Niagara Falls: Guided Tour with Behind the Falls & Boat Ride

If you’re thinking about experiencing Niagara Falls from the Canadian side, chances are you’ll come across a variety of tour options. This particular guided tour by Walk Niagara Tours has been earning rave reviews — a solid 4.9 out of 5 based on 265 reviews, with many travelers highlighting its value and memorable experiences. We wanted to give you a detailed look at what makes this tour stand out, what to expect, and whether it fits your travel plans.

What caught our eye immediately are the priority access to major attractions and the combination of behind-the-falls exploration plus a boat cruise. Both of these elements give you a fuller, more immersive experience than simply peering at the falls from afar. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or food, so you’ll want to plan for that.

This tour is perfect if you’re after a well-organized, informative experience that mixes sightseeing with fun. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate expert guides, want to skip long lines, or are keen on seeing Niagara’s power up close. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of education and adventure will find plenty to like here.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience: Led by licensed professionals, ensuring informative commentary and safety.
• Skip-the-line access: Priority entry to two major attractions, saving you time and frustration.
• Two iconic activities: Journey Behind the Falls and a boat cruise that gets you right in the action.
• Cost-effective: At $99, it offers excellent value for the breadth of experiences included.
• Extras: You receive a coupon pack worth over $200 for local attractions.
• Weather considerations: Tours run rain or shine, so bring appropriate clothing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is Included and What Isn’t?

This tour covers a lot of ground for $99 per person. You get a guided walking experience with a skilled, friendly guide who will share stories and insights about the falls, the history, and the geology. The tickets for the Journey Behind the Falls and the Boat Voyage to the Falls are included, meaning you won’t have to worry about buying separate tickets or waiting in lines.

You’ll also receive a coupon pack valued at over $200, giving discounts on various local attractions. However, the tour doesn’t include hotel pick-up or drop-off, nor food and beverages, so plan accordingly. The meeting point is convenient — at the Murray Hill Welcome Centre, right next to Queen Victoria Place.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Actually Do

The tour lasts about 2.5 hours, usually offered in the morning. It kicks off with a quick check-in at the Murray Hill Welcome Centre. From there, your guide escorts you to the key sites, starting with the remarkable Journey Behind the Falls. This part is often a highlight — descending into tunnels behind the cascading water and standing in vantage points where you can really feel the raw power of Niagara.

Many reviews praise this experience for its unique perspective and the sensory overload of hearing and feeling the water thundering around you. As one reviewer put it, “The walk behind the Falls was superb and the boat trip thrilling.”

After exploring behind the falls, you’ll head to the Boat Voyage, where you’ll be right at the foot of the falls, feeling the mist on your face. This is the most visceral part of the tour, and repeatedly, travelers mention how up close and personal it makes the falls feel.

Throughout the tour, your guide provides fascinating details about the falls’ history and geology, enriching your understanding of this natural wonder. Many reviews emphasize how knowledgeable guides like Dan, Dave, and Terry made the experience special with their friendly attitude and insightful commentary.

The Authentic Experience: What Travelers Say

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the guides’ expertise and friendliness. Multiple reviews mention guides who are not only knowledgeable but also engaging and humorous, making the tour both fun and educational. For example, “Diana was an excellent guide, both knowledgeable and entertaining,” and “Dan was the most awesome guide—informative and delightful.”

The activity also hits a lot of high notes in terms of stunning visuals. The views from behind the falls and from the boat are often described as breathtaking, with many travelers feeling they’ve truly gotten a close-up experience that’s worth the price.

Several reviews note how well the timing and pacing are managed. The tour isn’t rushed, and guides ensure everyone stays together and feels comfortable. The inclusion of pre-purchased tickets helps avoid long waits, which many travelers appreciate, especially during busy seasons.

That said, some travelers mention that the price might seem a bit high if you compare it to other attractions, but most agree that the value for money is justified by the experience and convenience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

More Great Tours Nearby

The Guided Walking Experience

Having a licensed professional guide means you get more than just a map. The guides share stories, answer questions, and point out details you might overlook on your own. Whether it’s the history behind the falls or fun facts about local flora, the guides add depth to the experience.

Behind-the-Falls Adventure

The Journey Behind the Falls sets this tour apart. Unlike just viewing from above, descending into tunnels behind the cascading water offers a rare perspective. It’s a sensory experience — feeling the vibrations, hearing the roar, and seeing the falls from behind.

The Boat Ride: Up Close and Personal

The Voyage to the Falls is often rated as the most thrilling part. Feeling the mist and hearing the roar from right at the foot of the falls creates an unforgettable memory. It’s a photo-worthy moment, and many reviewers say it’s worth the ticket price alone.

Saving Time and Money

The priority access means you skip long lines, especially during peak seasons, saving you precious time. Plus, the inclusion of the $200-worth of coupons for local attractions can help you stretch your budget further, whether you want to explore more or indulge in local food.

Practical Tips for Your Tour

• Wear comfortable shoes: The walk involves some steps and potentially wet surfaces.
• Dress appropriately: It can rain or be misty, so bring a rain jacket or poncho.
• Arrive on time: The meeting point is at Murray Hill Welcome Centre, easily accessible but punctuality helps things run smoothly.
• Bring a waterproof bag for your phone: You’ll want to capture the sights without risking water damage.
• Plan for other meals: Since food isn’t included, consider packing snacks or planning to eat afterward.

Is This Tour Family Friendly?

While most reviews don’t specify age restrictions, the activities involve walking and exposure to water, so older children or teenagers will likely enjoy the experience. It might not be ideal for very young kids due to the walking and the wet conditions. But for those looking for an engaging, safe way to see the falls up close, this tour works well for families with children who can handle the pace.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour by Walk Niagara Tours offers a comprehensive, well-organized experience of Niagara Falls. For anyone who values expert guides, time-saving priority access, and unforgettable views, this tour delivers on all fronts. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, the chance to see behind the falls and enjoy an up-close boat ride makes this experience truly special.

The honest, friendly reviews show that most travelers walk away with not just photos but stories and memories that last. The price might be a consideration, but given the inclusions and quality of the experience, many find it absolutely worth it.

If you’re after an immersive, engaging way to experience Niagara Falls — especially if you enjoy a little education and adventure mixed together — this tour is a solid choice.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to make your way to the meeting point at the Murray Hill Welcome Centre.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, along with rain gear since the tour takes place rain or shine. A waterproof bag for your phone can be helpful for photos.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, generally offered in the morning.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
While no specific age restrictions are mentioned, it’s best suited for older children or teenagers who can handle walking and exposure to water. Very young kids might find it tiring.

What are the main attractions included?
You’ll visit Journey Behind the Falls and sail on the Boat Voyage to the Falls—both highly immersive and exciting experiences.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the tour accessible in bad weather?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine. However, extreme weather might cause postponements or cancellations for safety reasons.

In the end, if you’re looking for a well-rounded, engaging, and memorable way to see Niagara Falls from many angles, this tour ticks all the boxes — especially if you value knowledgeable guides, skipping lines, and the thrill of getting close to the falls.

You can check availability for your dates here: