Churchill Wild

Story

More than thirty years ago, Mike and Jeanne Reimer purchased an abandoned whale research station on Canada’s Hudson Bay coast. In 1994, Churchill Wild welcomed its first paying guest. Today, Churchill Wild is recognized worldwide as the award-winning pioneer of the planet’s only true polar bear walking safaris.

With three Arctic luxury ecolodges on the Hudson Bay coast, including two that became early members of the National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World collection, Churchill Wild has hosted more than 10,000 guests and continues to redefine wildlife travel in the Canadian Arctic.

Built on a passion for authentic wilderness experiences, Churchill Wild creates extraordinary opportunities for guests to encounter polar bears and Arctic wildlife at ground level while experiencing the beauty, power, and wonder of one of the world’s last great wild places.

Mission

Churchill Wild immerses guests in the Arctic through ethical, ground-level polar bear encounters and exceptional wildlife experiences while helping protect the polar bears, landscapes, and natural world of this extraordinary region for future generations.

Churchill Wild believes the best Arctic journeys do more than show wildlife. Every experience fosters a deeper understanding of the land, the animals, and the delicate balance that sustains life in the North.

Each safari brings guests closer to polar bears, the natural beauty of the region, and the immense power of the Arctic. Through conservation-minded practices, including solar power and a continual commitment to reducing environmental impact, Churchill Wild stewards the Arctic responsibly. The goal is for every guest to leave as a committed advocate for the Arctic and its wild creatures and to share that commitment with the world.

Vision

Churchill Wild provides life-changing wildlife encounters and wilderness adventures that inspire a deep connection to northern ecosystems.

To bring this vision to life, Churchill Wild designs polar bear tours rich in experiential luxury. Guests walk alongside polar bears and other Arctic wildlife on ground-level safaris, enjoy unique tundra-inspired cuisine, experience exceptional personalized service, and witness a strong commitment to sustainability through efforts that minimize environmental impact.

Churchill Wild envisions a future where every guest develops a lasting appreciation for the Arctic, becomes a passionate advocate for its protection, and helps preserve its wildlife and landscapes for generations to come.

At Churchill Wild, you experience a minimalist approach to luxury eco-lodging on the coast of Hudson Bay.

Beyond environmental stewardship, Churchill Wild prioritizes local sourcing whenever possible. Even while dining at the lodge, you enjoy award-winning recipes that often feature ingredients sourced from the very ecosystem outside your window, where the region’s iconic wildlife thrives.

To minimize environmental impact, Churchill Wild implements sustainable systems and procedures across all lodges.

Water Systems

You drink water that Churchill Wild triple-filters from nearby lakes and rivers, providing a safe and sustainable source of fresh water.

Lodge Construction and Operations

Churchill Wild uses local lumber and recycled materials in lodge construction whenever possible. Lodge designs maximize natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting throughout the day.

Most electricity comes from solar power, allowing Churchill Wild to nearly eliminate reliance on fossil fuels. Energy-efficient lighting and appliances further reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.

Waste Management

You stay at lodges that follow strict recycling and composting practices. Any waste that cannot be recycled or composted is transported back to town and disposed of responsibly. Churchill Wild also provides only biodegradable in-room toiletries.

Excursions and Travel

You explore the Arctic primarily on foot, helping minimize the use of motorized vehicles. When vehicles and boats are necessary, Churchill Wild operates equipment fitted with fuel-efficient motors.

Churchill Wild also carefully coordinates flights for guests and supplies, ensuring aircraft never fly empty whenever possible and reducing the overall amount of air travel required.

A Fresh Culinary Experience

You enjoy fresh produce supplied by Prairie Wild, Churchill Wild’s orchard and gardens in southern Manitoba. Operated according to regenerative farming principles, this initiative follows a holistic approach to planting, growing, and soil care.

Whenever possible, meals also feature locally foraged and harvested foods, including tundra berries and native greens that reflect the flavors of the region.

At the Head Office

Churchill Wild’s head office in Ile des Chenes, Manitoba, operates from a LEED-certified building connected to a geothermal district heating system. This system also serves the community center, daycare, arena, fire hall, and ambulance garage.

By replacing two gas furnaces, this renewable energy solution reduces emissions and delivers significant energy savings for the local community.