Tour
Polar bears, whales and the aurora borealis adventure: Churchill, Canada
Next trip 8 days from 14 September 2028
Prices from US$11,484
Booking information
14 September 2028 鈥� 8 days for US$11,484* per person (*US$9,795 tour + US$1,689 private charter flights. Prices based on 2027 departure, 2028 prices to be confirmed shortly.)
Alternative dates are available for 2027 and 2028 please contact Natural Habitat Adventures for more information.
Register your interest for 2029 and we will contact you when confirmed details including finalised dates and prices are available.
Journey into the wild heart of Canada’s subarctic, where polar bears roam the autumn tundra, thousands of beluga whales gather in Hudson Bay and the northern lights may illuminate the night sky. Explore one of the planet’s most remarkable wildlife destinations by land, sea and air, discovering the extraordinary adaptations that allow life to flourish at the edge of the Arctic.
Begin your adventure in Winnipeg before flying north to Churchill, the polar bear capital of the world, where Arctic tundra, boreal forest and the waters of Hudson Bay converge. Search for polar bears and their cubs aboard a specially adapted Polar Rover, encounter curious beluga whales on Zodiac excursions and take to the skies on a helicopter safari, landing to investigate an unoccupied polar bear den. Along the way, look out for Arctic foxes, caribou, Arctic hares and ptarmigan, and discover Churchill’s rich Indigenous heritage. Spend two nights at a remote tundra lodge, with opportunities to witness the northern lights and visit a purpose-built aurora-viewing facility.
Throughout your journey, you will be accompanied by an experienced expedition leader who will bring the science of the subarctic to life through engaging talks, guided walks and informal discussions. Explore the evolutionary history and remarkable adaptations of polar bears, discover how beluga whales communicate through underwater sound and investigate the complex relationships between sea ice, wildlife and a changing climate. Learn about the geology and ecology of Hudson Bay, the importance of Arctic conservation and the science behind the aurora borealis, gaining a deeper understanding of this extraordinary environment.
This expedition is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers and science-curious travellers seeking more than a traditional Arctic safari. Combining unforgettable wildlife encounters, immersive scientific discovery and the opportunity to experience the wilderness from multiple perspectives, it offers a rare insight into one of the world’s most fascinating and fragile ecosystems.
In partnership with Natural Habitat Adventures.
Itinerary
This itinerary has been carefully planned, but this type of travel requires a degree of flexibility. Local conditions, weather, transport or other unforeseen circumstances may require changes to the programme. Natural Habitat Adventures experienced tour leaders will manage any changes on the ground, and while every effort will be made to operate the tour as described, the itinerary may be amended where necessary.
Day 1: Arrive in Winnipeg and meet the group
You will begin your adventure in Winnipeg, the capital of Manitoba. On arrival into Winnipeg airport, you will be met by your expedition leader and transferred to your hotel.
Depending on your arrival flight time, you may have time to explore Winnipeg, which is home to many cultural attractions and is known for its ethnic diversity. Alternatively, you can relax at your hotel.
This evening, meet with your expedition leader and the rest of the group for a welcome meeting, where the plan for this week will be discussed. You will then get kitted out for your adventure in your cold weather gear. Afterwards, head out for dinner.
Day 2: Fly to Churchill and explore its Indigenous heritage
After breakfast, board a privately chartered flight north to Churchill, a remote settlement on the shores of Hudson Bay that can only be reached by air or rail.
Churchill occupies a remarkable geographical position at the meeting point of three distinct ecosystems: Arctic tundra, boreal forest and the marine environment of Hudson Bay. This convergence creates ideal conditions for a surprising diversity of wildlife, from polar bears to beluga whales.
After settling into your hotel, where you will spend three nights, discover the town’s history and its longstanding relationship with the Arctic environment.
Visit the Itsanitaq Museum to explore collections of Inuit carvings and archaeological artefacts that reveal how Indigenous communities have adapted to life in this challenging landscape over thousands of years.
You will also meet local residents, hearing firsthand accounts of northern life, cultural traditions and the changing relationship between people and their environment. Around town, colourful murals created through the SeaWalls project highlight the importance of protecting marine ecosystems.
Days 3 and 4: Discover polar bears, beluga whales and Arctic ecosystems
Over the next two days, explore the extraordinary biodiversity of the Churchill region, where the transition between forest, tundra and sea creates an ecological meeting point known as an ecotone.
Accompanied by your expedition leader, venture into the surrounding wilderness in search of polar bears, which spend the ice-free months on land before returning to Hudson Bay to hunt seals when winter arrives. You may encounter females with cubs, alongside Arctic foxes, red foxes, caribou and ptarmigan.
A particular highlight will be exploring the waters around the Churchill River estuary, where thousands of beluga whales gather during the summer. These remarkable marine mammals use the relatively shallow waters for feeding, moulting and raising their young.
During multiple Zodiac excursions, observe belugas in their natural habitat and discover how their sophisticated echolocation allows them to navigate and locate prey. You may also use a hydrophone to listen to their complex repertoire of clicks, whistles and calls, offering a fascinating insight into their underwater communication.
