Winnipeg , Canada

Classic Churchill Polar Bear Experience

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(59 reviews)

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About this experience

This Churchill hotel-based adventure allows you to experience the excitement of polar bear viewing on an official Tundra Buggy, as well as enjoy the eclectic charm of this unique northern town.

The Churchill Town and Tundra Enthusiast includes full-day Tundra Buggy excursions in the Churchill Wildlife Management Area (CWMA), where polar bears await the freezing of the Hudson Bay. Guests will spend plenty of time watching these majestic mammals, and other Arctic wildlife, in their natural environment.

There is ample time to discover Churchill's personality by exploring unique shops, family-run restaurants boasting delicious regional cuisine, and cultural museums that portray the historical importance of the area.

This is our most well-rounded level of departure, with a mixture of cultural and wildlife adventures. This level of tour is led by a professional Interpretive Guide and offers guests the ability to focus on their adventures - we'll take care of the little details.

Available options

Classic Polar Bears Adventure

More Dates

same inclusion, more dates

What's included

Dog Sledding excursion with a local Métis musher

Round-trip flight between Winnipeg and Churchill

Lunch

Dinner

Breakfast

Gratuities

Frontiers North Interpretive Guide

Interpretive tour of the Polar Bears International House

Two nights' accommodation in Winnipeg (pre and post-tour)

Cultural presentation (2)

Three nights' accommodation at a Churchill hotel

Two full days on the official Tundra Buggy® adventure

Entrance to Itsanitaq Museum & Parks Canada Visitor Centre

Churchill and area sightseeing tour

What's not included

Mandatory Comprehensive Travel Insurance Coverage - required to participate

Available languages

Guide guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

55 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

We welcome guests of all ages on our adventures. It is important to note that the days spent on the Tundra Buggy are are approximately 8 hours in duration. Though the Tundra Buggy's are heated small children can become cold with windows opening for photographs.

Accommodation: Standard hotel rooms including a private bathroom; guest rooms have either 1 queen bed or 2 double beds, depending on number of guests; maximum of 4 guests per room.

Luggage: On the flights to and from Churchill, baggage is restricted to two pieces of luggage totalling 70 lbs (31 kg) per person. 50 lbs for checked luggage, and 20 lbs for carry-ons.

Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking.

You will receive a detailed itinerary with tour times and specific restaurants 90 days prior to departure.

The Tundra Buggy is equipped with washroom facilities and is fully heated.

Dress code: It's recommended that you bring layers & protection for your hands, ears, and head as it can get very cold with strong winds!

Independent mobility required; walking, climbing steps.

Meeting point

When you arrive at Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport, make your own way to the Lakeview Signature, Trademark Collection by Wyndham airport hotel, which is adjacent to the airport; a free hotel shuttle is available.

Important notes

Mandatory Comprehensive Travel Insurance Coverage is required to participate, proof of such required 120 days prior to departure.

About Winnipeg

Winnipeg, the capital of Manitoba, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural scene, historic sites, and diverse culinary offerings. Nestled at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, it offers a unique blend of urban and natural attractions, making it a compelling destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

The Forks

The Forks is a historic site at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. It's a major gathering place with markets, restaurants, and cultural events.

Historical/Cultural 1-3 hours Free to explore

Canadian Museum for Human Rights

This iconic museum explores the evolution, celebration, and future of human rights. It's an architecturally stunning building with powerful exhibits.

Museum 2-4 hours CAD 18-24

Assiniboine Park and Zoo

Assiniboine Park is a beautiful urban park with walking trails, gardens, and a zoo. The zoo is home to polar bears and other wildlife.

Nature 2-4 hours Free for the park, CAD 16-22 for the zoo

Must-Try Local Dishes

Perogies

Dumplings filled with potato, cheese, or meat, often served with sour cream and onions. A staple of Ukrainian cuisine.

Main Course Can be vegetarian or vegan

Bannock

A type of flatbread traditionally made by Indigenous peoples. It can be served sweet or savory.

Bread Vegetarian

Wild Game

Winnipeg is known for its game meats, such as bison, venison, and elk, often prepared in traditional and contemporary styles.

Main Course Non-vegetarian

Popular Activities

Polar bear tours in Churchill Hiking in Whiteshell Provincial Park Spa treatments Cafes and coffee shops Visiting museums and art galleries Attending festivals and events Swimming and boating in local lakes Ice skating at The Forks

Best Time to Visit

June to August

The summer months offer warm weather, numerous outdoor festivals, and vibrant city life. This is the best time to explore Winnipeg's parks, attend festivals, and enjoy the city's cultural attractions.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, French
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

GMT-6 (Central Standard Time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Winnipeg is generally safe for travelers, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport • 7 km from city center

By train

Winnipeg Union Station

By bus

Winnipeg Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Winnipeg Transit operates an extensive bus network that covers most of the city. Buses are the primary mode of public transportation.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

The Exchange District Osborne Village

Day trips

Churchill

1,000 km north of Winnipeg • Full day or overnight recommended

Churchill is known as the 'Polar Bear Capital of the World' and offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities, including polar bears and beluga whales.

Whiteshell Provincial Park

120 km east of Winnipeg • Half day to full day

Whiteshell Provincial Park offers beautiful landscapes, hiking trails, and water activities. It's a popular spot for camping, fishing, and swimming.

Festivals

Folklorama • August Winnipeg Jazz Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit The Forks for a taste of Winnipeg's history and culture, as well as its famous perogies.
Explore the Exchange District for its historic architecture, art galleries, and unique shops and cafes.
Take a day trip to Churchill to see polar bears and experience the Arctic wilderness.
Try local dishes like perogies, bannock, and wild game for a true taste of Winnipeg.
Dress in layers and be prepared for extreme cold in winter, with temperatures often dropping below -30°C (-22°F).