Into the Subarctic

Churchill’s landscape is a meeting place of boreal forest, open tundra and shifting sea ice

A 7-day immersive journey into the heart of polar bear country

Photo: Churchill Wild/Rick Beldegreen

Set on a remote stretch of Manitoba’s Hudson Bay coast, Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge offers one of the most intimate wildlife experiences in Canada. Here, in a region where boreal forest meets coastal tundra, polar bears travel ancient routes, wolves cross the flats in the early morning light, and northern lights often ripple across the sky on clear autumn nights. This journey combines the comforts of a luxury wilderness lodge with rare, respectful access to Arctic wildlife and landscapes.

Over seven days, you’ll travel from Winnipeg to the subarctic, stay at a fly-in ecolodge accessible only by small plane, explore tidal flats and coastal ridges on foot and by all-terrain vehicles, and learn from expert naturalist guides who understand the rhythms of the land.

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Day 1: Arrival in Winnipeg

Arrive in Winnipeg and check into your airport hotel. In the evening, join your group for a welcome dinner and orientation. Your hosts will outline logistics, safety protocols, and what to expect in the days ahead on the Hudson Bay coast.

Photo by Kristhine Guerrero/Tourism Winnipeg

Photo by Kristhine Guerrero/Tourism Winnipeg

Day 2: To the Subarctic, Arrival at Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge

Transfer to the airport for an early morning flight to Churchill, followed by a charter flight to Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge.

The flight offers sweeping views of the boreal forest, river deltas, and the coastal flats.

Upon arrival, enjoy lunch, settle into your room, and receive a lodge briefing. In the afternoon, head out with your guides for a first exploration of the coastline — a chance to encounter polar bears, shorebirds, and other wildlife that frequent the area.

After dinner, relax in the lounge or step outside for potential northern lights viewing. Staff provide gentle wake-up calls if the Aurora appears.

Days 3-5: Nature Trekking & Polar Bear Viewing

Each morning, after a hearty breakfast, expert guides will outline the day’s adventures, which may include delaying departure to maximize incredible photography opportunities with bears near the Lodge.

Daily excursions will involve exploring the tidal flats and Hudson Bay shoreline on foot and in specialized all-terrain vehicles, allowing ample time for close-up wildlife encounters.

Photo: Courtesy of Churchill Wild, by Bill Lyne

Photo: Courtesy of Churchill Wild, by Bill Lyne

Alternatively, a day might be spent exploring the intricate river deltas and vast beach ridges, or simply relaxing at the Lodge, enjoying the pristine views and observing wildlife from the safety of the perimeter.

Evenings are often graced by the Northern Lights, with a gentle wake-up call provided by staff if they appear.

Day 6: Last Minute Wildlife Viewing

After a final delicious breakfast at the Lodge, embark on a return flight to Churchill, offering more opportunities for breathtaking aerial photography.

The day in Churchill is dedicated to exploring its rich history, with a guided tour visiting the Parks Canada exhibit, the Itsanitaq Museum, and the unique Polar Bear Jail.

Photo: Travel Manitoba

Photo: Travel Manitoba

Discover fascinating SeaWalls murals before enjoying free time for souvenir shopping. The day culminates with a group dinner, followed by an evening flight back to Winnipeg, where you will check back into your hotel.