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Canada & Usa Tours and Trips 2024/2025
We offer 26 tours, trips and vacation packages to Canada & Usa supported by 238 customer reviews. Our handpicked Canada & Usa package tours and trip packages are delivered by qualified local and international tour operators.
26 Trips in Canada & Usa with 238 Reviews
- Starts Toronto, Canada
- Ends Montreal, Canada
Indulgence in Eastern Canada
- Best price guaranteed
- No booking fees
- Tour Type Group Tour
- Activities Explorer & Luxury
- Accommodation Hotel & Luxury Hotel
- Transport Coach & Boat
- Age Range 5-99 yrs
- Operated in English
- May 18 10+ seats left
- Jun 15 10+ seats left
- View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019
- Ends Toronto, Canada
Essence of Eastern Canada
- Activities Explorer & Adventure
- Accommodation Hotel
- Transport Coach
- Brochure Price: US$ 1,550
- Special Deal (20%): - US$ 317
- Total Price from: US$ 1,233
- May 04 10+ seats left
- May 11 Only 5 seats left
- Ends Washington D.C., USA
Best of Eastern Canada & USA
- Accommodation Hotel & Resort
- Brochure Price: US$ 6,816
- Special Deal (15%): - US$ 1,022
- Total Price from: US$ 5,794
- May 19 Only 5 seats left
- Jun 02 10+ seats left
- Starts Boston, USA
- Ends Vancouver, Canada
Grand Canadian
- Activities National parks & Waterfalls
- Accommodation Hotel, Lodge & Resort
- Transport Boat, Coach, Train & Flight
- Age Range 18-35 yrs
- Brochure Price: US$ 4,305
- Special Deal (5%): - US$ 200
- Total Price from: US$ 4,105
- May 04 Only 10 seats left
- May 25 Only 10 seats left
- Starts Anchorage, USA
Majestic Alaska
- Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Mountains Natural landmarks sightseeing , Mountains & National parks 'data-more-tripid='22690'>+1 more
- Accommodation Hotel, Resort & Ship Cabin
- Transport Coach, Train, Boat & Private Vehicle
- Brochure Price: US$ 4,595
- Special Deal (7%): - US$ 313
- Total Price from: US$ 4,282
- May 17 10+ seats left
- May 21 Only 9 seats left
- Starts New York, USA
- Ends New York, USA
Discover Eastern US and Canada
- Trip customizable
- Activities Explorer
- Age Range 8-95 yrs
- Apr 20 10+ seats left
- Starts Vancouver, Canada
- Ends Fairbanks, USA
Alaska including the Arctic Circle
- Tour Type Cruise Tour
- Activities Cruise & Expedition tours Cruise , Expedition tours , Polar expeditions and cruise & Explorer 'data-more-tripid='30596'>+2 more
- Accommodation Lodge, Ship Cabin & Resort
- Transport Cruise Ship & Boat
- Age Range 18-99 yrs
- Brochure Price: US$ 5,895
- Special Deal (8%): - US$ 500
- Total Price from: US$ 5,395
- Jun 15 Only 2 seats left
- Aug 03 Only 2 seats left
- Starts Fairbanks, USA
Alaska Discovery Land & Cruise featuring a 7-night Holland America Cruise
- Activities Cruise & Natural landmarks sightseeing
- Accommodation Lodge, Resort, Hotel & Ship Cabin
- Transport Coach, Train & Cruise Ship
- Age Range 1-95 yrs
- Starts Bozeman, USA
- Ends Missoula, USA
Exploring Big Sky Country
- Activities National parks & City sightseeing
- Accommodation Hotel & Lodge
- Transport Boat & Train
- Jun 18 Only 5 seats left
- Jun 25 Only 1 seat left
- Starts Montreal, Canada
- Ends Chicago, USA
Unmissable Canada, Niagara and Chicago
- Transport Bus, Boat & Train
- Age Range 15-99 yrs
- May 01 10+ seats left
- May 08 10+ seats left
- Ends San Francisco, USA
Toronto and Western Classics
- Transport Bus & Boat
- Apr 21 10+ seats left
- May 05 10+ seats left
Canadian Capitals with Chicago and the entire West Coast
- Transport Bus
Unmissable Canada and Western Classics
- Apr 17 10+ seats left
From Montreal to Washington
Canada & usa tour reviews.
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From the jewel-like cities on the east coast to the towering mountain ranges of the west, our Canada tours showcase the culturally diverse cities and natural mountainous beauty of this region.
Eastern Canada
Western canada.
- ITINERARIES
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Welcome to Canada
Canada is a country that feeds the souls of nature lovers and provides a depth of thinking to those culturally curious. From the rock candy mountains of Western Canada, to the sparkling European-flavored capital cities of the east, this is a destination we behold in our roots and continued to be inspired by.
Experiencing the best of eastern canada.
In Canada's eastern provinces, our ninety plus years of experience means introducing you to the breathtaking coastal landscapes of Nova Scotia's Cabot Trail. Or taking a cruise to feel the mists of Niagara Falls. It's about indulging in a Celtic "kitchen party" on Cape Breton Island and a cider tasting in Quebec. It includes rug-making and scallop traditions in the Maritimes, visiting Anne of Green Gables' backyard on Prince Edward Island, an evening at the Citadel in Halifax, and many more regional experiences in Ontario, Quebec and the Maritime Provinces.
Welcome to Western Canada
West and north of Canada's cosmopolitan capital cities lies some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, protected in stunning national parks dressed in jeweled lakes, iced mountains and wilderness playgrounds. Experiencing it with Tauck means stays in grand resorts, eye-opening walks on the wild side, and insights that inspire your daily discoveries. Whether you're exploring an icy glacier, peering at polar bears, flightseeing over the Gulf Islands or taking in the sights by rail, river raft, or from atop a lookout in the Canadian Rockies, Tauck's expert perspectives enrich the view.
Toronto, Ontario
Immersing in the multicultural mix of canada's largest city.
On the northwestern edge of Lake Ontario, Canada's largest city – Toronto, Ontario – offers a vibrant mix of markets, museums, green parks, great food, drink and jazz. With Tauck, a stay at one of the city's most popular hotels puts you at the center of it all...
Traverse the Welland Canal
A marvel of engineering two centuries in the making....
Comprising eight locks that enable ship traffic to travel between Lake Erie and Lake Ontario by bypassing the Niagara River and Niagara Falls, the Welland Canal is a 200-year engineering marvel that actually represents four successive canals. Originally designed and built in the 1820s, a second canal replaced it in the late 1840s, and a third opened in 1887. The construction on the fourth and current Welland Canal – which your ship on "Cruising the Great Lakes" will traverse in about 11 hours, accompanied by an expert guide – began before World War I was not completed until 1932 and expanded some 40 years later.
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Featured River, Small Ship and Land Journeys
A grand journey from the picturesque shores of british columbia to the alpine magic of the rockies... a one-week adventure from nova scotia's maritime pleasures to the inspiration for "anne of green gables"... and a voyage aboard a new small ship designed for cruising the best of the great lakes along with toronto and niagara falls. three journeys that define tauck canada., grand canadian rockies, nova scotia & prince edward island, cruising the great lakes, traveling with tauck, never settle for ordinary.
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Top North America trips
LA to the Bay
The one that breezes through California, National Parks & The Grand Canyon
Boot, Scoot 'N' Blues
The one that has you Rock 'n' Rolling your way through the best of the deep south
Ski & Snowboard
The Powder Rush
The one that sees you carving up the slopes & still have time to explore
Canada and the Rockies
The one that surrounds you with the majestic landscape of the Canadian Rockies, from Vancouver to the Rocky Mountains
Best of USA
The one that takes you through some of the world's most iconic cities, from LA to NYC
Eastern Canada Adventure
The one that explores Canada’s epic eastern cities, picturesque islands and the almighty Niagara Falls
USA Road Trip
The one that ticks the USA's southern superstars off your list - with Nashville, Memphis, the Grand Canyon & more
Grand Canadian
The one that gives you the full Canadian: lush landscapes, mountain treks & epic cities
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Take in the famous Manhattan skyline from The Empire State Building (New York, USA)
The NYC skyline is brimming with iconic sights and no trip to NYC can be complete without a visit to The Empire State Building. The art deco skyscraper situated in the mist of midtown Manhattan will give you some pretty epic views from the top.
Check out the famous island prison of Alcatraz (San Francisco, USA)
Once home to some of America's most notorious criminals, Alcatraz is a must visit when in San Fran. The prison sits on its own remote island and can be visited by a ferry from the mainland where you can learn about the history of this place and how no inmate ever successfully escaped The Rock.
Take a helicopter flight over The Grand Canyon (Nevada, USA)
Just a short ride from Vegas, seeing the Grand Canyon from above is an experience like no other. The wilderness and dramatic scenery will leave you speechless as you see aerial views of the Hoover Dam.
Eat a real Texan steak (Sante Fe, USA)
Think chimichangas, the great American hamburger, frozen margaritas, cheese Enchiladas, breakfast tacos, Chili con Carne and Texan steak! Texas is the place when it comes to getting your serving of classic American food, and you can’t go wrong with Texan steak!
Pay tribute to the king of rock & roll at Graceland (Memphis, USA)
Memphis, the home of The Mississippi River, civil rights history, all things barbeque and … Graceland aka. Elvis Presley’s former hometown. Pay homage to the late and great King of Rock’n’Roll and get up close and personal to his flamboyant jumpsuits and gold records.
Get your brew head on with a brewery tour in Toronto (Toronto, Canada)
Heading to Toronto? A brewery tour needs to be on the cards. With so much beer-related history, a taste of Toronto’s freshly brewed beer is a must.. and it’s a great way to see the city.
Feel the spray as you cruise the base of the Niagara Falls
The world’s second largest waterfall needs no introduction. Be prepared for some spray as you make tracks to the base of Canada’s Niagara Falls. Lift that jaw off the floor...or should we say boat...With 168,000 cubic metres of water thundering over the Falls every minute.
Gaze up at America’s greatest presidents at Mount Rushmore
See the larger than life, majestic figures of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln, surrounded by the beauty of the Black Hills of South Dakota. Carved into the side of Mount Rushmore, this surreal sculpture shows American history in stone.
