Classic Churchill Polar Bears
Get this trip plan customized to cover everything you want to see.
Learn which places to go and which areas are best during certain times of the year.
Polar Bear Wilderness Tour
Visit Churchill, Manitoba, the ‘Polar Bear Capital of the World’ in October and early November when polar bears congregate at nearby Cape Churchill in large numbers, waiting for the ice to form on Hudson Bay. Once the ice is stable enough, they disperse to spend the winter hunting seals. In these two short months you have the chance to see these magnificent creatures up close from the comfort and safety of a purpose-built vehicle called the Tundra Buggy. This trip is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and a ‘must-see’ for wildlife enthusiasts.
Trip at a glance
6 Days / 5 Nights
Arrive Winnipeg → Churchill → Tundra Buggy Tours & activities → Depart Winnipeg
What you'll love about this trip
Close-up polar bear encounters
A 22–30 person maximum on the Tundra Buggy
Exciting day activities
Fantastic wildlife photography opportunities
This trip is popular – book early!
Common Questions
You'll be staying at various local three to five star hotels or lodges along your route, some of which are very iconic properties with great locations, views and history. All our accommodations are carefully selected by our Canadian Insiders. We'll make sure that wherever you stay, you get the best value and comfort based on the seasonal availability.
Typically we include and pre-book all your main trip components so you don't have to worry about your connections, places to stay, or activities on your trip. You'll receive a complete travel package with detailed documentation and our Canadian Insiders remain at your disposal before and during your trip to answer your questions.
Your trip can be as rich as you'd like, and completely arranged around your interests and needs. The greatest benefit of working with us is our local knowledge. You can request your personalized trip plan to decide what you'd like to see and do.
If your trip is a special occasion, we'll make sure it is unforgettable. Or if you're traveling with a group, we'll take care of the logistics so you can share time together stress-free.
Canada has a network of spectacular roadways, train routes, ferry crossings, and float planes. We can arrange for you to travel by car or to sit back and relax.
That depends on the destination and type. As a rule, the main feeding and migration seasons are best for wildlife experiences. Tell us which animals interest you and we'll make your trip coincide with the best viewing season.
With the exception of our guided wildlife trips, our vacations are not typically 'escorted.' We combine the best of both worlds – the reassurance of seamless connections, customer service support, and scheduled activities, plus the freedom of 'independent' travel. You are not tied into a specific group, or a rigid daily itinerary. This allows us to personalize your trip to suit your occasion, interests, and timeframe.
The temperature varies from mild to hot, depending on location. Northern Canada will range between 50°F to 64°F (10°C – 18°C) in summer. The interior of BC, prairies, Ontario and Quebec can reach temperatures around 95°F (35°C). Canada's west coast, mountain regions, and Maritimes enjoy milder summer temperatures. They range on average from 59°F to 77°F (15°C – 25°C).
All our trips can be customized to fit your schedule and budget. The price depends on travel season, train service, hotel level, and the sightseeing tours you choose. Request your personalized trip plan which will provide you with a detailed cost estimate.
This trip in pictures
Accommodations
Below you'll find examples of this trip's accommodations. Please call us for the full list and to personalize your experience.
Four Points By Sheraton Winnipeg
An example of our Comfort accommodations
Conveniently located adjacent to the Winnipeg International Airport, Four Points by Sheraton offers a number of complimentary amenities that will make your stay as comfortable as home. Enjoy free coffee and bottled water, high speed internet and a 24 hour fitness center.
Tundra Inn
An example of our Comfort accommodations
The Tundra Inn is a charming, family run hotel located in the northern town of Churchill. With comfortable, spacious accommodation and complimentary amenities, this is the perfect place to relax before or after your arctic adventure. Your stay includes continental breakfast, free tea and coffee and high-speed internet.
Get your personalized trip plan organized and arranged for you
- Get a trip that covers everything you want to see.
- Know which places to go and which areas are best during certain times of the year.
- Have someone local who knows the area to suggest trains, hotels, dining, sightseeing, etc.
Sample Itinerary
Think of this itinerary as just a starting point. Our experienced Canadian Insiders will create a personalized experience for you that matches your schedule, travel style and budget.
After checking in to your hotel, spend the day exploring the city. Head over to the Manitoba Museum, which has nine galleries displaying historical artifacts or to the Forks, a funky market which is one of the city’s most popular gathering places.
Overnight in Winnipeg.
