10 Best Lake Louise Tours to Join in 2024

Lake Louise is one of those places that you have to see at least once in a lifetime. And no matter if you’re already in Banff or coming from Calgary, the best way to visit is joining one of the Lake Louise tours.

With its turquoise water and mountain views, it’s the perfect adventure. Whether you hike, canoe, wildlife watch or just soak up the beauty, there’s a tour for you.

We’ve rounded up the 10 best tours to Lake Louise so you can make the most of your visit.

Get ready to have the time of your life, and that’s going to be a trip for the books!

10 Top Calgary to Lake Louise Tours

Let’s jump right into the main topic, the best tours from Calgary and Banff to Lake Louise. We’ll cover some comprehensive day trips that include all the essentials and some unique experiences for a couple of hours.

Full-Day Tour to Lake Louise and the Icefields Parkway

Inclusions:

• Local guide
• Pick-up & drop-off
• Upscale, spacious transportation

Explore the Rockies in style on a full-day trip from Banff to Lake Louise and the Icefields Parkway. This 9-hour tour takes you through some of Canada’s most gorgeous landscapes without the hassle of driving the mountain roads yourself.

Enjoy comfortable, round-trip transportation from Banff and visit Bow Falls and Moraine Lake. With a maximum of 22 people in the group, you’ll get personal attention from your guide and have a more memorable experience.

Private vehicle and driver/guide included as well as plenty of photo stops and time to take in the views.

Small group means less waiting and more seeing, and it’s perfect for those who want to see a lot in one day and enjoy the comfort of a guided trip.

Banff National Park with Lake Louise and Moraine Lake

Inclusions:

• Small group size
• Professional guide
• Return transport from Banff
• Visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
• Maple cookie snack and freshwater

For a half-day option, this 4-hour guided tour from Banff to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, both located within the UNESCO Banff National Park.

These lakes are famous for their turquoise water and mountain scenery. Your tour starts with an afternoon pick-up from Banff, then a scenic drive to the lakes.

At Lake Louise, you’ll spend about 30 minutes walking the shoreline and taking in the views of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

Then, it’s off to Moraine Lake where you can walk the shoreline or hike up to a viewpoint overlooking the Valley of Ten Peaks.

Your local guide will share interesting stories about the local mountaineering history. Plus, with a maximum of 24 guests in the group, you’ll have a more personal experience.

The tour includes everything you need and more, such as round-trip transportation, a maple cookie snack and fresh water. That’s one of the best Lake Louise tours you should consider.

Tour to Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Yoho from Calgary

Inclusions:

• Gratuities
• Insurance
• Driver and tour guide
• Air-conditioned vehicle

Yet another great day trip to enjoy the beauty of the Canadian Rockies is this full-day tour from Calgary and Banff.

You’ll start the day in a comfy, air-conditioned vehicle and head to Banff National Park, Canada’s oldest national park. The first stop is the amazing Lake Louise, famous for its turquoise, glacier-fed waters and the Fairmont Chateau.

Next up is Moraine Lake where the blue-green water and the Ten Peaks create a breathtaking view – That’s probably the most beautiful view in the whole of Canada.

Then we’ll head to Yoho National Park to see the Emerald Lake with its Natural Bridge, a rock formation carved by the Kicking Horse River. Your guide will take care of everything so you can just sit back and enjoy.

Moraine Lake and Lake Louise Day Trip from Calgary

Inclusions:

• Ice spikes
• Parking Fees
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Entry ticket for Banff National Park

Spend the day in the Canadian Rockies on this 9 to 11-hour tour from Calgary. Start with a visit to Lake Louise where you’ll have 1 hour and 20 minutes to take in the views.

Then, it’s time to head to Moraine Lake and enjoy the beautiful alpine lake surrounded by the valley for 1 hour – Enough to have fun and take lots of photos.

Outside of the summer months, you’ll hike to the lower falls of Johnston Canyon instead. The tour also includes a stop at the Mount Norquay Lookout for panoramic views, a quick drive down the Bow Valley Parkway, and time to explore Banff Avenue for lunch and shopping.

That’s not it – You’ll also visit the Hoodoos Trail with its unique rock formations and see the Bow Falls.

Doesn’t it sound like one of the absolutely best Lake Louise tours?

