polar bear churchill tour

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POLAR BEAR Tours

Polar bear tours.

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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.

Authentic Polar Bear Wildlife Tours

Experience a polar bear tour in churchill, canada.

Polar bears are a unique and iconic feature of the Arctic region. Not much on this earth compares to the experience of seeing the world’s largest land carnivore in its natural environment. Churchill, Canada known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World” due to its strategic location on the western shore of Hudson Bay, provides an ideal vantage point for observing these magnificent creatures.  And a Churchill polar bear tour with Cregor Adventures gives you the unique opportunity to do just that!

Seeing the Polar Bears of Churchill is truly a trip of a lifetime!

Select Your Own Polar Bear Adventure

Cregor Adventures offers adventurous and curious travelers several options for seeing this majestic predator as it prepares for the annual trek north. Itineraries range from three, four, five, six, and seven day tours. Whether you’re an individual, a couple, a family, or a senior, there are tour options suitable for everyone!

Classic Polar Bear Adventure

Conservation Polar Bear Adventure

Family Polar Bear Adventure

Photography Polar Bear Adventure

Tundra Buggy Lodge Polar Bear Adventure

We’re currently developing 2023-2024 Polar Bear adventures, itineraries and pricing. More adventures are available than shown below. Please contact us for complete information about available trips.

Our classic Polar Bear Adventure is our most well-rounded itinerary, offering two or three days on the tundra viewing polar bears along with a mix of additional cultural activities. At the end of the day, return to the comfort of your hotel in town.  

• Limited to 22 Travelers
• 4 & 5 Night Adventures
• From $5,350 CAD

Our immersive Conservation Adventures offer up-close wildlife encounters with a strong focus on conservation and education. You will have the benefit of exploring Churchill with an accomplished wildlife scientist and gain exclusive access to important research infrastructure. 

• Limited to 20 Travelers
• 6 Night Adventure
• From $8,200 CAD

Our Family Learning Adventures are purposefully designed for families with children ages 8 – 12 years old that value the cultural teachings and unique bonding experiences that come with traveling together. 

• From $4,700 (child), $5,300 (youth) and $5,900 (adult) CAD

Maximize your viewing time to capture the perfect image. Led by a Photo Specialist Guide, these all-inclusive tours are generally longer in duration, include photography guidance and workshops and present an opportunity to connect with other photographers.  

• From $8,300 CAD

Our most immersive tundra experience – a stay at the Tundra Buggy Lodge at Polar Bear Point. Located in the Churchill Wildlife Management Area, home to the largest concentration of polar bears in the Churchill area, it is truly the best location for possible “round the clock” polar bear viewing! 

• 4, 5 & 6 Night Adventures
• From $6,300 CAD

Why Churchill, Canada?

Churchill is situated on the western shore of Hudson Bay, which serves as an important hunting ground for polar bears during the winter months. As the sea ice forms, polar bears venture out onto the ice to hunt for ringed seals, their primary prey. They will live on this sea ice all winter, hunting seals. Then, as the sea ice melts and drifts southerly in late Spring and early Summer, the bears are forced to come ashore and wait for the ice to reform. It is during this time of the year that the polar bears find themselves in the Churchill area, only to repeat the cycle in the Fall.

Over 1,000 polar bears migrate through the Churchill region each year waiting for the ice to reform. Because of the high concentration of polar bears, Churchill, Manitoba is known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World.”

During this time, typically from October to November, the town of Churchill becomes a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers and researchers from around the world to observe and study these magnificent creatures.

There’s so much more to Churchill than polar bears!

Those who want to see the North in a unique way can go on an exciting dog sledding adventure or get a birds-eye view of the tundra on a one-hour helicopter tour. When you’re not out touring the tundra, you can take in the sights of historic Churchill — an important 18th and 19th century outpost of the North American fur trade. Both the Itsanitaq Museum and the Parks Canada Interpretive Center offer unique cultural exhibits and programming that provides insight into the past, present and future of Canada’s indigenous people.

