polar bear tours churchill manitoba canada

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Lazy Bear Lodge

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Polar Bear Tours in Churchill

Whale and polar bear watching in churchill.

Attention all whale lovers! Join us on the newest and best boats in Churchill so we can get you further out to view the most belugas! This is your chance to be in the heart of all the action when 60,000 Beluga Whales (the highest concentration in the world!) descend upon Hudson Bay. Let the super pods of Beluga Whales that can be seen in the Hudson Bay take your breath away! Rendezvous with the whales on the Churchill River and into the mouth of the Hudson Bay as they feed on schools of Capelin, Arctic Char, Brook Trout and Cisco White Fish.

Besides viewing these sea canaries with our experienced guide on a boat tour, you may encounter other Tundra wildlife: the Pacific Loon, Ptarmigan, Arctic Hare, Arctic Fox, a plethora of wild flowers and possibly the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights).

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Polar Bear Tours - Churchill, MB

Come join us for your ultimate polar bear viewing experience. Travel with our guides in the most luxurious custom built Polar Rovers, where you will see arctic wildlife including arctic fox, caribou, snowy owls and of course the magnificent polar bear...all in their natural environment. Stay at our custom built Tundra Lodge, sleeping with polar bears under the awe inspiring northern lights.

The year 2018 marks our 30th anniversary

Since turning a love for the community and wildlife of Churchill, Manitoba, for photography, adventure, and the challenge of improving each new Polar Rover, into a thriving family-run business. We're excited to commemorate such an important year and share the journey we've taken since the days of 'Old Blue' (the first Polar Rover)!

When you ask the people who have been deeply connected to the growth of Great White Bear Tours over the past 30 years, you will hear many of the same words of endearment and strength about its owners Marilyn and Don Walkoski, and about the business. Yet, the same can be said about each and every individual who –throughout the years – have been there to support and guide the endeavours of Great White Bear Tours. It goes without saying that due to their dedication, Great White Bear Tours would not be where it is today.

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Learn More about Great White Bear Tours

Learn more about our company, our Polar Rovers and Tundra Lodge, and meet the staff that will take you on your Great White Bear Tour!

A Look at What You May Experience in Churchill

Take a look at some of the wildlife you may see during your Great White Bear Tours adventure: From polar bears to other wildlife. Also have a look at our Polar Rovers, as well as what Churchill has to offer.

Trip Advisor

Top Polar Bear Tour in Churchill

Ranked as the top polar bear tour in Churchill and well as one of the top "Things to Do" in Churchill. While visitors rate the tour as "Absolutely Amazing", we hope to give you the "Experience of a Lifetime". Click on the link below to see what others are saying about Great White Bear Tours.

Canada's Premier Polar Bear Adventure

Trip Highlights

• The Most Intimate Polar Bear Encounters In the smallest groups available—capped at just 16—meet the world’s greatest concentration of polar bears, as they gather to wait for freeze-up on Hudson Bay
• Superlative Tundra Vehicles Get You Closer The newest fleet of technologically advanced Polar Rovers, with huge windows and a see-through steel outdoor viewing deck, get you closest to the bears
• Search for the Aurora on the Tundra at Night An exclusive tundra excursion after dark provides a unique perspective, including the chance, on a clear night, to view northern lights away from town

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Photo Departures Available

Our immersive polar bear photography adventure includes three full days of photography on the tundra. No one offers you more time and proximity with the King of the Arctic, coupled with an intensive focus on helping you create outstanding images. Our Expedition Leader is an expert nature photographer and naturalist, by your side to offer hands-on coaching and augmenting your learning with evening lectures on Arctic wildlife and landscape photography. With just 16 guests aboard vehicles designed for 30-plus passengers, everyone has a window seat, plenty of room for gear, and space to position for the best shots.

There is a Difference in Polar Bear Tours—Choose Wisely!