Dance the night away to jazz & stock up on poutine (Montreal, Canada)
French-speaking Montreal, Canada is a progressive, multicultural power-hub, home to a rich and diverse art scene and a whole load of jazz music. Expect jazz filled festivals, clubs and bars, followed by a midnight poutine snack (French fries, cheese and gravy). Mmmmmmmmm.
Things to do in North America
There is so much to explore across the USA & Canada and endless activities no matter what you're in to. But with so many experiences to choose from, where to begin? Here’s a few of our top picks to get you started….
VIEW ALL NORTH AMERICA TRIPS
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Canada Tours & Vacations
Extraordinary is an understatement when describing Canada. Unforgettable? You’re getting closer.
The changing colors of forested valleys and national parks, the freeze and flow of glacial lakes, the light and shade of the Rockies’ snow-capped mountains – Canada is North America’s natural masterpiece. Summer is for surfing and whale-watching off Vancouver Island and seeing Lake Louise in all its blue-hued glory. Winter is for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in Alberta and soaking in natural hot springs in British Colombia. Whatever the season, you’ll be able to find friendly locals, First Nations cultures, pristine landscapes, and a delicious plate of poutine.
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We run at dawn: Why I lace up in cities while travelling
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Culture and customs.
Canada’s aboriginal communities reside across the country, with the people of the First Nations and the Inuit in the north calling parts of Canada home. Like many indigenous peoples around the world, First Nations communities in Canada have an ongoing struggle to retain and protect their customs and way of life. Modern influences have had adverse impacts on their culture and lifestyle, yet many still actively live and promote a traditional way of life through tribal music, handicrafts, art, and clothing.
Anyone who has been to Canada will know that some aspects of the Canadian stereotype are actually very accurate. Well known for being welcoming, friendly, funny, and adventure-loving, Canadians generally do a good job of living up to their reputation. Large cities like Vancouver are proudly multicultural, and attitudes towards different ways of life are generally quite liberal. This is reflected in the variety of cuisines, shops, and people that occupy the city. Urban and rural residents alike typically remain active and love the outdoors. Hiking, cycling, canoeing, and snowboarding are all popular pastimes across the country.
Canada’s eastern reaches have a decidedly different quality to the west coast and retain much of their colonial heritage. The French-Canadian language, often called Quebecois, is widely spoken, and French-influenced food and music are very popular. Canada’s aboriginal communities reside across the country, with the people of the First Nations and the Inuit in the north calling parts of Canada home. Like many indigenous peoples around the world, First Nations communities in Canada have an ongoing struggle to retain and protect their customs and way of life. Modern influences have had adverse impacts on their culture and lifestyle, yet many still actively live and promote a traditional way of life through tribal music, handicrafts, art, and clothing.
Canada’s eastern reaches have a decidedly different quality to the west coast and retain much of their colonial heritage. The French-Canadian language, often called Quebecois, is widely spoken, and French-influenced food and music are very popular.
History and government
The first nations.
It’s widely accepted that humans first settled in the area that is now Canada around 15,000 years ago, after traveling from what is now known as Russian Siberia. Russia and Northern America are thought to have once been connected by a land bridge until rising sea levels created the Bering Strait. Canada’s first inhabitants were likely hunter-gatherers, and it’s also widely agreed that in around 2500 BC, a second major wave of migration from Siberia brought the ancestors of the Inuit to Canada. In around 1000 BC, Thule communities from Alaska began traveling east into the Canadian Arctic.
By the late 15th century (around the time of European colonization), indigenous communities had spread beyond the Arctic regions to four main areas – the Pacific, the plains (now south-central Canada), the southern Ontario/St Lawrence River area, and the northeast woodlands.
Colonization
Both France and Britain competed fiercely for Canadian territory as colonists searched for mineral riches before establishing a lucrative fur trade. Many First Nations communities were displaced during this period and suffered from food and land shortages. The Treaty of Paris was signed in 1763 after hundreds of years of fighting, officially making Canada a British territory.
Bringing the territories together
Britain appointed governors across Canada to head up each colony, much to the French-speaking territories’ distress. The British North America Act was passed in 1867 and Canada became a self-governing state with a new set of rules. It was an improvement, but still not accepted by all. The priority was to gather all colonies under this one confederation. The iconic ‘Mounties’ were established to bring law and order to the ‘wild west’, which itself created conflict, especially with threatened First Nations peoples. In 1931 Canada was granted relative independence from the British Empire, giving it full legal autonomy and equal standing with England and other Commonwealth countries.
Independence and First Nations' progress
Canada's indigenous communities struggled through the 20th century and were only granted the right to vote in 1960. As discrimination and land rights tensions grew, a Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples called for a complete overhaul of government relations with the Indigenous population. An official Statement of Reconciliation from the Ministry of Indian and Northern Affairs was issued in 1998, which accepted responsibility for past injustices towards indigenous peoples. To this day, progress is still being made towards proper recognition and reconciliation of indigenous peoples in Canada.
Canada is still a member of the Commonwealth but the British monarch retains a purely ceremonial role. The country continues to flourish, with immigration from Europe and Asia leading to increased multiculturalism – more than 20% of Canada’s population was born overseas – while a resource boom has strengthened the economy. Canada is becoming increasingly known as a liberal, tolerant nation thanks to legalized marijuana use, same-sex marriage, universal health care, and some of the most liveable cities in the world.
Top places to visit in Canada
1. canadian rockies.
It’s picture-perfect moments that encapsulate Banff National Park and beyond. Canoe on Lake Louise, take a dog-sledding adventure through Kananaskis Country, learn ice hockey from the pros in Canmore, and take a hike or ice walk through Alberta.
There are so many ways to experience the best of the Canadian Rockies. There's our 7 day Classic Canadian Rockies tour , our 8 day Hiking in the Canadian Rockies trek and our specialty November to March 11 day Canadian Rockies & Northern Lights adventure .
2. Jasper National Park
This section of Canada’s wilderness definitely deserves worldwide acclaim. Discover the seasonal moods of Maligne Lake, hike to the toe of Athabasca glacier, spot a moose or black bear, and get a bird’s-eye view from the scenic Skytram.
Enjoy Jasper National Park up close during our 15 day Canadian Rockies and 10 day Grand Canadian Rockies tour .
3. Sun Peaks
For a next-level Canadian experience, travelers in the know head to Sun Peaks. See this neck of the woods as the 18th-century fur traders did with a canoe trip on Lake McGillivray followed by a hearty four-course meal, all in the style of the 'Voyageurs.'
Explore this history-laden area on our 10 day Grand Canadian Rockies tour .
4. Vancouver
With mountain views from downtown and the perfect summers for strolling along the foreshore, Vancouver has the liveable west-coast vibes most cities dream of. Get among the hip bars in Gastown and hike through the parklands, which are rich in First Nations history.
Vancouver is an incredible city and a perfect spot to start a 12 day Real Canada or 15 day Canadian Rockies adventure .
5. Peace River
You can’t just look around to see Canada’s best – you’ve got to look up. After some ice fishing, take your winter adventure up a notch and discover the dazzling natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights in Peace River on our 11 day Canadian Rockies and Northern Lights tour . Build a campfire, eat s’mores, and keep your fingers crossed that the lights appear in a clear sky.
6. Nova Scotia
Canada's maritime region should really be as famed as its interior parks and cities. One look at the charming seaside villages, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and jaw-dropping landscapes will have you planning your next trip back.
We've picked some of the most memorable locations to visit on our 6 day The Maritimes: Nova Scotia adventure .
7. Newfoundland
A geographic wonderland, the Newfoundland region boasts scenery fit for being the most northeasterly point with maritime mammals, sheer cliffs, and the odd iceberg floating by.
Choose between a 7 day Newfoundland Westbound or 7 day Newfoundland Eastbound adventure , but no matter which direction your route takes, the sights will leave you breathless either way.
Eating and drinking
Oh Canada, what a wondrous country of seasonal beauty and welcoming people. But what’s the food like? Well, you’re in luck – Canada has all the hearty, comforting, and sweet food you’ll need at any time of the year.
Things to eat in Canada
It’s a national treasure – French fries topped with a gloriously messy mix of gravy and cheese curds. There’s a range of combinations with different meats, chips, and sauces, all classed as ‘poutine’ (or, more generally, ‘loaded fries’). All in all, it’s the perfect hangover cure.
Vancouver is known for having one of the best restaurant scenes in the world and seafood is almost always on the menu. Feast on a fresh seafood banquet, try some inventive fusion cuisine, or grab a chowder for a quick bite.
3. Maple syrup
It comes as no surprise that maple syrup is super popular in Canada. Be sure to dose up your pancakes and include a side of bacon, just like the locals.
4. Beaver tails
No, they don't come from an actual beaver. Beaver tails are a stretched, fried dough – almost like a doughnut pizza – known as a bannock, topped with all kinds of sweet things, including cinnamon sugar, Nutella, banana, s’mores, and more.
5. Nanaimo bars
Named after its birthplace – the city of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island – this bar consists of three layers: a wafer, nut and coconut crumb base, flavored custard in the middle, and a chocolate ganache to top it off.
6. Butter tarts
You may have realized by now that Canada is full of sweet treats, but how about trying an indulgent butter tart? It’s a sweet pastry shell baked with a filling of butter, sugar, syrup, and egg – everything in moderation, right?
7. Boutique beer
The last few years have seen microbreweries pop up all over Canada. Whether you visit a microbrewery that brews chocolate-flavored beer or dine at a restaurant with a local beer menu, a Canadian boutique beer is definitely worth trying.
8. Caesar cocktail
If beer isn’t your thing, what about Canada’s version of a Bloody Mary? Combine vodka, clamato juice, hot sauce, and lime for a unique briny flavor. Throw in a stalk of celery and you’re set – don’t knock it ‘til you try it! Read more about foods to try in Canada
Geography and environment
Canada is big. And we mean huge. This may seem obvious when looking at a map, but you really feel it when you're out there road-tripping. With such a large land mass, it comes as no surprise that the environment varies depending on which area of Canada you are traveling in.
Sitting between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, Canada shares a long land border with the United States in the south and Alaska (US) and Greenland in the north. Mountains, forests, and woodlands can be found throughout the country, with relatively flat, arable plains dotted around too. There’s a lot of ice and tundra in the Arctic North. The country’s unique geography is one of the many reasons that this country is so well-traveled and loved by tourists, but this can pose a risk, notably for drivers. Microclimates along mountain passes, like the Glacier National Park between BC and Alberta, are known for notorious weather conditions. Towns on either side can appear clear and calm, while the national park itself is in the middle of a snowstorm.