Banff, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake Tour from Calgary

Inclusions:

• Tour guide
• Small group
• Private transportation
• Air-conditioned vehicle

Join an expert guide on this full day, small group tour to Lake Louise Pick up from Calgary, Canmore or Banff and spend the day exploring the stunning landscapes of Banff.

We start with a visit to Lake Louise where you’ll have 1 hour to take in the turquoise waters and mountain peaks.

Then head to Moraine Lake (note that you can only visit from June to October) for 1 hour of more breathtaking scenery. If Moraine Lake is closed, similarly to other trips to Lake Louise, visit Johnston Canyon instead.

You’ll pass by Vermilion Lakes and Castle Mountain on the way to Banff. And before heading back, you’ll get to spend 2 hours in Banff to explore, buy some souvenirs to take back home and have lunch.

It’s easy to see why it’s one of the best tours to Lake Louise, but they sell out very quickly, so I recommend booking before they do!

Private Tour to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake

Inclusions:

• Wi-Fi on board
• Private transfers
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• English-speaking tour guide
• Admission to Banff National Park

If you prefer private day trips instead of group tours, then this one is for you. You’ll start the day right at Lake Louise, which is the reason why you’re in Banff National Park for!

After that, make your way to Victoria Glacier where you’ll have 1.5 hours of free time, strolling along the lake, and visiting the Fairmont Chateau. Of course, you can’t visit without seeing Moraine Lake, and that’s the next step.

Hike the Rockpile Trail for iconic views or take a walk along the shoreline. This tour allows you to hike, canoe or simply soak up the scenery, and that’s perfect to enjoy special moments. This is the advantage of choosing a private tour over a group one!

Continue on to Banff Avenue for a couple of hours and end your day at Surprise Corner and the Minnewanka Loop and take in the natural beauty and wildlife of Banff.

This private tour is a personalised experience in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, and you’ll love every part of it.

Lake Louise, Johnston Canyon from Calgary or Banff

Inclusions:

• National Park Pass
• Air-conditioned tour van
• Local tour guide as driver

This is another comprehensive tour of Lake Louise and Banff National Park for several reasons.

First, it includes transportation from Calgary, Canmore or Banff, and that’s great if you already plan to stay in these places.

Second of all, you’ll visit all the major tourist spots in the national park, from Lake Louise, Moraine Lake (or Lake Minnewanka during the off-season), Johnston Canyon, and Vermilion Lakes, as well as Banff proper.

Also, all the stops during the day include a cafe for a toilet break, coffee, or food, and that’s a massive plus – That’s how professional the team is!

If that wasn’t enough, it’s very affordable, and this is one of the best Lake Louise tours if you travel on a budget!

This 7-hour tour takes in Banff’s most famous lakes and trails for an unforgettable experience that you’re guaranteed to love.

Lake Louise Scenic Snowshoe Tour

Inclusions:

• Tour guide
• Snowshoe rental
• Hot chocolate and a snack

Add some adventure to your Lake Louise trip with a 2-hour guided snowshoe tour – Note that transportation from Banff or Calgary isn’t included, so you’ll have to get to Lake Louise on your own.

Is it still worth it? Absolutely, let me tell you why.

This tour starts with a 14-minute ride up the Grizzly Gondola, and you’ll take in stunning views as you climb to the mountain peak. Once there, you’ll get a quick training on how to use snowshoes and then head out to explore the alpine.

Your guide will share stories about the area while you keep an eye out for local wildlife and take in the fresh mountain air.

The tour includes a cosy stop at Eagle Cabin where you’ll warm up with hot chocolate and a snack, and that’s excellent after spending some time in the snow!

This winter adventure is for those who want to see Lake Louise from a new perspective, and that’s by far one of the best experiences you can get.

7-Hour Lake Louise Tour from Canmore and Banff

Inclusions:

• Local driver and guide
• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Comfortable transportation van
• Pick-up and drop-off in Canmore and Banff

Take the stress out of getting to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise with this day tour from Canmore or Banff.

The team will pick you up in a comfortable, air-conditioned van and handle all the logistics. Of course, the guides will keep you entertained along the way with stories about Banff to keep things exciting.

Once at the lake, you have the freedom to do as you please. Whether it’s getting the perfect photo or just walking around Lake Louise and Moraine, you can do it at your own pace.

Your guide will give you tips on the best spots and even act as your personal photographer if you want. In addition, the van will be stationed at the lakes so you can always take a break and warm up, and that is great in the winter.

