churchill manitoba travel

A Complete Guide To Churchill Manitoba: Polar Bears, Belugas, and More!

Our Churchill Manitoba guide will help you navigate the world’s best destination for experiencing polar bears, beluga whales, and northern lights.

Churchill Manitoba is as close to a frontier town as you can find in Canada. This Northern Manitoba community still runs on squatters’ rights for most of its land claims. And there is a cast of characters in the town that would make it worthy of an HBO series.

But it’s not the amazing and unique locals that have made Churchill, Manitoba, such a premiere destination in Canada’s north. Instead, it’s the unique combination of natural wonders that have led countless people to flock here each year. I’ve written this Churchill Manitoba guide to help those who make the journey up to this unforgettable town.

Churchill sits WAY at the top of Manitoba on the shores of the famous Hudson Bay. In fact, it is bordering the brand new Canadian territory of Nunavut. Churchill is one of the furthest destinations north that we’ve traveled within Canada with the exception of our visit to Yellowknife, Northwest Territories .

The town is home to Polar Bears and Beluga Whales and is also one of the best places in Canada to see the Northern Lights. Not only is it home to one of the best national parks in Canada , but this triple threat of attractions has made Churchill a crown jewel for adventure seekers and wildlife lovers from around the world .

It’s such an important destination that visitors are often fighting for the limited number of Churchill hotels with companies like National Geographic and the BBC.

Churchill Manitoba Guide: What You Need To Know Before Visiting

Table of Contents

The town of Churchill is small. Especially when compared to the provincial capital of Winnipeg . With a year-round population of under 900 people, it’s a wonder that Churchill can swell to accommodate the influx of visitors hoping to get a glimpse of the big three. Yet several decades of tourism have helped the resilient northerners to accommodate and thrive. Marketing for Churchill has picked up at a feverish pace as well.

The city is now touted as the Polar Bear Capital of the World, the Beluga Whale Capital of the World, and one of the best places to experience the sub-Arctic tundra AND the Northern Lights. It’s almost too much to take in for a city of 900. But this guide to Churchill, Manitoba, will help you along the way. Any way that you swing it, Churchill is high on the list for having the best wildlife encounters in Canada .

This northern city is very unique. I wrote this Churchill Manitoba guide to help visitors navigate some of the intricacies that make the Polar Bear capital of the world such a special place.

For the purpose of this Churchill Manitoba guide, I’m going to assume that you are staying at a hotel in Churchill Manitoba, or are on a Churchill Manitoba excursion and aren’t packaged in one of the high-end wilderness lodges that take care of many of these details for you.

How To Get To Churchill, Manitoba

The first step in your Churchill do-it-yourself itinerary will be figuring out the best way to get to Churchill Manitoba. Although Churchill is a popular destination, there are no roads that lead here. The only options for travel to Churchill Manitoba are via air and train. Air travel to Churchill is run by Calm Air .

This small Manitoba airline runs flights from Winnipeg and Thompson through Churchill and up to Rankin Inlet in Nunavut. Although flights to Churchill might be more expensive than the train, these flights usually only take about two and a half hours from Winnipeg.

The other option for Churchill travel is to take the Via train north from either Winnipeg, Thompson, or Gillam, Manitoba. The train runs twice weekly on Sundays and Tuesdays. The normal departure is 9:00 am, however, there are often delays due to track traffic or maintenance.

The train makes a stop in the towns of Thompson (an 8-hour drive north from Winnipeg), and Gillam (a 12-hour drive north from Winnipeg). It’s possible to board the train in these cities at a reduced fare than from Winnipeg.

What To Pack For Churchill

Weather in Churchill Manitoba can be all over the map. During our visit in August, the temperatures ranged from 7 C (44.6 F) to 28 C (82.4 F). We saw rain, sunshine, fog, and everything in between. This Churchill Manitoba guide won’t recommend packing light.

Bring what you need. You didn’t spend all that money making the trek to northern Manitoba in order to save $25 on a check-in bag. A Churchill Packing guide varies a lot depending on when you’re planning on visiting as well. But whether you’re going in the winter, spring, fall, or summer, here are a few things not to forget:

Boots and Warm Socks: Winter boots are a must in the cold months. In the summer, you can often get by with a good pair of hiking boots. Something with a sticky tread. More important, though, are the socks. Pack a pair of warm, breathable wool or wicking socks to help keep your feet warm and dry. Expeditions in Churchill can be long, and you don’t want wet feet.

Hat, Scarf, and Gloves: Yes you do need these, even during summer in Churchill. They are especially important if you plan to spend time on the water with the Churchill Beluga Whales. Temperatures on the water can be quite cold, and you can get splashed. If you get warm, you can always take them off.

Camera and Binoculars: Contrary to those amazing NatGeo photos that are often posted, seeing the Polar Bears in Churchill means keeping your distance (unless you’re on the Tundra Buggy tour). Make sure to bring a camera with a long zoom lens so that you can snap great photos.

This camera has the equivalent of 450mm, which is about as long as you can get without going pro. It also helps to have a pair of binoculars to scope out those bears hidden in the rocky hollows of the bedrock. This model packs up small yet offers great glass.

Guide To Polar Bear Safety In Churchill Manitoba

There’s no beating around this. Safety in Churchill, Manitoba, isn’t the same as in most places. You do not want to come face to face with a 12-foot-tall bear with teeth as long as your hand. Polar Bears can be anywhere in the area. It’s not rare for Polar Bears to be seen in town, and you may not know that they are there until you’re face-to-face with them. Here are a few rules to follow to help you stay safe among the Churchill Polar Bears.

• Be aware of your surroundings. Remember, it’s not the Polar Bear that you can see that is the one you need to be most worried about.
• Travel in groups and make noise as you walk. Polar Bears will usually avoid you if they can hear you coming.
• Avoid walking around coastal areas that have poor sightlines, such as the bedrock mounds.
• Stay within reach of vehicles or buildings.
• Take advantage of guided tours to ensure that you’re with people who understand the animals and the terrain.
• Bears can be found at any time of the day but are most active in the early morning and at night.
• Never feed or approach Polar Bears in Churchill
• Avoid walking at night after 10:00

Guide To Churchill Manitoba Things To Do

It may be a small town of 900 people, but Churchill Manitoba packs a punch. Hundreds of years of history combined with the character of those who choose to live in Manitoba’s far north has led to a wacky, yet amazing assortment of incredible things to do in Churchill Manitoba. If you don’t see it in this Churchill Manitoba guide, it might not exist yet.

SUP or Kayak With Beluga Whales

Besides Polar Bears, Beluga Whales in Churchill, Manitoba, are one of the town’s biggest draws. And unlike the bears, you can easily get right up close to the white whales of the north. We joined Sea North Tours for a Beluga kayak experience on the mouth of the Churchill River, which empties into Hudson Bay.

It’s amazing to see these playful Beluga whales bump the small boats as they swing by to say hello. The Beluga whales tend to follow kayaks and SUPs from behind, so make sure to look back because they are probably right there saying hello. You can read all about our experience kayaking with Beluga whales in Churchill here .

Explore The Backcountry On A Tundra Buggy Tour

One of the classic Churchill Manitoba tours is the Churchill Tundra Buggy. These tours operate year-round on massive custom-built frames with crazy off-road tires and suspension that allow them to reach some of the most remote areas of the sub-Arctic tundra. The Churchill Tundra Buggy tour is one of the best ways to experience Polar Bears up close, especially during the bear season when they are at their most active.

We did our Churchill Tundra Buggy tour with Frontiers North . They made the trip fun, exciting and educational for our whole family. The Tundra Buggy tours last for anywhere between 6-8 hours depending on the season. Fall and winter tours tend to be longer than summer tours. During the Frontiers North Tundra Buggy tour, there was a bathroom on board. A lunch of soup, sandwiches, soft drinks, and coffee was also served.

In 2023, Frontiers North updated their massive Tundra Buggies, converting all of these vehicles to electric motors. It was an excellent conservation initiative that should help to protect these glorious wilds for a long time to come.

Take In The #SeaWallsChurchill Murals

There are nearly as many beautiful murals in Churchill as there are buildings. This is due to the SeaWalls Churchill project that was started by Winnipeg Artist Kal Barteski (whose Back Alley Arctic designs our son D fell in love with while looking for things to do in Winnipeg) and the PangeaSeed Foundation along with SeaWalls: Artists for Oceans.

It’s worth doing a tour of Churchill to get a glimpse of as many of these beautiful pieces of art as possible. There are many inside the town of Churchill, but many are outside as well. Some of my favorites are the Aurora Belugas near the Churchill Town Complex, the Polar Bear on the Polar Bear Jail, and the black and white designs on the old boy’s residence near the seaport.

Have A Picnic On The Beluga

If you visit the Churchill beach (Yes, Churchill DOES have a beach!) right behind the Town Complex you’ll find the remains of the Beluga. This former fishing boat has been converted to a picnic and climbing structure. There are picnic tables and flat platforms for people to enjoy. The Beluga is one of the best places to catch the sunset in Churchill, Manitoba. It also overlooks the beautiful inukshuk that is placed just right for photography lovers.

Experience The Frontier At Prince Of Wales Fort

People up north always tend to do things a little differently than those further south. And while most of the Hudson Bay fur trading posts were built up with log walls to keep out trouble, the designers of the Prince of Wales Fort in Churchill Manitoba decided to go big or go home (they ended up doing both). You can learn the whole story on a tour of this Parks Canada National Historic Site.

This sprawling stone fort is lined with cannons pointed in every direction. The interior is still under renovation due to the shifting of the constantly moving sub-arctic earth. Despite the massive amount of work put into the fort, it was eventually overthrown by its French competitors during the battle of Hudson Bay in 1682.

Make A Stop At The Miss Piggy Plane Wreck

There is a longstanding mystery surrounding the Churchill Manitoba plane wreck. A first look at the Miss Piggy cargo plane that sits abandoned on the rocks outside of town makes it seem like the plane simply dropped from the sky. Rumors abound about the crew simply hitchhiking to town and being discovered at the local tavern later that day.

Whether it’s reality or one of Churchill’s many amazing stories, only a few people know. But if you ask around, you may find someone who will tell you their version of the story. Either way, a visit out to the Churchill Plane Wreck (which is a nice parallel to the plane wreck in the country of Iceland , one of our other favorite northern travel destinations) is a must.

Break Out Of The Polar Bear Jail

As you can imagine, living in a place where Polar Bears outnumber humans can be a little dangerous. A stroll through Churchill will uncover countless signs pointing to where you shouldn’t go lest you risk being made a snack. The bedrock-lined shores of Hudson Bay, which have countless areas for bears to lie in, are invisible to human eyes, and are a prime example.

On occasion, a Polar Bear gets a little too comfortable around town. When this happens, they are tranquilized and sent to the Churchill Polar Bear Jail. Here the bears wait until the weather cools before being shipped away from the town for them to continue on their journey once the ice freezes. Visitors aren’t allowed inside the jail. But you can check out the Polar Bear traps that are often lined up outside.

Hike To The MV Ithaca Shipwreck

Off the coast of Churchill, you can find the remains of the MV Ithaca cargo ship. Like the Miss Piggy plane wreck, no hands were lost when the Ithaca ran aground. The ship is too dangerous to enter. But because of its position in the shallows of Hudson Bay, a low-tide hike to the MV Ithaca is possible. However, polar bears are known to hang out in the wreck of the ship.

If you want to attempt this hike, hire a local guide who is experienced with both Polar Bears and familiar with the area.

Go Dog Sledding Or Dog Karting

Dog sledding is a time-honored northern experience. We’ve ridden the trails in Yellowknife and again during our winter adventures in Mont Tremblant, Quebec . In Churchill, you can go dog sledding in the winter or dog karting in the summer with Wapusk Adventures . This indigenous-run dog sledding in Churchill tour gives you a chance to get out into the wilderness and feel the wind in your hair.

Hike To The Point At Cape Merry

Cape Merry is another Parks Canada National Historic Site in Churchill, Manitoba. This site, which includes a cannon battery and a commemorative plaque, is worth a bit of your time. It can be easily accessed from town. The plaque commemorates Jens Munk, the Danish explorer who first landed here in 1619. His ill-fated wintering in Churchill is a great story for those who would underestimate the challenges of life in Canada’s north.

Surround Yourself With Beluga Whales From A Zodiac

Perhaps kayaking with Beluga Whales isn’t your thing. But the next best way to see the Beluga Whales in Churchill is by zodiac boat. We joined Sea North Tours for their experience at the mouth of the Churchill River. It wasn’t long before we were completely surrounded by these beautiful white whales. At times there were simply too many Belugas to count swimming in the waters around us.

Wander The Ruins Of Ladoon’s Castle

The story of Brian Ladoon is a bit of Churchill legend. This controversial figure is either loved, hated, or a little bit of both by residents of the town. You can read more about him here. He was a man known for his movie star personality and his determination to do whatever he felt like, regardless of the consequences.

One of his many projects was the development of a castle-style hotel in Churchill on the Hudson Bay coast. The project was never completed, but its remains are often on the minds of many of those who travel to Churchill. You can find Ladoon’s Castle as you leave Churchill toward the Coast Road.

Watch The Northern Lights

Churchill is one of the most popular Northern Lights destinations in Canada. Along with Whitehorse Yukon and Yellowknife Northwest Territories, Churchill northern lights expeditions have become incredibly popular with tourists to Northern Canada.

While the rocky coast of Churchill means that there are plenty of amazing foregrounds for the Aurora, one of the best places to catch the view is by the inukshuk on the beach in Churchill.