• We Hold Exclusive Permits for the Best Bear Viewing Area Just two polar bear tour operators in Churchill hold exclusive permits to access the full range of the Churchill Wildlife Management Area where the best—and often only—polar bear viewing occurs. Naturally, the Nat Hab/Great White Bear team possesses one of these permits. Those who don't can only offer trips aboard school-bus-style vehicles along the road to Halfway Point, which is, as the name implies, only halfway to the prime polar bear-viewing area . If you’re going to Churchill just once in your life, make it a complete experience!
• Our Polar Rovers are the Most Impressive Vehicles in the North The original tundra buggy designed for polar bear viewing was invented in the 1980s, an innovative concept that has since been substantially improved upon. Our partner in Manitoba, a world-renowned specialty vehicle designer, has created the world's premier tundra vehicle—the Polar Rover—which we operate exclusively in Churchill. Its innovative drive train allows us to traverse the tundra with virtually no chance of breakdowns. With the advanced elite suspension system that smooths the ride, plus on-board flush toilet facilities, our guests enjoy a superior level of comfort and safety. 
• Steel Mesh Flooring Offers Close-Up Bear Observation Built into the rear viewing platform of every Polar Rover is an innovative and exclusive feature we've pioneered for optimal polar bear viewing—corrugated steel-mesh floors that facilitate remarkably close encounters with curious bears that sometimes wander beneath our vehicles!
• The Smallest Groups Ensure the Best Nature Adventures A fundamental element of the best polar bear expedition is a small group. It may cost a little more, but considering the hugely superior experience, we know it’s well worth it. By limiting our groups to approximately 16 guests (even though our Polar Rovers hold more than 30 passengers), we ensure plenty of space aboard our vehicles, room to angle for the best photos, and a window seat for all.
• Private Chartered Planes Maximize Time with the Bears So we don't waste time dealing with airline schedules and airport security screenings, we charter our own aircraft to fly directly between Winnipeg to Churchill at a time that's most convenient for us. We know you'd rather spend your time watching polar bears rather than sitting around airports.
• Sled Dog Experience Included on Every Departure Every one of our Churchill tours includes a personal visit with a local dog musher and his team, and a ride through the boreal forest behind a team of sled dogs. Earlier in the season, if there isn't sufficient snow cover, the dogs pull us in a wheeled cart. But whenever you come to Churchill, this authentic northern adventure is part of your experience. 
• Special Photography Departures Spend Three Full Days on the Tundra If you're especially interested in polar bear photography, choose a Photo Tour: Our custom Polar Rovers get us in prime range of our subjects, and photo departures spend three full days roving the tundra in search of bears and other Arctic wildlife, with expert photography coaching from our Expedition Leader. 
• The Finest Naturalist Guides on the Planet Natural Habitat Adventures is known for employing the highest-quality guides in the industry. Our Polar Bear Expedition Leaders—who have been guiding bear tours for an average of more than 10 years each—receive additional training and resources from WWF’s top scientists, ensuring a superlative interpretive experience. Expedition Leaders meet you in Winnipeg and travel with the group the entire way, sharing their wealth of knowledge and insight at every turn. On our special photo departures, guides are professional photographers with extensive experience photographing polar bears and other Arctic wildlife—and they're constantly by your side to share their knowledge. Our philosophy is pretty simple: a nature adventure is only as good as the guide, so we simply must provide the best! See Expedition Leader bios with traveler comments regarding the quality of our leaders.
• Local Cultural Interactions Enhance Our Adventures Through years of developing close relationships with local people, we are able to offer our guests exclusive opportunities to meet revered elders of First Nations, Inuit and Metis cultural groups in Churchill. These storytellers are some of the most senior in their communities, passing on their knowledge of the past to younger generations and also to our travelers.
• Our Quality-Value Guarantee Ensures Your Special Polar Bear Experience Natural Habitat Adventures offers an exclusive guarantee, clearly stating that we will meet the lofty expectations we set in our promotional materials. To our knowledge, this is the most ambitious guarantee made by any adventure travel company. Read our important promise.
• Feel Good About Your Carbon-Neutral Journey We care deeply about our planet, as we know you do. When you travel with us, the carbon emissions from your trip are 100% offset—including your round-trip flights from home. Natural Habitat Adventures has been the world’s first carbon-neutral travel company since 2007.

Read what travelers are saying about Canada's Premier Polar Bear Adventure:

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Tundra Vehicle Tours (Polar Bear/Wildlife Viewing)

Frontiers North Adventure – Tundra Buggy In dividual and packaged tours are available    Ph: 1-800-663-9832 or 204-949-2050,  email  or check out their website .

Great White Bear Tours Individual and packaged tours are available. Ph: 1-866-262-6202,  email  or check out their website . 

Lazy Bear Lodge and Expeditions Provides packaged bookings Ph: 1-866-687-2327 or 204-663-9377, email or check out their website.

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Hi - any suggestions for on a great polar bear tour in Churchill, Manitoba. Is it worth it to stay for a week or is three days enough?

Thank you so much!! That is very helpful and I will be looking into it.

Hi Any suggestions, I am planning to visit in January, what can I see in churchill

Bear season is Oct to Nov.

Before that Bears are up north and after they are out in the bay

My wife and I will be in Churchill Oct.23-26,2016. We are booked with Lazy Bear Lodge.

I'll give you information when I return home. Been looking forward to this trip for years!

