Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Best Time?

When is the best time to see polar bears?

This is our most frequently asked question.

Many people hear that October and November are the best months to see polar bears. While that can be true for operators based in the town of Churchill, the answer is different for Churchill Wild.

Polar bears come off the sea ice in early July and remain along the Hudson Bay coastline until late November or early December. What truly determines viewing opportunities is where you are experiencing them.

Churchill Wild operates three remote ecolodges along the Hudson Bay coast, located approximately 30 km, 60 km, and 250 km from the town of Churchill. These remote locations provide exclusive access to polar bear habitat that is not accessible to others, allowing us to experience exceptional polar bear activity from July through November.

October and November are often highlighted because polar bears naturally move closer to the town of Churchill as freeze-up approaches. Since this area is typically the first to freeze, operators limited to that region experience their peak viewing during this period.

For Churchill Wild, there is no single “best” week to see polar bears. The ideal time to visit depends on what else is on your bucket list:

  • July through late August is ideal for combining polar bears and beluga whales.

  • September through November is best for experiencing polar bears and the northern lights.

Weather preferences are also an important consideration. Do you enjoy crisp Arctic conditions, or would you prefer milder temperatures? Summer departures offer longer daylight hours and generally warmer weather, while fall brings colder temperatures, changing light, and the return of winter conditions as freeze-up approaches.

In October and November, polar bears tend to be more active as they anticipate returning to the sea ice. During the summer months, bears are often more relaxed; conserving energy and spending more time in and around the water. Both seasons offer exceptional, yet distinctly different, polar bear viewing experiences.

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When is the best time to see the northern lights?

Although the peak northern lights season is generally considered January through March, excellent aurora displays can occur well beyond those months. Early fall offers a compelling balance; strong aurora activity combined with more moderate temperatures. On a good night, the northern lights can be just as spectacular at 10°C as they are at –40°C, making the experience especially enjoyable for both viewing and photography.

The northern lights are visible in northern Manitoba on approximately 300 nights per year, given the right conditions. While it is possible to see the aurora during the summer months at our remote ecolodges, we find that they truly begin to shine from September through May.

Northern lights viewing depends on darkness, clear skies, and solar activity. As nights grow longer in the fall and winter, viewing conditions improve significantly. Long, cold, clear Arctic nights provide the ideal environment, and this is when aurora activity is most consistent and dramatic.

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When is the best time to see beluga whales?

The best time to see beluga whales in northern Manitoba is from July through late August.

During the summer months, tens of thousands of beluga whales migrate into the warm, shallow waters of the Hudson Bay region to calve, socialize, and feed. This area is home to the highest concentration of beluga whales in the world, making it one of the most reliable places on Earth to experience them.

Churchill Wild’s remote coastal locations provide exceptional opportunities to observe belugas in their natural environment. Guests often see large pods swimming close to shore, gathering in estuaries, and moving through the coastal waters near our ecolodges. Their curious nature and social behaviour make each encounter dynamic and memorable.

Beluga whale viewing can be experienced on the following Churchill Wild safaris: Birds, Bears, & Belugas, Arctic Discovery, and our Summer Dual Lodge Safari.

Where can I see wolves?

Wolves can be seen at Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge, which offers the highest chance of wolf sightings across our lodges. While wolves may occasionally appear near Dymond Lake Ecolodge and Seal River Heritage Lodge, sightings are most consistent at Nanuk.

Churchill Wild also operates dedicated wolf safaris – Cloud Wolves of the Kaska Coast – in March and July, designed specifically to maximize time in prime wolf habitat. That said, wolves can be spotted on any safari based at Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge, as they move freely through the surrounding landscape.

As with all wildlife encounters, sightings are never guaranteed, but Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge provides the strongest opportunities to experience wolves in their natural environment.

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When does the fireweed bloom?

The best time of the year to photograph fireweed is generally the last week of July and the first week of August. Note that the large fields of fireweed seen in some of our photos are not accessible by foot during our daily hikes and that excursions to this area are not part of our regular itinerary.

Pre-Trip Planning

What is included in your safari package?

Our safaris are fully all-inclusive once you arrive in Winnipeg. From that point forward, we take care of all logistics so you can focus entirely on the experience.

