Northern Lights of Churchill
days
starting from US $4,332per person
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.
See Aurora Borealis In Northern Canada
On this week-long adventure, you’ll journey to Churchill, Manitoba – one of the top three places in the world to see the Northern Lights. View the mystical Aurora from a cozy Tundra Buggy in the deep dark of an arctic winter. Enjoy a culinary adventure under the stars, interpretive tours, and guided winter activities.
Trip at a glance
8 Days / 7 Nights
Arrive Winnipeg → 2 nights Winnipeg → 4 nights Churchill → 1 night Winnipeg → Depart Winnipeg
What you'll love about this trip
4 nights of Northern Lights viewing
Once in a lifetime culinary experience under the night sky
Sleeping in a cozy Churchill hotel
Guided dogsledding and snow shoeing
Interpretive presentations & tours
Common Questions
This trip features a sleeper train journey, and you'll get a comfortable private cabin on the train for the duration of your train ride. The trains feature common lounge areas and dining cars where you can socialize with fellow travelers.
When not on the train, 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.
Because most Canadians typically do not use the train for commuting (as in the US or Europe), the two main rail providers here are driven by tourism. You'll experience the romance of true trans-continental rail travel, with a wide selection of services, accommodation types, and great food.
Featured train experiences:
- VIA Rail is Canada's national train provider, with routes running Coast to Coast and through remote parts of northern Canada. The type of train depends on your journey, and can vary from the classic trans-continental sleeper trains to daylight trains with overnight stops.
- Sleeper Trains feature a once in a lifetime adventure of sleeping on the train in comfortable cabins. You can relax in your private onboard accommodations, or enjoy local wines and chef-prepared meals in the dining car during this unforgettable trip.
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
About the Trains
Read about the trains you will be travelling on during this trip, learn about onboard services and see inside the trains.
VIA Rail
VIA Rail trains take passengers across the vast country of Canada through some of the most amazing scenery in North America. The service includes sleeper cars, gourmet meals, and lounge and viewing areas.
Sleeper Trains
Experience a once in a lifetime adventure of sleeping on the train in complete comfort. Relax in your private cabin or enjoy local wines and chef-prepared meals in the dining car during this unforgettable trip.
Accommodations
Below you'll find examples of this trip's accommodations. Please call us for the full list and to personalize your experience.
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.
Winnipeg is considered Canada’s cultural capital. If you arrive early enough, you can walk from your hotel to experience Winnipeg’s new Museum of Human Rights, or simply explore the charming Forks Market. Tonight, you’ll meet your group and tour leader, and enjoy a hearty welcome dinner.
Overnight in downtown Winnipeg.
Day 2 – Explore Winnipeg with a Guide
Today will set the stage for your journey north. Learn about Canada’s Inuit culture, as you tour the Manitoba Museum on an interactive program. Then at the Planetarium, you’ll tour the night sky on a guided “nature walk” of the stars, current constellations, planets, and northern lights.
Overnight in downtown Winnipeg.
Day 3 – Journey North to Churchill
After an early morning flight, you’ll touch down in the historic northern community of Churchill accessible only by air or rail. Enjoy a guided bus tour of local and historical points of interest, plus a visit to the Itsanitaq Museum, which houses one of the most extensive Inuit art collection in the world.
Before your first evening of aurora viewing, hone your skills on a photography workshop. Once settled onboard the cozy Tundra Buggy Lodge, surrounded by the deep darkness of an arctic winter, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the Lights as they begin to dance overhead. Churchill is considered one of the 3 best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, with an average of 300 nights of Aurora activity per year. The colour can vary from a haunting, brilliant green, to a rainbow of violet, blue, red, and yellow.
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!
Overnights will be spent in a comfortable Churchill hotel.
Days 4, 5 & 6 – Churchill Activities and Northern Lights Viewing
Over the next few days, immerse yourself into Northern life. With your group, you’ll enjoy a thrilling dogsled adventure, snowshoe trek, and wildlife interpretation. Each night, you’ll watch for the Northern Lights from the Tundra Buggy Lodge.
Feature Dinner – Remote Culinary Experience
One evening of your stay, you’ll embark on one of Canada’s most unique culinary adventures, as you travel across the frozen Churchill River by Tundra Buggy to enjoy a gourmet dinner. Here you’ll experience stunning cuisine in a clear-roofed pop-up restaurant, under the stars and lights of the northern night sky.
Day 7 – From Churchill back to Winnipeg
All too soon, you depart from Churchill by air in the afternoon to spend the night in Winnipeg.
Day 8 – Depart
Depart Winnipeg at your leisure.
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 pre-nights of accommodation in downtown Winnipeg
• 1 post-night in a Winnipeg airport hotel
• 4 nights in a cozy Churchill hotel
Winnipeg Experiences:
• Meet & greet evening on the first night of your tour
• Winnipeg Planetarium
• Winnipeg Museum
Churchill Experiences:
• 4 nights of Aurora Borealis watching from the comfort of the Tundra Buggy Lodge
• Services of a certified interpretive guide for the duration of your trip
• Churchill Town and Area Tour
• Itsanitaq Museum
• Parks Canada Interpretive Centre
• Dogsledding Excursion
• Snowshoe Trek
• Photography Tips
Meal Inclusions:
• Remote culinary experience (not available on Feb 17 start date)
• All Meals
Transfer Inclusions:
• Return airfare between Winnipeg and 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.
Note:
• Feb 17 trip does not include a remote Churchill culinary experience
Not Included
• Airfare between your home and Winnipeg
• Winter clothing (rental package is available, please inquire)
• Gratuities
• Provincial & federal Canadian taxes
• Trip cancellation insurance (highly recommended)
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.
• Combine this trip with one of our Rockies winter adventures
• Ask us to book a rail journey from Toronto or Vancouver
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 DatesFeb 24
Mar 1, 5
2020 Trip Start Dates
Feb 25, 27, 29
2020 Special 10-Day Train Departure
February 21*
*Upgrade your journey to include a one-way train trip from Winnipeg to Churchill (2 nights) to make this a 10 day trip. Ask your Vacation Advisor for pricing.
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.
On our northern lights viewing adventures, you’ll have plenty of chances to see the aurora from a prime viewing location. In addition, you’ll likely get a taste of northern life on guided winter activities such as dogsledding and snow shoeing. And to bundle it all together, you’ll stay in cozy accommodations at night.
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
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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.