Hi mjk67, I don't know if you visited Churchill last year, but I wanted to share my experience when visiting Churchill in August, 2015. When it comes to polar bears, there were eleven that showed in four days😀. I had read that polar bears aren't as active in summer, but still around, and that they were. Every day I was there, the conservationists were out patrolling the area and you could hear them using the bear bangers to move them through or away from town. There is a really nicely priced place to stay called the Tundra Hostel, just send an email to the Tundra Inn. They are incredibly nice and accommodating. The cost is $25.00-$30.00. You can see polar bears anywhere as when we did the Prince of Wales fort, one was playing peek a boo with us. When we did the beluga tour on a zodiac, we saw a bear there as well. The belugas are AWESOME in the estuary in summer!! There were sooo many of them following so close to the boat, you could almost reach out and touch them. One thing to mention: please don't waste your time and money on the Sea North 2 to see belugas. It's a larger boat the belugas hid from when I was on a zodiac. As soon as the big boat left, the whales came right back to us😀. In the afternoon, three guys and I rented a truck from Tamarack rentals in town for around $120.00 CAD and found someone to guide us named Keith. He knew the area well and we saw three bears, one from VERY close!! One was on the beach sleeping, another was wandering near the dog ranch (pound) and the one we saw up close and personal was near the Ithaca, a grounded ship. The last day I was there, the bear bangers went off numerous times and I went outside cautiously to see what was up. Someone told me there was a sow and two cubs near the hospital by the Hudson Bay and asked me to hop in and we went on a little Indiana Jones adventure. I got to see how the conservationists handle the bears when they come into town. Very cool😀. The Aurora Borealis was out every night I was there, which was gorgeous!!! Folks, don't think it has to cost an arm and a leg to visit here. You can get by quite reasonable and if you time it right, you can see everything I did and more.

Hi Tigerman.

You did well😃

Our next visit to Churchill will be a summer one primarily to see the Belugas and I hope we will be as lucky as you as some bonus bear sightings would be welcome.

I have seen comments from Summer visitors who didn't see any, same as can happen to visitors around the shoulder of the Fall peak viewing. One of the reasons we chose to go again last time in the peak sweet spot to maximise the opportunities, given the limited views we got the first time.

But of course your luck with any wildlife viewing improves with planning, time in location and patience.

With the demise of the grain shipping operation in Churchill, I would not be surprised if the summer season starts to get promoted more, possibly with an increase in costs if it gets popular.

Thanks Valiantsontour😀. There are sooo many things to mention, I don't know where to start. First, please directly contact Sea North, they are INCREDIBLY professional with the way they do business!!! Again, make sure to go on their Zodiac, they get VERY close to the belugas, not by chasing them, but by driving ahead of them and allowing them to follow the boat, which at times they will. They will follow in the boats wake sooo close, they almost touch the propeller, hence the necessity to use a motor guard to prevent tragedy. They also offer the chance to kayak with them or snorkel with them. If you're an experienced kayaker, that could be really cool, maybe next time for me😊. Then you can snorkel with them if you want, but that's really hit and miss. Sea North gave me a heads up about that one. They let me know that the water is often very murky/cloudy, hence making it almost impossible to see them, although it would be really neat to be face to face with them😀. I also did the Prince of Wales fort through them, which the hike to the fort was nice, with great history, but the fort itself wasn't anything to write home about. You can see polar bears on the hike though, of which we saw one and got wind of one swimming across the channel, although we didn't see that one. Frontiers North is very good with the Tundra Buggy tours that take you to see polar, as well as a possible grizzly sighting. You'd have to be VERY fortunate to see one though!!! They don't usually live long when they wander into the same territory as polar bears. Both are territorial and polars are much bigger and more powerful. There's no guarantee to see others, although I was fortunate to see three. One was thinking of approaching the buggy, but a crying baby on the back platform along with loud people made him shy away from doing so. Crazy tourists😐. You can see lots of different birds, like bald eagles, Tundra swans and Canada geese, among others I didn't recognize. You could also see arctic foxes, arctic hares, as well as other species. I thought the Tundra Buggy was worth the price, it's cheaper than peak season and the scenery is beautiful. The drive is really fun. If you're going in 2017,please make sure to go around August 21, the date for new moon, which will give you a great chance to see the Aurora Borealis. Just be careful and go out in a group, the bears will wander through town even in summer. A bear broke into a shed two houses down from the hostel I stayed at the same day I arrived. Go out in a group of at least four and I recommend walking up the steps of a boat they have by the shore behind the hospital. The boat is a refuge for people that encounter a bear. Make sure to enjoy the most amazing place I've ever visited in all my life in relation to wildlife, scenery, some unique food and the amazing people😏. You will love it!!!