The 10 AM trip gives you 1 hour at Lake Louise and 1 hour at Moraine Lake, while the 1 PM trip gives you 2 hours at Moraine Lake and 1 hour at Lake Louise so you can canoe.

Still thinking about it? Don’t overthink, because this tour often sells out so you don’t want to miss your chance!

Tour of Moraine Lake & Lake Louise at Sunset

Inclusions:

• Pick-up & drop-off
• Ice-cold water refills
• Small group guarantee
• Upscale transportation with large windows

Last but not least is a sunset tour to both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, as well as Bow Valley Parkway – this time with pick up in Banff only.

Start at Moraine Lake where the setting sun turns the waters into a magical scene perfect for taking photos. Then, head to Lake Louise to watch the sunset over the Victoria Glacier. It’s safe to say that this is going to be the highlight of your day.

As dusk sets in, drive along Bow Valley Parkway, the best time for spotting wildlife. You’ll potentially see elks, bears, deer, and other native animals in their natural habitat, which is fantastic.

This small group tour ensures a personalised experience, travelling in luxury, with a spacious coach with large windows, and that’s great for enjoying the views on the way!

FAQ About the Tours to Lake Louise

Last but not least for this guide, let’s answer some related questions that first-timers have when visiting Lake Louise and Banff National Park.

Where to Stay in Banff?

Here are the best hotels I recommend staying in Banff, and you’re guaranteed a great stay, no matter your budget and how long to spend there. I spent 7 days in Banff and loved every minute of it.

Luxury: Moose Hotel and Suites

Moose Hotel and Suites provides a luxurious retreat just a minute’s walk from downtown Banff. It features a rooftop lounge with two hot pools and panoramic mountain views, a full-service spa, and beautifully appointed rooms with fireplaces and private balconies.

This upscale hotel combines rustic elegance with modern amenities, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking comfort and style in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

Mid-Range: Banff Inn

Banff Inn offers comfortable and contemporary accommodations on Banff Avenue, just a short walk from the town centre. The hotel features updated rooms with cosy bedding and modern amenities, including a sauna and a hot tub for relaxation.

An on-site bar and restaurant provide convenient dining options. Banff Inn represents excellent value for a blend of convenience and comfort in a central location.

Budget: Samesun Banff Hostel

Samesun Banff Hostel is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice quality in any way. Located on Banff Avenue, this hostel offers a sociable environment with both dormitory-style and private rooms available.

Amenities include a communal kitchen, a lively common area, and daily activities aimed at solo and young travellers. Samesun Banff is perfect for those looking to meet new people while exploring Banff without breaking the bank.

Are Tours to Banff from Calgary Worth it?

Yes, tours from Calgary to Banff are totally worth it. There’s no hassle, no driving, and no planning. With a tour, you get a guide who will tell you all about the history, geology and wildlife of the national park.

Plus, many tours include transportation, entry fees and sometimes even meals. So you can sit back, enjoy the views, and make the most of your time in the Rockies.

While they may sound expensive at first, renting a car and preparing your own itinerary for Banff and Jasper will be even pricier, so keep that in mind.

I visited both Jasper and Banff and I can confidently say that they’re equally stunning and worth a visit.

Exploring Banff With a Tour VS DIY

It’s up to your personal preferences to decide between a tour and DIY. Tours are convenient, they include transportation, guides, and pre-planned itineraries so you see the main attractions easily.

You’ll also skip the logistics and learn about Banff National Park, which is a big plus. On the other hand, going on your own gives you complete freedom to set your own pace and schedule.

You can spend as much time as you like at each spot and discover off-the-beaten-path places. Both have their benefits so it’s about what suits you best.

What are the Key Attractions in Banff National Park?

There are different must-see places in Banff. One of the most popular is Lake Louise with its turquoise water and hiking trails, and it’s a must when spending 3 days in Banff.

The Icefields Parkway has views and access to the Athabasca Glacier, and this is the reason why many Lake Louise tours include a stop here.

Banff town has the historic Banff Springs Hotel and hot springs. With so many stops to include in your itinerary, you’re guaranteed a great time.

Conclusion

Lake Louise has so much to offer and these tours are the way to see it all. Whether you’re paddling across the lake, hiking the trails or taking the perfect photos, you just can’t miss your chance.

This top 10 tours will show you the best of Lake Louise and other attractions around. Pick a tour, grab your gear and get ready for a lifetime of memories!