Travel Recommendation: Ottawa, ON to Banff, AB
Air Travel
- Transport Mode: Air travel (flight)
- Companies: WestJet, Air Canada
- Duration: Approximately 7 hours (including layover)
- Distance: 1,800 miles
- Costs: Estimated $400 - $600 round trip
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable; direct flights followed by a car rental for local travel in Banff
Pro Tip: Book your tickets in advance and consider using the Air Canada Aeroplan program for potential discounts or benefits.
Car Rental for Local Travel
- Companies: Enterprise, Hertz, National
- Duration: 1.5 hours for local travel from Calgary International Airport to Banff
- Distance: 90 miles
- Costs: Estimated $50 - $100 per day for car rental, depending on the type of vehicle
- Roads/Routes: Take AB-2 S from Calgary, then merge onto Trans-Canada Highway (AB-1) towards Banff
Pro Tip: Always check road conditions before you leave Calgary, especially in winter months, as weather can affect driving times.
Overall Recommendation
For the journey from Ottawa to Banff, a combination of air travel and car rental is recommended for feasibility and time efficiency. Begin by booking a round-trip flight with either WestJet or Air Canada, and secure a rental car at Calgary International Airport for easy access to the stunning landscapes of Banff National Park. The entire journey can take up to 7.5 hours when considering local transit time and layovers. Be sure to research seasonal travel advisories, as well as special events in Banff that may influence travel plans.