Your safari package includes:

  • Pre- and post-tour hotel stays in Winnipeg

  • Flights between Winnipeg and Churchill, and charter flights to and from our remote ecolodges

  • All meals and beverages, including alcohol

  • Accommodation at our remote Arctic ecolodges

  • Daily guided excursions and activities led by experienced Churchill Wild guides

  • Seasonal outerwear, including rain gear or winter gear depending on the time of year

Are there any other items not included in your tour price?

Items not included in the safari package price are applicable taxes, gratuities, and travel insurance. Any costs incurred prior to arriving in Winnipeg or after departing Winnipeg are also not included. Guests are responsible for booking and paying for their own flights to and from Winnipeg.

Can I book as a single?

Our rates are based on two people occupying a room, but private rooms are available at additional cost. Alternatively, if you are willing to share accommodations, we will arrange for a same-gender roommate accordingly.

What is the minimum age?

Due to the physical nature of our safaris the minimum age for participants is eight years. Please realize that these are remote lodges where they will be expected to remain indoors when the group is not on outings. Your child must always be supervised (by you).

Can you accommodate special dietary requirements?

Yes. We are able to accommodate strict dietary requirements. Upon booking, guests are asked to complete a medical waiver, where any allergies, intolerances, or special dietary needs can be noted. This information is shared with our lodge teams in advance to ensure meals are prepared safely and appropriately throughout your safari.

If you have particularly complex dietary needs, we encourage you to discuss them with our sales team at the time of booking.

Can we book our own transportation to Churchill?

Yes. Guests are welcome to book their own transportation to Churchill, however if you’re considering travelling on Canada’s VIA Rail service, we strongly recommend doing so on your return journey. While the train can be a unique and scenic experience, it is not always reliable. In the event of a delay or cancellation that results in a late arrival to Churchill, we are unfortunately unable to adjust our charter flight schedules to and from our remote lodges.

If you’re considering independent travel arrangements, we ask that you discuss this with our sales team in advance so we can ensure your plans align with lodge and charter flight schedules. Our priority is ensuring a smooth and seamless transition to your safari.

Can you help with additional nights in Churchill?
Or pre and post tour hotels in Winnipeg?

A pre- and post-tour hotel stay in Winnipeg is already included in your Churchill Wild safari package. These stays are booked at The Grand Hotel, which is conveniently located directly across the street from Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport, making arrivals and departures easy.

If you’d like to extend your stay in Winnipeg beyond what’s included, we’re happy to arrange additional nights at the Grand Hotel.

For guests wishing to add extra nights in Churchill, we can also arrange accommodations at our Blueberry Inn, our new lodge located right in town.

Blueberry Inn

What do I need to bring?

Our ecolodges are in remote locations and a long way from the nearest shopping centre. It is very important that you pack carefully and make sure you’ve packed essential items and/or required medications in your carry-on bag. As outlined above, the climate along the Hudson Bay coast can be highly variable and weather can change from one hour to the next. It is recommended that you dress in layers so that you can adjust your comfort during your excursions from the Lodge as required. We have prepared a detailed list of items that should be considered during your packing. To download these lists, please click the links below.

What to Bring Checklist Summer
What to Bring Checklist Winter

Are there restrictions on luggage?

Pack light! Please pack your gear in a soft-sided duffel bag to ensure that all guest luggage will fit into the smaller aircraft utilized exclusively for the flight into our remote lodges. Our restrictions require the length x height x width to be less than 55 inches. These restrictions also limit luggage to 70 lbs. altogether, including one checked bag not exceeding 50 lbs. and one or two carry-on bags not exceeding 20 lbs. If you need to downsize your luggage the hotel in Winnipeg will hold excess items until your return stay.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is needed to cover any losses experienced due to missed connections, damage to luggage, and weather delays (such as meal expenses, hotel costs, or airline transfer fees). Weather delays are not uncommon and could be experienced July through to November.

We strongly encourage travelers to purchase a trip insurance package (a level of protection you desire) through your provider of choice at time of booking to maximize individual insurance benefits. Evidence of insurance policy documentation will be required no later than at time of full payment or you can let us know that you will self-insure.

We have partnered with an insurance company! If you would like more information, click here.

Payment

What is the payment structure?

To secure your reservation, we require a non-refundable deposit of $4,000 CAD per person at the time of booking. The remaining balance can be divided into two final payments, both of which are due 90 days prior to departure. Full payment must be received by this deadline to confirm your participation in the safari.