Thanks. As I said we have already been to Churchill twice and done a good amount of exploring around the town, including the Beluga boat at the back of the town and Miss Piggy etc. Now we have seen masses of bears, so many we lost count in the WMA, I'm not bothered about going back in the Fall and so willing to risk just seeing whales etc. in the Summer.

We won't be going back next year, plenty of other places to visit but I will 'bear' your comments in mind when we do go back.

Hi Valiantsontour

Oops, I missed the fact you've been there more than once. Please realize I contacted you early in the morning where I live, meaning a bit of brain fog🙂. I'm glad you've gotten to see so much of Churchill. I'm like you , rarely going back to the same place for a while. I rarely go to the same place in the first place. In fact, there's only three areas in the world I've been to more than once. Yosemite National Park,Yellowstone National Park and Iceland. All three are very very worthy of making return visits. One thing I wanted to mention when you return someday to Churchill, is the best way to buy things there is directly through the artisans. I couldn't believe how much profit the Arctic Trading Company make off the artists. I bought a couple pieces from artisans that were half the price of the stores in town. Of course they're willing to negotiate a little. I will return someday to Churchill.

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WATCH WITH SOUND

Walk with Polar Bears at the edge of the Arctic

The world's first and still only true polar bear walking safaris on Canada's Hudson Bay coast.

Ground-level Polar Bear Encounters

Meet polar bears face-to-face, sing with beluga whales, howl with wolves.

Remote Luxury Ecolodges

Sleep in Arctic luxury beneath a blanket of northern lights at our remote fly-in ecolodges.

• Tundra-inspired Cuisine

Indulge in our legendary cuisine, infused with fresh and local ingredients.

THE WORLD'S GREATEST ARCTIC SAFARI

Small Groups, Big Adventure

Inspired experiences in the heart of polar bear country..

• Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge
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Testimonials

“ Thank you for a multitude of amazing experiences! The location is magical. It is mind blowing to fall out of bed to see wild wolves and polar bears at the window! The staff at the lodge made us feel like family! And the food…top notch. ” Brenda and Marsha N.

“ Magic is Churchill Wild’s Nanuk lodge! This is our second time with this beautiful family run company. From magnificent food to fantastically educated guides and beautifully maintained rooms, it does not get better than this! Service is perfection, every guest is made to feel special. I’m going home with a soaring spirit! Wolves, polar bears, snowy owls, lemmings, moose – until next time. ” Denae D. and James K.

“ Churchill Wild Seal River Heritage Team, All of you are truly amazing and you and the wildlife have made this the trip of a lifetime! We had big hopes and dreams for this trip that we planned for over a year and you exceeded every single one!! ” Melanie and Susann I.

“ Exceptional experience! Thank you for the amazing tours and terrific food. Thank you especially for the warm and genuine care from the staff and guides. This trip was everything we had hoped for and more! ” Jocelyn and Norm B.

“ Superb experience provided by an exceptional staff and management. It’s hard to imagine a more perfect experience or better-quality service in such a remote lodge. I don’t praise often or easily but you deserve every word. Much love and endless appreciation for everything! ” Kevin M.

“ Words cannot express how grateful that we were able to experience this once in a lifetime trip! To be so close to a mama bear and her cubs brought tears to my eyes! The home-made meals were delicious, and the knowledgeable guides were amazing interacting with the bears! The small group was great company—an unforgettable trip!! Thank you. ” Philip and Christina B.

“ Wow! This experience you have given me has been one I’ll never forget. The sightings and encounters have surpassed my expectations which are high but more over, the hospitality, the guides and staff have provided have been stellar! Five stars! Thank you! Hope to be back real soon. ” Scott D.

“ Thank you for making a dream come true. I have looked into a polar bear’s eyes. Magical and moving. ” Daniela K.

“ Exceptional experience from top to bottom. Thank you for your warmth in this beautiful place – I have loved every minute. ” Caroline C.

“ Churchill Wild fulfilled a bucket list trip and long-time dream of spending time with the polar bears. The wolves were definitely an unexpected bonus! This trip was everything we wanted and more! The staff made the experience even more special! Everyone was so friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. We felt as though we were in someone’s home. ” Mitch C. and Don S.

Walking with Polar Bears: Advocacy through Experience. Fall Polar Bear Photos.

More 5-star reviews for nanuk polar bear lodge, churchill polar bear season in full swing, fall walking tours begin, first edition of churchill wild’s wolf programs newsletter, get the latest news.

