Banff Tour with Gondola & Lake Cruise - roundtrip from Banff
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the Canadian Rockies' favorite resort town and its beautiful environment on a 4-hour guided tour of Banff. You'll visit the intriguing hoodoos earth pillars shaped by centuries of wind, then spot where Banff's history began. Ride up Sulphur Mountain on the Banff Gondola, and enhance your experience with a Lake Minnewanka cruise. Hotel pickup is included. Please note that until Lake Minnewanka opens in mid May, this tour will not include the lake cruise.
Available options
Tour + Lake Cruise and Gondola
Banff sightseeing tour including Banff gondola ride and cruise of Lake Minnewanka. Tour departs at 8:30am. 6.5 hrs total <br/>Pickup included
Group of 11 All Sales Final
Pickup included
Including Gondola only
Including Gondola: Including Banff Gondola Ride. Tour departs at 8:30am and total duration is 4.5 hours.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Air-conditioned vehicle
Pickup and/or drop-off at multiple locations
Local taxes
Lake cruise (starting mid May)
Banff Gondola
Detailed itinerary
1
Views of Banff National Park
2
Stop 2
Ascend the Banff Gondola and enjoy the views from our boardwalk deck
3
Stop 3
Pass by
Views of Sulphur Mountain while you are on the gondola
4
Stop 4
Pass by
Views of Bow Falls
5
Stop 5
Pass by
Views of Tunnel Mountain
6
Stop 6
See the Rocky Mountains from a new perspective while touring beautiful Lake Minnewanka on a panoramic 1-hour interpretive cruise. Beginning from the western end of the largest lake in Banff, the Lake Minnewanka Cruise sets sail under towering peaks. Take in breathtaking mountains and emerald-green water as you keep a watchful eye on forested slopes and rocky shorelines for wildlife and waterfalls. Cruise always included from June 1 to October 7th.
What's not included
Gratuities
Food and drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
93 reviews
5★
66
4★
23
3★
3
2★
1
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.8
75 reviews
5★
69
4★
2
3★
2
2★
2
1★
0
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Duration ranges from 4.5 hours to 6 hours
Prior to your travel date, your hotel details must be provided to the local tour operator so they may arrange your pickup. If you do not indicate this at the time of booking, you will be required to call and advise them of this information directly. The contact details will be on your voucher once you have a confirmed booking
Important notes
Buses will only stop at the hotels listed if a booking has arranged a pick-up ahead of time. To guarantee hotel pick-up your hotel details must be provided to the local tour operator so they may arrange it. If you do not indicate this at the time of booking, you will be required to call and advise them of this information directly. The local tour operator can be reached at 1-800-760-6934, or please visit one of the local offices to schedule this as well:
• Transportation Center: 100 Gopher Street, Banff
• Banff Gondola: Front Lobby – Lower Terminal
• Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
• Calgary International Airport
• Elk + Avenue Hotel
• Cave and Basin: 311 Cave Ave
• Maligne Lake Office: Jasper Downtown 616 Patricia StreetPlease arrive 10 minutes prior to your scheduled pick-up time
Duration ranges from 4.5 hours to 6 hours
This operator requires you to contact them directly prior to this tour/activity.
About Banff
Banff is a resort town within Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. Known for its stunning mountain landscapes, hot springs, and outdoor adventures, it's one of the most visited destinations in the Canadian Rockies. The town offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and a charming mountain culture.
Top Attractions
Banff Gondola
The Banff Gondola takes visitors to the top of Sulphur Mountain for stunning views of the Canadian Rockies. The ride offers panoramic vistas and access to hiking trails and a restaurant.
Adventure
2-3 hours
Moderate ($50-$60 CAD per adult)
Lake Louise
Lake Louise is one of the most famous and iconic lakes in the world. Known for its turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop, it's a must-visit for hiking, photography, and relaxation.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to visit, parking fees apply
Banff Upper Hot Springs
The Banff Upper Hot Springs offer a relaxing soak in natural mineral waters with stunning mountain views. The historic facility has been a popular attraction since the late 1800s.
Relaxation
1-2 hours
Budget ($10-$15 CAD per adult)
Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake is another iconic turquoise lake in Banff National Park. Known for its stunning views and hiking trails, it's a popular spot for photography and outdoor activities.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to visit, parking fees apply
Johnston Canyon
Johnston Canyon is a beautiful hiking trail that leads to stunning waterfalls. The trail is well-maintained and offers breathtaking views of the canyon and waterfalls.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bison
Bison is a local delicacy, often served as steaks or burgers. It's lean, flavorful, and a sustainable choice.
Main course
Gluten-free and paleo-friendly options available.
Poutine
A Canadian classic, poutine consists of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. Banff offers many variations, including gourmet and vegetarian options.
Snack
Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Elk
Elk is another local favorite, often served as steaks or in stews. It's lean, tender, and packed with flavor.
Main course
Gluten-free and paleo-friendly options available.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Mountain biking
Whitewater rafting
Rock climbing
Skiing and snowboarding
Soaking in hot springs
Scenic gondola rides
Picnicking by the lake
Best Time to Visit
June to August, December to March
Summer offers warm weather and ideal conditions for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Winter is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. Crowds are highest during these peak seasons.
20-30°C (summer), -10-5°C (winter)
68-86°F (summer), 14-41°F (winter)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, French
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Time Zone
Mountain Time Zone (MT), GMT-7 (standard time), GMT-6 (daylight saving time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Banff is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
- • Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas
Getting there
By air
- Calgary International Airport • 130 km (81 miles)
By train
Banff Station
By bus
Banff Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Roam Transit offers affordable and convenient bus services throughout Banff and the surrounding areas. Buses are frequent and well-connected.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Banff Taxi, Uber (limited availability)
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Banff
Banff Springs
Canmore
Day trips
Canmore
25 km (16 miles) • Half day to full day
Canmore is a charming town near Banff, offering a more relaxed atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities. It's known for its hiking trails, local shops, and stunning mountain views.
Yoho National Park
56 km (35 miles) • Full day
Yoho National Park is a stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Kootenay National Park
120 km (75 miles) • Full day
Kootenay National Park is another stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities. It's a great option for a full-day trip from Banff.
Festivals
Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival • October
Banff Jazz and Blues Festival • August
Banff International Snow Sculpting Competition • January
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure parking.
- Consider purchasing a Parks Canada pass for unlimited entry to national parks and historic sites.
- Dress in layers, as the weather can change rapidly, especially in the mountains.
- Book accommodations, activities, and restaurants in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Be aware of wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk, and maintain a safe and non-intrusive distance.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
