“ The experience was absolutely awesome! We loved the Knight Inlet Lodge, their staff and guides, and of course all the bears. Our guide in Churchill was also excellent. Seeing polar bears, arctic foxes and other arctic wildlife was tremendous. The helicopter tour (and pilot) was also excellent, and we thoroughly enjoyed the dog sledding. ”
Lords Of The Wilderness Bear Viewing
- Choose your own activities and experiences to make the most of your trip.
- Have all the details of your trip organized and arranged for you.
Grizzly And Polar Bear Wildlife Tour
For just a special few weeks each year, witness both polar bears and grizzly bears in their natural habitat with a naturalist guide. From the lush and abundant Great Bear Rainforest, to the barren arctic tundra of Churchill, no safari better represents Canada’s immense diversity. For the true wildlife enthusiast, this is one of the great natural history vacations. Space is very limited, so be sure to book early!
Trip Outline
12 Days / 11 Nights
1 night Vancouver → 1 night Campbell River → 2 nights Knight Inlet Lodge → 2 nights Vancouver → 1 night Winnipeg → 3 nights Churchill → 1 night Winnipeg
Details of each day Start dates PricingAccommodationsWhat's includedCustomer reviews
What you'll love about this trip
Seeing grizzly bears up close feeding on salmon
Traveling on a scenic float plane
Visiting both the Great Bear Rainforest and the rugged arctic tundra
Up close polar bear viewing opportunities onboard the Tundra Buggy
Exploring the Churchill Wildlife Management Area
Expert naturalist guides
Common Questions
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Is this an escorted tour?
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.
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Can this trip be made shorter or longer?
Absolutely! We personalize all our clients' trips to fit their exact tastes and needs. You can add days at locations that you'd like to explore and spend more time at. Or leave out certain areas that don't interest you as much. Discuss your travel goals with our Canadian Insiders who make sure that your trip fits your needs and budget.
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Can I customize this trip?
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 get your FREE personalized trip plan and 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.
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Where am I staying on this trip?
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.
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How much does my trip cost?
All our trips are personalized to fit our clients' schedule and budget. The price of your trip generally depends on the travel season, train service, accommodations, and the sightseeing tours you take. Please request your personalized quote which will provide you with the detailed information you need.
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What is included in the price?
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 your detailed digital travel documents, and our Canadian Insiders remain at your disposal throughout your trip to answer any questions.
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What are the best ways to travel around Canada?
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.
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When is the best time to see wildlife?
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.
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Will it be cold when I visit Canada in summer?
The temperature varies from mild to hot, depending on location. 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). The interior of British Columbia, prairies, Ontario and Quebec can reach temperatures around 95°F (35°C). Northern Canada will range between 50°F to 64°F (10°C – 18°C) in summer.
This Trip in Pictures
This journey is our ultimate Canada vacations bear journey – and possibly North America's best safari!
On the west coast of British Columbia in the Fall, salmon return to spawn…
Attracting predators like Grizzly Bears, Bald Eagles and Orca (Killer) Whales…
As well as studying Grizzlies up close, you'll get out on the ocean with the whales…
A Grizzly Bear family comes down to the water to find returning salmon.
An aerial view of the lodge we use for observing the Grizzlies.
The dining room of the lodge.
Then as a wonderful comparison, you'll fly far north … to a very different world.
Here, on the edge of Hudson Bay, you'll go on safari in a 'Tundra Buggy'…
And learn if this is play or fighting - from an expert naturalist.
You can also try dogsledding and learn about the life of a sled-dog.
Recommended Itinerary
Think of this itinerary as just a starting point. Our experienced Canadian Insiders will create a personalized trip plan for you that matches your travel style, schedule and budget.
Day 1 – Arrive in Vancouver
Arrive in Vancouver and spend the night at the airport in preparation for tomorrow’s flight to Campbell River.
Overnight at a Vancouver Airport hotel.
Day 2 – Fly to Campbell River
This morning fly to Campbell River on Vancouver Island where you will be transferred to a hotel for the night. The remainder of the day is yours to explore the “Salmon Fishing Capital of the World”. Today is the day to make sure you have all your camera accessories, memory cards, and batteries ready to go for your adventure tomorrow.
Overnight in Campbell River.
Day 3 – Up Close with Grizzly Bears
A spectacular float plane ride takes you to Knight Inlet Lodge this morning. The flight takes roughly 30 minutes and is sure to be one of your trip’s highlights.
A cozy floating wilderness retreat, Knight Inlet Lodge is located in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest in secluded Glendale Cove. It has one of the highest concentrations of Grizzly Bears in North America – sometimes it’s possible to see them right from the lodge’s dock.
In the fall, the normally solitary grizzly bears congregate along rivers to feed on migrating salmon. You’ll watch the bears from a specially designed viewing platform, giving you rare photographic opportunities and a chance to immerse yourself into their natural habitat. Although bear sightings can vary, it is not uncommon for there to be up to 40 bears within 6 miles of the lodge at this time of year. Enjoy a delicious dinner tonight with new companions and an evening presentation by one of your guides.
Overnight at Knight Inlet Lodge.