The “Tundra Buggy” Experience!

In the late 1970’s, several pioneering individuals developed Churchill’s tourist industry. They designed and built the first tundra vehicle, the “Tundra Buggy” on a fire engine chassis. This allowed tourists to see these magnificent creatures up close, in safety, while in their natural habitat. And a new industry was born!

The technology has changed a bit over the years – today, we even operate EV tundra buggies!  Yet, the Tundra Buggy remains a remarkable vehicle. With its all-terrain capabilities, it allows guests to venture onto the tundra safely while minimizing disturbance to the environment and the wildlife.

A Tundra Buggy tour takes guests on a 20-mile network of established trails within the Churchill Wildlife Management Area. This area is in the heart of polar bear country, providing a prime location for observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

As guests journey through the wilderness, they have the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Churchill region. The subarctic terrain, with its vast stretches of tundra, frozen lakes, and boreal forests, offers a captivating backdrop for the wildlife encounters.

In addition to polar bears, the Tundra Buggy experience may also provide sightings of other wildlife such as Arctic foxes, ptarmigans, snowshoe hares, and various bird species. As you travel along, your expert will provide valuable insights into the local flora and fauna.

Experience a Polar Bear Adventure with Cregor Adventures!

A visit to Churchill, Canada provides a remarkable opportunity to explore the wonders of the Arctic, observe polar bears in their natural habitat, and learn about the unique ecosystems and cultures of the region. It’s an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a deeper understanding of the Arctic environment.

Churchill, Canada, offers a remarkable opportunity for visitors and researchers from around the world to experience the wonders of the Arctic. All our tours are suitable for individuals, couples, families, seniors – anyone willing to brave the cold to experience one of the world’s most majestic creatures and learn about one of the most fascinating regions!

Why a Cregor Adventures Tour to Churchill?

Our partners in Churchill are a family-owned and operated business, specializing in adventures to Canada’s North since 1988.

Their programs are designed for guests with specific interests in experiential travel, photography, wildlife, culture and adventure. They have built their business on the principle of working closely with the local communities. It is these relationships that make the difference between a “cool” vacation and an amazing, authentic and intimate adventure.

Far too many companies offer numerous destinations and itineraries to places that they themselves have never been to but have only read about. You deserve better – you deserve a company that offers first-hand knowledge and “value added.”  We have personally been traveling to Churchill for over 25 years with these same partners.

Our polar bear programs meet the standards set by Manitoba Sustainable Development and Parks Canada, which allows us to take guests into places where only a few can go, offering unparalleled experiences. 

We realize most people visit Churchill to experience its magic just once in their lives. For that reason, we recommend you know the company you will be traveling with and what kind of “authentic” experience they offer.  We’re one of only two companies that have permits to access the full range of the Churchill Wildlife Management Area.  Companies who don’t have the proper permits, offer trips aboard school-bus type vehicles that can travel along the road to Halfway Point. Which, as the name implies, is only half-way to the prime polar bear viewing area.

Our world-class guides and drivers offer a wealth of knowledge and experience. Chosen for their expertise, our enthusiastic and engaging team will make sure you leave having had the adventure of a lifetime.

We believe that our responsibility includes not only a focus on conservation, but also on supporting the communities in which we travel. Through support of Polar Bears International and the northern communities where tours take place, we are able to provide an enriched experience for our guests and, at the same time, enrich the wildlife, people and places where we operate.

Our approach to social responsibility involves three core areas: Environmental Stewardship, Caring for People and Community Involvement, and Educational Outreach. 

As part of that commitment:

The Tundra Buggy Fleet is being converted from diesel-powered vehicles to electric propulsion. Converting to electric power not only provides a less-intrusive, silent touring experience for our guests and wildlife, but will also reduce each vehicles operating emissions by approximately 99%!  (50 KM or 31 miles is the average range of our newest EV Tundra Buggy when fully charged – more than enough for a full day out in the Churchill Wildlife Management area!)

