Newfoundland Explorer: Coastlines, Culture & Icebergs

Newfoundland Explorer: Coastlines, Culture & Icebergs

  • Independent travel
  • 13 days
  • St. John's, NL to St. John's, NL
  • May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
  • Tour code NFCCI

About this tour

Discover the rugged beauty and rich heritage of Newfoundland on this unforgettable 12-day self-drive adventure. From the colourful streets of St. John’s to the dramatic landscapes of Gros Morne National Park, this journey takes you along wild coastlines, through charming outports, and into the heart of Viking history. Witness towering icebergs, spot whales in their natural habitat, and explore some of Canada’s most breathtaking scenery. With a blend of scenic drives, included excursions, and time to explore at your own pace, this itinerary offers an authentic and immersive Newfoundland experience

Trip highlights

  • Boat tour through St. John’s Harbour and “The Narrows” for a coastal perspective of the city
  • Iceberg and whale watching in Twillingate, one of the best viewing spots in the world
  • Explore Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including a boat tour on Western Brook Pond
  • Step back in time at Norstead Viking Village in St. Anthony
  • Scenic coastal drives through Newfoundland’s rugged landscapes, charming outports, and historic towns

Day by day

  1. Day 1 Arrive in St. John’s

    Arrive in St. John’s, Newfoundland’s vibrant capital, and collect your rental car. Settle into your accommodation and, if time permits, begin exploring this colourful coastal city, known for its lively atmosphere, historic streets, and ocean views.

    Overnight: St. John's, NL
  2. Day 2 Explore St. John’s

    Spend the day discovering St. John’s, one of North America’s oldest cities. Wander through the brightly coloured row houses, visit historic landmarks, and soak up the city’s unique culture. Included today is a St. John’s Harbour Tour, where you’ll cruise through “The Narrows” on a narrated journey along the coastline, offering a spectacular perspective of the city and its seafaring history.

    Overnight: St. John's, NL
  3. Day 3 St. John’s to Twillingate

    Travel north to the picturesque town of Twillingate, a scenic drive of approximately five hours. Known as the “Iceberg Capital of the World,” Twillingate welcomes you with rugged coastlines, quiet harbours, and classic Newfoundland charm.

    Overnight: Twillingate
  4. Day 4 Explore Twillingate

    Enjoy a full day exploring Twillingate’s breathtaking coastal scenery. Included is an unforgettable Iceberg Quest Ocean Tour, where you’ll have the chance to witness ancient icebergs drifting along the coast, spot humpback whales feeding in the surrounding waters, and observe seabirds soaring overhead, an iconic Newfoundland experience.

    Overnight: Twillingate
  5. Day 5 Twillingate to Gros Morne

    Continue your journey west to Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a scenic drive of approximately five hours. As you arrive, take in the dramatic landscapes that make this region one of Canada’s most remarkable natural wonders.

    Overnight: Gros Morne
  6. Day 6 Explore Gros Morne

    Spend the day discovering Gros Morne’s extraordinary landscapes. Included is a boat tour on Western Brook Pond, a landlocked fjord carved by glaciers. Glide past towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and striking rock formations while taking in the sheer scale and beauty of this natural masterpiece.

    Overnight: Gros Morne
  7. Day 7 Gros Morne to St. Anthony

    Travel north to St. Anthony, a journey of approximately four hours along Newfoundland’s rugged coastline. This remote region is rich in history and known for its excellent iceberg viewing opportunities.

    Overnight: St. Anthony
  8. Day 8 Explore St. Anthony

    Explore the fascinating history and natural beauty of St. Anthony. Included is admission to Norstead Viking Village, where you can step back in time and experience life as it was over 1,000 years ago. Discover the area’s deep-rooted Viking heritage and enjoy the dramatic coastal surroundings.