Canada’s cities are widespread, well-populated, and built-up, though not overly crowded. Expect skyscrapers, malls, the odd traffic jam, and all the modern conveniences. Smaller communities exist in more remote areas, with quaint villages on both coasts relying on fishing, tourism, and agriculture as main sources of income. Expect a slower pace of life and much less buzz than in the city.
Outdoor experiences
Majestic mountains.
The Rocky Mountains of Canada are famous for a reason – their imposing and rugged beauty is unforgettable. Take in the epic landscapes while hiking, and don't forget to keep a camera handy to capture the best panoramas.
Sensational 'snowscapades'
Make the most of Canada's abundance of snow by getting out there in winter and having some fun. Start a snowball fight (preferably not with strangers), make some snow angels, and channel your inner child.
Animal encounters
Keep watch for deer, bears, moose, caribou, mountain goats, bald eagles, and timber wolves while hiking through the wilds of Jasper National Park in Alberta. Seeing grizzly and black bears in their natural habitat will take your breath away.
Giant glaciers
Be astounded by the immense size and beauty of Canada's gigantic glaciers. Take a thrilling ride on an ice mobile to experience things up close, or perhaps opt for a hike to the toe of the mighty Athabasca glacier.
Canada may be home to the largest mall in the Americas (West Edmonton Mall), but the shopping experience certainly doesn't end there. The diversity of Canada's population is reflected in the eclectic mix of boutique stores stocking unique artisan wares, modern art, and more. Major cities like Vancouver have an abundance of interesting boutiques, galleries, and market-style centres like Granville Island. Smaller towns are great for locally produced gourmet food, wine, and quirky kitsch souvenirs. The Chinatown areas of major Canadian cities offer a great shopping experience with good markets and cheap eats.
Canada’s federal goods and services tax (GST) adds 5 percent to most transactions and most provinces also charge an additional tax to have a combined harmonized sales tax (HST), usually around 10–15 percent in total. Expect most, if not all, products to have this already included in the marked price.
It's also a good idea to check with your local customs officials to ensure that you are able to bring certain items back into your home country.
Festivals and events
Canada knows how to put on a show, be it in nature or the cities. Depending on the time of the year, these are some of the festivals and events you can expect to come across:
Calgary Stampede
This 10-day hoedown features rodeos, parades, barbecues, and more cowboy hats than you can shake a stick at. The locals call it the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth and it has been running in Calgary, Alberta, since 1912.
Montreal International Jazz Festival
Swap your boot scootin’ for some toe-tapping as more than 3000 performers from over 30 nations entertain millions during this annual celebration of jazz. Over 5500 pounds of French fries are consumed each year, which is fitting given Montreal is the hub of French-speaking Canada.
Vancouver Festival of Light
This dazzling display of fireworks is not to be missed. Technicians gather from across the world to compete and put on the best and most engaging display. It’s the longest-running offshore fireworks competition in the world.
You'll know that it's Canada Day , no matter where you are in Canada. The locals celebrate this national holiday with parades, fireworks, parties, concerts, and barbecues, so be sure to get into the maple-leaf spirit.
If you find yourself in Ottawa or greater Ontario in early February, chances are there’ll be a winter festival like Winterlude happening. Canada’s capital turns into a majestic winter wonderland and the focal point is Rideau Canal, which turns into the world’s largest skating rink at 4.8 miles long.
Quebec Winter Carnival
This festival even has its own mascot – a giant, tuque-wearing snow figure called Bonhomme Carnaval – who embodies the ‘joie de vivre’ (or ‘joy of living’) during winter. Come for Bonhomme and stay for parades, snow sculptures, ice skating, and more.
Further reading
For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Canada adventure, check out these books:
- Anne of Green Gables – Lucy Maud Montgomery
- Cat’s Eye – Margaret Atwood
- Island – Alistair MacLeod
- Sacre Bleus: An Unsentimental Journey Through Quebec – Taras Grescoe
- Consolation – Michael Redhill
- The Golden Spruce: A True Story of Myth, Madness, and Greed – John Vaillant
- The Vancouver Stories: West Coast Fiction from Canada’s Best Writers – Intro by Douglas Coupland
- Burden of desire – Robert MacNeil
Similar destinations
Inspired by Canada and looking for similar destinations? Here are some neighboring and not-so-neighboring countries to consider.
- Australia tours
- Sweden tours
The United States
- United States tours
- Canada or Alaska? Which natural wonderland should you travel to next?
Canada travel FAQs
Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.
Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards
From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).
However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.
Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.
When is the best time to visit Canada?
Canada's vast land mass makes for beautiful scenery and varying climate conditions. December, January and February are the coldest months and traveling can be difficult at times thanks to the occasional road closure or snowstorm. That said, this time of year is ideal for skiing, snowboarding and all your winter delights.
June, July and August are the warmest months. They’re perfect for outdoor activities like rafting, hiking, camping and canoeing. Tourist hotspots and other popular places will be much busier than in other months due to warmer temperatures. While not typically as warm as the summer months, May and September still offer great conditions for traveling and sightseeing without the crowds.
Do I need a visa to travel to Canada?
Many nationalities are able to travel to Canada without a visa, provided they obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before arriving. This includes citizens of Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Japan, France and many others. Like most countries, visitors to Canada must hold a valid passport with at least six months’ validity.
In some cases, visitors may not require a visa, for example, if you are a citizen of the United States. You may, however, still need to present relevant documentation, like a valid passport and evidence of lawful entry into the US.
Travelers from South Africa, China, Russia, and other countries need a visa to travel to Canada regardless of their method of entry. Processing these visas may take upwards of three weeks. Visit the Government of Canada’s official website to find out if you will need to apply for a visa.
The is for general information only and may be subject to change. It is your responsibility to obtain relevant visa and travel information required for entry, departure and travel to each country or region you visit on your trip. You should confirm these with the relevant embassies and/or consulates.
Last updated: 17/11/2023
Is tipping customary in Canada?
Tipping is very much a part of the culture in Canada. It's expected in restaurants, cafes and bars, and usually won’t be included in the bill.
People typically add 15-20% to the bill but feel free to tip a higher amount if you’ve enjoyed your experience. Tipping taxi drivers and valet attendants is also customary. Many bills in Canada do feature a tipping indicator under the subtotal, which is a handy method for choosing how much to leave. It's your choice, just remember that tipping in North America is culturally ingrained and wait staff are usually paid minimum wage, so understanding this and tipping accordingly is appreciated.
What is the internet access like Canada?
Canada’s internet is very good and it's easy to get access in most cities and towns.
Hotels, hostels and cafes are usually the best places to access the internet. It may be included with a booking or available at a small fee. Some fast food chains, cafes and restaurants have open wi-fi networks available, which are often accessible with a code from a purchase receipt. Be sure to keep an eye out for the international wi-fi symbol to connect.
Internet cafes are becoming less and less common in Canada, but some computer facilities (including in public libraries) are available in larger tourist areas.
Can I use my cell phone while in Canada?
Cell phone coverage is generally very good in Canada, but it may be patchy in remote areas such as national parks. Depending on the service provider, coverage in remote areas can sometimes be non-existent.
Your best bet, if you have an unlocked phone, is to purchase a prepaid SIM card when you arrive in Canada for all your calling, texting, and data needs. Canada has a few network providers and while voice coverage can be patchy, cell data is generally good in tourist areas, so using internet calling apps like Skype and WhatsApp is often preferred.
If you are from the United States (or are also traveling in the US), there is often an option to upgrade or purchase a prepaid roaming plan with a US service provider to use across the border. Otherwise, you could activate global roaming when traveling through Canada. This can incur extremely high fees so be sure to check with your local service provider before you leave your home country to know the costs.
What are the toilets like in Canada?
Western-style, flushable toilets are the standard in Canada. Public toilet facilities are usually available in shopping malls and town centers and often labeled as washrooms. If you wish to use a washroom in a cafe or restaurant, expect to be told to make a purchase beforehand to gain access.
What will it cost for a...?
Canada’s unit of currency is the Canadian dollar (CAD). Prices here are approximate averages.
Cup of coffee = CAD $4.80
Local bus fare = CAD $3.30
Budget takeaway meal = CAD $13.00
Restaurant meal = CAD $23.00 - $64.00
Can I drink the water in Canada?
Drinking water from taps in Canada is considered safe unless otherwise advised. Canada has some of the best tasting tap water in the world.
For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.
Are credit cards widely accepted in Canada?
Major credit cards are accepted by most retailers and restaurants in Canada. As in most countries, be sure to carry adequate cash for smaller purchases; however, it is becoming the norm to buy a coffee or make other small purchases on credit card.
What is ATM access like in Canada?
ATMs are very common in Canada so finding one won't be a problem in most cities or towns. They may not be as abundant in smaller towns and rural areas, so it’s wise to have enough cash before traveling anywhere too remote.
What is the weather like in Canada?
Many people imagine Canada as a winter wonderland with snow-capped mountains and ski resorts vying for their attention, but Canada’s weather is as diverse as its countryside. Summers can get very warm, sometimes reaching 95°F (35°C) and higher, while winters get very cold. It’s not uncommon to get down to -13°F (-25°C). Spring is usually warmer and more pleasant than autumn, which sees brisk and cool temperatures around the country though they’re made bearable by the rich orange and yellows of the trees.
Generally speaking, Canada’s weather fits into four main sections: the coasts, the Prairies (Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba), central Canada and northern Canada. There are, of course, many more regional factors and thousands of microclimates, especially in mountain areas.
Expect milder summers and winters on the coast with temperatures not dropping much below 14°F (-10°C) and not rising much above 72°F (22°C). The winters are wetter here with the east coast seeing more rainfall, while Vancouver is an anomaly to the rest of Canada with more of an oceanic climate.
In the Prairies, the summers are hot and dry and winter is icy cold. There are long periods of snow, with Calgary experiencing around 54 days and 50 inches of snow, while Southern Alberta has a weird winter phenomenon called chinook winds. These are dry gusts that melt snow and raise temperatures by over 60 degrees in a matter of hours. Of the three largest cities in the Prairies, Winnipeg has the coldest winter days at 12°F (-11°C), compared to Calgary (-1°C/30°F) and Edmonton (-6°C/21°F), but also has the warmest summer days at 79°F (26°C), compared to both Calgary and Edmonton (23°C/73°F).