A purchasing policy ensures we source local, working with indigenous vendors and suppliers that support social and environmental responsibility.

As a travel company, we bring guests to incredible places to experience first-hand the history, culture and wildlife of an area of the world that not many people will have the chance to see.

We realize that we also have a responsibility to not only ensure we are traveling sustainably in these fragile ecosystems, but also to inspire and educate people around the world to be passionate about the regions they are traveling and everyone – and everything – who live there.

It is this responsibility that has fueled a partnership with Polar Bears International (PBI). Their mission is to conserve polar bears and the sea ice they depend on. They also work to inspire people to care about the Arctic, the threats to its future, and the connection of this fragile ecosystem to our global climate.

PBI is the world’s leading polar bear conservation group, dedicated to sustaining a future for saving polar bears by saving their habitat.

Through this exclusive partnership with PBI, our guests learn first-hand from experts who join us on our Tundra Buggies and at our Tundra Buggy Lodge to share their knowledge about Arctic wildlife and climate change.

Tundra Buggy One

Tundra Buggy One is a mobile broadcast and research center created exclusively for Polar Bears International’s use. Tundra Buggy One is outfitted with tools and equipment that enable polar bear scientists to study bears and broadcast live webcasts and video from the remote tundra, sharing up-to-date information on Churchill’s polar bears with audiences around the world. 

Every fall, Polar Bears International conducts live, free broadcasts, webcasts and live chats from Tundra Buggy One during the polar bear migration in Churchill. Each week focuses on a different theme, tapping into the expertise of guest panelists. Viewers are able to see wild polar bears, meet experts, ask questions and receive answers in real time. 

Tundra Connections 

During the polar bear season, you can watch live video of polar bears in Churchill from Tundra Buggy One at explore.org. 

Our Churchill partner is an award-winning and internationally known leader in Canada’s eco-tourism industry and has been recognized by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada as one of the top three sustainable tourism operators.

A Note from Peggy…

Sometime in the early 1980’s I watched National Geographic’s documentary Polar Bear Alert ! It focused on the small frontier town of Churchill, Manitoba and how it co-exists alongside these magnificent (and dangerous) creatures. You may recall that documentary…remember the children Trick or Treating while polar bears were near the town?

I was fascinated by the opportunity to visit polar bears in their natural habitat. I guess you could say it was the first item on my bucket list – before I knew what a bucket list was!

Several years later, I discovered a family-owned business pioneering tourism in the Churchill area. I jumped at the chance, along with my mother, to travel up to the Canadian Arctic to see these “Kings of the Arctic” up-close and personal.

We were not disappointed. Imagine a polar bear, having no fear of us, slowly and curiously, walking up to our Tundra Buggy. Then, standing up on its hind legs, looking at me, almost eye-to-eye.

It was their creation of the original tundra vehicle, the Tundra Buggy, that allowed this incredible experience to happen and ignited adventuring amongst polar bears in Churchill. Today, thirty years later, this same family-owned and operated business is our partner as we offer programs for guests with an adventurous spirit and specific interests in experiential travel, photography, wildlife, and indigenous culture.

• ← See Polar Bears in the Wild

Visit Churchill

Churchill offers three distinct seasons of incredible wildlife and natural history experiences in and around the historic frontier town on the Hudson Bay. An opportunity to visit one of Earth’s true wild places allows travelers to intimately see polar bears, beluga whales, Arctic birds and foxes as well as many other wildlife species of the north. Northern lights are visible almost year round as well and are one of the most majestic sights on the planet. Churchill ties all these amazing wonders together with its rich cultural and indigenous history.

Polar Bear Adventures: 

During October and November Churchill is transformed into the polar bear capitol of the world. Thousands of travelers from every corner of the Earth venture to Churchill for a chance to see the “King of the Arctic” in their natural habitat.