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Churchill Polar Bear Tours

Churchill is the ultimate destination for polar bear tours. The Manitoban town is known as the polar bear capital of the world. Prime polar bear season in Churchill is from October to mid-November when 900 to 1,000 polar bears eagerly await the formation of sea ice on the Hudson Bay. This concentrated population provides an extraordinary opportunity for observing polar bears in their natural habitat. Churchill's abundant wildlife also includes Arctic foxes, beluga whales, seals, and various bird species. With thrilling Tundra Buggy expeditions and other tours, visitors can explore the area and marvel at the tundra landscape.   

Our team at Canadian Train Vacations help travellers plan trips to Churchill for polar bear viewing.  Continue reading to learn what it's like on a polar bear tour in Churchill .  

Table of contents

Best churchill polar bear tours 2024, the polar capital of the world.

• Tundra Buggy Experience for Polar Bear Watching 
• Dog Sledding Adventures 
• Experienced Guides and Safety Measures 
• Natural Environment of Churchill's Arctic Wildlife  

Accommodations on Polar Bear Tours

Tundra-inspired cuisine .

• What to wear on a polar bear watching trip?

Can you see polar bears during summer?

Frequently asked questions.

Canadian Train and Polar Bear Experience

10 days  from  Loading... pp

When to go:   October-November

Places visited:   Vancouver, Winnipeg, Churchill

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Lords of the Wilderness Bear Viewing

15 days  from  Loading... pp

When to go:   September – October

Places visited:   Vancouver, Campbell River, Winnipeg, Churchill

Keep reading or chat with one of our local travel experts. We’re passionate about Canada and can help you at any stage of your vacation planning.

Canadian Train and Polar Bear Experience  

This trip includes two nights on VIA Rail's sleeper train from Vancouver to Winnipeg and three nights in Churchill, the polar bear capital of the world. In Churchill, you'll search for polar bears on a Tundra Buggy. Other exciting activities include dog sledding, a guided tour of Churchill, and an evening cultural presentation.

Lords of the Wilderness Bear Viewing  

Our two-week Lords of the Wilderness itinerary includes two amazing bear-viewing experiences. Fly to a remote wilderness lodge in the Great Bear Rainforest for the chance to see grizzly bears Then, travel across Canada by sleeper train. End your vacation with a trip to Churchill to view polar bears from the comfort of a Tundra Buggy.  

As polar bear central, Churchill acts as a home base for conservation and outreach efforts.  Polar Bear International House  is a public center, which people can visit to learn about polar bears and polar bear research.

For the best polar bear viewing experience, you’ll need to board a specially designed Tundra Buggy and journey out into the Churchill Wildlife Management Area (CWMA). It was the creation of this original tundra vehicle, the Tundra Buggy, that allowed venturing amongst polar bears in Churchill. Specially designed for the northern landscape, these all-terrain vehicles allow access to remote locations, which are best for  safely viewing and photographing wildlife .

Since the number of visitors to the CWMA is highly restricted, your chances of seeing the bears up close is excellent. As well as capturing incredible, up-close photographs of polar bears, you’ll see other wildlife such as arctic fox, ptarmigan, and snowy owl.

Tundra Buggy Experience for Polar Bear Watching  

The Tundra Buggy offers an unparalleled experience for witnessing polar bears in Churchill, Canada. These remarkable vehicles are designed to provide a safe and immersive experience for polar bear tours. The unique features of the Tundra Buggy ensure that visitors can view polar bears while respecting the natural environment. Additionally, if polar bears approach the Tundra Buggy, the vehicle's height means that visitors are safely out of reach. This protects both polar bears and visitors.  

Features of the Tundra Buggy include:   

• Large, reinforced windows 
• Elevated viewing platforms for unobstructed views
• Spacious, comfortable seating
• Sturdy construction and oversized tires for navigating the challenging terrain of the tundra 

  Important notes about Tundra Buggy tours:  

• Safety and well-being of passengers and polar bears is a priority
• Expert guides offer valuable insights into polar bear behaviours and conservation efforts
• Vehicles adhere to strict guidelines and maintain a respectful distance to ensure minimal disturbance to the bears' natural behaviours

Tundra buggy tours give visitors an extraordinary opportunity to witness polar bears up close in their natural environment, creating memories that will last a lifetime.   

#1 Travel tip: When to visit Churchill

The best time for viewing polar bears in Churchill is during the fall, but it is possible to see them in the summer. If you visit in August, you’ll likely see beluga whales too.

