gourmet restaurants and farm-to-table eateries

Calgary

Known as the “Gateway to the Rockies,” Calgary is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends Western heritage with modern urban energy. Towering skyscrapers define its skyline, while tree-lined streets, lively neighbourhoods, and the scenic Bow River offer a contrasting sense of space and nature.

Calgary is world-famous for the Calgary Stampede, an annual celebration of rodeo, music, and Western culture that transforms the city each July into a festival of energy and excitement. Beyond the Stampede, the city boasts a dynamic arts scene, with galleries, museums, and live performance venues alongside a diverse culinary landscape featuring everything from local craft cuisine to international flavours.

Stroll through districts like Stephen Avenue, Inglewood, or Kensington, or take a riverside walk along the Bow River pathway for a mix of culture, history, and urban charm. 

View Itinerary in Detail

To view a sample holiday, click on one of the links below. This will open the itinerary up in a new window.

All of our Canada Holidays are completely tailor made and we can put together any kind of itinerary to suit your interests and budget.

We have many other options so if you have a particular hotel in mind just let us know and we'll put together a price and itinerary for you.