Day 4 – Grizzly Bear Viewing at Knight Inlet Lodge
Head out for another day of adventure. Glacier-fed waterfalls, old-growth forests thick with moss, and snowcapped mountains are your backdrop as you explore the secluded coves and inlets around Glendale Cove. Additional activity options include kayaking, hiking, or a scenic boat tour of Knight Inlet
Overnight at Knight Inlet Lodge.
Day 5 – Knight Inlet Lodge/Campbell River to Vancouver
Get up early to soak in the fresh wilderness air, perhaps spotting a soaring bald eagle or two as you sip your coffee. Today you fly back to Campbell River and then onwards to Vancouver. Spend the rest of the day enjoying the sights and sounds of the city.
Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 6 – Discover Vancouver
Spend the day exploring Vancouver. Ask us to arrange an activity for you – walking tours, bike tours, food tours, and nature tours are available to suit all interests. Or, simply stroll the sea wall and sip coffee at English Bay, admiring Vancouver’s legendary harbour and mountain views.
Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 7 – Vancouver to Winnipeg
Spend a leisurely morning in our beautiful West Coast city before boarding a flight to Winnipeg. Meet your polar bear group and guide this evening at your Winnipeg airport hotel for an information session.
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 Winnipeg.
Day 8 – Winnipeg to Churchill
Early this morning after breakfast at your hotel, 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 drive past various points of interest in and surrounding Churchill on an interpretive tour. You’ll have a chance to photograph the Polar Bear Holding facility as well as a beautiful Inukshuk location on the shores of the Hudson Bay. Included is a visit to Polar Bears International House to learn about ongoing polar bear research, as well as the Parks Canada Interpretive Centre where you’ll learn more about the history and wildlife of Churchill.
Overnight in a Churchill hotel.
Day 9 – Polar Bear Viewing
This morning you’ll board a specially designed Tundra Buggy and journey into the Churchill Wildlife Management Area for your first chance to see polar bears in the wild. Since the number of visitors to the CWMA is highly restricted, your chances of seeing the bears up close is excellent. This is prime polar bear habitat! Your knowledgeable guide will provide insights along way.
This evening at a Cultural Presentation, you’ll learn what it’s like to live in the northern reaches of Canada through the stories of a Churchill resident, such as a local trapper.
Overnight in Churchill.
Day 10 – Dog Sledding Experience
Set off on an exciting dog sledding excursion today. Meet a local musher and hear his incredible tales of Arctic racing, then meet his pack of lovingly cared for sled dogs. After a thorough briefing, feel the exhilaration of racing a team through the boreal forest on a one-mile groomed trail. This excursion is designed for guests of all abilities.
Later today, visit the Itsanitaq Museum. The museum’s a collection of Inuit carvings and artifacts are among the finest in the world. This is also a great place to stock up on unique, locally crafted souvenirs.
Overnight in Churchill.
Day 11 – Polar Bear Viewing and Return to Winnipeg
Enjoy another extraordinary day exploring the Churchill Wildlife Management Area onboard a Tundra Buggy. As well as capturing incredible, up-close photographs of polar bears, you’ll see rare species of wildlife such as arctic fox, ptarmigan, and snowy owl. When you arrive back in Churchill, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight back to Winnipeg.
Overnight in Winnipeg.
Day 12 – Depart from Winnipeg
Your Canadian wildlife adventure ends as you check-out from your hotel this morning and depart Winnipeg.
Note: The order of activities will vary at the discretion of your guides – based on wildlife sightings and weather conditions.
Start Dates
2021 Departure Dates
September 19, 27
October 2, 5, 8, 11, 14
Pricing
Prices of this trip vary by departure date, hotel class and the choice of activities. Request your quote to check availability or to book this trip.
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Accommodations
Accommodations
Below are examples of the places you can stay on this trip. Please get in touch to discuss your options and to check availability.
Fairmont Vancouver Airport
The Fairmont Vancouver Airport is a luxury hotel and spa providing the perfect overnight stay before or after a flight. Completely soundproofed and located above the US departures terminal the hotel is only a two minute walk to the luggage carousels.
Knight Inlet Lodge
Knight Inlet Lodge is a floating haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. This unique accommodation is nestled within a wild and remote area of the BC coastline, offering spectacular scenery and an abundance of wildlife right on your doorstep. Relax at the lodge after days filled with adventure, and enjoy meals featuring the local catch of the day.
Four Points By Sheraton Winnipeg
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
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.
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What's Included
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Customer Reviews (2)
“ We had a great time and loads of bears. Sitting, rolling on their backs, fighting, walking. We were really pleased that we did the lodge rather than going out on the tundra buggies. We were going on a sledge ride and had a great time. If we did it again I think we would have tried to have more time in Vancouver, there is a lot to see and a week would be great. Also the trip on the icefields, rather than just a transfer it would have been good to have a sight seeing tour as well. We were lucky that one of the other passengers was a long lime resident of Jasper and keen walker. She gave us a running commentary all the way to Banff. Many thanks for overall a great trip! ”
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.
Schedule a call or call us directly toll-free:
call1 877 395 5771