Make A Visit To The Churchill Town Complex

Churchill was once a military hub. The military used up a huge portion of the town’s resources. To make amends, the government built and maintained a massive community center to support the town’s population.

In fact, they overestimated that building the Churchill town complex would support a town of at least 5,000 people. The Churchill Community Center has a pool, ice rink, library, hospital, children’s playgrounds, and a cafeteria.

Take A Helicopter Into Wapusk National Park

Wapusk National Park is one of the most remote and least-visited National Parks in Canada. The only way to access the park is by helicopter or boat and by snowmobile in the winter.

Custom Helicopter Tours in Churchill offer a flyover experience that will allow you to experience a truly unique view of Churchill and the sub-Arctic tundra that surrounds it. During our Churchill helicopter tour, we saw Polar Bears, Beluga Whales, Moose, and Elk, along with countless species of birds flying over the beautiful landscape.

Explore The Itsanitaq Museum

This wouldn’t be a complete Churchill Manitoba guide without including a visit to the Itsanitaq Museum, formerly called the Churchill Eskimo Museum.

This stop is a must-visit for those who travel to the town. The Itsanitaq Museum houses examples of Arctic wildlife, including Muskox, Polar Bears, and Walrus. There is also a huge collection of incredible Indigenous and Inuit tools and artwork on display.

Visit The Northern Studies Centre And Rocket Range

On the outskirts of Churchill, about 10 minutes from the town center, is one of the premier northern science centers. The Northern Studies Centre is actually a pretty cool place to visit. You can wander the halls and observe some of the ongoing scientific studies, including underwater life. You can also check out the Aurora Dome, where guests at the Northern Studies Centre can watch the Northern Lights in Churchill from the warmth indoors.

Further into the complex, you can explore (from the outside) what remains of the military rocket testing facility. Churchill Northern Lights offered one of the best places to test how the Aurora affected rockets and communication equipment. You can check out the launch facilities. And you’ll even see a few models of the rockets that used to be fired from the facility.

See The Polar Bears Safely

There are some great ways to see the Churchill Polar Bears in Churchill. One of the best ways is to get a Churchill guide to show you around. This will help you get the lay of the land and know which areas the bears like to congregate.

It’s also possible to rent a car from Tamarack Rentals . The rates here are very reasonable, considering the location. But don’t expect shiny new models. The rental cars here have seen some use and are designed more for function than form.

You can often hire local taxi drivers to show you around as well as to show you the key sites. Remember, the locals know where the bears like to hang out, so it’s always a good idea to get a tour of the area beforehand if you plan to tour on your own.

Guide To Churchill: Where To Eat In Churchill, Manitoba

Things in Churchill are pretty simple. Don’t expect 5-star dining in the Polar Bear capital of the world. But just because the town isn’t known for luxury doesn’t mean that you aren’t going to find amazing places to eat in Churchill. Expect large servings and hearty, filling dishes when you eat out in Churchill. Here are a few of our favorite Churchill Restaurants.

The Tundra Inn is one of the most popular restaurants in Churchill. The Tundra Inn serves a great selection of traditional and game meat. The restaurant is separated into a local pub and a traditional restaurant. The Elk meatloaf is amazing, as is the Bison stew. Vegetarians won’t be left out in the cold either. Tundra Inn offers some of the best options for veggie lovers.

Seaport Hotel

If you’re looking for the best ribs in town, check out Seaport Hotel. This restaurant has both a cafe-style dining area and a cozier dining-style area, however, the dining area isn’t always open. You can find a great range of comfort food here that will fill your belly and maybe even some leftovers for lunch the next day.

Lazy Bear Cafe

If you are looking for a restaurant with the best ambiance, look no further than the Lazy Bear Cafe. The log-cabin-style interior is beautiful, and the central stone fireplace makes you feel at home. Lazy Bear serves up some great food and is one of the best places to grab a coffee and the only place to get an espresso. On hot days make sure to stop in for one of their signature milkshakes.

Churchill Cafeteria

Food prices in Churchill can be a fair bit higher than those further south. One of the restaurants for those on a budget is the Churchill Cafeteria in the Town Complex. The Churchill Cafeteria varies its menu daily and generally offers simpler fare than some of the other Churchill restaurants. But the cafeteria in Churchill offers one of the best bangs for your buck.

Guide To Churchill Manitoba: Where To Stay

There is no camping in Churchill. So if you make the trip up here you’ll need to stay in one of the Churchill hotels. Luckily there are a few places to stay in Churchill. But you’ll need to book early. Especially during Polar Bear season. The town does not have enough hotel rooms to accommodate the influx of visitors, especially during the Polar Bear season.

Like the restaurants in Churchill, don’t expect the Churchill hotels to be luxurious. You won’t find hot tubs, king-sized beds, or turn-down service. But most hotels in Churchill offer comfortable beds, great staff, and friendly service. Here is my list of the top hotels in Churchill, Manitoba.

Iceberg Inn

Located a short walk from the Churchill Train Station and Parks Canada Visitor Centre, the Iceberg Inn is one of the most highly ranked hotels in Churchill. Manitoba. Iceberg Inn is one of the newest hotels in Churchill. All rooms include WiFi, private bathrooms and a fridge. You can check out their rates and availability here .

Churchill B&B

If you’re traveling to Churchill as a family or a small group, the Churchill B&B is one of your best options. Along with twin rooms and double rooms, the Churchill B&B also has a room with six beds set in bunk bed style. An American-style breakfast is served every morning, and the central location makes getting to all the tours very easy. You can check out their prices and availability here .

Bear Country Inn

The Bear Country Inn is located at the end of town and is nearest to the Churchill tour centers. The location makes it easy to reach the grocery, beach, and Tundra Buggy tours. All rooms have a private bathroom, flat-screen TV, fridge, and coffee maker. Bear Country Inn also has two accessible rooms for visitors with mobility issues. You can check out their prices and availability here .

Churchill Manitoba Guide: Visiting Churchill With Kids

Churchill isn’t generally marketed as a family-friendly or multigenerational travel destination. But as an adventure travel family , we found Churchill to be an amazing destination. 5-year-old D and 8-year-old C were able to take part in every activity that we wanted them to.

The only exception was kayaking with Beluga Whales, which had a minimum age of 6 (D was three weeks short of that age). But they did allow Christina and D to follow along in one of the safety zodiacs so that he didn’t miss out.

I was also impressed by the sheer number of family travel lovers that were in Churchill during our visit. I counted no less than 4 separate families with children ranging from 5 to 12-years-old in Churchill. For a destination as pricey as Churchill, it was incredible to see so many families taking part in one of the best wildlife travel destinations in the world .

Traveling with kids in Churchill does require a little extra planning and care. It’s very important that children don’t wander off out of sight, especially in areas closer to the coast. Always ensure that children are near to a vehicle or building or travel in groups with larger adults. But given a pair of binoculars and a sense of adventure, Churchill can be an absolutely mesmerizing destination for children. It is a true wildlife safari filled with adventure and frontier stories that will inspire them for years.

I hope you’ve got some great tips from this Churchill Manitoba guide. Have you ever visited Churchill Manitoba? Share your experiences in our comments below. Or tag us in your Instagram photo . We would love to share in your travels.

Disclosure: Our Tundra Buggy experience was hosted by Frontiers North . All opinions remain our own. Wandering Wagars is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates.

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Thursday 29th of February 2024

Looking to focus on Belugas and maybe the Lights, so it seems to be mid-summer time frame. How is the insect life?

Kevin Wagar

Sunday 3rd of March 2024

In July, mosquitoes and blackflies can be pretty rambunctious. I highly recommend packing strong insect repellent and some mosquito net over gear to protect yourself if you're planning on spending much time outdoors, especially around dusk and dawn.

Carla Castaneda Picayo Barber

Friday 1st of December 2023

Wonderful very informative We, my dream of a life time to see polar bears in the wild Belugas are a major bonus what is a good time to head north. We live in Vieques PR it’s a trek for sure my indigenous blood needs to visit

Monday 11th of December 2023

Hello Carla,

We got VERY lucky by seeing the trifecta of the Aurora, the whales, and the polar bears in late August. The polar bears tend to be at their most present while they wait for the sea ice to form in September/October, while the beluga whales in Churchill tend to be present during the summer months before migrating out to sea in late August.

Debra schmidt

Wednesday 4th of January 2023

Can I get a guide mailed to me at

Thanks for your inquiry. I am an online-only publication, but you should be able to access this information right here from wherever you have internet service.

Anthony S Coby

Wednesday 28th of September 2022

WOW! It looks amazing. Can't wait to visit, hopefully next year, fingers crossed.

Tuesday 2nd of August 2022

Lots of useful information.

Just one question, what is the ideal way to visit the spot in Churchill mentioned here Did you use taxi or rented a car?

Hi Nathan, if you're referring to the area along the coast where the bears tend to wait, we went with a guided tour that we booked in town (we mention those details in the article) and we also rented a truck for a DIY experience.

Privacy Overview

The 'Polar Bear Capital of the World,' Churchill lures people to the shores of Hudson Bay for its majestic predators, beluga whales, a huge old stone fort and endless subarctic majesty. But while the highly accessible wildlife is enough for Churchill to be on any itinerary, there's something less tangible that makes people stay longer and keeps them coming back: a hearty seductive spirit that makes the rest of the world seem – thankfully – even further away than it really is.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Churchill. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Itsanitaq Museum

This one-room museum showcases an exceptional collection of Inuit carvings made of whalebone, soapstone and caribou antler, as well as millennia-old…

A lone cannon behind a crumbling wall is all that's left of the battery built at Cape Merry, 2km northwest of town. It's an incredibly beautiful location…

Fort Prince of Wales National Historic Site

It took 40 years to build and its cannons were never used, but the star-shaped, stone Fort Prince of Wales has been standing prominently on rocky Eskimo…

Wapusk National Park

Established primarily to protect polar bear maternity denning sites (wapusk is Cree for 'white bear') and critical habitats for waterfowl and shore birds,…

Polar Bear Jail

Located in a former aircraft hangar near the airport, this secure facility serves as holding center for problem polar bears who repeatedly turn up in…

York Factory National Historic Site

Around 250km southeast of Churchill and impossibly remote, this HBC trading post, near Hayes River, was an important gateway to the interior and active…

Fort Churchill

Amid the undulating rocks, late-season ice and scraggy, stunted trees looms a Cold War relic. Just north of the airport, Fort Churchill was Canada's Cape…

Parks Canada Museum

There's a small museum and nature center in the train station along with the Parks Canada info desk. It has a good model of the fort and excellent nature…

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Latest stories from Churchill

Wildlife & Nature

Feb 21, 2020 • 5 min read

Lots of people know of the polar bear experiences in Churchill. But further north you can see them even closer.

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Mar 15, 2016 • 12 min read

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• PLACES OF A LIFETIME

No paved roads lead directly into the tiny town of Churchill, Manitoba , on the remote, southwestern shores of Hudson Bay, so you'll have to arrive by train or plane to see the area's most famous seasonal residents—polar bears. From July to November, about a thousand migrate to Churchill, earning it the nickname the "polar bear capital of the world." Here, the planet's largest land carnivores spend the summer and await winter, when the bay freezes and they can perch on the ice and hunt for ringed seals. Summertime also brings thousands of migrating beluga whales to the town's coast—another reason to visit.

"Nowhere else in the world can you have interactions with beluga whales that you can have here in Churchill," says Michael Goodyear, former executive director of the Churchill Northern Studies Centre. "During the summer there's literally thousands of beluga whales in the estuary." In fact, the whales, which start migrating here after wintering in the high Arctic, outnumber Churchill's human population of around a thousand three to one. The sheer wealth of wildlife overwhelms. Says tour guide Neil Mumby, "The term 'bucket list' is used a lot here."

When to Go: Climate change has altered the seasons in Churchill and with it, the animal migrations, Goodyear says. For visitors, that means adjusting your travel plans accordingly. The most popular time to see the polar bears is from the middle of October to the end of November. On these trips, custom-built tundra vehicles shepherd visitors (safely) into the path of migrating polar bears. For this time of year, reservations are a must, as many services quickly become fully booked. Churchill's summer season begins in early July and can run into early September, during which beluga whales show up by the thousands in Churchill River estuary during long days of sunshine. Sighting of polar bears walking along the coastline or swimming in the Hudson Bay are also common in the summer.

How to Get Around: In winter, the best way to see polar bears is by tundra vehicle tours offered by operators like Frontiers North Adventures and Great White Bear Tours . In summer, travelers can snorkel with the beluga whales by arranging the activity through Sea North Tours or Lazy Bear Expeditions . The latter also offers a polar bear viewing experience by boat during the summer months. Whenever you visit, bring waterproof hiking boots. Most anywhere in town is within walking distance and, depending on the season, you're going to encounter dirt, mud, slush, ice, or snow.

Where to Stay: Churchill's hotels book up fast during polar bear season, so reserve months ahead. Accommodation is basic but centrally located, often with Wi-Fi and attached restaurants. Aurora Inn , Lazy Bear Lodge , Tundra Inn , and Seaport Hotel are some good options. If the town is too urban for you, consider Churchill Wild , which offers polar bear walks at their three remote eco lodges. Polar bear enthusiasts will also relish a stay at the Tundra Buggy Lodge , which hosts guests in two sleeper cars deep in the tundra, right in bear country. The customized 330-foot-long, elevated lodge has open decks, serves locally sourced dishes in its restaurant, and holds nightly talks by bear experts.