Arctic Summer Adventures:

Northern Lights Adventures:

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Polar Bear Safari

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime, one-day , all-inclusive excursion to the remote northern seaport of Churchill, Manitoba, to witness Polar Bears in their natural environment as they migrate toward the coast in anticipation of freeze-up and access their favourite diet of ringed seals.

Your adventure begins with a non-stop flight from Calgary, Edmonton or Saskatoon with a naturalist onboard, who will provide valuable insights on this iconic mammal. Upon landing in Churchill, you will board a Tundra Buggy® for a guided 5 - 6 hour excursion in the polar bear country. A Tundra Buggy® will transport you across the terrain to view the polar bears comfortably and safely. We will end the day by stopping in Churchill to visit the gift shops. Supper will be served on the aircraft or at the Churchill community centre. A relaxing flight back to your origin completes a captivating day in Canada.

Fall 2024 Polar Bear Safari Tour dates from:

• Friday, October 25th - Guest Naturalist Brian Keating
• Saturday, November 2nd - Guest Naturalist Brian Keating
• Sunday, October 27th - Guest Naturalist Brian Keating
• Friday, November 8th

For an overview of the Tour, select "Itinerary" on the menu bar to the right or choose "Request Polar Bear Safari" if you would like to place a reservation request.

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Companies that do Polar Bear day tours to Churchill - Churchill Forum

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When I look at Hotels.com or Booking.com, I don't see any hotels in Churchill for early Nov, so I started looking at day trips to Churchill from other cities. Has anyone done one of these, or is there another company you would recommend?

Classic Canadian Tours has a tour from Calgary on Oct 25 and Nov 2, and from Edmonton on Oct 27

Gold Start Canadian Tours has a tour from Edmonton on Oct 20, Calgary on Oct 26, Toronto on Nov 9, Ottawa on Nov 11 and Montreal on Nov 16

Heartland Travel has a tour from Winnipeg on Oct 26, Nov 2 and Nov 3

5 replies to this topic

I don’t recall seeing any threads about these kind of day trips here so I’d suggest you’re better just looking at reviews and of course, your looking at a narrow window of opportunity on only one tour, no overnight, so suggest you aim around the current average optimum timing, last week in Oct, first week in Nov, give or take a couple of days.

There are only 3 companies with Tundra Buggies and WMA permits, and I guess all those likely subcontract with GWB or FN.

Frontier North also has tours from Winnipeg and Calgary, with 2 nights in Winnipeg/Calgary and 2 nights in Churchill. I would assume this is the best since you get 2 days to ride the tundra buggies in Churchill and more chances to see bears in case of bad weather. Unfortunately, this is also more expensive.

Yes, well it would be given the extras over a day trip.

Details of options here:

https://www.travelmanitoba.com/churchill/

Although you are about 6 months behind a lot of people in planning a trip to Churchill.

ushazacharia - If you go to the website: churchill.ca, there is a section "places to stay". It lists the few hotels and B & B's in the small town of 700-800 people. Keep in mind, when you look at the prices, that they are in Canadian dollars and the very brief polar bear season and beluga whale summer season are the main sources of income for many of the residents of the town. Thus, the prices may make you gasp!

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1.866.UGO.WILD (846.9453)

Walk with polar bears view the northern lights.

If you’ve ever dreamt of flying over the spectacular Arctic tundra to a remote ecolodge, walking the wild Hudson Bay coastline in small groups to view polar bears, returning to your lodge to unwind by a fireplace before dining on delicious fare, then stepping outside to see some of the best northern lights… Churchill Wild is your all-inclusive dream come true.

Here, among the wilds of northern Manitoba you’ll find polar bears, diversity of wildlife, the brilliance of the northern lights, stunning vistas and fabulous food. The polar bear tours and safaris in our portfolio are designed to delight your senses and take you on a profound and unforgettable journey into the Arctic wilderness…

With polar bears.

