FAQ
Q. Are the free tours really free? How do you make money?
A. Yes it is totally free. We operate like our counterparts in Europe on the "pay what you wish" system . If you enjoy the tour, please tip the guide. That is how they make money. However, it is not mandatory and the amount is up to you and how much you enjoyed the tour.
Q. Why do you do it?
A. We love meeting people, and we love our city. That's what we're supposed to say right? It's true, but really, we take walking tours all over the world and saw an opportunity here in Calgary. It gets us out of the house, it's exercise, and Calgary has a lot to offer.
Q. Do I need to make a reservation, or can I just show up?
A. Yes please make a reservation to guarantee your spot. The tour will only commence if there are 2 reservations 12 hours before the tour. So reserve to avoid disappointment.
Making reservations allows us to plan accordingly and if there is a lot of a demand we can put additional guides on to meet demand. If the tour is not full, we definitely allow walk-ups.
In the event there are not enough bookings and the tour will not commence, we will email you at least 1 hour before the tour is set to commence.
Q. I have a group of 6 or more. Why cannot I make a reservation?
A. For groups of 6 to 10, we ask that you email us ahead of time. For groups larger than 10, we have private group tours available. Please email us for what you're looking for.
Q. Why are private and group tours not free?
A. First, our guide's time is precious and valuable. Second, we offer a lot of opportunity for you to take our tours along with fellow travellers and locals. Finally, commercial tours often look for ways to save money and we're not providing a service for people to exploit. If you are a group of friends, where no one is making any money off the tour, reach out to us and we'll take care of you.
Q. Are children allowed on the tour?
A. Yes, as long as they're accompanied by an adult. The Downtown tours are family friendly. We caution parents about the Haunted Cowtown Tour. We do talk vividly about actual ghost accounts. If your children are prone to nightmares, we don't recommend it for them.
The Prohibition, and the Beer & BBQ tours are Adults Only. All attendees must be 18 or older. For all attendees under 25, the guide will ask to see Gov't ID. The establishments also reserve the right to ID as well.
Q. Are pets allowed on the tour?
A. Absolutely! We love all animals.
Q. If I'm going to be late, are you going to wait?
A. Please notify us via phone, text, or Messenger. If you're going to be a minute or two we will wait, but we will not hold up the entire tour for you. If you're going to be more than 5 minutes late, you can message us and we will try to let you know where you can catch up with us.
Q. What if I need to leave early?
A. Simply let us know so we're not worrying about leaving you behind at a stop.
Q. What if the weather is bad? Will you still go?
A. We will go rain or shine, hot or cold. Obviously, if there are extenuating circumstances like snowmageddon, we might cancel the tour. If you think the weather might be so bad, we might cancel, simply check our social media accounts or send us a message. Our coldest tour thus far was -36ºC.
Q. How difficult is the walk?
A. It is a lot of walking. However, Calgary is pretty flat so as long as you're prepared to walk for the time of the tour, you should find it easy.
Q. What should I bring on the tour?
A. Comfortable shoes! We can't stress that enough. If you're a rookie to walking tours, you'll only make that mistake once. We recommend you also bring water and snacks. Only our city tour, Calgary Downtown, stops for a break, so snacks and water always come in handy while active. Finally, please dress appropriately for the weather.
Q. Are the tours as long as they're advertised?
A. Each tour is different because each group is different. The length is solely dependant upon the group; their level of interest, number of questions asked, walking pace, break time, etc. The time stated on the tour page is merely an estimate.
Q. How do I know who you are?
A. We are standing at the meeting point listed on the tour page, and wearing a red Walk The YYC t-shirt or hoodie.