What to Eat or Drink: Considering Churchill's relative isolation, dining options will satisfy most visitors. Restaurants attached to Seaport Hotel and Tundra Inn serve pub fare, while Lazy Bear Lodge 's menu features regional dishes, including elk and Arctic char. At Gypsy's Bakery and Restaurant , the Da Silva family has sold fresh-baked Portuguese bread rolls ( papa secos), pierogies, and regional specialties like Manitoba pickerel for 25 years. Ask them to pack box meals for your adventures.

What to Buy: Beyond the obligatory polar bear and beluga whale souvenirs, Churchill also offers outstanding Inuit art gathered from top northern artists around the country. For these and other northern products, it's well worth visiting stores such as the Arctic Trading Company and Fifty Eight North .

What to Read Before You Go: The World of the Polar Bear (Firefly Books, 2010). This updated third edition of renowned nature photographer Norbert Rosing's intimate, season-by-season portrayal of Canada's iconic and endangered bear and its changing habitat combines stunning, full-page photography with personal insights.

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Helpful Links: The Town of Churchill , Everything Churchill

Fun Fact: If it looks like a beluga whale is turning to look up at you from the water, you're probably right. Not only are belugas among the most vocal cetaceans (early whalers called them sea canaries), they are the only whales with a flexible neck. Unlike other whales, the beluga's seven neck vertebrae aren't fused, making it possible for a beluga to nod and turn its head.

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Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

• 1.1 Origins
• 1.2 The bears
• 1.3 The sea canary
• 1.4 Climate
• 1.5.1 Summer
• 1.5.2 Winter
• 1.5.3 Other essentials
• 2.1.1 Airport
• 2.1.2 Airline
• 2.1.3 Ground transportation
• 2.2 By train
• 3 Get around
• 5.1 Tundra vehicles
• 5.2 Dog sledding
• 5.3 Boating
• 5.4 Snorkelling/diving
• 9.1 In town
• 9.2 Out of town
• 10 Stay safe
• 11 Stay healthy
• 12.1 By mail

Churchill is a community North of 53 in Manitoba , best known as the polar bear capital of the world , and only slightly less known as the beluga capital of the world . For a multi-purpose capital, though, it's very small, with a permanent population of only 899 people (as of the 2016 census), who live on the shore of Hudson Bay, the bank of the Churchill River, and just past the treeline of the boreal forest .

Understand [ edit ]

Origins [ edit ].

The earliest inhabitants of the region were the Thule people, the proto-Inuit, who arrived around 1,000 BCE before moving north in search of colder pastures, leaving the territory principally to the Chipewyan and Swampy Cree aboriginal groups. See Indigenous cultures of North America .

The first European camp here was a Danish expedition in 1619. The cold got to them; the three of 64 who survived the winter set sail for home as soon as the ice would permit.

The town as we know it finds its roots in the history of the Hudson's Bay Company, which in 1717 established a year-round trading post just north of the modern-day town across the Churchill River, joining in the fur trade in northwest America, largely through deals with the tundra-dwelling Chipewyan.

Owing to English worries about potential French aggressors, the post was moved south in the 1730s to a massive stone star fort, Prince of Wales, which is very visible from the town, being just across the river. In 1782 the French Hudson Bay Expedition arrived and captured the badly outnumbered civilian fort garrison without a shot, raided the supplies, but failed in the attempt to demolish this rather well constructed fort. The Governor Samuel Hearne, one of Canada's great explorers, returned the next year and set up shop once more. The same French expedition also took York Factory, 200km to the south, then the capital of the Hudson Bay Company and today uninhabited.

The trading post and river were named after John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough (an ancestor of Winston Churchill), who was governor of the Hudson's Bay Company in the late 17th century.

Over the centuries, the fur trade waned, and Churchill might have disappeared, were it not for the ambitious attempts by provincial governments to secure a northern port in central Canada (motivated by the desire to break the monopoly of the Canadian Pacific Railway on grain exports). After more than a decade of construction across the northern forests, the rail line from Winnipeg was finished in 1929, and the Port of Churchill would become the city's economic centre until wheat shipments began to decline in 2012. As grains could be transported less expensively by rail to Prince Rupert in the west or the Port of Montréal in the east, Churchill's seaport languished; the facilities were closed in 2016. The tracks were washed out in various places by May 2017 flooding; Denver-based Omnitrax (the owner of the port and railway at the time) refused to repair the damage, leaving Churchill severed overland until the line was sold in 2018. The new owners rebuilt the railway, and passenger trains resumed in December 2018.

The bears [ edit ]

The Hudson's Bay Company traders were hardy folks, and presumably didn't mind living right in the middle of a major polar bear migration route. The problem of living just north of a giant polar bear colony was always solved rather neatly by shooting any bears wandering into town with shotguns.

Starting around the 1960s, non-locals started taking an interest in the bears, in studying them, photographing them, and generally admiring the intense over-sized cuteness. Locals saw opportunity, stopped shooting the bears, and began the process of converting the town from a minor industrial centre to one of the world's northernmost tourist towns. Live polar bear webcams are operated by conservation group Polar Bear International with backing from Frontier North Adventures and explore.org .

The Western Hudson Bay bear colony is home to roughly 1,000 bears, which summer in Wapusk National Park. Polar bears hunt seals on the sea ice, but when the ice breaks up, they are forced to return to land where they fast until the ice forms again. Prime bear season is October and November leading up to the ice formation, when the colony heads north from the park (and towards Churchill) to get ready for the first freeze. While they wait, they snack intermittently on whatever is around. Kelp buried in snow seems to be a favorite. Things are kind of dull when the ice isn't in, so these curious animals will wander right over to you to give you a good sniff or taste. The taste bit is not a joke—polar bears' sense of taste is so powerful that you will see them regularly licking the air to discern what tastes are out there!

The bears are a threatened species, mainly due to human encroachment on their habitat. Canada has restrictions on hunting them, but does allow hunting by the native peoples and even some sport hunting for those who can afford $20,000 or more for an expedition. None of the allowed hunting is in the Churchill area.

The sea canary [ edit ]

Belugas, with their gleaming white skin, big smiles, and canary-like twitter, have every right to claim the title of world's cutest whale. The west Hudson Bay population, one of Canada's seven, comes back from its winters at the Arctic ice cap to roost, er, calf in the Churchill river bed. At this time, the river is filled with the whales and the zodiac boats are filled with tourists with expensive camera equipment! Up to 3,000 whales enter the river each summer.

Climate [ edit ]

The Aurora Borealis is another good thing to keep tabs on:

Bears can be seen year-round. But the one time of year where they really are everywhere is October–November , before the sea ice forms. At that time of year, you can feel pretty confident that you will have plenty of photography opportunities every time you go out in a tundra vehicle. At other times, you have to wonder whether you are spending a small fortune on transport to see no bears. November is the really snowy month, so expect worse weather, less sunlight, way colder temperatures, but more pretty snow-covered backdrops for bears to play around in. While the sea ice is a bit unpredictable, it's fairly safe to assume that the last week of bear season is more or less the second to last week of November. Beyond that, you could miss them (and the tundra vehicles stop running anyway).

The belugas arrive in mid-June and depart in mid-August. So do the bugs (especially July). As cute as the belugas are, so are the flies as demonic a plague, so bring long pants, long sleeves, bug spray with DEET, and ideally a bug jacket for the possibility that it gets especially bad.

Aurora season is January–March, as the nights are longest and the precipitation (ergo cloud cover) lowest. Given how bleak the deep winter months are in terms of cold and lack of animal activity, though, one might speculate that this "season", while ideal for aurora-watching, is a bit manufactured to stimulate tourism in the slow months—you can see it just fine in November if you have a good night. All you need is a clear dark sky (a new moon is ideal), and good space weather—if you time your visit to coincide with the peak of an eleven year solar cycle, you'll see more intense lights more frequently.

Prepare [ edit ]

It's not easy to visit Churchill (during bear season) without going through a tour company, simply because the tundra vehicles often book up quickly and hotels are full; the train and planes can fill up; and both the buggies and hotels generally require full payment up front with no refunds. You must confirm availability of transport, lodging, and buggy at the same time and then immediately call them back to book all three. Otherwise you could find yourself stuck with a giant bill for a hotel with no way to get out on the tundra to see the bears, or a giant bill for a buggy with no lodging! Other activities (dog-sledding, car rentals, helicopter tours, etc.), are easy enough to book, even after arriving.

Once you have booked everything, it's time to buy a northern wardrobe:

Summer [ edit ]

The summer poses one problem and that's bugs . Tiny no-see-ums, run-of-the-mill mosquitoes, hell-spawn big black biting flies, and everything in between. A dry summer could mean little to no bugs, but it's good to err on the side of DEET. June–August requires insect repellent with DEET. While not necessary, pre-treating some of your clothes with specialized DEET spray for clothing probably won't be something you regret. You will see tourists with bug jackets and screen hats, but that's really a little over the top. Light long pants and long-sleeved shirts are a must, though.

Winter [ edit ]

The cold in Churchill is spectacular.

When you are this far north, you will need some serious winter gear November–March, and potentially in October. Avoid wearing cotton, as cotton gets wet and stays wet. Layers are key, but not enough to keep you warm without a good jacket. If you forgot something, try to pick it up at the Walmart in Thompson , if you are taking the train.

• Warm wool (or other warm non-cotton) cap, which fits tightly against your skull
• Parka/very well insulated jacket with hood (lined hood ideal)
• Protective ski goggles will be especially good for dog sledding, snowmobiling, snow shoeing, or just days with really heavy winds
• Waterproof boots, ideally rated for -40°C (-40°F) or lower. The ratings are often flat out lies, so make sure to consult with a sales person, and let them know just how cold it is where you are going. Avoid boots with rubber toes, as that rubber will freeze, making and keeping your toes very cold. Anything lined with animal skin or fur will be warmest and most comfortable, albeit very expensive.
• Long underwear. When in doubt, err on the side of more (merino-) wool.
• Wool/fleece pants & sweaters; non-cotton shirts. Moisture wicking gear is good. An outer layer of ski pants is nice for breaking the wind.
• Insulated layer underneath your jacket, which will often come with a ski jacket or good parka.
• Insulated gloves (i.e., ski gloves)

• Glove liners
• Neck protector, especially balaclavas.

You should be able to survive without going out and buying a new wardrobe full of expensive luxuries, but getting what you can of the above will make the trip more cosy.

For more on winter clothing, see Cold weather .

Other essentials [ edit ]

If ever there were a case for a good camera , it's a trip to Churchill! Bring/buy the best you can. Digital cameras don't stand up well to the cold, but they will still work. But bring extra batteries and film (if your camera uses it). In the winter, keep back up batteries close to your body to keep them warm, and switch them out when your active battery in your camera gets killed by the cold. If your camera breaks, Bazlik Jewellers can repair it. A long telephoto lens is generally required for wildlife photography; a good zoom lens may be enough but see Travel photography for a detailed discussion. A waterproof camera is a must if you plan to swim with the Beluga whales in the summer (a GoPro with a waterproof case can be great for video). Bring an extra memory card in case one fails (and the cold can help them fail).

Photographing the aurora requires different equipment. You will need a camera that supports manual exposure (10 to 40 seconds), a fast, wide-angle lens (aperture f/2.8 or better), fast film (800 ASA or better), or equivalent ISO setting on a digital camera, a strong tripod to hold the long exposure in potential high winds, and ideally a cable release or self-timer to trigger shots without stirring the camera. Again, you will want multiple batteries to swap as they freeze. Insulating the tripod can save your hands from freezing. Do not use any filter.

A laptop is a good idea, if only for uploading your photos, to keep your memory cards free to take more high-resolution shots!

Binoculars are great for wildlife viewing.

Especially in the winter, you will have plenty of downtime, so books and cards/games can be nice to have.

Get in [ edit ]

There are two ways to get to Churchill: airplane and train.

The economy seats on the train make for four nights of uncomfortable sleeping, but are cheap. The expensive sleeper cars are much more stylish, and allow you to enjoy the long-distance train experience watching the ecosystemic change out the windows as you travel north. Or, you can catch the train into Churchill and then take a nice quick, painless flight back when you're weary of your travels.

A viable solution for those who would like to get to Churchill faster, while not spending a lot of money is flying from Winnipeg to Thompson , and then taking the train from there. The airport in Thompson is not within walking distance of the train station, but there are plenty of bored taxi drivers to help you.

By plane [ edit ]

Airport [ edit ], airline [ edit ].

• Calm Air , toll-free: +1-800-839-2256 . A regional airline operating flights in Manitoba and Nunavut . ( updated Apr 2022 ) Travel time directly to Churchill from Winnipeg is 2.5 hours. Calm Air also offers seasonal flights from Thompson a few times a week.

If you are connecting through Winnipeg to get to or from Churchill, allow plenty of time between flights. As you will have to leave the secure area, collect your baggage (if you have any), check in at the airline desk and go through security. As the tiny Churchill Airport has no security screening, passengers arriving in Winnipeg exit straight into baggage claim.

Ground transportation [ edit ]

The airport is about a ten-minute taxi ride from town. Most hotels will pick you up if you ask ahead of time. Some package tours use chartered flights from Winnipeg, in which case the tour company takes care of all the logistics.