Dog Sledding Adventures  

You can also go dog sledding in Churchill, Manitoba. A dog sledding experience adds an extra layer of excitement to polar bear tours. Dog sledding has a rich history and cultural importance in Manitoba, dating back to the time of the Thule people. Modern-day dog sledding tours in Churchill provide visitors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in this age-old tradition while exploring the pristine wilderness. Riding across the snowy landscape, pulled by a team of energetic and well-trained huskies, is a n exhilarating and immersive way to appreciate Churchill's natural environment.

The swift and agile huskies demonstrate their skill, strength, and symbiotic bond with their human companions. Interacting with these remarkable animals, learning about their training, and witnessing their teamwork is awe-inspiring . Dogsledding adventures are the perfect complement to polar bear tours.  

Experienced Guides and Safety Measures  

Professional guides to lead your tour:     .

Professional guides lead polar bear tours in Churchill. These knowledgeable guides provide expert insight into the area, ensuring visitors gain a deep understanding of the wildlife and landscape around Churchill. Guides ensure the safety of all participants, navigating the Arctic terrain and polar bear encounters with caution. These guides enjoy sharing fascinating stories and answering questions about the remarkable wildlife of Churchill.   

Safety Measures to Protect Visitors and Wildlife:     

When it comes to Churchill Polar Bear Tours, strict safety measures are in place to protect visitors and wildlife. Manitoba Conservation sets guidelines that limit the number of tundra vehicles, reducing the impact on the environment.

These measures include restrictions on travel routes and designated areas, safeguarding the delicate Arctic ecosystem. By adhering to these guidelines, visitors can safely explore the wilderness with peace of mind, knowing that their adventure protects the natural habitat of polar bears and other wildlife.   

Natural Environment of Churchill's Arctic Wildlife    

Churchill's Arctic wildlife thrives within a diverse ecosystem. The region is defined by its proximity to Hudson Bay, the expansive tundra, and the sprawling boreal forest.   

Unique Features: 

1. hudson bay:.

Hudson Bay provides a crucial habitat for various marine life, including beluga whales and seals. It also influences the seasonal movements and behavior of polar bears. This is one of the reasons why Churchill is a prime location for polar bear tours. 

The vast tundra of Churchill is a land of rugged beauty, characterized by low-lying vegetation, lichens, and mosses. This treeless expanse supports an abundance of species, including polar bears, Arctic foxes, and Arctic hares. Migratory birds flock to the region during the summer. 

3. Boreal Forest:  

The boreal forest surrounding Churchill showcases a different facet of the region's natural environment. This vast woodland is home to diverse species, including black bears, wolves, moose, and a variety of bird species. The boreal forest provides a vital habitat for these creatures, offering shelter and sustenance within its dense canopy.   

Key Species: 

1. polar bears :.

Churchill is known as the polar bear capital of the world. A significant population of these majestic creatures inhabit the area, particularly during the fall months. These months are prime polar bear season.

2. Arctic foxes :  

With their small ears and thick, white coat, these foxes are well-suited to the Arctic tundra, where they blend seamlessly into the snowy landscape. Their coats change to brown in the spring or summer.

3. Arctic hares :

Arctic hares can be found darting across the tundra, their white fur serving as camouflage against the snow, protecting them from predators.   

#2 Travel tip: Crossing the street

Churchill has a small population and only a few shops and restaurants. Don’t worry too much about looking for traffic before you cross the street, but always look left and right for a polar bear!

As Churchill is a small town in a remote location, there are limited accommodation options. There are cozy inns and simple bed-and-breakfasts, rather than 5-star resorts. For example, the Tundra Inn is a charming family-run property offering comfortable, spacious rooms. For the months of October and November, during peak polar bear season, it is best to reserve Churchill accommodation early.

Winnipeg is usually the starting point for polar bear tours, since it’s easy to catch a flight to Churchill from here. Our polar bear packages often include a night in a Winnipeg airport hotel before your flight to Churchill. If you want to extend your vacation, you could stay in Winnipeg longer — add on nights before or after your polar bear viewing adventure.  

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Tundra-inspired cuisine in Churchill, Manitoba incorporates local ingredients and flavors that reflect the Arctic landscape. 

Arctic Char : A popular fish in tundra-inspired cuisine, Arctic Char is known for its delicate texture and rich flavor. It is often prepared using traditional methods such as smoking or pan-searing, highlighting the natural taste of this cold-water fish.

Bison : As a sustainable and locally sourced meat, bison features prominently in tundra-inspired dishes. From hearty bison stews to succulent bison steaks, this lean and flavorful meat adds a taste of the wild to the cuisine.

Wild Berries : The tundra is home to an abundance of wild berries such as lingonberries, gooseberries, and blueberries. These berries are used in various desserts, jams, and sauces, providing a burst of natural sweetness.