Detailed payment schedules and due dates will be provided at the time of booking, and our sales team is always available to assist with any questions.

What types of payment do you accept?

We accept Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and wire transfers.

What is your cancellation policy?

Our safaris are non-refundable. For this reason, we strongly recommend that all guests purchase comprehensive travel insurance, including coverage for trip cancellation, interruption, and delays.

Our Location

What are the differences between your three ecolodges?

Our most northern property, Seal River Heritage Lodge, is located 60 km north of Churchill and sits right on the Bay next to an inlet where we can launch Zodiac boats for beluga whale tours. This lodge is open from July to November and is most known for its sightings of polar bears, beluga whales and smaller creatures such as Arctic and coloured fox, sik-siks and pine marten. It’s also an excellent location for birdwatching during the summer and early fall.

Dymond Lake Ecolodge sits nestled near the treeline of the Boreal forest and has a true wilderness feeling. Just 30 km north of Churchill and slightly inland from Hudson Bay, its location close to the coast and the forest lends itself to a variety of wildlife. Polar bears, moose, fox, pine marten, snowy owls, and even the elusive wolverine are known visitors to this unique destination. This lodge is open only from mid-October through mid-November.

Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge is our most remote lodge, 250 km southeast of Churchill. The coastline at Nanuk features long beach ridges and vast open spaces, differing from the rocky coastline near Seal River. Nanuk opens in early August and shuts down in late November. Due to its location on the edge of the Boreal forest, Nanuk is not only home to polar bears, but also black bears, moose, wolves, and other forest dwellers, including myriad bird species.

How long is the flight to each lodge?

Flying time from Churchill, Manitoba to:
Dymond Lake Ecolodge – approx. 15 minutes
Seal River Heritage Lodge – approx. 25 minutes
Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge – approx. 70 minutes

Why are your ecolodges located outside of Churchill?

The remoteness of our exclusive fly-in ecolodges along the Hudson Bay coastline allows for undisturbed wildlife viewing in a pristine, unique setting. No other place in the Arctic is home to a diversity of wildlife species. Terrestrial mammals include moose, black bear, grizzly bear, wolves, fox, wolverine etc. Marine mammals include beluga whales, seals, and of course, one of the world’s most accessible concentrations of polar bears. Our ecolodges are located directly in the path of these bears as they wander up and down the coast during the summer and fall.

At the Lodge

What are you doing as a remote lodge operator to minimize your environmental footprint?

One thing we have discovered about living and working in a remote Arctic/sub-Arctic environment is the importance of adhering to the 3Rs. The parents of Churchill Wild co-owner Jeanne Reimer, Doug and Helen Webber, were among the early founders of the lodge industry in Canada, and they instilled the reduce, reuse, recycle mentality in their children. As a result, this has become a key tenet of our operations.

The drive to minimize our impact on our pristine environment is garnered from over eighty years of family living and observations in the Arctic, and this has had a huge impact on how we operate. When your home is a wilderness paradise you make every effort to keep it that way. We have always been one of the “greenest” lodge operators in the Canadian Arctic and we plan to keep raising the bar.

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What is the weather like at your lodges?

The average Churchill temperatures in Celsius are as follows:

March High -14 Low -24
April High 1 Low -9
July High 18 Low 7
August High 16 Low 7
September High 9 Low 3
October High 1 Low -4
November High -9 Low -16

The climate at our lodges is heavily influenced by Hudson Bay, and variations from the above averages are common and can happen quite suddenly. Our location on the coast lends itself well to exciting wildlife encounters but can also lead to conditions that vary greatly from day to day, and from season to season. Additionally, the weather on the coast often differs from weather in Churchill, so while conditions may be favourable for flying out of Churchill, it may be unsafe to land or take off from the lodge. The itinerary you receive after booking is a good indicator of how things will go, but transfers and activities may differ if unfavourable weather requires our flexibility.

Are there phone and/or Internet services at the lodges?

We have a satellite phone at the lodge which can be used for emergencies. We also have satellite Internet that you can access anytime, although the service has a limited bandwidth and is not suitable for large volume transmissions.

How much walking will I do?