By train [ edit ]

Churchill is the most northerly point in Canada that can be reached by passenger train. Taking the train to Churchill is much more affordable than flying, but takes much longer. Via Rail serves Churchill with its Hudson Bay line that begins in Winnipeg. From Winnipeg the train takes about 38-48 hours . You have the option of staying in one of several different sleeper cars, or riding in economy class (depending on how much you want to pay) and trying to find two empty seats to cram yourself into for a miserable night's sleep. Economy supersaver (non-refundable) round-trip tickets run $220-330, while sleeper cars (with showers, couches, and actual sleep) cost $500-900. A two-person cabin runs $1250-1700 per person (prices as of April 2020). Sales for economy class, which can bring the fare down further are published on Via Rail's website every Tuesday (look for the large "Discount Tuesday" banner on the home page). Sales on sleeper tickets are available in a special section of the website at all times expect during a general sale and can bring the price down to $500 return.

You cannot drink your own liquor on the train, nor can you smoke. The fines are astronomical! The train will be stopping often, though, and you can hop off at the stops for a cigarette break. The big break is in Thompson , where you'll have two-five hours to get off, shop at Walmart and Safeway, and get a meal. There's even a little sightseeing to be had there, if you are creative.

A good tip for you train boozers—if you order liquor and a mixer, the mixer is free, so if you bring some of your own mixers... free cokes! The little bottles of wine are decent too. During bear and beluga seasons there is a chef on the train preparing decent, if slightly pricey (free for those in sleeper) fresh meals. Outside of peak season the microwave meals served range from acceptable to disgusting. Most people on board plan ahead and bring food. Cheese, sausage, cracker, fruit, etc. platters are great. A dome car for passengers in sleeper class is usually attached during bear, beluga, and northern lights seasons.

By car [ edit ]

There is no road to Churchill; however, you can drive to Thompson and pay to park your car there (try the Days Inn lot), and continue by train or airplane. The road to Thompson is lonely and subject to closure if a snowstorm hits, though.

Get around [ edit ]

It's quite easy to walk within the city limits on your own. It takes about 10 minutes to walk from one end of town to the other. It's also possible to rent a car in Churchill, and there are several taxi drivers who tend to hang out around the airport and train station.

Car rental isn't at all popular with tourists, even the ones who aren't on package tours, but taking out an SUV is actually a great idea. If you think there's a good chance of seeing the aurora on a given night, rent a vehicle and drive it out of town at night! You'll be away from the lights of the town, and you'll have a mobile heating device/bear escape pod to keep you safe. If you have a day's worth of downtime from your various activities, you can just drive around the passable roads and go bird-watching, find the downed plane, head down through the woods to the observation tower, up to Cape Merry, or create your own wildlife photo tour. Expect the rental to run around $100 and the gas refill before returning to run around... $100 more.

See [ edit ]

Beyond the wildlife and landscapes, there is actually a fair amount of interesting stuff to see there. The historic Hudson's Bay Company settlements are perhaps the most interesting, but are impossible to visit during the winter months (and York Factory is hard to reach even when it's possible). Aside from Cape Merry, that is, which along with the Itsanitaq Museum is an easy and highly recommended sight to see. If you have a car and a free day, head south of the city to the observation tower and east of the city to see Miss Piggy up close.

• 58.7705 -94.1669 2 Itsanitaq Museum , 242 LaVerendrye Ave , ☏ +1 204-675-2030 . Jul-Oct: M 1PM-5PM, Tu-Sa 9AM-noon and 1PM-5PM; Nov-Jun M-Sa 1PM-4:30PM . Formerly known as the Eskimo Museum, it has one of Canada's oldest collections of Inuit artifacts despite its small size (opened in 1944 by Catholic missionaries and still operated by the Diocese of Churchill-Baie d'Hudson), this museum has well detailed exhibits of all sorts of weird and interesting Inuit archaeological finds and sculptures. You will want well over an hour for the exhibits, and then some for the gift shop. Suggested donation $2 .  
• 58.663398 -94.167607 3 Goose Creek Observation Tower ( South of the city following the right turn off the main road ). It's only really worthwhile to come down this way if you rent a car, but it is a nice spot for a picnic in the summer. The observation tower looks out over Goose Creek towards the Churchill River, and is a good spot for birdwatching (it's also popular with aurora watchers).  
• 58.7706 -94.1782 4 Inukshuk ( At the bottom of Bernier St on the Hudson Bay shore ). Inukshuk roughly translates to "representing a person" in Inuktitut , and is a predominant symbol of the Canadian North, in the form of a humanlike stone-cairn. While there are a few inukshuit in the area, this one is by far the most popular for its striking location on the shore of Hudson Bay, and is especially popular for aurora photography.  
• 58.760433 -94.086681 5 Miss Piggy ( Bay shore road east of town ). Filled with Coca-Cola and a snowmobile, this cargo plane crashed in 1979 (the crew survived), and has now become a tourist attraction. The odd name came from the rotund shape of the plane and the curious rumour that it did once transport a cargo of pigs. You will need a car to get you here. You're not really supposed to, but you can even go inside!  

Do [ edit ]

Activities are wildlife centric, and depend heavily on the season. During polar bear season everyone will head out in the tundra vehicles, while beluga whale season means the Churchill River will be filled with zodiacs and kayaks. Dog sledding can be done any time of the year, although the snowy months are more rewarding. Helicopter tours are pretty exciting any time of the year as well, but the aerial wildlife viewing is best late April through the end of bear season.

Tundra vehicles [ edit ]

The tundra vehicles are the main tour for most Churchill visitors, and also the biggest activity expense. Plan to spend two days out on the tundra during your trip during bear season (you absolutely will not regret it), and therefore $800 per traveller! Tours include a guide, and they are uniformly great (bring cash for a tip), as well as some tasty soup, sandwiches, sodas, coffee, and hot chocolate. Wear all your cold weather gear . You will want to spend some time on the outdoor deck in the back for photography, of course, but the inside is almost as cold—everyone rolls down the windows to take more pictures!

• Great White Bear Tours , 266 Kelsey Blvd , toll-free: +1-866-765-8344 . One of two options for tundra vehicles. The reservations people are disorganized and do not take reservations by phone on weekends. Take down names for a bit of extra security when booking. The tour itself, though, is every bit as good as the other company's. $400 per day .  
• Lazy Bear Arctic Crawler , 313 Kelsey Blvd , ☏ +1 204-663-9377 . Run by the Lazy Bear Lodge, this is the smallest operator with just one vehicle, and it usually is filled through their own package tour. It's worth giving them a call, though, if you are having trouble reserving the dates you want with the bigger companies. $400 per day .  
• Tundra Buggy Adventures ( Frontiers North Adventures ), 124 Kelsey Blvd , ☏ +1 204-949-2050 . The original Tundra Buggy operator, which holds the most permits to operate in the Churchill Wildlife Management Area. They also operate the Tundra Buggy Lodge (see below ). $400 per day .  

Dog sledding [ edit ]

Dog sledding is a good activity, and fairly inexpensive. But it needs a caveat: you will spend very little time actually on a sled, and dog sledding involves little more than standing or sitting down and letting the dogs do the work. The true art of dog sledding is principally breeding and taking care of the dogs and secondarily logistics for trips. Also, during high season, expect to spend a lot of the time waiting around for your turn, as only two people can ride at a time!

So why do the dog sledding activity at all? The biggest reason is just to learn about the practice of dog sledding, which is pretty fascinating. Your host will take you around to meet the dogs (playing with the dogs is the other big reason to do this), and give you all sorts of background on the history and current practice of dog sledding, including all the competitions in the area.

Dog sledding can be done even without snow. They will simply use a wheeled sled.

As with the buggies, there are two operations in town, run by the two co-founders of the Hudson Bay Quest, a 220-mile (330-km) race from Gillam to Churchill every March (it used to go up along the west coast of the Hudson Bay to Arviat , Nunavut , but the boreal forest makes for a less whiteout sort of run than the flat, snow-covered tundra).

• Blue Sky Expeditions , 100 Button St , ☏ +1 204-675-2001 , [email protected] . Run by the owner of Blue Sky B&B (see below ), Gerald Azure. Discounts are available for B&B guests. The tour runs year-round, with 2 -mile runs during bear season and 5-mile runs otherwise. In the frozen months of Jan–March, you can also do a half day or even full 30-mile day tour, at $525 for two B&B guests. $95/guest, $147/non-hotel guest .  
• Wapusk Adventures , 321 Kelsey Blvd , ☏ +1 204-675-2887 , [email protected] . Run by Dave Daley, the owner of Wapusk General Store (see below ), this tour won the 2005 Manitoba Aboriginal Tourism Award. Dave is an active racer (and kind of an intense guy), still participating in the Hudson Bay Quest yearly, and also runs an outreach program to aboriginal kids interested in learning more about the heritage of dog sledding. The tour covers one mile. $90/person .  

Boating [ edit ]

There are two boating companies specializing in Beluga tours on the river, with Zodiacs and kayaks. The boat tours spend one-two hours on the water and then one more hour on the other bank to explore Prince of Wales Fort. The first is through Lazy Bear Lodge (see above for contact information), which does a three-hour tour for $130 per person, but cannot be booked in advance unless you have a room with them, so a spot would not be guaranteed if staying elsewhere and setting up your trip independently. The other is Sea North:

• Sea North Tours , 39 Franklin St , ☏ +1 204-675-2195 , [email protected] . Sea North is a dedicated tours-on-the-water company, with a bunch of different options for summer visitors. A really cool tour is the June Flow Ice Tour (which depends on sea ice conditions), which will take you on a two-hour animal spotting tour among the breaking ice, $105. The more standard tour, of course, is the July–August Beluga and Fort Tour, 2.5-3 hours in a Zodiac, $105 adults/$52.50 kids under 13. Kayak and standup paddleboard tours also run July–August at $160/person and $170/person respectively for three hours.  

Snorkelling/diving [ edit ]

Yes, snorkelling! Most tourists are not mentally fortified to jump into a cold, cold river filled with whales, but it is certainly the most up-close way to see the Belugas. Scuba diving is permitted, but there are no guides to take you, so only experienced divers, and you must bring your own equipment to Churchill. You can fill your tanks at the hospital. For snorkellers, though, the two boating tour companies above (Sea North and Lazy Bear Lodge) will set you up with a guide and dry suit or wet suit. Sea North snorkelling in wet suits is available July–August, three hours, $195/person, two person minimum. Lazy Bear Lodge's similar three hour snorkelling tour is done in dry suits for $250 per person.

Other [ edit ]

• Helicopter tours ( Hudson Bay Heli ), 290 Kelsey Blvd , ☏ +1 204-675-2576 , [email protected] . Hudson Bay Helicopters is the only helicopter operator in town. Their one-hour Animal Tour is by far their most popular option, and they often guarantee to see wildlife. Caribou and polar bears are the most exciting, since they are big enough to see easily! The Animal tour takes you out to Cape Churchill and Wapusk National Park, and you will see polar bears that no one else gets to see—it's a unique ecosystem to see from a helicopter, and it is worth the money. The tour will also take you over the town, by Miss Piggy and the shipwreck, and Prince of Wales Fort. Photography isn't fabulous from the helicopter, but really, you will want to spend your time looking out the window anyway. Minimum three people. In the summer months they also will offer a day-long charter down to York Factory (see above ). Specialty tours require advance notice, but you can just walk up to the door and get on an Animal Tour. Advance payment is never required, as weather can spoil a trip. Animal Tour: $500/person . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• Hiking ( Nature 1st Tours ), Launch Road ( Near the Tundra Buggy launch—way out of town ), ☏ +1 204-675-2147 , [email protected] . May–August . Hiking is a great way to get out of town, experience the different ecosystems, and spot wildlife (especially birds). Tour guides are experts, and will help you find Arctic hare, Arctic and red foxes, caribou, some 200 bird species, and even the occasional polar bear! They also do a cool walking tour of the tidal flats out to MV Ithaca. $85 half day, $150 full day; children 6-12 years 50% off when accompanied by 2 adults; children under 6 free . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• Snowmobiling , ☏ +1 204-675-2474 . There is one guy in town, Mike Macri, who will do snowmobile tours, but only well after the river has frozen (usually December–April). If you are interested, and there is a lot of snow on the ground, it's worth giving him a call anyway, and you do not need to pre-book before arriving in Churchill.  

• Tamarack Rentals , 299 Kelsey Blvd , ☏ +1 204-675-2192 , [email protected] . 24-hour support, but try to reach them before 5PM for a same-day rental . Same day rentals are almost always possible, and that is the way to go if you are trying to see the aurora (keep up to date on the space and local weather forecasts!) They will pick you up at the airport or train station, if you like. If you have a free day, a rental really is a good activity. Expect to spend at least $100 refuelling before returning. Remember to never lock the doors, so people can escape polar bears! SUVs: $95-125/day, passenger vans: $115-160 . ( updated Aug 2022 )

Buy [ edit ]

Churchill is not exactly a major shopping destination, but there are some fun gift shops, especially if you skip the ones run by the tour companies (which ply their trade mostly by dropping off captive audiences at the end of the tours). The Itsanitaq Museum also has a nice gift shop.

There is one central grocery/general store, which closes at 6PM, but will take care of most needs. The liquor store is in Bayport Plaza by the post office and bank.

• 58.7701 -94.1751 1 Arctic Trading Company , 141 Kelsey Blvd , ☏ +1 204-675-8804 , toll-free: +1-800-665-0431 , [email protected] . M-Sa 9AM-6PM . Perhaps the coolest store in the Canadian North, this old wooden building has a wild selection, from local native artwork to a full-on polar bear suit . OK, so the polar bear suit (made in the 1950s) isn't for sale, and they're probably moving it to the Eskimo Museum, but there are a ton of other interesting animal products, from slippers to native-crafted pelt-art. You will almost certainly wind up buying something here, but the pleasure of browsing is reason alone to come.  
• 58.7701 -94.1731 2 Churchill Creative Collective , Behind the Northern Store . Most evenings . Housed in a former Tundra Buggy, this is a small gallery housing arts and crafts exclusively made by locals. Cash only.  
• 58.7688 -94.1712 3 Bazlik Jewellers , 219 Kelsey Blvd , ☏ +1 204-675-2397 . Another interesting gift shop with jewellery and watches, also with some especially useful stuff like camera batteries and memory cards. They will also repair broken cameras!  