  Game Meats : Tundra-inspired cuisine often incorporates game meats such as venison, caribou, and muskox. These meats offer a unique and robust flavor profile, perfectly complementing the ruggedness of the region.

Foraged Ingredients : The tundra offers a treasure trove of edible plants and herbs. Foraged ingredients like Arctic sorrel, Labrador tea, and fireweed add distinctive flavors and textures to dishes, infusing them with a taste of the wild.

Traditional Indigenous Dishes : Tundra-inspired cuisine in Churchill includes the culinary traditions of the Indigenous communities in the region. Traditional dishes like bannock (a type of bread), pemmican (a dried meat mixture), and wild rice reflect the deep cultural heritage of the area. 

Tundra-inspired cuisine in Churchill Manitoba celebrates the unique flavors and ingredients found in the Arctic landscape, creating a culinary experience that embraces the ruggedness and natural beauty of the region. From fresh fish and game meats to wild berries and foraged ingredients, each dish offers a delicious connection to the tundra and a taste of the local culture.   

What to wear on a polar bear watching trip ?

• Layered clothing: Dress in layers so you can adjust your insulation levels as needed.
• Insulated and waterproof outerwear: Wear a warm, insulated parka and waterproof pants to protect against the cold and potential moisture. 
• Thermal base layers: Choose moisture-wicking, thermal base layers to keep you warm and dry. 
• Warm accessories: Wear a hat, gloves, and scarf to protect exposed areas from the cold. 
• Warm, waterproof boots: Choose insulated, waterproof boots to keep your feet warm and dry. 
• Thermal socks: Wear thick, thermal socks to provide extra warmth and comfort. 
• Hand and foot warmers: Consider bringing hand and foot warmers for additional warmth during outdoor activities. 
• Sunglasses and sunscreen: Protect your eyes and skin from the glare of the snow and the sun's rays. 
• Binoculars and camera: Bring binoculars to enhance your polar bear viewing and a camera to capture unforgettable moments. 

Wearing appropriate clothing ensures you are comfortable during a polar bear watching trip. You can embrace the Arctic environment while staying warm and protected. Some polar bear tour packages offer winter clothing rentals. Options include snow pants and snow boots. Please ask your Vacation Advisor about these rentals at the time of booking.

#3 Travel tip: Always have layers

The Tundra Buggy has an outdoor platform which is great for when you want to take photos of polar bears. Wrap up warm though as it gets very cold!

When you imagine viewing polar bears in Canada, a warm sunny day might not be what you’re picturing. But summer is when polar bears first return to Churchill, Manitoba. After spending the winter hunting seals on the ice of Hudson Bay, these impressive animals make their way back to the Churchill area in early to mid-summer, when the sea ice begins to melt.

Along with the opportunity to see Canada's famous polar bears, a visit to the Hudson Bay region in summer offers warmer weather than in the traditional fall viewing season (October/November). There’s also plenty of chances to see other Canadian wildlife up close and personal in the ruggedly beautiful tundra and taiga — the forests of cold, subarctic regions — landscapes of the Manitoba coastline. During the months of July and August, the Churchill area is also a fantastic place to see beluga whales who migrate into the warm, shallow waters of the Churchill River to give birth and feed on fish.

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Where do polar bears live in Canada? 

Polar bears live in the Northern parts of Canada, in areas near the Arctic Ocean. Churchill, Manitoba holds the title of being the polar bear capital of the world. The town's unique location along the shores of Hudson Bay means that a significant number of polar bears inhabit the area in the fall when polar bears are waiting for sea ice to form.

When is the best time to see polar bears in Churchill?

The best time to see polar bears in Churchill is from October to mid-November. 

How much do polar bear tours cost? 

Our Canadian Train and Polar Bear Experience starts from $8,590 USD per person. This trip combines the VIA Rail sleeper train from Vancouver to Winnipeg with a 3-night polar bear adventure in Churchill so you can see more of Canada's beautiful scenery and wildlife. Our Lords of the Wilderness trip offers you the chance to see grizzly bears and polar bears. Prices start from $13,430 USD per person.

Is the Tundra Buggy Lodge right for me? 

The Tundra Buggy Lodge is a unique accommodation option. The mobile lodge is situated at Polar Bear Point in the Churchill Wildlife Management Area. There are two sleeping units, a lounge, and a dining hall. Sleeping arrangements are dormitory-style — bunk beds with privacy curtains. If you are interested in staying at the Tundra Buggy Lodge, please contact one of our Vacation Advisors.

