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Aerial photograph off the west coast of Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island Totem Tour

Pristine wilderness, wildlife, and some of the most spectacular scenery in the world are yours to experience on Cycle BC’s “Totem Tour”. Vancouver Island lies westward of the mainland of British Columbia. Running southeast to northwest a distance of some 650 km’s and at the widest, from east to west about 200 kms. Easily accessed from cities such as Seattle or Vancouver by ferry or air travel, the Island is a jewel in the Pacific.

*Starting rate does not include motorcycle rental.

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Price starting

$2800.00 CAD*

Distance

1700 km
(1055 mi)

Duration

8 days
(7 nights)

Daily Ride

300 km
(4-5 hours)

Beach and coastal sunset near Tofino.

Tofino.

Imagine, all in one place, fishing, kayaking, whale watching, bear watching, bird watching, camping, hiking, storm-watching and First Nations cultural learning. Surfing is big here, and Tofino was named the best surf town in North America in Outside Magazine's 2010 Editors' Choice awards. Look forward to riding Highway 4, the road in to Tofino that winds across Vancouver Island.

Boats docked at the inner harbour in Victoria.

Victoria

Known as "The City of Gardens" Victoria is the capital of British Columbia. Taking inspiration from old English architecture, you will think that you are visiting a small Victorian town. Victoria is a small town that has a lot to offer, world class restaurants and views are only the beginning.

an island inlet on the sunshine coast

Sunshine Coast

The Sunshine Coast at its southernmost tip is a mere 10 miles as the crow flies from downtown Vancouver, and at its most northern point it borders on some of the most rugged natural surroundings in this beautiful province of British Columbia.

A tower lookout over the ocean

Malahat Skywalk

Before you ride down to Victoria you have to climb the Malahat highway. This stunning section of road connects the small town of Mill Bay to the capital of British Columbia, Victoria. Make a plan to stop at one of the many lookouts that offer views of Brentwood Bay. Stop at Goldstream Provincial Park to see cascading waterfalls and trees that are hundreds of years old.

A ferry docked where the ocean meets the mountains.

Ferry through the Straight of Georgia

This narrow 55km strip of water separates mainland British Columbia from Vancouver Island. Many islands, large and small, are spread throughout the straight. While on BC Ferries keep your eye out for migrating orca whales, porpoises and eagles.

Highlights

British Columbia is home to the most stunning and diverse landscapes in the world. In your tour itinerary we have outlined the highlights for each day so you will always be prepared for the adventure that lies ahead. Here are just a few of the main highlights you will see on your tour.

Itinerary

The starting point for all of our tours is Vancouver. If arriving early enough, bikes are collected and then back to the hotel. Alternatively, bikes can be collected the next morning.

Overall route map for Vancouver Island Totem Tour

On day two you will get to experience the best of what British Columbia has to offer, the mountains and the sea. You will cross the famed Lions Gate Bridge, look straight ahead to see the two lion's head mountain peaks which give the bridge its name. A short ferry ride brings you to the Sunshine Coast for an exciting ride up to Powell River.

Map of Vancouver to Powell River

Catch the ferry from Powell River to Comox. You will head north through Campbell River, the last major town before continuing up the island. As you journey out of town you will be greeted with wide open wilderness. The Northern region of Vancouver Island is a special place due to the abundant wild and marine life that thrives along the coast. The area is home to orca whales, as well as humpback, grey and minke whales, seals, sea lions, Pacific white-sided dolphins, sea otters, porpoises, salmon, eagles, black bear, Roosevelt elk, deer and cougars inhabit the region. Tours are available to mainland inlets to see grizzly bears.

Map of Powell River to Telegraph Cove

Begin your day with a 3 hour whale watching tour and then continue down to Campbell River, nestled on the East coast of central Vancouver Island. Long known as the "Salmon Capital of the World" and more recently as an adventure and eco-tourism hub, Campbell River is a great place to experience BC's natural surroundings.

Map of Telegraph Cove to Campbell River

Today you will travel across the island to be rewarded with views of the wide open Pacific Ocean. You will travel to the small community of Gold River, before turning around for a climb into the mountains. In the afternoon you will be treated with a stop at the top of Mt. Washington, Vancouver Island's largest winter ski resort. Ocean views and mountain vistas will keep you entertained throughout the day.

Map of Campbell River to Courtenay (via Gold River)

So far you have traveled the Northern part of the island, time to head west to experience one of our favourite places on Earth: Tofino. Today you will drive from Port Alberni to Tofino on the Pacific Rim Highway which has breathtaking views and awe-inspiring landscapes. This stretch of highway is one of best motorcycle roads on the island. The highway can become narrow at points, be careful about passing and watch out for camper vans.

Map of Courtenay to Tofino

Well we hope you enjoyed your time in Tofino. Unfortunately, there is only one way back. The good thing is that the ride always seems different going in the opposite direction. Today you will be travelling east and then heading south. The vast majority of Vancouver Island's population lives on the South end of the island. You will notice the city centers grow as you work your way down.

Map of Tofino to Victoria

Map of Victoria to Vancouver
Overall route map for Vancouver Island Totem Tour

What’s Included

  • The Best Bikes

  • Pre Ride Booklet

  • The Best Accommodations

  • Rider Care Kit

  • Quality Riding Gear

  • Emergency Roadside Kit

  • Comprehensive Day Planner

  • Complementary Storage

  • Garmin GPS

  • A Full Tank of Gas

More Info

Requirements

Getting on a motorcycle and riding off for days at a time has a minimum set of requirements. Please review our quick checklist and refer to our Rental Policies for a detailed list of rental requirements.

Rental Policies

  • License

    A valid driver's license in either English or French with motorcycle endorsement (must be present at the time of pick up). An international driver's permit may be required depending on your country of origin.

  • Experience

    More than one year of riding experience on a similar sized bike to which you would like to take out.

  • Security Deposit

    A coverage deductible ranging from $2000.00-3000.00 depending on your choice of bike for the duration of the rental by means of credit card authorization only.

  • Age

    21 years of age or older.

At Cycle BC our job is easy, Canada has already provided us with one of the most breathtaking backdrops in the world to stage our tours. All we had to do was provide the finest bikes the industry has to offer, combined with our unmatched service and you have the recipe for the trip of a lifetime.

On your tour you can expect to travel through Canada’s rugged wilderness on seemingly endless twisties finishing each day in a hand-picked, high quality accommodations with variety of options for great food. Along the way you will see unforgettable sights and experience some of the best roads Canada has to offer. From the first time we get in touch to when you are on your way home we look forward to having the opportunity to exceed your expectations every step of the way.

“Had a great time! You are right, the weather was awesome!

Loved the room we had in Campbell River. It was a large corner room with a great view and a jacuzzi tub. We had great breezes through the room. Met some nice people on the ferry to Alert Bay. Had a great meal at Cuckoo's in Coombs at the Goats on the Roof marketplace. Loved the hotel in Tofino... great view, quiet, and quaint. Location in Victoria was great especially with the Canada Day celebration going on. Already planning to return so we can spend more time in some areas such as Tofino.”

— Debbie & Ken Martin, USA