The amount of walking done each day is based on where the wildlife is or is predicted to be. Some days you’ll walk a few kilometres during each of your morning and afternoon excursions. Sometimes the wildlife may be right outside the lodge compound and you’ll be able to enjoy an encounter without going far at all. On average, expect to walk 5-10 km/day. There is always the option to stay back at the lodge and watch for wildlife from the comfort of our cozy lounge.

How strenuous is the hiking terrain?

Guests of all ages have explored these trails, but it’s important to note that the terrain can be challenging depending on your mobility. The ground ranges from rocky or spongy tundra to snow-covered surfaces, and while the hikes are on mostly level ground with no steep hills or mountains, uneven footing can make walking more difficult—especially in winter when snow and ice are present. A sturdy pair of hiking boots or supportive winter boots will greatly improve comfort and stability. Some outings take place on the tidal flats, where footing may be muddy or slippery, and you may use our provided rubber boots to wade through shallow tides. Our hikes are always slow-paced, giving everyone time to move safely and enjoy the surroundings.

Can we go walking on our own?

No. You are in polar bear country and any excursions, whether they be two metres or two kilometres, will always require an escort for your safety. Our guides are well trained in providing protection for our guests. Each lodge has a fenced-in compound that allows guests to go outside on their own or in a group to view and photograph nearby wildlife.

What are the bugs like in the summer?

Depending on wind strength and direction, the mosquitoes and black flies can be bothersome in the summer months. While we plan our activities to minimize exposure to bugs, we recommend a combination of bug spray, bug jacket, light long pants and long-sleeved shirts if you are traveling to Churchill in the summer season.

Wildlife Viewing

Are you seeing fewer polar bears? Are the bears healthy?

Our family has been in the wildlife business on the Hudson Bay coast for over 80 years. During this time our observations would suggest that the polar bear population is static and it may even be growing. From all outward appearances the polar bears are healthy and thriving.

Some wildlife biologists say that their studies show that the polar bears are in trouble, losing weight, having fewer cubs, and generally under stress due to climate change. This has not been our experience in the areas we operate in, and we are optimistic that future generations will be able to continue to enjoy the exceptional wildlife experience that the Hudson Bay polar bear population provides.

Does every tour see polar bears?

Over the past 33 years we have had very few departures that have not seen polar bears, but it does happen occasionally due to weather and elements of nature beyond our control. There are also times when guests may only see bears from a distance, but this is not the norm. Our ecolodges are located in the best polar bear viewing territory on the planet, directly on the Hudson Bay coast in the path of the polar bears as they wander the coastline from July through November. Additionally, our polar bear guides and systems for spotting wildlife are among the best in the world.

What other wildlife will I see?

There are three distinct ecosystems that make up the western Hudson Bay coast where our ecolodges are located. This means we see Arctic wildlife, marine wildlife, and woodland wildlife. The list includes polar bears (of course!), beluga whales, wolves, moose, caribou, black bears, snowy owls, Arctic terns, siksiks, Arctic and coloured fox, and many more.

What do the bears eat in the summer when the ice is gone?

The primary and favoured food of polar bears are seals caught while out on the ice, but they will scavenge for light meals during the summer months while awaiting freeze-up. These polar bear snacks might include flightless young in nests, eggs, berries, Arctic ground squirrels, fireweed, seaweed and just about anything else that is edible. Over the past 10 years we have also observed polar bears hunting beluga whales in the Seal River estuary. We believe this is a learned activity unique to the Arctic.

Is it dangerous to be out walking in polar bear country?

All our guides have extensive experience working with polar bears in their natural habitat, and they are experts in interpreting polar bear body language. In general, polar bears are cautious creatures, but they are also among the fastest, most powerful carnivores on the planet, and our guides are constantly assessing each encounter to determine a safe viewing distance for our guests.

We use strict procedures to control wildlife interactions and to prevent undue stress on the animals. Guides may utilize one or more different deterrents (if required) to manage each polar bear encounter and ensure that the potential for conflict is minimized. Guests are provided with detailed information on the safety procedures they will be required to follow without exception throughout their Churchill Wild experience.

walking with polar bears

They sure look cute and cuddly, don’t they?

Polar bears are the fastest, most powerful carnivores on the planet and they like to eat meat, which you happen to be made of. Don’t let their chubby, furry, waddling gait fool you for a second, they are very capable and efficient hunters. Remember HEALTHY respect! No hugs for the bears.