Back on land, enjoy a guided walk to examine the plants and wildlife adapted to the subarctic climate. You will also visit Cape Merry, overlooking the remains of Prince of Wales Fort, an 18th-century trading stronghold that reflects the region’s maritime history.
Days 5 and 6: Explore the tundra by Polar Rover and helicopter
The next two days offer different perspectives on Churchill’s vast wilderness, combining close-up wildlife observation with an aerial exploration of the subarctic landscape.
Travel across the tundra aboard a specially designed Polar Rover, equipped with large viewing windows and an outdoor observation platform. With a maximum of 16 travellers, everyone will have a window seat and space to observe and photograph wildlife.
Look for polar bears moving across the landscape, alongside Arctic foxes, hares and ptarmigan. Your expedition leader will explain the remarkable physiological and behavioural adaptations that allow these animals to survive extreme seasonal changes, including the polar bear’s dependence on sea ice.
You will also take a helicopter flight above the tundra, revealing the scale of Hudson Bay’s coastline and the contrasting patterns of forest, wetlands and open terrain. From the air, watch for polar bears and caribou before landing in a remote location to explore on foot and examine an unoccupied polar bear den.
During these two days, you will relocate to White Whale Lodge, a wilderness retreat outside Churchill, where the absence of urban lighting provides excellent conditions for observing the night sky.
As autumn approaches and darkness returns to these northern latitudes, there is a possibility of witnessing the aurora borealis. Churchill sits beneath the auroral oval, where charged particles from the Sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere to produce shimmering displays of light.
You will also visit the Boreal Lounge, a purpose-built viewing facility with panoramic windows and a glass roof, offering a comfortable setting to watch the sky and learn more about the science behind the northern lights.
Aurora sightings are dependent on solar activity, cloud cover and other atmospheric conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
Day 7: Discover northern traditions and return to Winnipeg
Your final morning in Churchill offers an opportunity to discover another aspect of life in Canada’s north.
Meet a local musher and their energetic team of sled dogs, learning how dog-powered transport has played an important role in Arctic communities for generations. With the ground still free of snow, experience a ride through the boreal forest in a wheeled cart pulled by the dogs.
You will also have time to browse Churchill’s independent shops, where locally produced crafts reflect the region’s artistic traditions and natural heritage.
In the afternoon, board your privately chartered flight back to Winnipeg and transfer to the Fort Garry Hotel.
This evening, join your expedition leader and fellow travellers for a farewell dinner, sharing memories of your encounters with polar bears, beluga whales and the extraordinary ecosystems of Hudson Bay.
Day 8: Depart Winnipeg
After breakfast, transfer to Winnipeg airport for your onward journey home, bringing your exploration of Canada’s remarkable subarctic wildlife and landscapes to an end.
FAQs
Where does this tour start and end?
This trip begins and ends in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Because weather delays are possible, it is recommended that you arrive at least one night prior to day 1 to rest from your travels and begin the trip refreshed. If you choose to come in early, recommended hotels will be included in your pre-departure materials. If you plan to arrive on day 1, you must arrive in Winnipeg by 5pm in order to attend the 7pm orientation dinner. Please speak to the team at Natural Habitat Adventures, who can offer travel advice.
How fit do I need to be to enjoy this tour?
A moderate level of fitness and good mobility are recommended for this adventure. You should be comfortable walking up to approximately 4 kilometres on uneven terrain, including rocky tundra, with occasional slippery or muddy sections. Most wildlife viewing takes place from specially adapted vehicles or boats, although you will also enjoy guided walks and a helicopter landing on the tundra. You will need to be able to board and disembark Zodiac boats and vehicles independently, sometimes in cold or windy conditions. Some days may involve several hours outdoors, while early starts and late evenings may be required for wildlife and aurora viewing. A reasonable level of stamina, balance and flexibility will help you enjoy the experience comfortably.
What will the transport be like?
You will travel between Winnipeg and Churchill on privately chartered flights, each taking approximately 2 hours. In Churchill, transport is tailored to the Arctic environment, including a specially adapted Polar Rover with large viewing windows and an outdoor observation deck for wildlife watching. You will also take a helicopter flight over the tundra, including a landing to explore on foot, and venture onto the Churchill River estuary by Zodiac in search of beluga whales. September weather can be unpredictable, so some excursions may be adjusted depending on local conditions.
What will the weather be like?
August is summer in Churchill, bringing relatively mild temperatures and long daylight hours. Daytime temperatures typically range from 10掳C to 18掳C, although evenings can be cooler, particularly along the coast and out on the tundra. Rain, wind and sudden changes in weather are possible.
What wildlife might I see in Churchill?
