Priscilla’s Wild and Unforgettable Arctic Expedition

By Priscilla Downey

This week, I had the incredible opportunity to embark on an Arctic safari with Churchill Wild, and what an adventure it has been! From the moment our plane took off from Churchill for Seal River Heritage Lodge, I knew this was going to be a trip like no other. On the flight in we saw hundreds, if not thousands of beluga whales swimming in the Hudson Bay, and polar bears hunting them from the rocks — which we’ve now learned has not been observed anywhere else in the world — and a wolf!

We were greeted by a polar bear right beside the runway when we landed, and had two more waiting to greet us lazing around the lodge. I can’t say anything will prepare you for the feeling of seeing a polar bear in real life for the first time. It set the tone for the entire journey, making it clear that we were truly stepping into something wild and unforgettable.

Our days have been filled with exploration and wonder. We hiked through the tundra and the intertidal areas along the Hudson Bay coast, immersing ourselves in the raw beauty of the sub-Arctic landscape and enjoying the polar bears we encountered along the way. The rugged terrain, dotted with vibrant wildflowers, fireweed, and ancient rocks, felt like stepping into another world.

The main highlight is obviously seeing polar bears up close in their natural habitat. Not much can beat that. We have been blessed to see polar bears every day of our trip, including a memorable visit from a mom and two cubs who walked right up to the lodge and peered in through the windows at us. But one of the other highlights was our time spent on the water.

Over two days, we ventured out in Zodiac boats to visit the beluga whales. These playful and curious creatures are a joy to watch. Their white bodies stood out vividly against the water, and their antics kept us entertained for hours. They would come right up to our boat, seemingly as curious about us as we were about them. Listening to them through the hydrophone, we could hear their distinctive clicks and whistles, a symphony of underwater communication that felt almost magical.

Today, we took ATVs down to the mouth of the Seal River, where polar bears can be found hunting beluga whales from the rocks. The thrill of riding across the rugged landscape was exhilarating, and the scenery was nothing short of breathtaking. We paused frequently to take in the sights and sounds of the Arctic, spotting wildlife and learning about the region from our knowledgeable guides. We enjoyed a delicious picnic lunch and spotted six polar bears, tons of beluga whales and even a juvenile bald eagle. It’s hard to pick the most thrilling experience, but it’s a close competition between the belugas, observing the mother bear with her cubs, and witnessing the Northern Lights multiple times during our stay. Each activity offered something unique and unforgettable.

Another particularly memorable moment was when we encountered a caribou. It ran close to us, and using our best “caribou dance” — waving our arms like antlers — we managed to capture its curiosity and a fantastic video. The experience was surreal and truly unforgettable.

Our guides are incredible. They have a wealth of knowledge about the local flora and fauna and make each hike an educational adventure. Their passion for nature and the area is infectious, and they point out various plants, sharing fascinating stories about the area’s history. They keep us informed about the animals we encounter, explaining their behaviors and habits. Their ability to read animal behavior ensured our interactions with wildlife were both safe and non-invasive. They made us feel secure, and their evening presentations are a highlight, adding depth to what we experienced during the day.

Seal River Heritage Lodge is a haven of comfort and charm. From the moment I stepped into the two-level great room with its cozy fireplace and large windows, I felt at home. The lodge is filled with natural light, and the views are stunning. The rooms are beautifully decorated, with local photography, comfortable beds and thoughtful touches like snacks and water. The dining room, with its wrap-around windows, offers stunning views during meals, and the observation tower is perfect for watching the northern lights and getting a birds eye view of the surrounding area. Everything about the lodge was designed to enhance our experience, providing a comfortable and welcoming base for our adventures.

The staff at Churchill Wild played a huge part in making this trip special. From the managers to the guides, hospitality staff, cooks, and maintenance team at the lodge, and the escorts that help you through the airports, everyone felt like familiar friends. They quickly learned all our names and were genuinely invested in ensuring we had an unforgettable experience. Their warmth and hospitality made us feel like we were part of a big family, and their dedication to their work was evident in everything they do.

It’s been great getting to know the other guests during our trip. We have people from Florida, California, Berlin, Australia, and Manitoba. We share stories about our travels and lives, learning about each other’s cultures and customs. These conversations added a rich layer to the adventure. We’ve bonded over our shared experiences, and it didn’t take long to build lasting friendships. We talked about where we were from and what we do for careers, sharing travel tips and adventure stories.

OH and THE FOOD! I can be a picky eater, on top of being a pescetarian, and every single meal has been absolutely delicious and accommodating. I completely anticipate that there will not be a single cookbook left here once we depart, because everyone wants the recipes. I love knowing that the food is sourced locally and sustainably in Manitoba and is fresh. I hope you’ve been following along my journey on Churchill Wild’s Instagram stories and have seen all the meals we have had here. They taste as amazing as they look.

This was my first Arctic expedition, and it couldn’t have been more perfect. The summer weather was ideal for exploring. Long thin layers came in handy to help with the bugs if there was no breeze, and we’ve had a mix of warm and cool days. Churchill Wild’s commitment to ethical and sustainable practices shone through, making me appreciate the experience even more. They go above and beyond for their guests, the experience, and as stewards of the land we are on. Their dedication to preserving the natural environment and ensuring respectful interactions with wildlife is unwavering.

Would I recommend this trip for families and kids? Absolutely!

On our trip, there was a family with three young boys, aged 9 to 14. They asked the best questions. The children’s curiosity and enthusiasm added a delightful energy to the group, making the experience even more enjoyable and educational for everyone. The guides were well-prepared to ensure safe encounters with wildlife, and the active itinerary kept everyone engaged and ready for bed by the end of the day.

Another family in our group, with adult children and their spouses, found it to be a perfect bonding experience and a great opportunity to make unforgettable memories together. This adventure offers something for everyone.

My Birds, Bears, & Belugas safari with Churchill Wild has been an adventure of a lifetime, filled with amazing wildlife encounters, thrilling excursions, amazing food and new friendships, The knowledgeable guides, cozy lodge, wildlife and exceptional staff made every moment unforgettable.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this Arctic adventure is an experience you won’t want to miss. It’s not just about the wildlife or the stunning landscapes; the people you meet, the stories you share, and the memories you create together are the perfect combination to ensure an incredible trip. This journey has left an indelible mark on my heart, and I will cherish it forever.

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