Central Canada enjoys humid summers and cooler winters, with some areas experiencing snow cover for almost six months of the year. As much of Canada’s interior enjoys a continental climate, winters are cold and the wind chill is brisk. Toronto hits around 80°F (27°C) on a hot summer’s day and 29°F (-1.5°C) in winter, while Montreal in summer hits 79°F (26°C) and 23°F (-5.3°C) in winter.
Northern Canada is where temperatures really drop. The far reaches of the Northwest Territories (NWT) rarely rise above 32°F (0°C ) and can record temperatures below -49°F (-45°C). These extremes aren’t for everyone and it shows – of the three provinces to make up northern Canada (NWT, Yukon and Nunavut), their total population (around 120,000) is less than Canada’s 40th largest city.
What to wear in Canada
This depends on where you’re traveling. The diversity of seasons rules out a one-size-fits-all packing list, so our advice is to consider both the season and the activities you’d like to participate in.
You’ll be able to get away with light clothing for most of the summer, like a shirt and shorts or light trousers, plus a jacket to wear in the cooler evenings. During spring and autumn, it’s best to bring layers. Temperatures can drop below freezing, especially at night, so if you’re checking out Vancouver’s nightlife or enjoying a nightcap in Toronto, it’s best to rug up. You’ll need to take the comfort dial up a notch in winter with thermal base layers, warm fleeces and jackets, and at least one wind-breaking outer layer to keep you warm. A beanie, scarf and neck warmer are all highly recommended.
Canada is an active destination so ensure you’re prepared with the right type of gear, including sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots, UV protection and warm (but breathable) clothing that can be easily layered. If any water-based activities are on your to-do list, like kayaking or whitewater rafting, consider bringing a pair of dive boots or aqua shoes to save your feet from freezing water and sharp rocks.
For a more comprehensive list on what to wear and what to pack for Canada, be sure to check the packing list included in each trip’s Essential Trip Information.
Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?
Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.
For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance
What public holidays are celebrated in Canada?
- 1 Jan: New Year's Day
- 19 Mar: Good Friday
- 1 Apr: Easter Monday
- 20 May: Victoria Day
- 1 Jul: Canada Day
- 2 Sep: Labor Day
- 14 Oct: Thanksgiving Day
- 11 Nov: Remembrance Day
- 25 Dec: Christmas Day
- 26 Dec: Boxing Day
Please note: Canada public holidays may vary.
Is Canada a safe destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers?
In many regards, Canada is a world leader at recognizing LGBTQIA+ rights. It is consistently named as one of the most queer-friendly countries in the world.
Same-sex sexual activity has been lawful since 1969, and same-sex marriages have been legal nationwide since 2005. Anti-discrimination laws are extensive. They were passed in 1996 for sexual orientation and in 2017 for gender identity and expression. The Canadian government announced that it will add a third gender option to all government documents, including census forms and passports, from late 2017.
Canada is home to some of the largest Pride parades in all the world, with over 650,000 attending in Vancouver and over 1 million in Toronto. Toronto is also home to the Church and Wellesley neighborhood, which is known as an LGBT hotspot of the city. Similar LGBTQIA+ friendly neighborhoods exist in Vancouver (Davie Village), Montreal, (commercial district), and Ottawa (Bank Street); however, this is not to say that other neighborhoods are not as socially accepting.
For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel.
If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travelers who do not wish to share a room.
Is Canada accessible for travelers with disabilities?
Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries where possible.
Canada is making clear progress on aiding those with disabilities, especially travelers with mobility issues. Many public buildings around Canada’s major cities and tourist zones have access to lifts and ramps, while pedestrian crossings often have sloping curbs.
For more logistical information on air, bus, rail and ferry transportation, visit the Canadian federal government’s Travel portal.
If you do live with a visual, hearing or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.
Learn more about Accessible Travel with Intrepid
What kind of accommodation will I be staying in?
Travelling with Intrepid is a little bit different. We endeavour to provide travellers with an authentic experience to remember, so we try to keep accommodation as unique and traditional as possible.
When travelling with us in Canada, you may find yourself staying in a:
Depending on your trip, you may be spending some nights camping with us. We provide you with a full set of camping and cooking supplies. Campsites will have a range of facilities available, from toilets and often showers, to pay-per-use washing machines and dryers.
Check your Essential Trip Notes carefully so you know what equipment you'll need to supply yourself.
How will I be traveling around Canada?
Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport – which usually carry less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are heaps more fun.
Depending on which trip you're on while in Canada, you may find yourself traveling by:
- Ferry Find your sea legs and enjoy a mode of transport that offers scenic views and a dose of fresh air. A ferry ride to Vancouver Island is the ideal way to get acquainted with the west coast.
- Private vehicle Our vehicle of choice is the 14-seat Ford Transit. Spacious, comfortable, sturdy and safe – it’s hard to beat for a cross‑country road trip. Each vehicle is equipped with large windows, a storage trailer, air conditioning and charging ports.
How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?
From Australia?
Go to: Smart Traveller
From Canada?
Go to: Canada Travel Information
From the UK?
Go to: UK Foreign Travel Advice
From New Zealand?
Go to: Safe Travel
From the US?
Go to: US Department of State
The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.
Does my trip to Canada support The Intrepid Foundation?
Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. In fact, we make a donation on behalf of every traveler. Trips to Canada directly support our foundation partner, Water First .
Water First
Water First work with Indigenous communities in Canada to address critical water challenges through education and skills training programs. Donations from our trips support three of their programs – preparing young Indigenous adults for careers in their community's water treatment plants, training Indigenous community members to restore places of local significance, and engaging Indigenous school children with fun and unique learning resources.
Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
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Canada is a treasure house of natural beauty and cosmopolitan sophistication. This nation of vast proportions exudes the irresistible allure of a magnificent land with a deep cultural history and unsurpassed, primordial splendor. Dynamic urban centres and contrast pristine landscapes are home to diverse cultures of aboriginal, European and Asian descent, creating a welcoming nation of truly global citizens. Canada’s major cities include: Ottawa (the capital), Charlottetown, Halifax, Quebec City, Montreal, Toronto, Winnipeg, Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver and Victoria. The provinces and territories of Canada combine to make up the world's second-largest country by area. The ten provinces are Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, and Saskatchewan. The three territories are Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and Yukon. Edging the Pacific Ocean, British Columbia is the westernmost of Canada’s provinces. Vancouver Island holds the provincial capital of Victoria, famed for its Butchart Gardens. Vancouver is one of the country’s largest cities, offering cultural and recreational amenities in abundance. In the interior, the Cariboo embodies Western living, with stockyards, dude ranches and rodeos. North of British Columbia, the Yukon Territory is a sparsely populated frontier of dramatic scenery dominated by the mighty Yukon River. A vast, flat landscape of endless prairie farmland and infinite blue sky, the provinces of Alberta , Saskatchewan and Manitoba are Canada’s heartland. Major cities are Calgary , famed for its Stampede, Alberta’s capital of Edmonton with one of the largest shopping malls in the world, Manitoba’s Winnipeg , a capital with surprising options, and Regina, Saskatchewan’s high quality of life capital. Ontario is Canada’s most populous province and it's a land of lakes and rivers. Its southern city of Toronto rose on the north shore of Lake Ontario to become the nation’s largest metropolis and a financial and cultural hub. Toronto’s CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, zoo and science center should not be missed. Another must-see, the world-famous Niagara Falls form midway in the Niagara River’s course from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario. Ottawa is Ontario’s seat of national government and home to fine museums and the superb National Gallery of Art. Quebec province encompasses the treeless tundra of the forbidding north, the Laurentian Mountain Range, and forests to the south that cover much of its land. North America’s bastion of French-Canadian culture, the province retains remnants of France’s 17th-century continental empire, best seen in Quebec City ’s quaint Upper Town and Lower Town. In contrast, Montreal is a modern city, known for its international jazz festival, gastronomy and boutiques; the Olympic Park and the cobblestone streets of Old Montreal are also highlights. The Maritime provinces of New Brunswick , Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island occupy the Atlantic Ocean side of Canada. Their northeast neighbor, Newfoundland and Labrador , lies in the country’s eastern extreme. These seacoast provinces evidence their Scottish-English heritage in the major cities of Halifax , St. John’s, Saint John and Charlottetown. Newfoundland’s L’Anse aux Meadows traces the presence of Vikings, and Nova Scotia’s Fortress of Louisbourg captures the French-English struggle for the New World. This immense northwestern outpost, sparsely settled except for its capital of Yellowknife, has two World Heritage Sites: Wood Buffalo National Park and Nahanni National Park Reserve. Its spectacular terrain and indigenous cultures are major attractions as well. Nunavut, Canada’s rooftop territory, stretching north from Manitoba’s border, takes up a fifth of the country’s landmass. This land of ice and snow is the ancestral home of the Inuit , whose carvings and crafts are magnets for collectors. Though tourism facilities are evolving, Nunavut’s national parks, heritage rivers, Arctic ranges, native communities and wildlife (caribou, whales, musk ox, walrus and polar bears) attract adventure travelers. Join one of our escorted Canada tours and all your travel arrangements will be taken care of. You will enjoy spectacular sceneries by travelling in comfort. The only important thing you have to think about is not missing out on any of the wonders offered by our coach tours in Canada, because anything you desire from a holiday, be sure, you will find it in Canada. The scenery is surely more amazing than you have probably ever imagined. We assure you that you won’t be disappointed by booking our carefully selected tours in Canada .
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The Grand East
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North by Northwest
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Patriot Trails
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The Canadiana
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Western Canada and The Inside Passage
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Eastern Journey
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Circle Newfoundland & Labrador
Enchanting Canadian Maritimes
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Rocky Roundup
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Chicago and the Great Lakes
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Northwest Frontiers & Pacific Shores
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Quebec City - Bonjour Quebec
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Best places to visit in canada for 2023-2024.
From the cosmopolitan streets of Toronto to the snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies, our neighbor to the north features a diverse set of vacation destinations that are beautiful year-round. Deciding which one is perfect for your next getaway can be difficult. That's why U.S. News considered several factors, such as affordability, entertainment options and diversity of hotels and resorts, as well as user votes and expert opinions, to compile this list of the best places to visit in Canada. Vote for your favorite spot below to have a say in next year's list.