• 58.7692 -94.1739 4 Northern Images , 174 Kelsey Blvd , ☏ +1 204-675-2681 . May-Sep: Tu-Sa 9AM-5PM; Oct-Nov 8:30AM-8PM daily; Dec Tu-Sa . A smaller and more focused store specializing in Inuit and local paintings, photography, sculpture, and other visual art.  
• 58.7696 -94.1733 5 Northern Store , 171 Kelsey Blvd , ☏ +1 204-675-8891 . M-Th Sa 10AM-6PM, F 10AM-8PM . Ye olde general store is a place you'll almost certainly get to know, unless you are on a tour that takes care of everything. Groceries, some outdoor supplies (this is the only, limited option if you need winter weather gear that you forgot), DVDs, and some souvenirs. Things are more expensive this far north.  
• 58.7662 -94.1657 6 Wapusk General Store , 321 Kelsey Blvd , ☏ +1 204-675-2887 . Tu-Sa 10AM-5PM . Way at the other end of town from the rest of the gift shops is a cool old log cabin (built by the owner) with an Aboriginal-run gift shop (run by the same proprietors of the Wapusk Adventures dog-sledding tour). The more interesting stuff here are the jewellery and glassware.  

Eat [ edit ]

Most hotels will have something to eat, but the main restaurants in town are the three below. Expect high prices, but perhaps surprisingly, the food here is delicious.

• 58.769 -94.1713 1 The Reef , 299 Kelsey Blvd ( Inside the Seaport Hotel ), ☏ +1 204-675-8807 . M-Sa 7AM-10PM, Su 8AM-10PM . The Seaport Hotel's restaurant has an excellent traditional breakfast, and quite good lunch and dinner. It's pretty quiet, and does tend to attract more tourists than locals, but don't let that discourage you—this is a solid option with really nice servers and a full bar. This is the only restaurant in town that is open year round. $15-35 .  

• 58.7706 -94.1737 2 Tundra Inn Pub & Lounge , 23 Franklin St , ☏ +1 204-675-8831 . Jun-Sep: Tu-Sa 4PM-midnight; Oct-Nov 6AM-midnight daily . Breakfast is available only in bear season, and it's a pretty simple buffet (i.e., the other two restaurants have better breakfast). But dinner here is excellent , with some local oddities rolled into a menu of hearty carb-hugs, much needed at the end of a cold day. As the Tundra Lounge is next door, they have good beer and cocktails. No lunch. $20-40 .  
• 58.7659 -94.1648 3 Lazy Bear Café . Jun-Sep: 7AM-9PM daily; Oct-Nov 6AM-9PM daily . Cosy restaurant in the Lazy Bear Lodge, the only place in town with an espresso machine. Good selection of sandwiches. No alcohol. $15-40 .  

Drink [ edit ]

Not long on bars, Churchill really only has two, aside from the Legion: the Tundra Lounge and the Pier Beverage Room at the Seaport Hotel. The Tundra Lounge (see eat above) is a safe bet for a good outing any night of the week, really the only show in town as far as bars go, and it's actually a really great spot. There is frequent live music (usually every Friday) that often gets people dancing, a pool table, and a good mix of tourists and locals. Of the beers available, the Manitoba craft brews from Fort Garry are quite good.

• 58.7704 -94.1697 1 Liquor Mart , 203 Laverendrye Ave ( Bayport Plaza ), ☏ +1 204-675-2317 . Jan-Jun: Tu-Sa 11AM-6PM; Jul-Sep M-Sa 11AM-6PM; Oct-Dec M-Sa 11AM-6PM, Su noon-6PM . The liquor selection is pretty good here. The wine and beer a bit less so, but those are easy to get in the restaurants.  
• 58.771994 -94.170983 2 Royal Canadian Legion Branch #227 , 23 Hudson Sq , ☏ +1 204-675-2272 . Legion members and their guests only, but a good place to meet locals.  

Sleep [ edit ]

Don't expect luxury in Churchill when it comes to lodgings. Everything is going to be basic, but warm and adequate, and with very helpful owners (really, everyone in this friendly town will happily go out of their way for you). The focus of any trip will be on what's outside! Rates are generally priced for two levels: a high price for bear season (Oct-Nov) and a low price for the rest of the year.

In town [ edit ]

• 58.7709 -94.1744 1 Aurora Inn , 24 Bernier St , ☏ +1 204-675-2071 , toll-free: +1-888-840-1344 , [email protected] . The set-up here is pretty cool—it's a converted apartment building, so the rooms, which are all cozy two-storeys, feel a bit more like condo rentals. $150-255 .  
• 58.7701 -94.1764 2 Bear Country Inn , 126 Kelsey Blvd , ☏ +1 204-675-8299 , [email protected] . The rooms are quite simple (no phones?), but the owners are friendly, and the hotel has the advantage of a decent-sized free continental breakfast that doesn't get put away until late in the day. Used by Great Canadian Travel Company.  
• 58.767 -94.1594 3 Blue Sky Bed & Sled , 100 Button St , ☏ +1 204-675-2001 , [email protected] . On the residential side of town, this B&B is run by a dog sled team owner, who naturally will take guests out for rides. It's also a nice spot for aurora viewing, as it backs out into the sub-Arctic wild, with an unobstructed view towards Hudson Bay... and any polar bears walking towards town! $100 Jan–June, $118 beluga season, $220 bear season .  
• 58.769506 -94.174875 4 Churchill Motel , 209 Kelsey Blvd , ☏ +1 204-675-8853 , [email protected] . The old Churchill Motel is a little worn, but still a perfectly acceptable option, and tends to have availability in bear season, if you are having trouble finding something. The proprietor Dave, is much loved by the guests. Good breakfast at the restaurant, and a very central location.  
• 58.768965 -94.173413 5 Iceberg Inn , 184 Kelsey Blvd , ☏ +1 204-675-2228 , [email protected] . A small, cozy, and rather basic hotel, with free hot coffee, tea and hot chocolate kept going all day long in the lobby. Good value and central location. $95, variable in bear season .  
• 58.765918 -94.16503 6 Lazy Bear Lodge , 313 Kelsey Blvd , ☏ +1 204-663-9377 , [email protected] . A rare southern location in town on the main road. The cosy hotel is all made from logs, and has one of the best restaurants in town—and probably the only one that will cook you up some muskox—albeit without a liquor license. As they operate their own tundra vehicles, this is a popular option for people who want to have their hotel take care of tour arrangements for them. Indeed, it's not clear whether it's even possible to book a room here without signing up for their tour.  
• 58.768224 -94.162772 7 Polar Bear B&B , 26 Hearne St , ☏ +1 204-675-2819 . This B&B has really good rates during bear season for independent travellers looking to cut down on the huge Churchill expenses. It's a small place, but well-kept, with three rooms and two shared bathrooms. The one free breakfast at Gypsy's included in the price is a nice plus. The good rates and small size mean you'll have to book far in advance. May–September: $90, Oct-Nov $120 .  
• 58.770129 -94.174471 8 Polar Inn , 153 Kelsey Blvd , ☏ +1 204-675-8878 , toll-free: +1-877-765-2733 , [email protected] . A motel with standard rooms and apartment-style suites, with an enviable location across the street from the grocery store, next to all the gift shops (they actually have one of their own), and a couple doors down from the pub. Free continental breakfast includes hot waffles.  

• 58.769097 -94.171478 9 Seaport Hotel , 299 Kelsey Blvd , ☏ +1 204-675-8804 , toll-free: +1-877-558-4555 , [email protected] . The Seaport has a good location in the centre of town, close to pretty much everything, and has arguably the best breakfast in town in their restaurant. Great staff.  
• 58.770621 -94.17272 10 Tundra Inn , 34 Franklin St , ☏ +1 204-675-8831 , toll-free: +1-800-265-8563 , [email protected] . This hotel has larger rooms than most in town, and has a shared kitchen, and free use of the clothes washer & dryer! The owners also operate the aurora domes outside of town, and will take you out there in the "aurora season" if they spot activity. They also run the Tundra Inn Pub across the street, which is the place to be at night, and has an early morning breakfast buffet during bear season (this does mean that there is no lunch by the hotel, though). The only real downside is the smell on the first floor, which is awful in the hall, but doesn't permeate the rooms too much (hopefully they'll take care of this at some point). $135-235 .  
• 58.771378 -94.172826 11 Tundra House , 51 Franklin St , ☏ +1 204-675-8831 , toll-free: +1-800-265-8563 , [email protected] . A cosy 6-bedroom property featuring a variety of bunk bed accommodations and private rooms. The property has shared kitchen and bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, cable TV, laundry, and linens. Open December–October. $32-80 .  

Out of town [ edit ]

• 58.7375 -93.8191 12 Churchill Northern Studies Center , ☏ +1 204-675-2307 , [email protected] . It's possible to stay at the research station out in the tundra as part of a learning vacation, and have some truly expert specialist guides, with expertise regarding the ecosystems of the boreal forest, the pre-tundra, and sea ice. You need to book this very far in advance, as space is limited and there are regular repeat visitors who snag much of it up. As with the Tundra Buggy Lodge below, expect to lose a good deal of your independence, but it's a trade off for the learning-vacation with access to experts, and for the general experience of staying out in the wild north of the tree line. While the polar bear experience is the most popular, the late winter programs are intriguing: aurora/astronomy and a winter experience program where you learn to survive in the Arctic—igloo building, dog-sledding, etc. Stays are for five days, except the seven day polar bear experience. There are learning vacations focusing on the Northern Lights in February and March. The 5-day long seminars include workshops on the science, cultural history and techniques for photographing the Northern Lights. Most vacations run a little over $1000, but the polar bear season experience is $2900 .  
• 58.7866 -93.6859 13 Tundra Buggy Lodge , ☏ +1 204-949-2050 . The main point of coming to Churchill during bear season is to see the bears, and this is the most immersive experience. (The Tundra Lodge is only operational in October and November.) Sleeping in the lodge, which has two sleeper cars, a dining car, lounge car, and various other utility cars, as well as two outdoor decks. You can watch the bears wake up with you and go to sleep with you, see the northern lights without leaving your bedroom and without any external light interference, etc. The downside, of course, is that you lose a fair amount of independence, but if your main goal is to spend as much time as possible with the bears, this is the way to go. The Lodge is booked almost always as part of an all-inclusive package, which would include your transport to Churchill from Winnipeg as well as food. Stays are for 2–8 nights, and the price per person runs $3,800–11,350 (with plenty of options in between).  

• 58.209062 -94.502492 14 Wat'chee Lodge . If you really want to get away from civilization and deep into the wild of the Canadian north, aboriginal-run Wat'chee Lodge is the best option. 55 km (40 mi) south of Churchill in the boreal forest just west of the Wapusk National Park boundary, you are staying in a refurbished navy communications base, just outside the world's largest polar bear denning habitat. Guides have permits to enter the park and can take you within 100 m to the bears. The denning areas in the wilderness are the best places to photograph mother polar bears with cubs. This is a bit of a professional wildlife photographer retreat, in fact, for other animals as well (in addition to some great aurora watching potential), such as foxes, wolves, ptarmigan, caribou herds, etc. The polar bear ecotourism experience is only in the denning season (Feb-March) which is also a great time for aurora viewing. Wat'chee does not have publicly available contact information, and you must submit inquiries through the form on their website.  

Stay safe [ edit ]

Cold weather is theoretically a danger, but you probably won't have an opportunity to get hypothermia, since most all excursions in the winter will involve a vehicle and a fair degree of supervision. Polar bears are a real danger, though. Be careful when walking anywhere on the outskirts of town, such as Cape Merry, by the inukshuk and the big wooden boat behind the town centre, or anywhere outside of town. In such areas close to town you will notice Polar Bear Alert signs "Stop. Don't walk in this area", and if you do see a bear in or near town, call the Bear Patrol immediately at +1 204-675-BEAR (2327).

Because of the dangers posed by polar bears, car doors are never locked in Churchill (don't ever lock your own if renting), and the quickest way to escape danger, if going indoors is not an immediate option, is to simply hop in a car and shut yourself inside. There hasn't been a bear-related death since 1980, but injuries have happened since, and even locals can get surprised by an itinerant bear now and then—stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

Because of Churchill's size and remote location, the services available at the hospital are limited. Individuals with serious medical issues may be transported to Winnipeg by air ambulance. The provincial government will cover most if not all of the cost of the evacuation for Manitoba residents, but not for other residents of Canada. Those coming from outside of Manitoba may or may not be covered by their provincial health plan or private supplementary plan. Visitors from outside of Canada should always purchase health insurance when visiting Canada unless they are coming on a visa that allows them to apply for provincial health insurance. As the cost for the flight to Winnipeg can exceed $10,000, plus the cost of a ground ambulance in Winnipeg and medical treatment in both Winnipeg and Churchill, insurance for visitors should have a high coverage ceiling.

Connect [ edit ]

You will have Wi-Fi wherever you stay, and nearly all hotels will have an available computer. There is LTE cell data service in town, which also extends to the airport, though don't expect it anywhere else outside of town. Anyone with a Canadian SIM card or whose international carrier has a roaming agreement with any of the three major Canadian cell providers (Bell, Rogers or Telus) should be able to get service.

