Fly-in to a remote polar bear cabin camp set along the coast of Hudson Bay for an almost private polar bear viewing and photography experience like none other. Join this unique opportunity to photograph one of the world’s most magnificent predators from ground level in the Canadian Arctic! This is not just a polar bear trip – it’s an immersive experience in the land of the polar bears, the Inuit people, and the intricacies of the tundra. This program gets you as close to polar bears in their natural environment as possible. It’s an experience that leaves lifelong memories.
Day-by-Day Summary
Day 1 : Winnipeg Day 2 : Winnipeg to Churchill Days 3-6 : Polar Bear Observation Day 7 : Fly to Churchill | Winnipeg Day 8 : Winnipeg
Highlights
Stay in a cabin strategically placed for reliable polar bear encounters
Observe and photograph polar bears while they wait for the river to freeze
Head out on daily hikes outside the camp fence, safely led by Inuit guides
Delight in magical light shows created by the northern lights
Fly from Winnipeg airport to Churchill, Manitoba (the flight from Winnipeg to Churchill and back is not included in the trip price). On arrival, transfer to a private charter aircraft waiting on the tarmac to whisk you away to a Polar Bear Cabin. During the 40-50 minute flight, aerial photography is possible of the landscape halfway between Churchill, MB and Arviat, NU on the Hudson Bay coast, only a few miles south of the mighty Gellini River.
The cabin placement is strategic for reliable polar bear encounters and photography. As the river to the north of the cabins is 5 km wide, Churchill polar bears travelling north along the Hudson Bay coastline are not inclined to move farther north. The cabins, therefore, are placed directly in “polar bear alley.” Spend unforgettable moments living with the polar bears, observing and photographing them while they wait for the river and the Hudson Bay coast to freeze.
Spend the next few days observing polar bears in the wild and admiring the stunning natural landscapes. Set your tripod up inside the protective electric fence that surrounds the camp. Wait for the perfect close-up of the polar bears that wander by in the company of local guides and staff. The fence is approximately 1.2 meters (4 feet) high with wires spaced far enough apart to allow you to take unimpeded photographs of the visitors.
Come to rely on your local Inuit guides, who know the polar bears well. Their knowledge was gained from living among them for generations. Take their advice to ensure the safety of humans and polar bears alike!
Safely led by your Inuit guides, head out on daily hikes outside the perimeter of the camp fence. Approach polar bears to get unparalleled close-ups (generally 30 m (100 feet)). Often the polar bears are friendly, in good spirits, and uninterested in their human audience. From time to time, a curious polar bear approaches. Following the advice of your guides provides the most authentic, safe, and intimate polar bear moments available anywhere on the planet.
The location and timing of these adventures enrich an already outstanding experience. Delight in magical light shows created by the northern lights. Each evening after sunset, eagerly await the unforgettable display!
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$11,608
Notes
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Fares are based on current exchange rates from the Canadian Dollar. Contact us for current rates.
Rates may vary based on current exchange rate.
Included
4 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 4 Dinners
6 Nights Accommodations
5 Days Locally Hosted Guide Service
Services of Inuit guides and expedition staff
Private aircraft charter from Churchill to the Polar Bear Cabins
Round-trip flight to Winnipeg to Churchill - Included for 2020
Accommodations as listed
Meals as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Professional, bilingual guide service as listed
Excursions and activities as listed
Excluded
International Flights
Accommodation in Ottawa
Travel, medical and evacuation insurance coverage
Polar Clothing Rental Package strongly encouraged
Additional costs associated with weather/flight delays and/or layovers beyond Day 2 in Churchill, Polar Bear Cabins, and Winnipeg including flight changes, additional hotels and meals
Round-trip flights from your home to Winnipeg
Meals in Winnipeg
Flight Taxes - USD 66.25 for 2017 / CAD 99.95 for 2018
Gratuities
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
The staff works hard to please and tips are appreciated, but not necessary. Gratuities are at your discretion. Typically gratuity is $100 per Inuit guide/chef and expeditions leaders for the week. The number of guides, chef, and expedition leaders varies per trip. This is optional. Some people choose to pay more of course, but this amount is typical.
Initial deposit is $2200, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by Bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
Gale Cantor
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When to Go
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.
Typically not offered during this period because of weather conditions.
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