Fully narrated tour of Butchart Gardens and Saanich Peninsula

Victoria , Canada

Fully narrated tour of Butchart Gardens and Saanich Peninsula

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(15 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Visit one of the finest gardens in the world on this guided, 3-hour tour from Victoria, British Columbia. Walk among the fragrant displays and carefully recreated historical fountains while enjoying some of the best scenery the Saanich Peninsula has to offer. This fully narrated, small-group tour is fully customizable to private groups. Please note: admission to Butchart Gardens is not included.

Available options

1-5 Passengers

5-7 Passengers

15-20 Passengers

8-14 Passengers

What's included

Private tour of Butchart Gardens from Victoria

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Driver and guide

Fully narrated tour

What you'll see

The Butchart Gardens draw more than a million visitors to the Saanich Peninsula every year to experience world-class gardens and incredible scenery. Designated a National Historic Site due to its international acclaim, the gardens offer vibrant displays of verdant plant life and scenic pathways, allowing visitors incredible opportunities to explore graceful fountains, recreated Japanese temples, and renaissance-inspired displays.

This 3-hour tour starts with a pickup from any Victoria-based hotel or lodging. After meeting the driver and tour host, travel through 30 minutes of strikingly lush, natural scenery en route to the gardens. The guide will intersperse bad jokes and personal anecdotes with a careful narration of the history and details of the Saanich Peninsula. He/she will provide the necessary context to truly understand the Butchart Gardens, helping travelers appreciate the unique qualities that make the displays a national treasure. Admission to Butchart Gardens is not included.

The elaborate gardens include an incredible diversity of recreated landscapes from all over the world, such as the Japanese Garden, English Rose display, and the Italian Star pond, featuring a statue of Mercury. Take approximately 90 minutes to smell the naturally perfumed air and photograph the bright colors before heading back to the guide to solicit a recommendation for the best place to eat lunch.

After completing the visit, ride back to Victoria to a centrally located hotel or bed and breakfast for a complimentary drop-off or airport/ferry exchange.

What's not included

Butchart Gardens entrance fee

Transportation to/from Ferry terminal, cruise terminal, or airport ($5 per person fee)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.3

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, an alternative date or full refund will be offered

The tour inside the gardens has an additional entrance fee and is self guided as required by Butchart Gardens management.

Important notes

Please contact local operator at 250-881-3986 or kikishuffle@shaw.ca to confirm pick-up times and locations.

About Victoria

Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is renowned for its stunning gardens, historic architecture, and vibrant arts scene. Nestled on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, it offers a charming blend of British heritage and West Coast natural beauty.

Top Attractions

Butchart Gardens

The Butchart Gardens is a stunning collection of floral display gardens, featuring a variety of themed gardens and seasonal blooms.

Nature 2-3 hours $34.95

Royal BC Museum

The Royal BC Museum offers a comprehensive look at the natural and human history of British Columbia through interactive exhibits and artifacts.

Museum 2-3 hours $27

Parliament Buildings

The Parliament Buildings are a stunning example of neoclassical architecture and the seat of the British Columbia government.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (tours may require reservations)

Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman's Wharf is a bustling waterfront area filled with colorful floating homes, fresh seafood, and unique shops.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore

Fisgard Lighthouse

Fisgard Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse marking the entrance to the Victoria Harbour. It is one of the oldest lighthouses on the West Coast of Canada.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (Fort Rodd Hill has an admission fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Spot Prawns

Spot prawns are a local delicacy, often served grilled, poached, or in pasta dishes. They are sweet, tender, and a must-try for seafood lovers.

Main Course Contains shellfish

Saskatoon Berry Pie

Saskatoon berry pie is a sweet and tangy dessert made with local Saskatoon berries, reminiscent of blueberries but with a unique flavor.

Dessert Vegetarian (check for dairy content)

Artisan Craft Beer

Victoria is home to a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering a wide range of local and unique brews.

Drink Contains gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Whale watching Spa treatments Beachcombing Picnicking Museum visits Art gallery tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

Summer is the peak tourist season in Victoria, with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English, French, Chinese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

PST (GMT-8) / PDT (GMT-7) (Daylight Saving Time observed)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Victoria is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Use licensed taxis or rideshare services.
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night.

Getting there

By air

Victoria International Airport • 20 km from city center

By train

Victoria Station

By bus

Victoria Coach Station

Getting around

Public transport

BC Transit operates an extensive bus network throughout Victoria, making it easy to get around without a car.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Oak Bay James Bay Fernwood

Day trips

Sidney

20 km from Victoria • Half day

Sidney is a charming seaside village known for its beautiful waterfront, historic buildings, and vibrant arts scene. It's a great place to explore local shops, galleries, and cafes.

Butchart Gardens

25 km from Victoria • Half day

The Butchart Gardens is a stunning collection of floral display gardens, featuring a variety of themed gardens and seasonal blooms. It's one of the most popular attractions near Victoria.

Goldstream Provincial Park

20 km from Victoria • Half day to full day

Goldstream Provincial Park is a beautiful natural area featuring waterfalls, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife. It's a great place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Festivals

Victoria Day Celebration • May (weekend) Victoria Film Festival • February Victoria Fringe Festival • August

Pro tips

Visit the Butchart Gardens in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the gardens at their best.
Take a stroll along the Dallas Road Waterfront Walkway for stunning views of the ocean and Olympic Mountains.
Explore the historic Chinatown and visit the Fan Tan Alley, the narrowest alley in Canada.
Try the famous fish and chips at Red Fish Blue Fish or the local craft beer at a nearby brewery.
Visit the Royal BC Museum to learn about the natural and human history of British Columbia.