By mail [ edit ]

• Canada Post , 204 La Vérendrye Ave , ☏ +1 204-675-2696 . M-F 8AM-5PM . Handy for shipping souvenirs.  

Go next [ edit ]

There really isn't anywhere to go—you're stranded here! If you fancy a rare trip to remote Nunavut , Calm Air and First air offer a daily flight to Rankin Inlet . The other option would be a custom canoeing trip (summer only, naturally) through Northern Soul Adventures. (See above .) Otherwise you'll likely end up back in Winnipeg , Thompson or Gillam .

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24 Things to Do in Churchill Manitoba – The Ultimate Guide

Things to Do in Churchill Manitoba

Nestled on the shores of Hudson Bay, Churchill Manitoba is a place like no other. Known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World,” this remote town is a hub of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. From spotting majestic polar bears to exploring the breathtaking tundra, Churchill is the perfect destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. But with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your trip. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Churchill Manitoba. So pack your bags and get ready for an adventure like no other in Canada’s remote north!

Best Polar Bear Tour in Churchill Manitoba

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Churchill Manitoba – What You Need To Know Before You Go

Known as “ the polar bear capital of the world ,” Churchill, Manitoba is a small town located on the west coast of Hudson Bay in Canada.

For most of the year, it is home to a small population of only about 900 permanent residents. But these numbers almost double during peak tourist season when visitors and temporary workers flood into town.

In recent years, Churchill has also become an increasingly popular destination for wildlife viewing. Not only does this area have one of the largest polar bear populations in the world, but it is also home to an incredible beluga whale population.

Churchill Manitoba is also one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. With its cold temperatures and zero light pollution, the chances of you seeing the Auroras dance across the night sky are incredibly high.

Guide To Polar Bear Safety In Churchill Manitoba

Polar bears are definitely the main attraction in Churchill, Manitoba. During peak season, people flock to this small northern town to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

While viewing polar bears is an incredibly thrilling and unforgettable experience, it is also important to follow proper safety guidelines to make sure that both you and the bears remain safe. After all, the last thing you want to do is to come face to face with a 1,000 lb polar bear when you least expect it.

And considering it isn’t unheard of to see a polar bear roaming around town, there are a few things you need to pay close attention to. Here are a few of the tips for staying safe that we learned during our polar bear adventure in Churchill.

• Be bear aware. Always be aware of your surroundings.
• Do not approach polar bears or try to feed them. This is not only dangerous for you, but it can also be harmful to the bears.
• Follow the guidelines and instructions of your tour guide or any other local authorities. They are trained to safely view polar bears and will know the best places to view them from a safe distance.
• During peak bear season, the town of Churchill follows a 10:00 pm curfew. Avoid walking outside after this time.
• Travel in groups and always make noise while you are walking to let the polar bears know you are in the area. This will help prevent any surprise encounters.
• Stick close to buildings or vehicles. They will provide you with a safe place if a polar bear is spotted close by.
• Although bears can be seen at any time of the day, they are the most active in the early morning and at night.
• If you do head out on a hike, avoid the coastal areas. Not only is the shoreline a popular passage for bears, but the poor sightlines and the bear’s incredible knack for blending into the tundra, make it nearly impossible to spot them hiding in the brush or behind rocks.

Things To Do In Churchill Manitoba

Although many people initially come to Churchill Manitoba to see the polar bears , there are also a ton of other great things to see and do in this unique little town.

1. See the Polar Bears on A Tundra Buggy Tour

A tundra buggy tour is a popular way to explore Churchill’s backcountry and see polar bears in their natural habitat. Tundra buggies are specialized vehicles that are designed to navigate the rough and muddy terrain of the tundra while providing a safe and comfortable way to view wildlife.

On a tundra buggy tour, you’ll have the opportunity to see polar bears up close as they roam the tundra in search of food. You’ll also have the chance to see other Arctic wildlife, such as arctic foxes and ptarmigan.

Some tours also offer opportunities to see the Northern Lights (also known as the Aurora Borealis) in the winter months.

Tundra buggy tours usually last for 6-8 hours and are led by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the area and the wildlife. The tours will provide warm and comfortable seating, an onboard washroom, and will include a hot meal and refreshments.

It is a good idea to book your tour in advance, as they can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.

❄️ Book a Tundra Buggy Day Trip with Frontiers North here

2. Keep an Eye Out for Other Arctic Wildlife

In addition to polar bears, Churchill, Manitoba is home to a variety of other Arctic wildlife, including arctic foxes, wolves, caribou, moose, and beluga whales. Many of these animals can be seen in their natural habitat by taking a tour or participating in outdoor activities in the area.

Aside from tundra buggy tours, many tour operators also offer other activities that are conducive to wildlife spotting. From guided walks to kayaking or zodiac rides to staying in remote lodges, there are plenty of excursions to choose from to suit your interests.

3. Head to Seal River Heritage Lodge for a More Relaxing Polar Bear Watching Experience

Seal River Heritage Lodge is a luxury eco-lodge located 60 km north of Churchill, Manitoba. It is a popular destination for polar bear viewing, as it is located on the edge of Hudson Bay and is surrounded by the tundra.

The lodge is only accessible by air and is located about a 45-minute flight from Churchill. At the Seal River Heritage Lodge, you can relax in comfort while enjoying the breathtaking views of the tundra and Hudson Bay.

But the best part of staying at the lodge is the fact that they have a fenced compound and outdoor viewing decks and a tower. This makes it possible to see polar bears up close, as they often wander right up to the fence or the windows.

The lodge also offers a range of activities and excursions, including walking safaris to view polar bears, marine tours to view beluga whales, photography tours, and so much more.

4. Do Some Whale Watching

Churchill is home to a large population of beluga whales, which can be seen swimming in the waters around the town during the summer months. Beluga whales are small, white whales that are native to the Arctic and subarctic regions.

Known as “canaries of the sea,” Belugas are also known for their distinctive appearance and vocalizations. They are  extremely friendly  and social and can gather in the thousands in the warmer waters of the Churchill and Seal River estuaries where they can be found during the summer months.

There are several tour operators in Churchill that offer whale-watching excursions. These tours usually last for a few hours and are led by experienced guides.

It is definitely a good idea to book your tour in advance, as they can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.

🐳 Book your Belugas, Bears and Blooms tour in Churchill Manitoba here.

5. Kayak with Beluga Whales

As we just mentioned, Churchill Manitoba is home to a large population of Beluga whales. Beluga whales are small, white whales that can often be seen swimming in the waters around Churchill during the summer months.

One way to see beluga whales in Churchill is to go on a kayak (or SUP) tour. Kayak tours offer a unique and intimate way to see the whales up close, all while experiencing the beauty of Hudson Bay.

In fact, Belugas are quite curious and will come right up to your kayak. This gives you the perfect opportunity for some truly awesome photography.

6. Learn How to Stay Out of the Polar Bear Jail

The “polar bear jail” in Churchill, Manitoba is a holding facility where polar bears that have become a threat to public safety are temporarily housed. The polar bear jail is managed by Manitoba Conservation, and its purpose is to keep both the bears and the public safe until the bears can be relocated to a more suitable location.

Polar bears that are placed in the polar bear jail are usually there because they have become habituated to humans and have lost their natural fear of people. This can happen when bears are fed by humans or when they have become accustomed to scavenging for food in areas where humans live or work.

Once a bear becomes habituated to humans, it can become aggressive and pose a threat to public safety. This is why visitors to Churchill are strictly warned against feeding the bears.

The polar bear jail is not a permanent home for the bears, and they are usually only held there for a short period of time until they can be safely relocated. The bears are provided with food and shelter while they are in the holding facility, and they are monitored by the Manitoba Conservation staff.

Although there were no bears inside the jail during our visit, our tour guide did not take us inside. The kids did have fun sitting inside one of the bear traps on display outside.

Polar Bear Hotline

Since we are talking about the capture of polar bears, we thought we would mention Churchill’s Polar Bear Hotline. Most people learn the importance of calling 911, but in Churchill, it’s equally important for residents to know how and when to use the hotline number.

The polar bear hotline, 204-675-2327 (or 204-675-BEAR), is a phone number that residents and visitors to the town can call to report any polar bear sightings or incidents. The hotline is managed by Manitoba Conservation and is intended to help keep the bears and the public safe.

If there is a polar bear sighting or incident in Churchill, residents or visitors are asked to call the polar bear hotline as soon as possible. When you call, be prepared to provide the following information:

• Your location
• The location of the bear
• The behaviour of the bear
• The number of bears you have seen

If you have had an incident with a bear, such as a close encounter or an attack, it is especially important to call the hotline as soon as possible. Manitoba Conservation staff will respond to your call and take any necessary actions to keep the bears and the public safe.

7. Make Some New Friends While Dog Sledding

Dogsledding is a popular activity in Churchill, Manitoba. It is a great way to experience the beauty of the Arctic tundra while learning about the local culture.

Dogsledding involves riding on a sled that is pulled by a team of sled dogs, and it is a unique and exciting way to explore the backcountry. And if you happen to be visiting Churchill when there isn’t any snow, or maybe not enough snow on the ground, you can take part in dog carting instead!

There are several tour operators in Churchill that offer dog sledding. Depending on what tour you have booked, the dogsledding excursion can last anywhere from 20 minutes to several hours.

The excursions are led by experienced mushers, with some of the longer tours including a brief lesson on how to drive the sled.

Wapusk Adventures

Our dog carting experience with Wapusk Adventures was included in our Churchill tour package and lasted approximately 20 minutes. This indigenous-run dog sledding company was amazing, and you could tell how well the dogs were cared for.

We were allowed two people per sled, with the musher standing behind us guiding the team of dogs. We were taken on a beautifully scenic trail through the boreal forest, by Dave (the owner).

This was a first-time experience for our family and the kids had an absolutely fantastic time. Afterwards, Dave talked to us about how most of his dogs are rescues, and how they are trained.

Dog sledding is a fun activity for people of all ages, but it can be physically demanding, as it involves standing and balancing on the sled. It is important to dress warmly and to bring plenty of layers, as the weather in Churchill can be very cold, especially in the winter months.

8. Explore the Miss Piggy Plane Wreck

The Miss Piggy plane wreck is a well-known landmark in Churchill, Manitoba. It is the remains of a small plane that crashed on the tundra near Churchill in the 1970s.

The Miss Piggy plane wreck is the subject of much local folklore and remains a mystery in Churchill. Every local you ask will have a different, dramatic tale to tell about the crash.

But what we do know is that on November 13th, 1979, at around 9:30 am, a Curtiss C-46 “Commando” twin-prop cargo plane, which was widely used in WWII, went down while approaching Churchill Airport. Although the plane was severely damaged, the crew members only suffered minor injuries.

However, what remains a mystery is the cause of the crash and what happened to the crew afterwards. Some say they hitchhiked into town to drink at the local tavern.

While the Miss Piggy plane wreck continues to spark the imagination and speculation of Churchill visitors, it is definitely an interesting place to visit.

9. Plan a Hike to the MV Ithica Shipwreck

The MV Ithica shipwreck is a well-known landmark in Churchill, Manitoba. It is the remains of a cargo ship that sits on the shores of Hudson Bay near Churchill.

The ship was carrying a load of electrical generators and plywood when its rudder broke and it ran aground in rough seas in 1960.

Today, the MV Ithaca actually sits in the shallows of Hudson Bay, making a low-tide hike to the ship possible. However, since Polar Bears are known to hang out in the coastal areas near the ship, it would be dangerous to attempt this hike alone.

If you are interested in seeing the MV Ithaca up close, your best bet would be to hire a local guide who is familiar with the hike, and experienced with both Polar Bears. The alternative is doing a drive-by, which is what our tour guide did during our excursion.

10. Step Back in Time at the Prince of Wales Fort National Historic Site

The Prince of Wales Fort National Historic Site is a historic fort located in Churchill, Manitoba. The fort was built by the Hudson’s Bay Company in the 18th century to protect the company’s interests in the region and to serve as a trading post.

The Prince of Wales Fort is the oldest stone fort in Northern Canada and was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1920. With its rugged stone walls and stunning natural surroundings, you will definitely feel like you have been transported back in time.

If you are looking to learn more, Parks Canada staff offer guided tours, and provide an in-depth look at the fort’s history and its role in the fur trade.

In addition to its historical significance, the Prince of Wales Fort is also a popular destination for birding and wildlife viewing. The fort overlooks Hudson Bay and is a great place to see polar bears, beluga whales, and other Arctic wildlife.

11. Find the Red Chairs at Cape Merry

Cape Merry is a historic site named after the Deputy Governor of the Hudson Bay Company, John Merry, and offers absolutely breathtaking views of Hudson Bay and its surroundings. The site is home to a stone battery, a Commemorative cairn, and a cannon dating back to the 1700s.

From the parking lot, it’s just a short walk along wooden boardwalks and dirt pathways to get to the point at Cape Merry. Be sure to stop at the Parks Canada Red Chairs along the way, to grab that perfect Instagrammable photo!

The Cape Merry Battery is a fortification that dates back to the 1700s and has been well-preserved to this day. It is also the best place to take in some amazing panoramic vistas.

Beyond the scenic beauty, Cape Merry also provides a unique opportunity for wildlife viewing, as it is one of the best places in Churchill to spot polar bears, beluga whales, and other arctic animals. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Cape Merry has something to offer everyone.

12. Let the Northern Lights Take Your Breath Away

The Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis, is a natural light display that occurs in the high-latitude regions of the world. The Northern Lights are caused by the interaction between the Earth’s atmosphere and solar particles that are blown toward the Earth by the solar wind.