September is a fascinating time to discover Churchill’s wildlife as the Arctic transitions towards winter. Polar bears are a key attraction, with opportunities to observe adults and mothers with cubs roaming the tundra as they await the formation of sea ice on Hudson Bay. You may also encounter Arctic and red foxes, Arctic hares, caribou and ptarmigan. The Churchill River estuary attracts thousands of beluga whales during summer, and some may still be present in September, although their numbers typically decline as autumn approaches. Your expedition leader will provide insights into the animals’ behaviour, seasonal migrations and adaptations to this challenging environment. Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Are the northern lights guaranteed in mid-September?
The northern lights are a natural phenomenon, so sightings cannot be guaranteed. However, Churchill’s position beneath the auroral oval makes it an excellent location for observing them. By mid-September, the return of darker nights creates favourable viewing opportunities when skies are clear and geomagnetic activity is sufficient. You will spend two nights at White Whale Lodge, away from the lights of town, and visit the Boreal Lounge, where panoramic windows and a glass roof provide an excellent setting for watching the sky. Your expedition leader will also explain the science behind the aurora and how charged particles from the Sun interact with Earth’s atmosphere to produce these extraordinary displays.
Can dietary requirements be catered for?
Dietary requirements due to serious medical conditions or strict personal restrictions can be met, with ample notice, but must be adhered to during the trip.
Is this suitable for solo travellers?
All of our tours, cruises, expeditions and weekenders are perfect for solo travellers. If you want your own room, you will need to pay a solo supplement for this tour. However, if you are happy to share a room with a fellow guest of the same sex, we will do all we can to match you with another guest so you don’t have to pay the solo room supplement.
Booking information
Booking administration
This tour is operated by our trusted partner Natural Habitat Adventures on behalf of New Scientist Discovery Tours. Their dedicated specialist team will be your main point of contact from booking until you return home, handling your reservation, payments, travel documents, pre-departure information and any questions about your tour or travel arrangements.
Highlights
- Search for polar bears and their cubs roaming the spectacular autumn tundra along the shores of Hudson Bay
- Encounter curious beluga whales on Zodiac excursions and listen to their underwater calls using a hydrophone
- Experience an exclusive Polar Rover safari, with just 16 travellers and a window seat for everyone
- Soar over the Arctic wilderness by helicopter, spotting wildlife before landing to explore a polar bear den
- Spend two nights at a remote tundra lodge, with the chance to witness the mesmerising northern lights
- Discover the science of the aurora from the glass-roofed Boreal Lounge, designed for spectacular skywatching
- Explore Churchill’s remarkable Arctic ecosystems with an expert expedition leader revealing nature’s secrets
- Immerse yourself in northern traditions, from Indigenous heritage and local storytelling to a thrilling dog cart ride
Meet the expert
Your journey will be guided by an expert tour leader from Natural Habitat Adventures, renowned for their scientific expertise and dedication to environmental stewardship. These tour leaders are not only naturalists and biologists but also environmental educators who possess a deep understanding of ecological systems and the intricate workings of our planet.
Each guide undergoes specialised training and has access to exclusive scientific resources provided by the World Wildlife Fund鈥檚 team of leading researchers. Many hold advanced degrees, such as master鈥檚 or doctorates, in fields like ecology, wildlife biology, and environmental science. However, their selection is not solely based on academic achievements; their exceptional communication skills, engaging personalities, and passion for sharing scientific knowledge are equally important.
Their enthusiasm for the natural world is engaging, sparking curiosity and awe as you explore diverse ecosystems together.
What’s included
- Seven nights’ accommodation on twin share basis
- Services of a professional expedition leader throughout
- Private round-trip charter flights from Winnipeg to Churchill – $1,689
- Zodiac and Polar Rover excursions
- Dog sledding excursion
- Evening wildlife and cultural presentations
- All meals from dinner on day 1 through to breakfast on final day
- Cold-weather gear, including a parka and boots, during your trip
- Airport transfers on day 1 and final day
- All activities and entrance fees
- All taxes, permits and service fees
- 24-hour support
What’s not included
- Optional travel protection and medical evacuation insurance
- Travel to and from the start and end point of your trip
- Alcoholic beverages
- Optional activities, including a helicopter flight over the tundra
- Visa/ETA (if applicable)
- Single supplement – speak to the team at NatHab
Accommodations
Fort Garry Hotel, Winnipeg
The Fort Garry Hotel is one of Canada’s elegant railway hotels, built by the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway in 1913, which have long been a symbol of this prairie city’s importance as a transportation, commerce and culture hub. Located downtown, just one block from Union Station, this historic landmark is built in the French chateau style and is Winnipeg’s finest hotel, retaining the air of gracious opulence from an earlier era. Relax in the lounge, enjoy a drink in the antique bar or indulge in a sumptuous treatment at Ten Spa, an authentic Turkish-style bath and spa located on the top floor of the hotel.
Churchill (exact hotel to be confirmed closer to departure)
In the sub-Arctic frontier outpost of Churchill, with a population of just under 1000, hotels are small and basic. All hotel options are clean, comfortable and conveniently located in the centre of town. Every room has an en suite bathroom with a shower.
Please note: If required for reasons beyond our control, we reserve the right to substitute alternative accommodation of equal or higher quality or adapt the itinerary if required.