General FAQs
What is Vista Chase, and what types of tours do you offer?
Vista Chase is your gateway to exploring Canada’s most breathtaking landscapes. We specialize in private, customizable tours and small-group excursions across the Canadian Rockies National Parks, including Banff National Park, Yoho National Park, Jasper National Park, Waterton Lakes National Park, and the stunning badlands of Drumheller.
Our offerings include:
- Single-day tours to iconic highlights.
- Multi-day packages for an immersive experience.
- Seasonal adventures like snowshoeing in winter or scenic hikes in summer.
- Fully personalized itineraries tailored to your group’s interests.
With experienced guides, comfortable vehicles, and a focus on delivering unforgettable moments, Vista Chase ensures your journey through these world-renowned destinations is seamless and extraordinary.
Are your private tours fully customizable?
Yes! Our private tours are fully customizable. You can prioritize specific locations, request additional stops, or modify the itinerary to suit your preferences and group’s needs.
What’s the difference between private and group tours?
Private tours are tailored to your group, offering flexibility in stops, departure times, and pacing. Group tours follow a set itinerary with a small number of participants, ensuring an intimate experience.
What type of vehicles do you use for tours?
We use full-size SUVs for small groups (up to 6 people) and comfortable 15-seater Sprinter Vans for larger groups. All vehicles are equipped with Parks Canada Passes and offer ample space for passengers and luggage.
Do you provide pick-up and drop-off services?
Yes, we provide pick-up and drop-off services from Banff, Canmore, Calgary, and Lake Louise. Specific locations can be arranged during booking.
Are meals included in the tour price?
Meals are not included. However, we provide recommendations for restaurants and scenic picnic spots during your tour. For private tours, you can choose a lunch stop that suits your group’s preferences.
Do you include entry tickets for activities like the Glacier Skywalk or Ice Explorer?
No, entry tickets for optional activities are not included in the tour price. We can assist you with pre-purchasing tickets or provide guidance on where to purchase them.
What is your cancellation policy?
For most tours, cancellations made at least 72 hours before the travel date are eligible for a full refund. For specific tours or promotions, the cancellation terms may vary.
Are discounts available for booking directly through your website?
Yes! We offer special discounts on different occasions or seasons. You can find the latest offers and promotions listed on our website. Alternatively, feel free to reach out to us directly to inquire about any available coupons or ongoing deals.
Why is Moraine Lake often substituted in winter tours?
Moraine Lake is closed in winter due to road conditions. During this time, we substitute it with Emerald Lake and Natural Bridge, offering equally stunning winter landscapes.
Can I hike during a tour, and are the hikes suitable for kids?
Yes, several tours include short, family-friendly hikes. For example, the hike to Peyto Lake Viewpoint (1-mile round trip) and Johnston Canyon Lower Falls (1-mile round trip) are suitable for children.
Can I visit the Icefields Parkway in one day?
Yes, the Icefields Parkway tour includes highlights like Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, Athabasca Glacier, Skywalk, Athabasca falls, Tangle Falls and More! making it a full but unforgettable day trip.
Are bathroom and photo stops included?
Absolutely. All tours offer the flexibility to stop as needed for bathroom breaks and to capture the stunning scenery.
What happens if a planned attraction is closed?
We will adjust the itinerary to include alternative destinations, ensuring you still have an incredible experience.
Do group tours have restrooms onboard?
No, our group tours are conducted in Sprinter Vans, which do not have restrooms. We schedule regular stops for breaks during the tour.
What time do tours typically start, and can this be adjusted?
Our tour start times vary depending on the pickup location. Typically, tours departing from Calgary begin at 7:00 AM, while tours from Banff start at 8:00 AM. For private tours, start times are flexible to suit your preferences. We’ll confirm your exact pickup time a day before your travel date. Most tours wrap up in Banff around 5:00 PM.
Is transportation available from Calgary?
Yes, we offer transportation from Calgary for both private and group tours. Full-day tours from Calgary typically run from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
Do I need a Parks Canada Pass?
No, all our vehicles are equipped with Parks Canada Passes, covering your entry to the parks.
Can I book a multi-day tour with Vista Chase?
Yes, we offer 2-day, 3-day, and even 7-day tour packages covering Banff, Yoho, Jasper, and more. Custom multi-day itineraries can also be arranged.
Do you accommodate dietary restrictions?
While we don’t provide meals, most of our recommended restaurants cater to dietary restrictions, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
What’s the best time of year to visit the Canadian Rockies?
Every season offers unique experiences. Summer (June–August) is ideal for hiking and clear lake views, while winter (November–March) is perfect for snowshoeing, ice walks, and cozying up to snowy vistas.
Are there any seasonal closures I should be aware of?
Yes, some attractions like Moraine Lake and Takakkaw Falls are closed in winter. We provide alternate destinations to ensure you still enjoy a memorable trip.
How do I book a tour?
You can book through our website (Vista Chase) or third-party platforms like Viator. Direct bookings often include discounts and additional benefits.
Can I book a tour now and make the payment on arrival?
Yes, during checkout, you can choose the “Pay on Arrival” option. However, if you choose to pay upfront, you may qualify for an additional discount in some cases, so be sure to check for available offers!
Do you offer group discounts?
Yes, group discounts are available for large parties. Please contact us directly for details.
What happens if I need to cancel my tour?
Cancellations made 72 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund. For last-minute cancellations, refund eligibility depends on the tour and booking terms.
Can you recommend activities for families with young children?
Yes! Our tours include kid-friendly hikes, picnic spots, and activities like the Banff Gondola and Glacier Adventure that children love.
Is there Wi-Fi in your vehicles?
No, we do not currently offer Wi-Fi in our vehicles, but we encourage guests to enjoy the natural beauty around them.
What should I bring for my tour?
We recommend comfortable footwear, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, water, snacks, and your camera!