They look like streaks of green, pink, purple or white light dancing across the skies. And it doesn’t matter how often you see them, we can guarantee that you will be awestruck each and every time!

Churchill, Manitoba is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. This is because Churchill is located near the edge of the Arctic Circle and is home to clear, dark skies.

The Northern Lights are most visible in Churchill from September to April, and they can often be seen from the town.

There are several tour operators in Churchill that offer Northern Lights tours, which usually last for a few hours and are led by experienced guides. Many tours include transportation to a prime viewing location, as well as warm and comfortable seating.

13. See all the Churchill Murals

The Churchill Murals are a series of murals that are painted on buildings and other structures in and around Churchill, Manitoba. The murals depict the history and culture of Churchill and are a popular attraction for tourists.

The Churchill Murals were created by local artists and community members as a way to celebrate the town’s history and beautify the town. They depict a range of subjects, including the town’s history, the local wildlife, and the culture of the First Nations people who have lived in the region for centuries.

Many of the Churchill Murals can be found throughout the town, and they are easily accessible on foot. Others, are located further outside of town, requiring you to drive to see them.

Our tour guide was really good about driving us all over the area so that we could see the murals and take plenty of Instagram-worthy photos of them as well.

14. Fly Over Wapusk National Park

Wapusk National Park is a national park located in northern Manitoba, Canada. The park is known for its diverse landscape, which includes forests, wetlands, and tundra, and for its rich wildlife, including polar bears, wolves, and caribou.

Unfortunately, there are no roads going into Wapusk National Park. The only way to see this amazing area is either by flying over the park or with a licensed tour operator.

Of course, the best way to see the stunning landscape and wildlife of Wapusk National Park is to go on a scenic flight tour. Many tour operators in Churchill, Manitoba offer flight tours of the park, which provide a unique and breathtaking perspective on the region.

Flight tours of Wapusk National Park usually last for a few hours and are led by experienced pilots. The tours not only provide incredible aerial views of the park’s landscapes and wildlife but will also give you the opportunity to learn more about the park’s history and ecosystem.

If you’re interested in going on a flight tour of Wapusk National Park, it is a good idea to book in advance, as the tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season (July and August).

15. Learn About Inuit History and Culture at the Itsanitaq Museum

The Itsanitaq Museum is a museum located in Churchill, Manitoba. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the culture and history of the Inuit people of the Hudson Bay region, and it is a great place to learn about the traditional way of life of the Inuit.

The Itsanitaq Museum is home to a collection of Inuit artifacts and artworks, including carvings, clothing, tools, and weapons. It also offers a range of interactive exhibits and educational programs.

And considering how small the museum actually is (you could see it in less than an hour), we found that it had very knowledgeable docents who provide us with many insights into the culture and traditions of the Inuit.

The Itsanitaq Museum is also home to an awesome little gift shop. We actually found some of our best souvenirs at the museum including books and Inuit art!

So if you’re interested in learning about the Inuit culture and history, the Itsanitaq Museum is a must-see attraction in Churchill.

16. Do Some Bird Watching

Churchill, Manitoba is a great place for bird watching. The area is home to a variety of bird species that are native to the Arctic tundra including Snowy Owls, Tundra Swans, Gyrfalcons, Arctic Terns, Ptarmigan, and various species of ducks and geese.

Fun Fact: Over 250 species of birds nest or pass through Churchill and its surrounding areas during their annual migrations.

If you are interested in seeing some of the Arctic’s native birds, there are a few tour operators in Churchill that offer guided bird-watching tours. These tours are led by awesome guides who are knowledgeable about the local bird species and will make sure that your experience is both safe as well as enjoyable.

17. Shop for Unique Souvenirs in Churchill

Although the town is quite small, there are several places where you can shop for some pretty unique souvenirs in Churchill, Manitoba.

From clothing to jewelry, Inuit art, locally handcrafted items, and a ton of knick-knacks related to polar bears and other Arctic wildlife, you are sure to find it all.

The Arctic Trading Company is located in the downtown area of Churchill and is a popular stop for tourists. The shop is known for its selection of polar bear-themed souvenirs, such as t-shirts, hats, and mugs, as well as for its collection of handcrafted jewelry made by local artists.

In addition to souvenirs, The Arctic Trading Company also sells a range of practical items, such as warm clothing and outdoor gear, which can be helpful for visitors who are planning to spend time outdoors in Churchill.

Other great places to stop for souvenirs include the Itsanitaq Museum, Fifty Eight North – Home of the Tundra Buggy , and Northern Images Arts and Crafts where we found the best Polar Bear plush toy. The best part is, all these places are walkable as they are right downtown.

18. Explore the Park’s Canada Visitor Centre

The Parks Canada visitor centre is located in the historic train station in downtown Churchill. The facility is operated by Parks Canada and is a great place to learn about the natural and cultural heritage of the region.

The visitor centre is staffed by knowledgeable and friendly Parks Canada staff, who are happy to answer questions and provide information about Churchill and what you can do there.

The Parks Canada visitor centre in Churchill is open year-round, is free to enter, and offers a range of activities and services for visitors. Inside, you will find incredible exhibits and displays on polar bears and what an actual maternity den looks like, guided tours, and information about local attractions and events.

The visitor centre is also a good place to purchase souvenirs, books, and other items related to Churchill. If you are a collector of Park’s Canada National Park patches, you will find ones for Wapusk National park here.

19. Learn More About Polar Bears at Polar Bears International

Polar Bears International in Churchill, Manitoba offers a unique and educational experience like no other. As the “Polar Bear Capital of the World,” Churchill is the ideal place to learn about these magnificent creatures and their Arctic habitat.

At Polar Bears International, you can explore exhibits and interactive displays that delve into the biology and behaviour of polar bears, as well as the challenges they face in a rapidly changing climate.

With the help of expert guides and researchers, you are given the incredible opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of these majestic animals and the important role they play in the Arctic ecosystem.

From hands-on displays to demonstrations and videos, Polar Bears International provides a truly immersive learning experience for all ages. We found our visit to Polar Bears International pretty fascinating, and it was quite obvious just how much our guide (who was a researcher from Svalbard) enjoyed her work.

20. Take a Ride Out to the Churchill Northern Studies Centre And Rocket Range

The Churchill Northern Studies Centre (CNSC) is a research and education facility located just outside of Churchill. The CNSC is dedicated to studying the natural history of the region, and it is a great place to learn about the Arctic environment and the people who have lived in the area for centuries.

The CNSC is open to the public, and it offers a range of educational programs and activities for visitors, including guided tours, workshops, lectures, and field trips. The centre also has a small museum, which displays exhibits about the natural and cultural history of the region.

The Churchill Rocket Research Range National Historic Site of Canada is situated 24 kilometres to the east of Churchill. It was established in 1954 as a facility for atmospheric research and weather-sounding. It was later utilized by the Canadian and US militaries for their rocket initiatives.

From 1955 to 1985, the site served as the base for launching and monitoring rockets as part of research on the upper atmosphere. In 1988, it was recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada.

Fun Fact: The Churchill Rocket Research Range was first opened to examine the impact of the Northern Lights (Auroras) on long-distance communication.

21. Take a Break on the Beluga

The Beluga is a former fishing boat that has been grounded and transformed into a picnic spot and climbing structure for kids. Located on the beach behind the Town Complex and adjacent to the iconic Churchill inuksuk, the Beluga is walkable from the downtown area.

Whether you choose to listen to the waves crashing on the shore, or enjoy a sunset from the deck of the Beluga, it’s definitely the perfect spot to stop, have a break, and take in the incredible views.

22. Get a Unique Stamp on Your Passport at Churchill’s Airport

Churchill, Manitoba’s airport is a hidden gem that offers more than just a place to land and take off. Aside from some interesting exhibits by Parks Canada, be sure to visit the gift shop located inside the terminal before you head back to Winnipeg.

This is where you can get an official Canada Post stamp that is unique to Churchill. Purchase a postcard, or have them stamp the inside of your passport, either way, it makes a great memento of your journey to Churchill.

And just in case you are wondering, the unique stamp features a polar bear! And just a heads up, the line at the shop gets pretty long. So if you are interested in getting a stamp, get there with plenty of time before your flight.

23. Take a Selfie with the Churchill Inuksuk

And while you are visiting The Beluga, definitely take a stroll just further down the beach to Churchill’s infamous Inuksuk. Sitting on the shore of Hudson Bay, the Inuksuk is the perfect spot to take a selfie or that perfect photo for Instagram.

Fun Fact: Historically, the inuksuk may have been used by Indigenous people for navigation, as a marker for travel routes, fishing places, camps, hunting grounds, sacred places, or even to mark a food cache. 

24. Examine the Ruins of Ladoon’s Castle

Not far from The Beluga and the Inuksuk, on the outskirts of town, you will find a property with these incredible unfinished stone foundation walls. This is actually all that remains of what was supposed to be a grand castle-style hotel on Churchill’s Hudson Bay coast.

Called “Ladoon’s Castle” by the locals, it was the vision of local Brian Ladoon. Seen by some as a controversial figure, he was definitely a local legend before his death in 2018.

Ladoon was known for his interest in preserving and breeding the rarest registered breed of dogs in the world, the Canadian Eskimo Dogs. However, he came under intense scrutiny when he allowed polar bears to mingle with his dogs very close to Churchill’s town limits.

You can find Ladoon’s Castle as you leave Churchill on La Vérendrye Ave.

How To Get To Churchill Manitoba

Did you know that there are actually no roads that lead to Churchill? In fact, due to Churchill Manitoba’s extremely remote location, there are actually only two ways to get to town.

The most common way to get to Churchill is by flying into Churchill Airport. The airport is served by a limited number of charter airlines that offer flights from Winnipeg and other cities in Manitoba.

The flight from Winnipeg to Churchill takes about two hours and thirty minutes. We flew with Nolinor during our trip to Churchill and had no issues.

Another option for getting to Churchill is by taking the Via Rail train , which provides service between Churchill and Winnipeg a few times per week. The train journey takes about 45 hours, and it offers a unique way to see the Manitoba landscape.

A few members of our tour group went with this option and thought it was awesome. The train itself is pretty comfortable, even offering a variety of onboard activities, as well as tasty meals.

No matter how you get to Churchill, it is essential to plan ahead. You may need to be prepared for the challenges and potential delays that can be caused by the town’s remote location and the sometimes challenging weather conditions.

Where To Eat In Churchill

Churchill, Manitoba is a small town with a limited number of dining options. However, there are a few restaurants and cafes in town that offer a pretty good range of cuisines and dining experiences.

The Seaport Hotel

This hotel restaurant has two cozy dining rooms that serve a variety of dishes. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and is a good option for a relaxed and affordable meal.

During our visit, we were given the option of having Lemon Pepper Arctic Char, BBQ Baby Back Ribs, Filet Mignon, Roasted Mushroom Ravioli or a Seaport Loaded Salad. We then had cake and coffee to complete our delicious meal.

This casual restaurant is located in the Tundra Inn Hotel and serves a range of dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and entrees. The restaurant has both a pub area as well as a traditional dining room.

The Tundra Inn is definitely one of the most popular restaurants in Churchill and was our favourite. Not only did they serve a variety of comfort foods, but they also had some pretty tasty options that were unique.

During our stay, we had the opportunity to try bison burgers, as well as an elk stew. Both were absolutely delicious and quite filling. We also noticed that a really delicious-looking vegetarian burger was on the menu.

The Tundra Inn restaurant also serves a large buffet breakfast in the morning. With bacon, eggs, pancakes, waffles, cereal, fruit, and more, you can rest assured that you will have enough food to power your adventures for the day!

Lazy Bear Cafe

This cozy restaurant is located inside the Lazy Bear Lodge. The restaurant itself resembles a log cabin complete with a giant stone fireplace in the centre.

The restaurant serves locally-sourced Indigenous-inspired meals including Braised Peppered Elk, Arctic Char and Manitoba Bison. With 15 types of wild berries and several kinds of mushrooms gathered in the area, you know that your made-from-scratch meal will be a culinary adventure.

The Northern Lights Restaurant: This restaurant is located in the Churchill Northern Studies Centre and serves a range of dishes, including soups, sandwiches, and entrees. The restaurant’s casual atmosphere is a good option for a sit-down meal.

If you’re looking for somewhere to grab a quick snack, you could always head to the grocery store in Churchill and pick up some pre-packaged treats. Just be aware, many items are going to be a little pricier than what you are used to.

No matter where you choose to eat in Churchill, it is important to keep in mind that dining options may be limited due to the town’s remote location. It might also be a good idea to plan ahead and bring some non-perishable food items with you if you have specific dietary needs or preferences.

Where To Stay in Churchill Manitoba

Accommodation options in Churchill are very limited, but there are a few hotels, and inns to choose from. It is a good idea to book your accommodations in advance, as the town can get busy during peak tourist seasons.

In fact, one of the reasons we recommend booking your Churchill Manitoba experience through a tour company is that the accommodations tend to book up almost a year in advance. You will have a much better chance of making it to Churchill for your polar bear adventure (with less stress) if a tour company is taking care of all the details.

The Polar Inn

The Polar Inn is located in the heart of Churchill and offers clean and cozy rooms. This was our favourite place to stay in Churchill and was just a short walk from many of the town’s attractions.

Amenities include free breakfast, a private bathroom with a tub, free Wi-Fi, a TV and a refrigerator. There is also a cute gift shop on site.

