Tours/Victoria/Essence of Victoria: Private Tour of Nature, History & Coast
Viator · Private tour

Essence of Victoria: Private Tour of Nature, History & Coast

5.0(13)Victoria1 hour
VIATOR5.0(3)TRIPADVISOR5.0(10)

Description

Discover the hidden city and nature places, coastal communities and Victoria's Inner Harbour. Your local guide will drive you from one fascinating place to the next. You will visit landmarks like the oldest Chinatown and famous Empress Hotel, where on a private tour that is tailored to you. Walk, drive and enjoy the vibrant culture of Victoria, BC in city galleries and shops or just take lunch by the seaside as you take in of Vancouver Island. If you are in Vancouver, enjoy this private tour when you plan your day trip to Vancouver Island. We'll meet you in Harbour Air, Helijet, or BC Ferry. Choose to explore historic castles, oldest Chinatown, Victoria's Inner harbour, and its migratory bird sanctuary coastline.

Tour Options

Victoria Drive & Explore Tour
  • Pickup included

Itinerary

10 min

We'll make a stop here for photos and you'll see the talent totem pole in the world

15 min

We'll drive along Juan de Fuca strait to a view point and through the scenic route. We always stop where you wish to explore

Admission not included20 min

We can drive by or you may enter the castle if you wish

15 min

We enter the grounds that have beautiful gardens and take photos. There is a small fashion museum there that is by donation

20 min

We'll drive by the marina, and the village where you may shop if you wish or get something to eat

15 min

We'll walk through the alleyways of Chinatown. Very Picturesque.

10 min

We can stop here or drive through

Pass by

Inner Harbour with Legislative building

Highlights

Private transportation, experienced tour guide, luxury minivan, pick up and drop off in Victoria.
Bottled water

What's included

Included
Private transportation, experienced tour guide, luxury minivan, pick up and drop off in Victoria.
Bottled water

Pickup Locations & Times

Please write the exact pick up location: include name of the Cruise Ship, name of the ferry like Clipper, or BC Ferry, flight number on Harbour Air Sea plane or International Airport, name of the hotel, or address in and around Victoria, BC where we will pick you up

Traveller Ratings

5.0
13 reviews
5
13
4
0
3
0
2
0
1
0

Important Information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Reviews(13)

N
Nomad432989
July 20, 2026
Victoria tour- gardens, history and views

I highly recommend EV Tours! John our guide was personable, so knowledgeable about history, wildlife, plants etc. We enjoyed John's company, he made us so comfortable right from the beginning and he made our tour that much better. He was attentive and wanted to make sure we had a fantastic day. This tour was a highlight of our trip. Scott & Kim K.

Operator response

Thank you Scott & Kim for your wonderful review. John is delighted to know that his knowledge and personal approach made your tour so enjoyable, and that your day with EV Tours was a highlight of your trip. We truly appreciate your kind words and hope to welcome you back to Vancouver Island one day!

D
delkri
June 6, 2026
Excellent overview of Victoria BC.

We were in Victoria for the first time, and Elizabeth gave us a very friendly, personal, and excellent overview of this beautiful city. We learned about historical and picturesque places and their backgrounds. Elizabeth drove us through Victoria in her very comfortable car, which accommodates four people, and took us for a walk at the most beautiful spots.

Operator response

Thank you very much for your kind review. It was a pleasure to introduce you to Victoria and share some of the city's history, stories, and beautiful corners. I am delighted that you enjoyed both the scenic drives and the walks through some of my favourite locations. Thank you for your wonderful company throughout the day. I hope your travels bring you back to Victoria someday.

J
Joe_H
September 2, 2024
Great setup and support

Elizabeth was who work with upfront. Richard, who was our tour guide. In 4 hours we saw the best of Victoria. Richard is an excellent guide, very patient and accommodating. We will be going back next year and will be using the same individuals.

Operator response

We are thrilled that you enjoyed your time in Victoria. Thank you for this great review. We are looking forward to your visit next year.

7
7lauriet
July 20, 2024
Victoria in One Day

The tour was not on there but we did a 6 hour tour with John C. and it was wonderful and informative. My mother want to see Victoria and the Butchart Gardens. We only had one day to do it. He took us to Butchart Gardens and led us around easily so that my mother could walk it without too much difficulty. My husband wanted to go to a Harley shop that was not close and he took us there, which was great. He pointed out all sorts of islands and landmarks which my kids found interesting. We even saw a seal and a bunch of deer. I highly recommend them if you want to explore Victoria.

Operator response

Thank you for the nice review. John was very happy to share his knowledge and to tailor the tour to your needs and interests.

N
norman50
September 5, 2023
A Wonderful Day in Victoria

Thank you Richard for making our day so interesting, informative and pleasant. We visited the Butchart Gardens, butterfly garden, and driving tour through Oak Bay, grabbing a bite at Red Barn Market, and the castle. You have a wonderful personality and a pleasure to be with

Operator response

I really enjoyed spending the day with you and wonderful that you wanted to visit so many places I suggested. Hope you come back for more fun on Vancouver Island.

S
Sondra_G
August 17, 2023
Fantastic host: Richard. Very knowledgeable and enhanced the experience.

Indigenous totem pole at Beacon Hill park. Touring through various neighbourhoods and the grounds at Government house.

Operator response

Thank you for the kind words. Was wonderful sharing my city with you. There is so much to see on Vancouver Island. I hope you return some day.

H
Helen201355
July 6, 2023
Really exceeded our high expectations

Fabulous tour with Elizabeth!! Exceeded our highest expectations. Our cruise ship had some delays and so the ship canceled all of its excursions. But Elizabeth just worked around our new schedule and was able to show us Victoria in a way that was interesting, fun and memorable.

Operator response

Thank you so much for your kind words and wonderful feedback! I am absolutely thrilled to hear that our tour exceeded your highest expectations and provided you with a fabulous experience in Victoria.

D
Dale M
August 28, 2022
An island tour not to be missed.

Elizabeth is a fascinating lady with a deep respect for nature and animals, and is multi-lingual. Her insight on how the Island developed, and her rigorous review of current events melds in quintessential manner that was very pleasing to us. You can tell she loves exploring and finding new flora, fauna, etc. She was such a delight to be with all day.Her love of Victoria was infectious, makes you want to start planning the next trip to Victoria.

Operator response

I am delighted to read this thoughtful review. I so appreciate it. It was a fabulous day with you on Vancouver Island.

T
Terri_H
August 3, 2022
Wonderful Victoria customized sightseeing private tour! Would recommend!

Richard brought Victoria alive to our family of 5! We thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon drive around Victoria! Breathtaking views and custom stops make this a wonderful sightseeing day! Comfortable van and knowledgable guide!

Operator response

Wonderful to hear you enjoyed your visit to Victoria and that we were able to be part of your experience. Richard hopes you visit again. All the best.

C
Captcindyb
July 8, 2022
Great Experience

Elizabeth was amazing! She is professional, yet Armand friendly. We loved seeing the hidden gems of Victoria!

Operator response

So glad you got to see parts of Victoria that often visitors miss, like our stunning seaside viewpoint and communities. It was great meeting you!

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