About the author: Katherine is Product Manager with Fresh Tracks Canada. Having worked in the Canadian travel industry for almost 20 years, she enjoys sharing her local expertise with visitors. She is based in Calgary and one of her favourite Canadian destination is the...   Read more

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See Polar Bears in Manitoba

Churchill is one of the few human settlements where polar bears can be observed in the wild.

Churchill is one of the best places in the world to see polar bears because it lies within the natural habitat of a healthy population of polar bears. In the winter months, the bears are feasting on seals on the ice of Hudson Bay. In the summer, they make their way to land, lounging in bright fireweed or walking along the rocky shore.

See polar bears up close in Churchill , located in northern Manitoba.

In October and November, as the temperatures begin to drop, the bears begin to move back to the edge of the bay, waiting to begin their winter feast.

Tundra Vehicle Tours

There are many different ways to see Churchill’s polar bears. Unique tundra vehicles are designed to move carefully over the uneven terrain of the tundra. They provide a safe way to view and photograph bears. Most excursions on tundra vehicles are all day and include lunch onboard , returning to town to overnight in your hotel. Tundra vehicles connected like rail cars offer sleeping accommodations right on the tundra – a totally unique way to immerse yourself in the experience.

Tundra Walking Tours

You can also stay at a wilderness lodge (complete with protective fence), a short plane ride away from Churchill. This experience includes walking tours with an experienced guide to see the bears at ground level. In the summer months, tundra excursions on smaller scale, open air rhino vehicles may also be included.

In the summer months, you can hop aboard a custom-made boat or zodiac for a polar bear viewing experience. These coastal tours offer a chance to see bears on along the rocky shoreline or even swimming in the water.

Helicopter Tours

Helicopter tours let you see polar bears and the beautiful tundra landscape from the air. These 60- and 90-minute tours offer flexibility to move in the direction of the bears’ migration patterns. Plus, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of tundra, taiga and boreal forests.

About Churchill’s polar bears

Frequently called “Lords of the Arctic”, these animals are huge. Male polar bears can grow to more than 600 kg (1,320 lbs) and stand 3.05 metres (10 feet) tall. But despite their massive size, these bears can move with surprising speed.

Polar bears have a highly acute sense of smell. These skilled hunters can pick up a scent from over 30 kilometres away and can detect the presence of seals under three feet of snow and ice.

The western Hudson Bay polar bears are the most southern population of polar bears anywhere in the world.

Studies indicate there are between 900 and 1,000 polar bears in the western Hudson Bay population.

Conservation efforts

Companies offering polar bear experiences adhere to strict guidelines through Manitoba Conservation that, for example, limit the number of tundra vehicles operating in and around Churchill and outline distance regulations.

The number of commercial tour operators and the number of vehicles permitted on the high-use areas east of the town site continues to be restricted. Measures are also taken to restrict travel to existing trails and designate some areas as off-limits.

For additional information, visit Manitoba Conservation .

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Plan Your Churchill Polar Bear Adventure

Polar Bears

Beluga Whales

Arctic Nature Tours

153 Kelsey Blvd. CHURCHILL, MB R0B 0E0

Churchill Northern Studies Centre

1 LAUNCH ROAD CHURCHILL, MB R0B 0E0

Churchill Wild - Polar Bear Viewing

. Churchill, MB .

Frontiers North Adventures - Autumn Tours

Kelsey Blvd Churchill, MB R0B 0E0

Gangler’s North Seal Wilderness Sub-Arctic Adventures

. North Seal River, MB .

Tour Operator

The Great Canadian Travel Company Ltd.

1349 Portage Ave WINNIPEG, MB R3G 0V7

Great White Bear Tours Inc.

174 Kelsey Blvd Churchill, MB R0B 0E0

Heartland International Travel & Tours

Lazy Bear Expeditions

313 Kelsey Blvd. Churchill, MB R0B 0E0

Nanuk Operations

Box 252 Churchill, MB R0B 0E0

Rail Travel Tours

123 Main Street WINNIPEG, MB R3C 1A3

Tundra Buggy® adventure

Box 40063 RPO Lagimodiere, 204 - 1111 Munroe Ave. WINNIPEG, MB R2C 4P3

Watchee Lodge

140 Kelsey Blvd CHURCHILL, MB R0B 0E0

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Explore Churchill

Welcome to Churchill, Canada

Known as the polar bear capital of the world, Churchill is also known as a beluga whale watching hotspot and one of the best places to see the northern lights.

Start planning your trip to see beluga whales, polar bears or the northern lights!

About Churchill, Canada

Learn about the history of Churchill and its surroundings, from the Pre-Dorset to Modern Inuit cultures through to the european fur trade and exploration of the North.

Experience The North

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