Jasper National Park
Vancouver, canada, niagara falls, quebec city, prince edward island, gros morne national park, victoria & vancouver island, cape breton highlands national park, mont-tremblant, okanagan valley.
Nestled amid the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, this tiny mountain town in Alberta appeals to both nature enthusiasts and luxury seekers. Visitors can spend their days skiing or hiking in Banff National Park (one of Canada's most beautiful national parks and home of the glacier-fed Moraine Lake) and floating down the Bow River on a canoe before retiring to one of the area's several opulent hotels for some spa therapy. Then, for incredible views of the Rockies, take a ride on the Banff Gondola. Meanwhile, daytrips to popular attractions like the Columbia Icefield, Yoho National Park and Lake Louise cannot be left off of your itinerary.
As the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper is ripe for exploration. When you're not hiking through Maligne Canyon, whitewater rafting down the Athabasca River or snapping photos of Spirit Island, you can enjoy a bird's-eye view of the picture-perfect scenery from the Jasper SkyTram. Or, take in the beauty of Jasper National Park while driving along the Icefields Parkway. Keep your eyes peeled for the 53 species of mammals that call this Alberta park home, including black bears, elk and bighorn sheep.
A trip to this British Columbia city, which sits approximately 145 miles north of Seattle, is all about embracing the outdoors. Vancouverites spend their days skiing on Grouse Mountain, swimming at Kitsilano Beach and strolling through the sprawling Stanley Park. Plus, Vancouver offers plenty of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries and outdoor markets (a tour of Granville Island is a must-do). If you're not afraid of heights, walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge, which is positioned 230 feet above the Capilano River.
Travel to this iconic destination in southeastern Ontario to see and capture photos of its namesake world-famous tourist attraction . View Niagara Falls from above during a helicopter tour, or see them up close on the Maid of the Mist boat tour. Or, for a unique perspective, admire the thunderous falls from behind with the self-guided Journey Behind the Falls experience. After you've taken in the splendor, check out the area's other top attractions, such as the Niagara Glen Nature Centre, which offers a variety of hiking trails. When you've had your fill of nature, head to nearby wineries or test Lady Luck at the casinos.
Referred to as the "small city with a big backyard," Whitehorse – the capital of Canada's Yukon territory – shines with all of its outdoor activities. Explore Miles Canyon, which is accessible from Whitehorse on foot (a nearly 10-mile loop trail connects the city directly to this natural wonder). After, head north to the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, where you'll find all kinds of animals, including arctic foxes, elk, muskox and bison. Even though this region gets notoriously cold, you might want to time your visit around the first couple of weeks of winter for a chance to witness the northern lights.
A trip to Europe may not be in your budget, but a visit to Québec City could be. This Canadian city charms visitors with its picturesque centuries-old buildings that make up Old Québec – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meanwhile, the aromas of freshly baked bread and brewing espresso fill the cobblestone streets of the Quartier Petit-Champlain with the essence of Paris. Once you've gotten your fill of the city, take a trip to Montmorency Falls Park to marvel at its 272-foot-tall waterfall. Plan your visit for winter when the city comes alive with twinkling lights, festivals and cold-weather activities – just remember to pack your down jacket .
Take adventure travel up a notch with a visit to Whistler. In winter, this resort town in British Columbia (about 75 miles north of Vancouver) boasts everything from cross-country skiing and snowboarding to bobsled rides and bungee jumping. Travelers can spend their downtime in Whistler Village enjoying the après-ski scene, perusing locally owned shops or strolling through Whistler Olympic Plaza. Meanwhile, visitors in town when the weather is warmer can go hiking, fishing, horseback riding, kayaking and more. Plus, summer travelers will love exploring Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, home to the 230-foot-tall waterfall from which the park gets its name.
Home to rolling green hills, sandy beaches, red sandstone cliffs and a delicious bounty of seafood (this is where PEI mussels come from, after all), Prince Edward Island is the place to travel for a relaxing respite from Canada's more adventure-driven destinations. When you're not hiking the trails at Prince Edward Island National Park, perfect your swing at one of the island's golf courses or visit the Green Gables Heritage Place, where the 1908 novel, "Anne of Green Gables" was inspired. And be sure to keep an eye out for PEI's seal population (four kinds call the island home either full or part time).
This UNESCO World Heritage Site encompasses nearly 700 square miles of land on Newfoundland's west coast. Its top activity is undoubtedly hiking through the Tablelands. Here, you'll traverse exposed earth mantle, a rust-colored landscape that was created millions of years ago by a collision of tectonic plates. Also save time for a boat ride on Western Brook Pond, which is a glacier-carved, landlocked fjord that features cascading waterfalls measuring 2,000 feet. After getting a taste of nature, learn about the region's history at the Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse.
Montréal is a city of juxtaposition: Skyscrapers rub elbows with Old Montréal's 17th-century architecture while the familiar sounds of English intermingle with the foreign buzz of French – the official language of Québec province. Visit Old Montréal to get a taste of Europe (think: beautiful architecture and cobblestone streets), including its own Notre-Dame Basilica, a grand Gothic Revival-style church that offers self-guided tours along with an evening sound and light show. Then head to modern attractions, such as the Montréal Museum of Fine Arts. Meanwhile, if you're visiting during the warmer months, don't miss out on the Montréal Botanical Garden and the scenic Mount Royal Park.
While Montréal and Québec City honor Canada's French roots, Victoria pays tribute to the country's British heritage. Many pay a visit to Victoria, British Columbia's capital city, for afternoon tea, a tour of the beautiful Parliament Buildings or a history lesson at the Royal BC Museum. Others are interested in visiting Vancouver Island's wineries to sample local vinos. Meanwhile, animal lovers enjoy the abundance of marine wildlife that call the waters surrounding Victoria home. In fact, there are nearly 80 orca whales in Victoria's waters. What's more, since Victoria is one of the most sustainable urban destinations in North America, visitors can feel good about the impact of their trip.
"Big" doesn't even begin to describe this Ontario city. With cultural pockets like Greektown, Little India and Koreatown all within city limits, Toronto has the ability to transport visitors around the globe. Take it all in with a ride up the 1,815-foot-tall CN Tower, or enjoy a quintessentially Canadian experience at the Hockey Hall of Fame. Then, head to the St. Lawrence Market to sample gourmet goodies before checking out the nearby Harbourfront Centre. And if the weather is right, plan a visit to the Toronto Islands, where you can relax on the beach, go kayaking or enjoy an afternoon bike ride.
The star of this national park on Nova Scotia's Cape Breton Island is the world-famous Cabot Trail – one-third of which runs through the park. As you drive the winding highway, which is considered one of the world's most scenic drives, you'll pass forested river canyons, rural fishing villages and plenty of lookout points for admiring Nova Scotia's serene landscape. Prefer to explore the park on your own two feet? There are 26 hiking trails to choose from, as well as opportunities for kayaking, mountain climbing, camping and more.
Located a little more than 80 miles northwest of Montréal in Québec's Laurentian Mountains, Mont-Tremblant is best known for its skiing, specifically Mont Tremblant Ski Resort, which occupies the highest peak in the mountain range. But warm-weather visitors are equally enchanted by its Parc national du Mont-Tremblant, which boasts six rivers and 400 lakes and streams, not to mention countless hiking trails and beaches. Water sports, fishing and mountain biking are all popular here thanks to the area's diverse landscape.
Stretching across more than 150 miles, the Okanagan Valley is home to 86% of British Columbia's vineyard acreage and features more than 200 world-class wineries. There are also a variety of subregions in the valley, each promising its own unique experiences and grape varietals. If you are looking to combine wine tasting with outdoor pursuits, visit the Naramata Bench. This area is packed with wineries and offers everything from kayaking to mountain biking. No matter which area you visit, you'll enjoy spectacular views that rival those of the world's best wine regions .
Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings
Kluane National Park and Reserve
Saint John, New Brunswick
You May Be Interested In
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31 Things to Do for the Big Eclipse This April
On April 8, the moon will blot out the sun along a roughly 4,200-mile-long, 115-mile-wide path across North America. Where will you watch it? Here are some ideas.
By Danielle Dowling
Danielle Dowling, a Times editor with degrees in physics and science education, also reported on last October’s annular eclipse from Texas.
Wherever you go to catch the total solar eclipse on April 8, those three or four minutes of daytime darkness — no matter how spectacular — might not be enough.
You may want to build it out to a weekend’s worth of activities while staying somewhere fun or indulging in some self-care. Or maybe you would prefer to pair this bucket list event with another. After all, it will be about 21 years before another total solar eclipse of this magnitude returns to the contiguous United States.
With the path of totality starting on the Pacific coast of Mexico, heading northeast through 13 U.S. states and ending in Newfoundland, Canada, there are an overwhelming number of eclipse-oriented events to choose from, with something to satisfy just about any desire. Here are 31 options.
Hang out with NASA
Space nerds, kids at heart and actual children may appreciate a little guidance from NASA scientists, who will spread out across numerous celebrations along the eclipse’s path — at free or reasonably priced events in places like Mazatlán, Mexico; Austin, Dallas, Kerrville, Stonewall and Waco, Texas; Carbondale, Ill.; Cleveland; and Niagara Falls, N.Y. NASA has also teamed up with Purdue University and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for a day of track tours and STEM symposiums ($20) at the racetrack.
Get hitched
Among astrologers, a solar eclipse represents a new beginning, so it offers a rather auspicious backdrop for nuptials. At Total Eclipse of the Heart in Russellville, Ark. (April 6 to 8), you can come for the weekend of hot air balloons, barbecue and ax throwing, and stay for the mass wedding ceremony, which will be held minutes before the eclipse. Tickets are $100 for each day’s festivities (there’s no extra fee to get married); register for the ceremony at totaleclipserussellville.com/elope . At the Texclipse Music Festival in Junction, Texas (April 6 to 8), you can exchange vows en masse during the eclipse, as well as treat yourself to local entertainment and a chili cook-off. A weekend pass is $135, and the marriage fee is $100, which includes 10 photographs from the ceremony. For each festival, you will still need to apply for a marriage license beforehand (you’ll probably want to get on that as soon as possible).
