Autumn comes quietly to the subarctic coast — golden light stretches across the tundra, and polar bears begin to gather near Hudson Bay, waiting for the sea ice to form.
This polar bear photo safari takes you deep into that landscape, where a remote lodge becomes your base for intimate, eye-level wildlife encounters. With expert guides leading daily excursions, you’ll have time and space to capture powerful images of polar bears in their natural environment — whether walking the tidal flats or resting along the rocky coastline. Evenings bring tundra-inspired meals, fireside storytelling, and, when conditions are right, the chance to photograph the Northern Lights overhead.
Before returning home, you’ll explore the historic town of Churchill, adding cultural context to an experience shaped by wildlife, weather, and the rhythm of the North.
Below is a sample itinerary. The actual itinerary may vary based on weather conditions.
DAY 1: ANTICIPATION BUILDS DURING YOUR OVERNIGHT STAY IN WINNIPEG
Your polar bear photo safari begins with your arrival in Winnipeg, where you'll settle into The Grand by Lakeview at the Winnipeg Airport for a relaxing evening. After a fitting for your essential winter gear, you'll join fellow adventurers for an orientation dinner, setting the stage for the incredible journey ahead.
Meal: Dinner
Accommodation The Grand by Lakeview at the Winnipeg Airport
DAY 2: THE ADVENTURE BEGINS!
Today, your Arctic adventure truly takes flight as you travel by air to Churchill, then transfer to a fixed-wing aircraft for a scenic flight to Seal River Heritage Lodge. Keep a keen eye out during this exciting journey over the Churchill River and Hudson Bay coast, as you might catch your first glimpse of polar bears from above. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed to the Lodge, receive a comprehensive orientation on safely navigating polar bear country, and settle into your comfortable accommodation.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Seal
DAY 3-5: TUNDRA TREKKING, POLAR BEARS AND PRICELESS PHOTOGRAPHY
Over these immersive days, you'll embark on daily guided excursions into the tundra, cameras in hand, seeking out incredible wildlife encounters. The safari is designed with photographers in mind, ensuring ample opportunities for close-up shots of polar bears against stunning sea and snowy backdrops. Evenings are a time to unwind by the fireplace, review your day's captures, and enjoy presentations by the expert team, all while savoring delicious tundra-inspired cuisine. Lodge staff will even keep watch for the aurora borealis or nocturnal polar bear visitors, ensuring you don't miss a single magical moment.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Seal River Heritage Lodge
DAY 6: LAST MINUTE WILDLIFE VIEWING
After a final hearty breakfast at the Lodge, you'll transfer back to Churchill by air, with more chances for breathtaking aerial photography. Once in Churchill, a local guide will lead you on a fascinating tour of the town, exploring its rich history at sites like the Parks Canada exhibit and the Itsanitaq Museum, and even visiting the unique Polar Bear Jail. You'll have free time to explore local gift shops before enjoying a final group dinner, followed by your evening flight south to Winnipeg, returning to The Grand by Lakeview at the Winnipeg Airport.
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation The Grand by Lakeview at the Winnipeg Airport
DAY 7: HOMEWARD BOUND
After a restful night's sleep at The Grand Hotel, you'll prepare for your onward journey, carrying with you unforgettable memories and stunning photographs from your extraordinary polar bear safari.
*The 8-day itinerary is essentially the same, with the main difference being that you'll spend five nights at the Lodge
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