Best Time to see Northern Lights

While the winter months are thought of as the traditional time to view the northern lights, they can also be spectacular on a clear summer or fall night. Plus, it’s a lot more fun working with cameras in the warmer months at 10° C instead of -40° C!

Your best chances of seeing the northern lights on one of our safaris will occur from September to November. Check out: Arctic Safari, Hudson Bay Odyssey, Great Ice Bear Adventure, Polar Bear Photo Safari at Nanuk, Polar Bear Photo Safari at Seal, or Fall Dual Lodge Safari.

Whichever safari you decide on, you can be rest assured that our staff will monitor the skies at night and wake you up when the lights make an appearance, so you won’t miss out on the spectacle of a lifetime.

We operate three luxury wilderness ecolodges located deep in the heart of polar bear country on the Hudson Bay coast in northern Manitoba, Canada. Directly in the path of the polar bears as they walk up and down the coastline during the summer and fall, our properties are ideal for viewing polar bears and other iconic Canadian wildlife.

• Tundra-inspired Cuisine

Your dining experience will include organic, locally sourced meats and fish along with fruits and vegetables from our Prairie Wild orchard and gardens. Menus are built around these building blocks, which have been the backbone of our dining experience since we opened our first lodge more than 30 years ago.

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.

Walk with Polar Bears - View the Northern Lights

Polar bear photo safari.

Starting from

$15,995 CAD

($11,600 usd*).

Itineraries: 2024 Photo Safari at Seal River Lodge 2024 Photo Safari at Nanuk Lodge 7-day

Inclusions Return airfare from: Winnipeg > Churchill > Lodge A pre & post night stay in Winnipeg 4 nights at Nanuk or Seal Lodge All meals and beverages Everyday excursions and activities Winter gear

• Hudson Bay Odyssey

$15,195 CAD

(11,000 usd*).

Itinerary: 2024 Hudson Bay Odyssey

Inclusions Return airfare from: Winnipeg > Churchill > Lodge A pre & post night stay in Winnipeg 4 nights at Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge All meals and beverages Everyday excursions and activities Winter gear

• Great Ice Bear

($11,000 USD*)

Itinerary: 2024 Great Ice Bear

Inclusions Return airfare from: Winnipeg > Churchill > Lodge A pre & post night stay in Winnipeg 3 nights at Dymond Lake Ecolodge 1 night stay in Churchill All meals and beverages Everyday excursions and activities Winter gear

*Price will fluctuate based on current exchange rates

Reserve Now

Availability is limited, don’t miss your chance, complete the form below to reserve now! We will contact you with availability, pricing details and answer any questions you may have.

If you do not receive an email from us within one business day, please check your spam/junk folders or give us a call. We have been experiencing some issues with individuals not receiving our emails.

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Churchill Polar Bear Photography Tours

World class ground level polar bear photography tour in Churchill designed to offer the serious photographer the very best chances to capture stunning eye level polar bear photography in small five person groups.

The location for the polar bear photography tour is Churchill Manitoba. Churchill is home to the largest concentration of polar bears in the world. Relax and let Michael & Julia Bertelsen organize your meals accommodations and pickup at the Churchill airport. Michael Bertelsen is a trained and very experienced Manitoba licensed guide with WMA permits. Michael has worked with National Geographic , Love Nature  as well as  BBC Films . He will offer you the very finest possibilities to capture stunning images of the animals that call Northern Canada home.

This is more than just a Polar Bear Photography Tour. Cross, silver, red and arctic fox photography is also possible along with ptarmigan, arctic hare, snowy owls, gyrfalcon, wolf and even a small chance for wolverine.

Quality Not Quantity

Small groups of 5 photographers shooting on the ground, thus allowing:

• The ability to move and choose a better background or angle for photographing polar bears and other wildlife
• Overall feeling of the workshop is more intimate
• Feel more in tune with the surroundings and its species

Accommodations

The Churchill lodge is exclusive to our small group of polar bear photography enthusiasts. Each room has a private 3-piece bath and refrigerator along with comfortable beds and individual thermostats for personal preference. There is a communal kitchen and room for gathering and working on images and sharing stories about the day. Quiet times are between 9pm and 5:30am (no doors slamming & people talking in the hallways) thus allowing everyone a restful sleep.