    Overnight: St. Anthony
  9. Day 9 St. Anthony to Corner Brook

    Begin your journey south to Corner Brook, a scenic drive of approximately five hours. Along the way, enjoy sweeping coastal views and the ever-changing landscapes of Newfoundland’s west coast.

    Overnight: Corner Brook
  10. Day 10 Corner Brook to Gander

    Continue across the island to Gander, a town known for its important role in aviation history. This drive offers a glimpse into Newfoundland’s vast and untamed interior.

    Overnight: Gander
  11. Day 11 Gander to Bonavista

    Travel to the historic town of Bonavista, where rugged cliffs, sea stacks, and rich history await. This charming coastal community is one of Newfoundland’s most picturesque destinations.

  12. Day 12 Return to St. John’s

    Complete your journey as you return to St. John’s for your final night. Take time to revisit your favourite spots or enjoy a final evening soaking in the atmosphere of this vibrant coastal city before your adventure comes to an end.

    Overnight: St. John's, NL
  13. Day 13 Depart St. John’s

    Your trip concludes once you return the rental car.

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What's included

  • Attractions as listed
  • Rental Car
  • 12 nights accommodation in the listed pre-selected hotels as agreed

What's not included

  • Airfare unless specified as included within the itinerary
  • Taxes as applicable (separately mentioned)
  • Travel Insurance and Cancellation Protection (strongly recommended)
  • Gratuities for Local Guides, Tour Managers and/or Bus Drivers
  • Meals not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary
  • Items ( attractions and sightseeing & entrance fees) not listed as included in the itinerary
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Frequently asked questions

Tour Questions

What are the start and end locations of the tour?

The tour officially starts and ends in St. John's, Newfoundland. Travelers enjoy a comprehensive 13-day self-drive round-trip loop beginning and concluding in the province's vibrant capital city.

How many days does the tour last?

This is a 13-day travel itinerary (including 12 nights of accommodation) designed to give you an immersive self-drive adventure. The trip begins upon your arrival in St. John's and wraps up on Day 13 after you return your rental car.

What are some of the key highlights included in the itinerary?

Key highlights include a narrated boat tour through St. John's Harbour and "The Narrows," an Iceberg Quest Ocean Tour in Twillingate for whale and iceberg watching, and a scenic boat tour on Western Brook Pond in Gros Morne National Park. Travelers also visit the historic Norstead Viking Village in St. Anthony and explore the coastal beauty of Bonavista.

What is included in the tour price?

The package includes 12 nights of accommodation in pre-selected hotels, a rental car for the road trip, and all specific attractions and sightseeing tours listed in the itinerary.

What is not included in the tour price?

Exclusions from the package include airfares unless specified, applicable local taxes, and travel insurance or cancellation protection (which is strongly recommended). Additionally, gratuities for local guides, tour managers, and drivers, as well as meals and unlisted entrance fees, are not covered.

What is the average age of passengers on these tours?

While the tours are suitable for all age demographics, the average age of travelers is typically 45 and older. This ensures a comfortable, well-paced, and relaxing travel experience for mature explorers.

Is there a single surcharge for solo travelers?

Solo travelers can choose to pay a single supplement to secure their own room throughout the tour. For those willing to share, a Twin Share option is available for most tours where you room with another single, same-gender traveler to avoid extra single fees.

How physically demanding is this tour?

This tour features a low level of physical demand since it is primarily a self-drive trip with scenic boat cruises and short walks. However, you should inquire about any specific mobility restrictions before booking to ensure the travel style suits your needs.

How much luggage is allowed per passenger?

Each passenger is allowed to bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag, with a weight limit of 32 kilograms (60 pounds) for the main suitcase. Baggage handling is provided at the hotels, but you are responsible for handling your own gear in and out of the rental vehicle.

Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Yes, tour operators can accommodate reasonable dietary restrictions such as food allergies, vegan, and vegetarian requirements. Guests are encouraged to inform the staff of any specific dietary needs at the time of booking so appropriate arrangements can be made.

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