Day 2 – Winnipeg to Churchill – Where the Excitement Begins
Today you board your plane for a flight from Winnipeg to Churchill and journey over the tundra and plains of the north – the bird’s eye view is spectacular! Upon arrival enjoy a guided tour of the town, including a visit to the Itsanitaq Museum – a memorable and informative introduction to the unique culture of the north. In the evening, a local will talk about the culture, history, and wildlife of the Churchill area.
To ensure you are comfortable in Churchill's cold temperatures, ask us about winter clothing rentals. We highly recommend you do this early, as availability is limited!
Overnight in Churchill.
Days 3 & 4 – Polar Bear Viewing and Arctic Activities
Why is Churchill known as the polar bear capital of the world? Well, because large numbers of the bears congregate near town each fall while they wait for the ice to form on Hudson Bay. With two full days on the Tundra Buggy, seeing the bears at close quarters is a sure thing!
Overnight in Churchill.
Day 5 – Churchill to Winnipeg
Set off on an exciting dog sledding excursion today. After a thorough introduction it’s off to the tundra where you’ll get to mush you own team of dogs. This excursion is designed for all ages and abilities.
This afternoon visit the Parks Canada Interpretive Centre, where you learn more about the history, wildlife, and culture of Churchill. Fly back to Winnipeg for a overnight stay.
Overnight in Winnipeg.
Day 6 – End of Canada Vacation Package – Depart with Fond Memories
Your Canada vacation ends as you check-out from your hotel this morning and depart Winnipeg.
What Clients Say
The guides were fabulous
“ The guides were fabulous and the tundra buggy was warm with one seat for each of us. Fabulous dog-sledding experience - I enjoyed the presentation, humor and hospitality. The wine-tasting was cozy and a lovely touch - listening to fascinating stories of life as a fur trapper. The dinners were unexpectedly... read more
Emily, FL, USA
Get your personalized trip plan organized and arranged for you
- Get a trip that covers everything you want to see.
- Know which places to go and which areas are best during certain times of the year.
- Have someone local who knows the area to suggest trains, hotels, dining, sightseeing, etc.
What's Included In Our Prices
These are the places and experiences to look forward to on this trip.
• 2 nights in Winnipeg
• 3 nights in a Churchill hotel
Churchill Experiences:
• Services of an interpretive guide, interpretive driver and a Polar Bear International specialist
• 2 Tundra Buggy bear viewing day tours, including lunch
• Churchill Town and Area Tour
• Itsanitaq Museum*
• Parks Canada Interpretation Center
• Evening Cultural Presentation*
• Dog Sledding Excursion*
Meal Inclusions:
• All meals in Churchill
Transfer Inclusions:
• Round-trip air transportation between Winnipeg and Churchill; light meal aboard
• All transfers while in Churchill
Other Inclusions:
• Digital Travel Documents
• Fresh Tracks Canada customer service – from the time you book, you are assigned your own personal Vacation Coordinator whom you can reach out to with any questions or requests.
*A 5 day/4 night itinerary is also available which does not include these items.
Not Included
• Meals, other than those mentioned
• Gratuities
• 9% Taxes (5% GST and 4% PST)
• Airfare to and from Winnipeg (but don’t hesitate to ask for help)
• Travel & medical insurance, trip cancellation insurance
• Winter clothing rental (can be arranged, please don’t hesitate to ask)
Ideas to customize this trip
Think of this trip as just a starting point. These are some of the experiences you can add-on to personalize your trip.
• Make this a truly epic bear tour, and combine your polar bear trip with a grizzly viewing tour
Get your personalized trip plan organized and arranged for you
- Get a trip that covers everything you want to see.
- Know which places to go and which areas are best during certain times of the year.
- Have someone local who knows the area to suggest trains, hotels, dining, sightseeing, etc.
Trip Start Dates
2019 Trip Start DatesOct 1, 11, 14, 17, 20, 23, 26, 29, 30
Nov 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 10, 11, 14
2020 Trip Start Dates
Oct 3, 11, 14, 17, 20, 23, 26, 29
Nov 1, 2, 4, 5, 8, 10, 11, 14
Pricing For This Trip
Our prices vary by departure date, hotel class, train service and degree of personalization. Please speak with one of our Canadian Insiders to get your personalized quote, or hit the button below.