Choose your soundtrack
Texas dominates the musical offerings with some big-name lineups. At the Texas Eclipse festival in Burnet (April 5 to 9), prepare to have your senses flooded. In addition to more than 100 acts, including Tiga , the Golden Dawn Arkestra and the Disco Biscuits , the festival will offer a dizzying array of entertainment, including an immersive experience by the arts collective Meow Wolf . A four-day general admission pass is $349, and accommodations range from car camping ($175) to a glamping tent ($1,750). In Waco, the Eclipse Over Texas festival will present free concerts, with Band of Horses on April 5 and Big Boi and Arrested Development on April 6. And over in Austin, at the Moody Amphitheater in Waterloo Park, Vampire Weekend will serenade the sun as it slips into shadow on April 8 (it’s also the frontman Ezra Koenig’s 40th birthday). The show is sold out, but resale tickets are available through platforms like StubHub and Ticketmaster .
Arkansas will also bring the noise. Fans of underground music may want to head to Hot Springs, where the Ecliptic Festival (April 5 to 8) will feature acts like Blonde Redhead , Sun Ra Arkestra , Mary Lattimore , Deerhoof and Quintron . A four-day pass is $385, and day passes start at $70. Glamping packages range from $1,350 to $1,650; if you bring your own tent, camping costs $85 a night, or $300 for the weekend. About 200 miles northeast, in Dyess, you can celebrate the Man in Black before the sky turns black at Johnny Cash’s boyhood home . The event’s full weekend primitive camping package ($400) will get you a 20-by-20-foot spot to park and car camp from April 5 to 9, as well as four tickets to the Arkansas Roots Music Festival, taking place there on April 6. It will also get you four tickets to the NASA Lunch and Learn event on April 7, and four pairs of Johnny Cash Boyhood Home eclipse glasses. Unfortunately, Dyess lies just outside the path of totality, so you’ll need to drive about an hour west to see the eclipse in its full glory.
With the bluegrass musician Ricky Skaggs as one of the top names on its lineup, the Solar Strings festival (April 5 to 8) will fill its 700-plus-acre site in the Missouri Ozarks with the sounds of guitars, banjos, fiddles and more. A four-day general admission pass that includes car camping is $145; glamping packages are also available.
Ride the rails or hit the slopes
A few spots are still available aboard the Solar Eclipse Limited , whose fully restored Pullman cars will leave Penn Station in New York on April 7, headed for Niagara Falls, N.Y. There, the train will serve as a mini-hotel, providing food and accommodations as you take in the celestial sights. If its more-than-$8,000 price tag is a little too rich, you can travel to the village of Arcade, in western New York, and take a trip on the vintage Arcade & Attica Railroad , which will leave at 2 p.m. on April 8 and make a stop to view the totality at 3:19 p.m. Tickets are $22 for adults, $19 for children. If you prefer zipping through the snow, Smugglers’ Notch in Jeffersonville, Vt., is holding a weekend-long celebration capped off by a Winter Eclipse Carnival from noon to 4 p.m. on April 8.
Make a run for the border
Since the eclipse will start in Mexico and wrap up in eastern Canada, you have the option to go in either direction. If you head south, you’ll most likely be blessed with great weather (the probability of cloud cover in most Mexican towns and cities along the path averages about 20 to 30 percent). Mazatlán is the safest bet. Hotel rooms are still available and there’s an expansive boardwalk where you and your fellow eclipse watchers can gather to view the totality, which will last 4 minutes 27 seconds there.
Up in Canada, the rainbow that hovers above Niagara Falls will turn red, as blue and green light waves are scattered during totality. Prime eclipse-viewing spots in the area include the SkyWheel , the butterfly conservatory and Queen Victoria Park , where the Niagara Symphony Orchestra will kick off a free rock concert as the eclipse reaches its peak. In Montreal, you’ll be able to pair skyline views with daytime darkness on an island in the St. Lawrence River. Parc Jean-Drapeau has teamed up with the Space for Life planetarium to offer an afternoon of education and entertainment before the sun has its moment, all at no charge. The only drawback is that Montreal is on the edge of the path of totality, which means it will be in darkness for just a little over two minutes. (On the plus side, you’ll be in Montreal .)
Entertain the kids
If you’re taking your children to see the eclipse, they will need distractions. What’s better than an indoor water park, like the one at the Great Wolf Lodge in Sandusky, Ohio? Near the centerline of the eclipse’s path, it’s well situated, and its viewing party will offer free wolf ears for the kids and moon pies for everyone. A family suite that includes unlimited access to the park averages nearly $330 a night. You can also find child-friendly activities if you’re willing to travel back in time. Kinmundy Log Cabin Village in Kinmundy, Ill., will open its grounds to visitors from April 6 to 8, and while you won’t be able to stay in one of its 19th-century log cabins, you can explore them, with some occupied by volunteers re-enacting pioneer life. There will be a bonfire each night, and food trucks will be on site on April 7 and 8. Camping and parking for all three days is $150. At the Genesee Country Village & Museum in Mumford, N.Y., the third-largest living museum in the United States, experience life as it was in New York State from the 1790s to 1900. From April 5 to 7, you can attend a magic-lantern show, write a celestially themed poem, and sample 19th-century eclipse-themed treats for $17. On the day of the eclipse, $250 will get you and a carload of friends into the viewing area; individual tickets start at $55.
Treat yourself
Add some aahs to your oohs with the Moon Shadow package at La Cantera Resort & Spa in San Antonio, which includes an opening-night reception, a complimentary bottle of bubbly and a viewing party, starting at $3,500 for a three-night stay for two. Or how about a 15-day cruise through the Panama Canal — with a chance to witness the eclipse at sea near Cabo San Lucas, Mexico? Interior rooms are still available for $1,199 on the Emerald Princess , departing from Los Angeles on April 5. Or perhaps you have always wanted to roll down the highway in a luxury R.V., which becomes an asset if the weather takes a turn for the worse and clearer skies lie just a few hours’ drive away. Spot2Nite.com offers packages starting at $625 a night that combine R.V. rentals with campground sites from Texas to Ohio.
Fly the darkened skies
The best thing about viewing an eclipse from an airplane? “You don’t have to worry about clouds because you’re high above them. And at 35,000 to 40,000 feet, you’re seeing the eclipse against a much clearer, transparent sky as opposed to being at ground level,” said Joseph Rao, an associate and guest lecturer at Hayden Planetarium and an avid eclipse chaser who has seen 13 totalities — five aboard an aircraft . Delta Air Lines has been advertising path-of-totality flights from Austin (sold out) and Dallas-Fort Worth to Detroit. Southwest Airlines (which is running a sweepstakes to win a seat) also offers scheduled flights along the path. The downsides of an air-clipse? “You’re experiencing the event in a sort of sterile environment,” Mr. Rao said. Also, the angle of the sun in the sky at the time of totality may not line up with the view from a typical airplane window, which could limit some passengers’ ability to see it unless the pilots bank or set a special course — as a few reportedly did during the 2017 total eclipse.
Know Before You Go
Mind the centerline: When picking the spot to view the eclipse, remember that the closer you are to the middle of the path, the longer the eclipse will last. As you plan your trip, consult an eclipse map for the prime spots.
Factor in traffic: In the United States, there are about 32 million people living along the eclipse’s path, and tons more will be heading toward it. Give yourself extra time.
Bring some cash: If you’re headed to a rural area, the hordes joining you there will most likely tax the infrastructure. If the internet goes down, your credit card will become just another piece of plastic, and your phone a shiny brick.
Have backup eye protection: Most festivals will be handing out free solar eclipse glasses, but if you lose them, you won’t be able to track the moon as it slides over the sun (during the brief few minutes of totality, you can safely look at it without protective eyewear , according to NASA). Check the American Astronomical Society’s list of trusted manufacturers and sellers, then place an order now. Like, right now.
Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .
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Coach / Bus Tours in Canada and USA 2024/2025
Take in the picturesque landscapes and remarkable sights on a guided Coach / Bus adventure of Canada And USA. There are 100 vacation packages to choose from, that range in length from 8 days up to 39 days. The most popular month for these tours is August.
100 Coach / Bus trips around Canada And USA with 305 reviews
- Coach / Bus
Eastern USA & Canada Escape (USENY)
Larry our guide and Leo our driver were excellent and couldn't do enough to make us enjoy our first expat explorer experience. we will definitely be doing it again.
- 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.
- In-depth Cultural
Essence of Eastern Canada (End Montreal, 8 Days)
Our Tour Director (Laurel) was very experienced and kept us well informed in each area we visited with good local knowledge and humor . The driver (Karl) too is very good with his knowledge of the roads and we always felt safe with his driving, and he handled the luggage very carefully. We did the Ottawa river cruise, but felt a little let down with it, but maybe our expectations were unrealistic. The hotels were good, with only one being a bit too far out of town. I would recommend this tour to my friends, as all our fellow travelers were friendly and keen to get along which is important group travel.
- Ocean Cruise
Nature's Best: Alaska with Alaska Cruise
- Active Adventure
Glacier National Park & the Canadian Rockies
Lynda Brown did a fantastic job! Gerard as our driver was also phenomenal. My only suggestion is to have a microphone for Lynda at the dinner on the last night. I could not hear Lynda or the cowboy poet.
Eastern US & Canada Grand Vacation
Time passed too quickly. Places and people made for a lovely 14 day trip. A great way to see a large area in a limited time frame.
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Essential East Coast and Western Classics
Unmissable Canada, Niagara and Chicago
Eastern US & Canada Grand Vacation with Extended Stay in New York City
I am quite upset because transport pickup at JFK airport wasnot included.
Eastern Discovery
Best of Eastern Canada & USA (Small Groups, 16 Days)
Essence of Eastern Canada (End Toronto, 8 Days)
We enjoyed the tour and the director and bus driver were excellent ! The only criticism was the rushing to hotel and then having a half hour to go out again to the Falls and dinner. Also I had to make changes to my return journey because the tour ending didn’t state the time of day and as a result I was out of pocket with Greyhound buses!
The Grand East
Unmissable Canada with East Coast
Touring the East Coast end Toronto
Toronto, Niagara, and Chicago with Western Classics ending Las Vegas
Canada and usa coach / bus tour reviews.