Safety and Experience

Michael has 13 years experience guiding and guarding polar bear photography tours in Churchill. 5 years was spent in Northern Hudson Bay working and learning from Inuit guides. Understanding bear patterns and behaviour is the key to success and safety when photographing these enigmatic creatures. Michael carries a firearm for your safety, and is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to photographing polar bears on tour.

Equipment Recommendations

Wide angle lens for landscapes & northern lights photography. Your most used focal length for wildlife will be in the range of 300 to 600mm. If possible bring 2 camera bodies and a sturdy tripod on your Churchill polar bear photography tour.

Suggested Clothing

Temperatures range from +2C to -20C in Churchill during the time we will be on tour photographing polar bears. Bring:

• Insulated boots
• Warm winter coat
• Insulated pants to wear over your inside pants
• Large warm mitts
• Thin gloves you can use camera buttons with
• Warm hat and wool socks

Other Considerations

Low to medium level of fitness is required for particular polar bear photography tours in Churchill. Very short walks in snow depth of less than a foot. Icy conditions may occur. Bathroom breaks are available throughout the day.

Morning fly from Winnipeg to Churchill, Manitoba. Michael & Julia will pick you up at the Churchill airport and take you directly to the private lodge. Once arriving at the lodge, Coffee, tea, and a light snack is provided along with a short safety and orientation and some winter photography tips before you head out in search of polar bears. That evening a dinner is planned at one of Churchill’s finer restaurants.

Polar Bear Photography Tour Shoot Days

Early breakfast then at first light we are out touring for polar bears to photograph (and other arctic wildlife) in a 4X4 Tundra van with aggressive tires that carry 5 photographers very comfortably. All polar bear photography is on the ground. Landscape photography is also offered if light and clouds permit the opportunity. Break for a short lunch in the field. Driving back to town wastes too much of an already short day. Dinner together and review the day. Northern lights are a possibility when the sky is clear. Michael will offer an in-field Aurora Borealis workshop.

Breakfast then more polar bear photography touring in the morning. Midday, Michael, and Julia will take you to the Churchill airport where you will fly back to Winnipeg.

Pricing for a Polar Bear Photography Tour Includes:

All WMA permits and licenses. Personalized photography instruction always offered. Continental Breakfasts. Use of communal kitchen and common room. Trips to the town of Churchill to pick lunch and snacks to have in the field.

6 Day trip includes 5 nights accommodations. 5 Days of polar bear photography tours in Churchill (4 full and 2 half days).

7 Day trip includes 6 nights accommodations. 6 days of polar bear photography tours in Churchill (5 full days and 2 half days).

Not included: Alcoholic drinks, Hotel rooms in Winnipeg, All flights to and from Churchill, Lunch and Dinner. Please join Michael and Julia for every meal. Michael has lots of good stories and bad jokes to share with you.

Available Dates & Pricing for Churchill Polar Bear Photography Tours

October 12 - 18, 2024, october 18-23, 2024, october 23-28, 2024, oct 28 - nov 2, 2024, nov 2 - nov 8, 2024, nov 8- nov 13, 2024.

Please contact me if you are interested in 2025 dates.

Booking Terms

6 Day Trip Cost $5,745.00 cdn funds + 5% Manitoba tax $2,000.00 cdn deposit required at time of booking. Remaining amount  due 90 days prior to departure date. Single occupancy available for an additional $1,025.00 + 5% Manitoba tax.

7 Day Trip Cost $6745.00 cdn funds + 5% Manitoba tax $2000.00 cdn non-refundable deposit required at time of booking. Remaining due 90 days prior to departure date. Single occupancy available for an additional $1,200.00 + 5% Manitoba tax.