6 day, 5 night
This once in a lifetime Polar Bear Safari takes you to the Canadian Arctic. Accompanied by a friendly naturalist guide from Churchill, join a small group of fellow travelers to experience polar bears up close from a Tundra Buggy. Your small group size means optimal bear viewing and photography opportunities onboard the Tundra Buggy.
Get your personalized trip plan organized and arranged for you
- Get a trip that covers everything you want to see.
- Know which places to go and which areas are best during certain times of the year.
- Have someone local who knows the area to suggest trains, hotels, dining, sightseeing, etc.
Why book your trip with us?
- We make planning a trip to Canada really easy!
- We are experts in creating personalized itineraries.
- Our itineraries are built around your specific needs, interests and budget.
- We promise friendly and personal service every step of the way.
- Consider us your personal contact in Canada before and during your trip.
- We're based in Vancouver with first-hand ‘insider’ knowledge of Canada.
- Over the past 20 years, we have personalized more than 15,000 Canadian vacations.
Fresh Tracks Canada Vs. Others
| Fresh Tracks Canada | Local Travel Agency | Online Booking | |
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Independent Travel
Flexibility and freedom of a personalized tour to suit your travel goals. |
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Personalized itineraries
Carefully crafted to your budget and needs. |
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Insider Knowledge
Plan your trip with help from our Canadian Insiders who live and travel in Canada. You'll know when to come, where to stay, which train to take, and lots more... |
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Local Support
Someone in Canada you can call before and during your trip, seven days a week. |
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No-one can be trusted more
You'll feel confident when booking your vacation with our accreditation and consumer protection through the following organizations. 
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Pre-packaged TripsOne-size-fits-all approach. |
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Group ToursCheapest type of travel with rigid itineraries and crowds. |
No one can be trusted more
You'll feel confident when booking your vacation with our accreditation and consumer protection through the following organizations.
Consumer Protection BC
- License Number: 31202
- The Travel Assurance Fund (TAF) provides a possible source of compensation when consumers do not receive the travel services they purchased through a BC licensed travel agent.
ABTA
- Membership Number: Y6176
- Our UK clients have the benefit of ABTA's assistance and Code of Conduct which means that all package holidays sold by Fresh Tracks Canada in the UK are covered by a full financial protection in the event of the company failure.
- We're one of the only agencies in Canada offering this protection.
BBB
- A BBB Accredited Business since 08/02/2008
- Highest rating: A+
- BBB has determined that Fresh Tracks (Canada) Inc meets BBB accreditation standards, which include a commitment to make a good faith effort to resolve any consumer complaints. BBB Accredited Businesses pay a fee for accreditation review/monitoring and for support of BBB services to the public.
IATA
- Fresh Tracks Canada is an IATA Accredited Agent.
- Full accreditation authorizes travel agents to sell international and/or domestic tickets on behalf of IATA member airlines. It also allows access to IATA's Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP), an efficient interface for invoicing and payment between the agent, airlines and transport providers.
Get your personalized trip plan organized and arranged for you
- Get a trip that covers everything you want to see.
- Know which places to go and which areas are best during certain times of the year.
- Have someone local who knows the area to suggest trains, hotels, dining, sightseeing, etc.
Customer Reviews & Testimonials
The guides were fabulous
“ The guides were fabulous and the tundra buggy was warm with one seat for each of us. Fabulous dog-sledding experience - I enjoyed the presentation, humor and hospitality. The wine-tasting was cozy and a lovely touch - listening... read more to fascinating stories of life as a fur trapper. The dinners were unexpectedly gourmet. ”
Emily, FL, USA
In a word brilliant
“ Our trip was, in a word brilliant. We think the organization was excellent, and everything ran very smoothly. The guide was great and looked after everyone very efficiently. Indeed, he added to the experience as not only did we... read more see the polar bears it was actually very educational too. Dealing with Fresh Tracks was great. Being in the UK this was by e-mail. Everything was brilliant and whenever I had a query it was dealt with efficiently and most importantly, very friendly. the whole experience felt very personable, not just a client! ”
Dave & Jill, Hertford, UK
The trip was terrific!
“ Everything was handled very well and trip was terrific! W saw polar bears , had a great adventure. ”
Charlie & Carol Ann, MD, USA
Get your personalized trip plan organized and arranged for you
- Get a trip that covers everything you want to see.
- Know which places to go and which areas are best during certain times of the year.
- Have someone local who knows the area to suggest trains, hotels, dining, sightseeing, etc.