Best trip of my life ! Our tour leader, Larry, was very qualified, experienced, and knowledgeable. :) He was very professional in every way. The trip was well-planned, and every part of the day went smoothly. He created a friendly and funny atmosphere who made everyone bond with each other, we became a big family. John was an excellent bus driver, very friendly and always there to pick us up in his cool, comfortable bus. The optional excursions were so good that we did most of them. We also had a very comfortable accommodation and very good food. The guide told us the local specialties but you had always the possibility to eat something else. The free thday we had the choice to visit a.
I LOVED this tour. This was my first time as a solo traveller. The tour guide and the driver were both excellent. The experiences were incredible. Trying to arrange the amount of cities, and experiences solo, with hotels, travel etc is not possible for anywhere near the amount paid. Value for money is excellent. Hotels overall were good. There were some that were a little out of the cities, however the tour guide and driver did their best to accommodate by driving everyone back into the city if they wanted to go. Most of the experiences were really good. The Montmorency Falls as an extra trip with meal was a little pricey. There was not enough time at the Falls and the best view would be down the bottom. This could have been a free trip, without the meal, I would suggest this is looked at. Also in Montreal the tour guide who took us round, was not very engaging and it was difficult to hear her. Everything else was spot on. Well organised, excellent value for money, lovely people, beautiful country, wide range of experiences. LOVED IT. Will definitely be doing another tour.
Had good time and tour guide Wade Gruhi was excellent. You might need to send a tour guide with Globus group on tour part of cruise I think that would be helpful.
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Updated travel information for Mexican citizens coming to Canada
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
News release
Canada and Mexico have maintained a deep, positive and constructive diplomatic partnership over the past 80 years. We have worked to ensure North America is the world’s most competitive economic region and maintain strong bilateral, regional and multilateral cooperation. To support travel and people-to-people connections between Canada and Mexico, while also preserving the integrity of our immigration system, the Government of Canada is adjusting its travel requirements for Mexican citizens.
February 29, 2024, 8:30 a.m. – Ottawa – Canada and Mexico have maintained a deep, positive and constructive diplomatic partnership over the past 80 years. We have worked to ensure North America is the world’s most competitive economic region and maintain strong bilateral, regional and multilateral cooperation. To support travel and people-to-people connections between Canada and Mexico, while also preserving the integrity of our immigration system, the Government of Canada is adjusting its travel requirements for Mexican citizens.
As of February 29, 2024, at 11:30 p.m. Eastern time, Mexican citizens who hold a valid US non-immigrant visa or have held a Canadian visa in the past 10 years and are travelling by air on a Mexican passport will be able to apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA). With the high number of Mexican citizens currently holding US visas, the majority will continue to enjoy visa-free travel to Canada. Those who do not meet these conditions will need to apply for a Canadian visitor visa. This responds to an increase in asylum claims made by Mexican citizens that are refused, withdrawn or abandoned. It is an important step to preserve mobility for hundreds of thousands of Mexican citizens, while also ensuring the sound management of our immigration and asylum systems.
The application process for Mexican citizens seeking a work or study permit will not change. Mexican citizens who want to work in Canada will continue to have access to a wide number of existing labour pathways, including the Temporary Foreign Worker Program and the International Mobility Program.
Canada supports ongoing travel, tourism and business with Mexico. We will continue to work with the Government of Mexico to strengthen our regular pathways to immigration, and with our provincial and territorial counterparts to support a system of managed migration as well as to support those in need of protection. Canada is expanding its network of visa application centres in Mexico to better serve these clients. Today’s action will relieve pressure on Canada’s borders, immigration system, housing and social services, while preserving mobility for Mexican citizens who want to come to Canada.
The Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) is a vital example of the mutually beneficial migration that we seek to promote regionally and globally. Canada is ready to work with Mexico to build on this program, through the modernization of a new SAWP bilateral agreement, to offer Mexican workers new opportunities, through the incorporation of year-round primary agriculture and seasonal fish, seafood and primary food processing into the program. This will benefit workers and businesses on both sides of the Canada–Mexico relationship.
Canada is continuously monitoring the impacts of its visa policies for both visa-exempt and visa-required countries, as well as asylum claim trends. These challenges are not limited to one country. Any adjustment to Canada’s travel requirements are made to preserve the integrity and sustainability of our asylum and immigration systems.
More information about these changes, including for people in transit or with upcoming flights, is available on IRCC’s website .
“Mexico is an important partner to Canada. We will continue to welcome Mexican temporary workers, students, visitors and immigrants who bring diverse skills and important contributions to our economy and communities. We strive for balance between the movement of people between our two great countries, and the need to relieve pressure on our immigration system so we can provide protection to those who need it the most.” – The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Quick facts
Asylum claims made by Mexican citizens reached a record high in 2023 at a time when Canada’s asylum system, housing and social services were already under significant pressure. The majority of these claims (approximately 60%) were either rejected by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada, or withdrawn or abandoned by the applicant.
In 2023 alone, asylum claims from Mexican citizens accounted for 17% of all claims made that year from all nationalities around the world. The country’s asylum claim rate has risen significantly since the visa was first lifted in 2016 (from 260 claims in 2016 to 23,995 claims in 2023).
All eTAs issued to Mexican passports before 11:30 p.m. Eastern time on February 29, 2024, will no longer be valid—except for eTAs linked to Mexican passports with a valid Canadian work or study permit. Mexican citizens travelling to Canada without a valid work or study permit will need to apply for a visitor visa or reapply for a new eTA —if they are eligible.
Mexican citizens holding a valid work or study permit can still travel by air to Canada with their existing eTA as long as it remains valid, and they can continue to study or work in Canada based on the validity and conditions of their permit. Mexican visitors who are already in Canada on an eTA can stay for as long as they are authorized (up to six months from the date they arrive in Canada). However, if they plan to leave Canada and wish to return, they must have the proper travel documents (visa or new eTA).
Most approved visa applicants receive multiple-entry visas, which allow them to visit Canada as many times as they want, for up to 10 years, or until their passport expires.
The eTA is a digital travel document that most visa-exempt travellers need in order to travel to or transit through Canada by air. IRCC first began expanding its eTA program to eligible citizens from visa-required countries in 2017. Mexico will now be among 15 countries whose citizens can to fly to Canada on an eTA, instead of a visa, if they meet certain requirements .
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- Link to News Release in Spanish
Contacts for media only:
Bahoz Dara Aziz Press Secretary Minister’s Office Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada [email protected]
Media Relations Communications Branch Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada 613-952-1650 [email protected]
Page details
Canada bringing back visa requirements for Mexican nationals to curb asylum seekers
Quebec, u.s. governments have been calling for visas to be reinstated.
What Canada's new visa requirements mean for Mexican nationals
Social sharing.
The federal government is reimposing some visa requirements on Mexican nationals visiting Canada, senior government sources tell Radio-Canada and CBC News.
The new rules will take effect on 11:30 p.m. ET on Thursday.
Quebec Premier François Legault has been calling on the federal government to do more to slow the influx of asylum seekers into his province. Last week, he said Ottawa should bring back the visa requirement for Mexican travellers.
- 'Breaking point': Quebec premier asks Trudeau to slow influx of asylum seekers
- Federal minister 'sets the facts straight' after Quebec complains it isn't getting enough funding for asylum seekers
"The possibility of entering Canada from Mexico without a visa certainly explains part of the influx of asylum seekers," the premier wrote in a letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau .
More than 25,000 Mexicans applied for asylum in Canada last year, making Mexico the top source of asylum claims, according to statistics from the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada . The number of backlogged claims from Mexico currently filed with the board sits at more than 28,000.
The U.S. government also has been asking Ottawa to bring back the visa requirement to curb a sharp increase in illegal crossings from Canada into the United States.
- Does the visa requirement affect you or your family? Share your story by emailing [email protected] .
Mexicans currently don't need a visa to travel to Canada, but they do have to obtain visas to enter the U.S. American border officials say some Mexican nationals are using Canada's visa-free rule to fly into the country and then cross illegally into the United States.
The new visa requirement is expected to affect roughly 40 per cent of all Mexican travellers to Canada, a government source told Radio-Canada.
The Conservative government of Prime Minister Stephen Harper imposed a visa requirement on Mexico in 2009 to stem the flow of asylum claims. The Trudeau government relaxed it in 2016 .
Canada's new Mexico visa policies threaten refugees' rights, advocate says
The new rules won't amount to a complete return to the pre-2016 rules. Mexican nationals with certain types of U.S. visas and those coming to Canada on study or work permits won't have to obtain Canadian visas.
Mexican nationals who received valid visas under the previous system at any point within the last ten years won't have to reapply under the new requirements.
The new visas will apply for a ten-year period and will allow a traveller to enter Canada multiple times and stay for up to six months at a time. Customs officers will have discretionary power to limit the duration of the visa or the number of visits, one source said.
The government isn't expected to announce the new visa requirements until Thursday.
But on Wednesday, Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador accused Canada of attempting to act unilaterally on immigration measures.
"They are in negotiations to reach an agreement so that we can control migratory flows from Canada," he said in Spanish during a press conference.
"We have acted generously with them, with the government of Prime Minister Trudeau, but they were already on the verge of applying unilateral measures."
López Obrador also said he may not attend the next North American Leaders summit — set to take place in Canada — if he feels Canada and the U.S. aren't treating his country fairly.
"If there's no respectful treatment, I won't go," he said.
A source told Radio-Canada that in an effort to ease tensions with the Mexican government over the visa requirements, Ottawa has agreed to expand the number of sectors in which Mexican nationals can work in Canada. Negotiations are ongoing, the source said.
Legault has said asylum seekers are putting heavy pressure on Quebec's social services and finances.
"Asylum seekers have trouble finding a place to live, which contributes to accentuating the housing crisis," the premier said in his letter to Trudeau. "Many end up in homeless shelters, which are overflowing."
He said organizations that help asylum seekers can't keep up with the demand. Legault said the children of asylum seekers are also straining the resources of schools already facing shortages of teachers and space.
Legault's letter said asylum seekers who are waiting for work permits receive financial assistance from Quebec. Last October, he said, roughly 43,200 asylum seekers received $33 million in aid from the province.
- U.S. asks Canada to reimpose visa requirements for Mexico to stem surge of crossings at northern border
- Analysis U.S. Republicans are now warning: Migration from Canada is a problem
Quebec Immigration Minister Christine Fréchette welcomed the news but said Ottawa must still do more.