Payment, Registration and Refund Policy

A deposit is required to reserve your spot. Once the deposit is received your spot on the trip is confirmed, and an email that includes a detailed itinerary will be sent to you. Balance in full is due 3 months before the tour start date. A reminder will be sent to you via email, but it is the sole responsibility of the participant to remember this due date. If the balance is not received in time, we will attempt to fill your spot from the waiting list. If the spot is filled, you will receive a credit towards another trip of your choice. Fees are based upon double occupancy. Single rooms can be arranged for an additional cost if they are available. We do our best to pair participants up with a roommate, but if a roommate is not found, the single occupant will be charged for the single supplement. Checks can be made payable to Wild Outdoors Limited and sent to Michael Bertelsen P.O Box 1012, Churchill, Manitoba, Canada, R0B0E0. Payment can be made through Paypal (add 3.5% surcharge) or e-transfer

Travel Insurance

Whenever travelling with Wild Outdoors Photography travel insurance and health insurance is highly recommended.

Wild Outdoors Photography does not accept responsibility for any losses or additional expenses due to delay or changes in air or other services, sickness, weather, strike or other causes. The tour participants shall bear all such losses and expenses. Wild Outdoors Photography will take all reasonable steps to ensure that services provided are of high standard. Wild Outdoors Photography will not accept liability for physical injury, loss, damage or expense resulting from circumstances beyond our control. By agreeing to participate in a Wild Outdoors Photography workshop, each participant agrees to release, indemnify and hold harmless Wild Outdoors Photography, its agents, employees, shareholders, directors, attorneys, and contractors as more completely set forth in the liability waiver that will be provided. The waiver must be signed and received by Wild Outdoors Photography prior to participation. Contact Michael if you have further questions or to check availability and to request a booking.

"An Exciting and Fantastic Trip"

It was an exciting and fantastic trip. You and Julia did a fantastic job making all of us feel at home and comfortable in Churchill. My guys couldn’t be happier. In fact you were able to put together a group that was fantastic. I am still missing my daily poached eggs!! BTW, I am getting some great shots but the silver fox on Saturday afternoon was not the same fox we saw in the week! Please keep in touch.

– Bill B.

"The Photo Opportunities Were Fantastic"

Michael, A short note to say THANKS! I had a great time. The photo opportunities were fantastic. Your help on where to stand or kneel was invaluable in taking some great photos. Let the post processing begin.

– Randy S

"Exceeded My Requirements"

In my opinion, a great photography guide is knowledgeable not only about the area visited, but how to best capture a given subject. In addition, they must be able to make people feel comfortable with their settings and with each other. You guys exceeded each of my requirements. I look forward to having another fantastic experience with you in the future!

– Curtis

"So Many Memorable Photo Ops"

I am a first time participant in one of Michael’s workshops and boy did I luck out and choose the right one. First of all, I am veteran of photography workshops and this was by far one of the best for many reasons which I will summarize. We had a small group of wonderful people who got along extremely well (large groups are hard to shoot with). The transportation and lodging was prearranged including airport pickup personally. He arranged our wonderful meals and he was our driver, guide, bear guard and entertainer all in one. Michael is extremely affable and easy to talk to and ask questions and he pointed out tips in technique when necessary. He always ensured we got first crack at the shots before he even pulled out his camera. Foremost, he is an honest and ethical nature photographer. We had such a great time together and had so many memorable photo ops that I am going to sign up for more of his workshops. Thank you Michael!

– Karl C.

