A full day trip to Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Johnston Canyon and more!
If you’re traveling abroad and want to see many famous spots in a short time, I highly recommend the one-day Banff tour from Calgary with GetYourGuide.
While searching for a package tour departing from Calgary, I came across GetYourGuide. (This is not an ad!)
GetYourGuide is a global travel platform where you can compare and book travel packages for destinations around the world. It’s especially great for first-timers because it has a lot of reviews and high credibility.
To book a Banff trip, just search “Banff” on GetYourGuide.
You can check the schedule and reviews of each product, then select the one you want and complete the payment. Easy!
🚐 The Tour Day: Pickup from Calgary Downtown
I chose the “Banff to Do” package and requested pickup at 7:30 AM from Calgary Downtown.
You’ll receive a confirmation text with your pickup location and booking details.
Since the lake colors are much more vivid on sunny days, I kept checking the weather. I was lucky to go on a clear, bright day—not too hot, not too cold. ☀️
Pickup is available from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff, and it’s important to find the correct bus at the scheduled time! There are multiple tour buses waiting, so make sure you know which company you booked with.
For me, it was Banff to Do. 😊
📍 Highlights of the Banff Tour – Quick Overview
Before arriving in Banff, we picked up a few more passengers in Canmore. We also had a restroom break and time to enjoy the natural surroundings. The scenery was breathtaking!
1. Lake Louise
This emerald-colored lake surrounded by snowy mountains is one of Canada’s iconic landscapes. In winter, it’s a skating haven, and in summer, a canoeing hotspot. Definitely an Instagram-worthy spot!
We had only about an hour here, so we explored quickly.
I also visited the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise hotel. 😍
Inside, there’s a bakery—but be warned, it’s a bit pricey. Tips start at 18%!
2. Moraine Lake
This dramatic lake is surrounded by ten towering peaks. Many people say it’s even more stunning than Lake Louise. It truly showcases the untamed beauty of Canadian nature. It felt like a gift from nature itself.
3. Johnston Canyon
A must-visit for hiking lovers! The trail follows a canyon with scenic forest views. It’s an easy round trip walk to the Lower Falls, though there wasn’t enough time to go all the way to the Upper Falls.
4. Banff Downtown
A small but charming downtown area filled with gift shops, local eateries, and boutique stores. You can enjoy free time here or choose to visit Bow Falls nearby.
5. Bow Falls
A small but powerful waterfall accessible by a short hike. The location even appeared in the movie Seven Years in Tibet! It’s a striking point where the town meets nature.
💸 How Much Does It Cost?
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Tour Fee: CAD $125 per person
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Guide Tip: CAD $12
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Lunch: Around CAD $30
Total: Approximately CAD $167
A much better deal compared to local travel agencies!
Even though I was traveling alone, the guide was energetic and fun, and I had a great time with fellow travelers from Canada, Brazil, the UK, Germany, Chile, the Philippines, and Korea. 🌎
✅ Recommended For:
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Solo travelers looking for a safe, structured experience
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People who want to see Banff’s highlights in one day
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Those who don’t want to rent a car but still want to explore efficiently
❌ Not Recommended For:
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Travelers who need long, flexible free time
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Those who want to slowly take in nature and take lots of photos
Since it’s a package tour, there are time limitations you need to keep in mind.
✨ Final Thoughts
The GetYourGuide Banff tour exceeded my expectations in price, itinerary, and guide quality.
If you want to make the most of your time, this tour is an excellent option.
If you feel overwhelmed trying to plan your first Banff trip, just check GetYourGuide.
You’ll be surprised at how easy and fulfilling the trip can be. 🙂 (Not sponsored!)
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