"It's an important step forward, but it won't solve everything. The number of asylum seekers accepted by Quebec is far too high and our services are beyond capacity," she told reporters Thursday in French.
"The federal government must distribute the asylum seekers across Canada. Quebec bears a disproportionate share of the responsibility for receiving them."
One source told CBC News that domestic issues were the main motivation for the change in policy, but U.S. pressure also played a role. Many migrants were being transported by criminal cartels with the objective of getting them into the U.S., the source said.
U.S. officials have suggested that people who can't get into the U.S. lawfully have an incentive to travel to Canada to try entering illegally. Human smuggling networks are cashing in , moving people who are fleeing poverty and violence in Mexico and using Canada as a pitstop on the way to the U.S.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) data shows a spike in migrants entering the U.S. from Canada after Trudeau lifted the visa requirement in December 2016. There were 1,169 apprehensions of Mexicans the year before the requirements were lifted; the number nearly doubled to 2,245 in 2018, a year after the requirements were lifted.
Last year, the CBP recorded 4,868 apprehensions. Nearly 2,000 Mexicans have been apprehended at the Canada-U.S. border in the first four months of this fiscal year.
- A glimpse inside the ongoing cross-border smuggling operations near Akwesasne
- Canadian customs officers could soon be based in the U.S. for the first time
Those numbers are a tiny fraction of the number of apprehensions along the U.S.-Mexico border — nearly 580,000 last year. But the rise in apprehensions at the Canada-U.S. border was enough for U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to raise the issue during his visit to Ottawa last spring .
"We talk about this issue and many issues that impact the migration of people," Mayorkas said in an interview with CBC News Network's Rosemary Barton Live at the time.
"I think that's a decision that the Canadian officials are going to make," Mayorkas told host Rosemary Barton when asked about the prospect of Ottawa reinstating the visa program.
With files from Philip Ling, Alexander Panetta and The Canadian Press
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14 Day USA and Canada Tour starting and ending in New York
14 days, 2 countries and 11 cities
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Perfect for history lovers, you’ll connect with the heritage of two nations, exploring Washington D.C.’s White House and Lincoln Memorial, a simpler Amish way of life, strolling Canada's Ottawa, Toronto, and French inspired Montreal, and the thunderous Niagara Falls on this East Coast USA and Canada tour.
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Sightseeing highlights.
Explore Washington D.C., Quebec City, Montreal, and Boston with a Local Specialist
Discover New York City, Toronto, Ottawa, Niagara-on-the-Lake
Visit Liberty Bell Center, Corning Museum of Glass, Niagara Falls, Amish Country in Lancaster County
View the Empire State Building, White House, Lincoln Memorial, Independence Hall
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You’ll make a positive impact to people, planet and wildlife on this tour
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Canada and USA Tours & Trips. Find the right adventure for you that goes to Canada and USA (check also our Alaska tour packages ). With 623 tours to choose from, ranging in length from 2 days to 51 days and visiting places like California and the Canadian Rockies. The most popular month to visit these countries is August, which has the most ...
View day-by-day trip itinerary. Perfect for history lovers, you'll connect with the heritage of two nations, exploring Washington D.C.'s White House and Lincoln Memorial, a simpler Amish way of life, strolling Canada's Ottawa, Toronto, and French inspired Montreal, and the thunderous Niagara Falls on this East Coast USA and Canada tour.
Tours-USA.com is a specialist tour operator providing high-quality holidays to the United States and Canada. We offer a wide and exclusive range of escorted motorcoach tours, self-drive tours, city packages, cruises and fly-drive holidays across North America, all at great prices.
View day-by-day trip itinerary. Perfect for history lovers, you'll connect with the heritage of two nations, exploring Washington D.C.'s White House and Lincoln Memorial, a simpler Amish way of life, strolling Canada's Ottawa, Toronto, and French inspired Montreal, and the thunderous Niagara Falls on this East Coast USA and Canada tour.
Cruises. Toronto, Ontario, Canada (YYZ) 03 Mar. 10 Mar. Economy. 2 Guest s ( 1 room ) Book a trip to the US from Canada! Find the best USA tours with Air Canada Vacations Get deals on packages to the best places to visit in the USA Travel to the USA today.
Discover the Canadian Rockies on this 15-day adventure tour with Intrepid that hits... View Trip. The Maritimes: Prince Edward Island to New Brunswick. 6 Days From $3,225. Experience the seaside charm of Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick on this 6-day... View Trip. Grand Canadian Rockies. 10 Days From $5,810.
Discover the USA in all its rich diversity, from bustling New York, enchanting New England, to breathtaking natural beauty in world-famous national parks in the West. In Canada, the world's second largest country, vast wilderness await you, as well as crystal clear lakes, imposing mountains, and cutting-edge cities including Montreal and Toronto.
Mix History With Pleasure During a 16-Day Guided Tour of Canada & the U.S. See the top destinations in two countries on this 16-Day guided tour of Canada and the U.S. Stroll the urban-but-regal Queen's Park in downtown Toronto, then get up-close to the world's most famous waterfall, Niagara Falls. Wander the grand mansions of Montreal and ...
Canada & Usa Tour Reviews. 5 - Excellent. Based on 238 customer reviews. Great trip with all the highlights included. 5 - Excellent. Alex Genck. "I went on a trip in July 2023 and loved every second of it. We saw 5 bears in Denali, had some great hikes.
Discover The World. Call us, or call your travel advisor, to book your preferred departure date today - and explore our beautiful brochures to find your inspiration for your next journey. Explore the Canadian Rockies, discover the coastline of the Maritime Provinces and more on Tauck's Canada Tours. Learn more at Tauck.com.
23 Days. 24 Places. 1 Country. The one that ticks the USA's southern superstars off your list - with Nashville, Memphis, the Grand Canyon & more. $5,335 pp. From. $4,268. pp. VIEW TRIP.
The Canadian Rockies with Alaska Cruise. Start and end in Vancouver. 4.4 (9 reviews) Excellent tour to enjoy nature and Canadian culture without missing the Alaska scent. Highly recommended to get in touch with the North West of the continent. Destinations.
The changing colors of forested valleys and national parks, the freeze and flow of glacial lakes, the light and shade of the Rockies' snow-capped mountains - Canada is North America's natural masterpiece. Summer is for surfing and whale-watching off Vancouver Island, and seeing Lake Louise in all its blue-hued glory. Winter is for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in Alberta, and ...
Canada Tours & Trips 2024/2025. Canada really does have it all - from the dancing Northern Lights in Yukon and the fresh-powdered slopes of Banff, to the magnificent French heritage of Québec and the thundering waters of Niagara Falls. Whatever the season, Canada never ceases to amaze from sunlit hiking trails in the Canadian Rockies to ...
Award winning tours. Every year, we're proud to win some of the most prestigious travel accolades around the world - from the Travel Globes to the Agent's Choice Awards. Book your Canada tour package with Trafalgar and journey beyond the phenomenal landscapes and delve deeper into the culture of the country.
Duration: 3 Days and 2 Nights Tour Type: City and Hawaii Packages Tour Activity: Culture, Heritage and History Tour Region: Canada. Itinerary: Québec City. Explore our Tours in USA and Canada. We offer Escorted Motorcoach Tours, Self Drive Tours, Cruises and Vacation Packages in North America. Visit Tours-USA.com.
We offer US & Canada vacations, custom-made for your time, family and vacation budget. Experience America with luxury vacation packages. Trust your America vacation with Gate 1 Travel, your vacation specialist. Call Gate 1 Travel today or click on one of the tour destinations above for more a complete list of packages. National Parks. Southeast.
Canada Tours & Vacation Packages 2024/2025 - As a large-scale seller of Canada Tours Vacation Packages, ... Canada, United States-6%. From: $6,289. $5,939. You Save: $350. View Tour. Best Price Guaranteed. Book With Flexibility. Scenic Wonders of Newfoundland & Labrador: 14 Days: Trafalgar:
Mont-Tremblant. #14 in Best Places to Visit in Canada for 2023-2024. Located a little more than 80 miles northwest of Montréal in Québec's Laurentian Mountains, Mont-Tremblant is best known for ...
At the Genesee Country Village & Museum in Mumford, N.Y., the third-largest living museum in the United States, experience life as it was in New York State from the 1790s to 1900. From April 5 to ...
Coach / Bus Tours in Canada and USA 2024/2025. Take in the picturesque landscapes and remarkable sights on a guided Coach / Bus adventure of Canada And USA. There are 104 vacation packages to choose from, that range in length from 8 days up to 39 days. The most popular month for these tours is July.
SEE ALL USA & CANADA TOURS. Currency. Canadian Dollar (CAD, $) Capital City. Ottawa. Time Difference. London GMT -3.5 to -8. Languages. English and French. Population. 36.71 million. Electricity. Standard of 120V. BEST OF EASTERN CANADA. READ MORE. THE MOST BEAUTIFUL NATIONAL PARKS IN WESTERN CANADA. READ MORE.
Canada and Mexico have maintained a deep, positive and constructive diplomatic partnership over the past 80 years. We have worked to ensure North America is the world's most competitive economic region and maintain strong bilateral, regional and multilateral cooperation. To support travel and people-to-people connections between Canada and Mexico, while also preserving the integrity of our ...
The federal government is reimposing some visa requirements on Mexican nationals visiting Canada, senior government sources tell Radio-Canada and CBC News. The new rules will take effect on 11:30 ...
Discover the USA in all its rich diversity, from bustling New York, enchanting New England, to breathtaking natural beauty in world-famous national parks in the West. In Canada, the world's second largest country, vast wilderness await you, as well as crystal clear lakes, imposing mountains, and cutting-edge cities including Montreal and Toronto.
The total solar eclipse will be visible in parts of Mexico, Canada and more than 10 US states, while a crescent-shaped partial solar eclipse is expected to appear in 49 states — weather permitting.
View day-by-day trip itinerary. Perfect for history lovers, you'll connect with the heritage of two nations, exploring Washington D.C.'s White House and Lincoln Memorial, a simpler Amish way of life, strolling Canada's Ottawa, Toronto, and French inspired Montreal, and the thunderous Niagara Falls on this East Coast USA and Canada tour.
The snowstorm hit California's Sierra Nevada mountains especially hard, with more snow expected on Monday.