Churchill Polar Bear Tours Photo Gallery

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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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Polar Bear Airlifted to Safety After Getting Too Close to Town

Posted: April 18, 2024 | Last updated: April 20, 2024

A polar bear that was getting a tad too close to town was airlifted back to safety in Manitoba, recently shared footage shows. Tour guide Drew Hamilton told Storyful that Churchill, Manitoba, lies directly in the migratory path of the Western Hudson Bay population of polar bears, making the inhabitants of the “self proclaimed polar bear capital of the world” quite savvy about the dos and don’ts. Hamilton recently shared this video, which shows a polar bear being airlifted in a net, and told Storyful that although this particular video was recorded back in 2021, such occurrences were common practice in Churchill. “The town of Churchill and province of Manitoba go to great lengths to keep bears and people safe, so bears that get too close to town are pushed off,” Hamilton said. “Whenever we hear about a bear lift we will head to the holding facility to watch as the bears are lifted away.” Hamilton said that conservation officers could receive up to a 100 bear-related calls in town within a few months during years where the sea ice is gone for extended periods. Credit: Drew Hamilton via Storyful

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Polar Bear experience in Moscow - Moscow Zoo

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On my way from the 'White House', which I wanted to see for its recent historical connections I... read more

I am local and I visit Moscow zoo on a regular base for an hour or so. I always take my photo... read more

Polar Bear experience in Moscow

When we checked the animals in the Zoo, realized this is one of the best and cheapest place to see rare animals. We weren't disappointed. Five playful Polar bears in one larger place, Black and Brown Bears, Lions, Cheetah, Cougher and many of the deadliest rare Reptiles on site. For Rub 400.00 on week days and Rub 500.00 on weekends, but Rub 50.00 cheaper when by on line. It is relatively cheap and enjoyable way to spend the day 10:00am to 5:00pm for any age group.

Visited Moscow Zoo with two boys (8 and 2 years old). They were happy to elephants, raccoons, monkeys and other animals. Unfortunately giraffe was inside it's house. In the morning the zoo in not overcrowded, a lot of facilities to have a rest.

i really enjoyed this relatively cheap day out - about £4-5 for the whole day When you walk in you think " oh god - this is awful!" but as you get deeper into it it gets quite impressive - especially the the side over the road! however it lacks a map in hand to help you around the place

There are 3 areas in the zoo: main zoo, new zoo and kids zoo. We have only visited 2 and it was more then enough for one day. Big, clean and busy place. Big variety of animals including Dolphins, Gorillas and family of orangutang. Free entrance for Children under 18.

There are a lot of animals a very good variety! Tickets are free for families with more than 3 kids if documents are provided, for all children up to 17 or 16 ( not sure) other wise an adult ticket is 400 RUB, in our case we had a group of 9 people, 2 adults and 7 kids, and we only needed to pay for 1 adult. Lots of food places with ice cream, hot dogs, cotton candy, drinks, chips etc. Whats very surprising to find in Moscow are free water fountains all around the zoo. What was very disappointing is the staff who worked the ice cream stand didn't know the ingredients and kept insisting that the chocolate ice cream was dairy free which wasn't true, as I later discovered.

Visited the zoo with high hopes that standards would be high, with it being an inner city zoo in a capital city. Some enclosures seemed great; the butterflies, the goats, the birds, all had adequate space and things within the enclosure to enrich their lives. However, the standard of living for most of the other animals was simply just too low. The polar bears left me feeling very upset. They all looked depressed, uncomfortable, with nothing to enrich their lives. One was playing with a broken up bucket. If a zoo can afford multiple polar bears, they should be able to afford an adequate habitat for them. Not a small outside enclosure in the heat with nothing but stagnant water. The wolves were obviously distressed, the big cats didn't have enough room at all, the other bears were in inadequate conditions also. Way too many animals and not enough room. Food and drink was cheap, the zoo itself was nice, staff seemed friendly, but unfortunately as I am an animal lover, I was left feeling sad.

• Churchill Polar Bear Tours

Canada's Premier Polar Bear Adventure

Ultimate churchill adventure, tundra lodge & churchill highlights, tundra lodge adventure, belugas, bears & summer wildlife of churchill.

Canada's Premier Polar Bear Photo Expedition

Tundra lodge photo expedition, belugas, bears & summer wildlife of churchill photo expedition.

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