The Seaport Hotel is located in downtown Churchill and offers a range of room types, including standard rooms, suites, and kitchenettes. The hotel has a restaurant and a bar on-site, and it is a short walk from many of the town’s shops and attractions.

Amenities include a private bathroom with a tub, free Wi-Fi, a microwave and a refrigerator. An airport shuttle is also included in your stay.

The Tundra Inn

The Tundra Inn is located in the downtown area of Churchill and offers a range of room types, including standard rooms and suites. The hotel has a restaurant and a bar located across the street, and it is a short walk from many of the town’s attractions.

Amenities include a free breakfast, a private bathroom with a tub, free Wi-Fi, a TV, a coffee maker, and a refrigerator. An airport shuttle is also included in your stay.

Iceberg Inn

The Iceberg Inn is located closest to the train station and the Parks Canada Visitor Centre. This hotel is the newest in town and offers either a deluxe or twin room.

Amenities include a private bathroom with a tub, free Wi-Fi, and a refrigerator.

🏨 Find the best rates on all Churchill Hotels here.

How To Pack For Churchill Manitoba – Summer

When packing for a trip to Churchill, Manitoba in the summer, it is important to remember that the weather in Churchill can be quite cool, even during the warmer months.

The average temperature in Churchill in July, the warmest month, is around 10-15°C (50-59°F). However, the weather can be quite variable, with a mix of sun and clouds, and occasional rain or fog. And it definitely gets cold at night!

With this in mind, it is a good idea to pack a range of clothing that can be layered to accommodate the varying weather conditions.

Summer Packing List

Some items to consider packing for a summer trip to Churchill include:

• Water and Windproof Jackets or Sweatshirts : These can be worn over t-shirts or long-sleeve shirts to provide extra warmth when it is cooler, or to protect against wind or rain.
• Long pants: It can be cooler in Churchill, even during the summer, so it is a good idea to pack at least one pair of long pants as well as a windproof pair to wear overtop.
• Warm Socks and Hiking Boots: Churchill can be wet and muddy in the summer, so it is important to bring warm, merino wool socks and sturdy boots to protect your feet.
• Sunglasses and Sunscreen: The sun can be strong in Churchill, so it is a good idea to bring sunglasses and sunscreen to protect your skin.
• Insect Repellent or Bug Hat/Jacket: Mosquitoes and other insects can be a nuisance in Churchill, especially during the summer. It is a good idea to bring insect-repellent or bugproof outer layers to keep them at bay.
• Hat and Gloves: It still gets chilly, especially if you are spending many hours at a time outdoors. A warm hat and gloves are always good to have just in case.

How To Pack For Churchill Manitoba – Winter

We visited Churchill in mid-October, and it was already pretty cold. Even when we were in the Tundra Buggy taking photos through the open windows, most of us kept our coats, hats and gloves on. In fact, it was so cold that my camera battery lost power quicker than normal.

So when packing for a trip to Churchill, Manitoba in the winter, it is important to remember that the weather in Churchill can be very cold and harsh. In January, the coldest month, the average temperatures range from -20 to -30°C (-4 to -22°F).

The weather can also be very variable, with a mix of sun, clouds, and snow, and it can be quite windy at times. With this in mind, it is important to pack warm, protective clothing that will keep you comfortable and safe in cold weather conditions.

Winter Packing List

Some items to consider packing for a winter trip to Churchill include:

• Warm Parka and Snowpants: A warm, insulated parka and snowpants are essential for staying comfortable in the cold Churchill weather. Look for a coat with a hood and a high collar to protect your face and neck from the wind.
• Warm Boots: Sturdy, insulated, waterproof boots with good traction are essential for staying warm and safe in Churchill’s snowy and slippery conditions.
• Wool Socks and Inner Layers: Thick, warm socks, and thermal merino inner layers (like long johns) will help to keep you warm and comfortable in the cold weather.
• Warm Hat, Gloves, and Scarf/Neck Gator: A warm hat, gloves, and scarf or neck gator are essential to help protect your head, hands, and neck from the cold and wind.
• Sunglasses and Snow Goggles: The sun can be strong in Churchill, even in winter, so it is a good idea to bring sunglasses and snow goggles to protect your eyes.
• Hand and Toe Warmers: We found these little packets to be indispensable when we were out dogsledding and walking around outside.

Should I Visit Churchill Manitoba with Kids?

Churchill, Manitoba is a perfect destination for families with kids. With its abundant wildlife and natural beauty, Churchill offers a unique and exciting adventure that your kids will never forget.

They will have the opportunity to see polar bears in their natural habitat, watch beluga whales play in Hudson Bay, and explore the tundra on a guided hike. In addition to the amazing wildlife, Churchill also offers educational opportunities, such as learning about the indigenous Inuit culture and visiting the Churchill Northern Studies Centre to learn about the research being conducted in the Arctic.

And although our kids (who were 13 and 15 at the time) were the only ones in our tour group, we did see many families with even younger kids in other groups. Our guides were also very accommodating, taking the time to make sure the kids were comfortable and having fun.

Yes, Churchill is an expensive vacation that may be out of reach for many people. However, we feel that the experience of this once-in-a-lifetime is definitely worth saving for.

Best Time to See Polar Bears in Churchill Manitoba

The best time to see polar bears in Churchill, Manitoba is from July to November.

July and August

In the summer, some polar bears may remain in the Churchill area, and it is possible to spot them from a boat or kayak. It is also when you may have an opportunity to spot a mother bear with her cubs.

But just a heads up, unless you are staying out at a wilderness lodge in the middle of the tundra, spotting polar bears near Churchill is a little more challenging during the summer months.

October and November

Autumn is the absolute best time to spot polar bears in Churchill Manitoba.

This is when the polar bears are migrating from the tundra out to Hudson Bay in search of sea ice. This is also when the polar bears sometimes walk right through town!

During the autumn months, polar bears can be seen in the Churchill area, out on the tundra, and especially along the shorelines. The tundra acts as a feeding ground until they are able to access the sea ice for hunting.

This is an exciting time to visit Churchill, as it is possible to see several polar bears in a relatively short period of time.

No matter when you visit Churchill, it is important to remember that unfortunately, polar bear sightings are never guaranteed. It is a good idea to be prepared for the possibility of not seeing any bears during your visit.

Best Way to See Polar Bears in Churchill Manitoba

The best way to see polar bears in Churchill, Manitoba is to take a guided tour with a reputable tour operator. You will find several local tour operators in Churchill that offer guided tours to see polar bears in their natural habitat.

These tours are a safe and comfortable way to see the bears up close, while at the same time, ensuring that no harm comes to the bears or their environment. In fact, we learned first-hand that reputable companies will do their best to ensure visitors have as little impact on the bears as possible.

Polar Bear Tours in Churchill Manitoba

Polar bear adventures are a popular activity in Churchill, Manitoba. You will find several companies that offer a couple of different options for guided tours that will take you out into the tundra to see polar bears.

Most polar bear tours in Churchill typically involve travelling by tundra buggy. This large, all-terrain vehicle is specially designed to navigate the rugged terrain of the tundra.

Tundra buggy tours offer a safe and comfortable way to see polar bears, as well as other Arctic wildlife such as arctic fox and ptarmigan. The buggies are a lot of fun, have plenty of room to move inside, and also have an onboard washroom.

Tundra buggy tours usually range from half-day tours to multi-day expeditions. Tour operators will offer a range of services, including guided tours, accommodations, and meals.

Book Your Tours in Advance!

Our best piece of advice if you’re interested in taking a polar bear tour in Churchill, is to book it well in advance (and we’re talking almost a year). The tours are small and book up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.

When choosing a tour operator, we would also recommend researching the company’s reputation to ensure that they follow responsible tourism practices, such as minimizing their impact on the environment and respecting the welfare of the animals.

We travelled with Frontiers North and found them to be awesome. Not only was everything planned out for us, but they were definitely respectful of both the wildlife, the environment, as well as the culture of the indigenous people whose lands we were traversing.

❄️ Book your polar bear adventure with Frontiers North here

Churchill Manitoba FAQs

Churchill Manitoba is the Polar Bear AND Beluga capital of the world . So whether you decide to visit in winter or summer, you are guaranteed to see some incredible wildlife!

Yes! Churchill Manitoba is definitely worth visiting. In fact, this remote northern town is quickly becoming an extremely popular must-visit destination .

We would recommend 4 to 5 days in Churchill Manitoba. Not only does it take time to get there, but you want to give yourself at least two days out on the tundra for the best chance to see the polar bears.

October and November  are the best time to see the polar bears in Churchill. This is when the first winter ice begins to appear, and the bears begin to migrate toward Hudson Bay in search of seals.

Although the northern lights can be viewed in Churchill most of the year, January, February and March  offer the best chances since the nights are longer and the weather is cold.

Things to Do in Churchill Manitoba – Final Thoughts

Churchill, Manitoba is a truly unique destination that offers an array of exciting activities and experiences for visitors. From wildlife viewing and Northern Lights watching to hiking and exploring the tundra, there is something for everyone in Churchill. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventurer, or simply looking for a change of pace, Churchill is the perfect place to visit. So why wait? Pack your bags, grab your family, and head to Churchill for an unforgettable adventure. You won’t regret it!

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• 24 Things to Do in Churchill Manitoba – The Ultimate Guide
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• 10 Fun and Interesting Facts About Churchill Manitoba That Will Blow Your Mind!

Marianne Giordano is the founder and writer for The Journeying Giordano's. Together with her husband, John, and their children, the family has travelled to all 10 Canadian provinces. Marianne is responsible for planning all of her family's travel itineraries and dreaming up new adventures. A Canadian native, Marianne shares all her favourite family-friendly things to do in Canada.

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I Traveled to the World's 'Polar Bear Capital' to See These Wild Animals Up Close — Here’s What I Learned

In a small Canadian town just south of the Arctic Circle, bear sightings are becoming increasingly common. One travel writer takes a tundra safari to find out why.

It's one thing to look at a 1,200-pound polar bear from across the snowy tundra. It’s another to get close enough to see the snowflakes on its nose. In Churchill, Manitoba, both kinds of encounters are part of everyday life.

Churchill, set on the western side of Canada’s Hudson Bay, is one of the few places in the world with a human population that routinely interacts with polar bears (the town has 1,050 year-round human inhabitants, and roughly 1,200 ursine visitors that arrive during peak season in the late summer). Signs proudly proclaim it the “polar bear capital of the world.” Bears that wander into town are sometimes safely guided to “polar bear jail” — a former military aircraft hangar where they receive medical attention — and are then tagged and relocated far from town.

While bear-inflicted injuries are rare, they do happen. But there hasn’t been a fatal attack since the 1980s, thanks in part to neighborhood-watch efforts and a new radar system, known as “bear-dar,” that warns townsfolk when an animal is approaching. (Residents also typically leave their car doors unlocked, in case anyone needs to shelter quickly.)

As early as August, the bears — which use sea ice as both a means of transportation and a platform for hunting seals — begin to take refuge on land as the ice begins to recede. They will eventually come back and congregate when the ice returns in October, as they wait to catch their frozen rides out of town. That’s why each fall, some 10,000 travelers make their way to Churchill — usually on a two-hour flight from Winnipeg, as there are no roads into town — for a glimpse of the largest land predator in the world.

From left: Jenny Wong; Heather Greenwood Davis

I arrived in Churchill in November, which is typically just after the viewing season. There was a chance, I was told, that I wouldn’t see any bears. Still, my adrenaline ran high when, clad in cold-weather gear, I shuffled out of the  Aurora Inn , where I’d spent the night. Looking left and right in case a wayward bear strolled by, I crossed the street to meet my fellow watchers. We were all on a five-day trip organized by  Frontiers North Adventures , a family-owned outfitter that has been operating tours around Churchill since 1987. While bears are the big draw, visitors can also sign up to see beluga whales or the northern lights, depending on the season.

We drove out of town to meet Frontier North’s Tundra Buggy, a specialized vehicle that seats 40 and measures 13 feet from wheels to roof. Crossing the terrain, our group stared out the windows, trying our best to figure out if the large white lumps we saw in the distance were mounds of snow or fur, and looking for the telltale black noses of bears lounging in willow shrubs. Once bears were spotted, the buggy stopped. Guests were allowed to wander out to the back deck, which is suspended about five feet off the ground and has a grated floor surrounded on three sides by protective metal walls. We didn’t have to wait long — the bears aren’t shy. (In fact, we spotted about 40 of the creatures over the course of five days.) They put on a show, popping up on their hind legs and resting their front paws on the back of the buggy for a closer look, wrestling each other on the ice, striking yoga poses in the snow, or simply standing alongside the black spruce trees that, in these parts, are barren on one side from the Arctic winds. The experience was magical, but undermined by the fact that the bears weren’t supposed to be there. The season was over, but they had nowhere to go.

I spoke with Geoff York, the senior director of conservation at  Polar Bears International , or PBI, a nonprofit that partners with Frontiers North. He was in a smaller buggy that PBI uses specifically for scientific research. On his laptop, he pulled up a pair of maps, one from 2015 and another from 2021, and pointed out the difference. The area was covered in ice in November 2015. Last fall there was barely a dusting of snow, much less ice. That’s a problem, because without sea ice to travel on, the bears are stuck on land and cut off from their food supply.

“Polar bears are strong swimmers, but they’re not very fast,” Dr. Thea Bechshoft, a marine mammal biologist and staff scientist with PBI, explained from her seat at the front of the research buggy. “If they’re in open water, polar bears don’t stand a chance of catching seals. They need this platform of sea ice.”

Thomas Linkel/laif/Redux

On average, the bears now spend one day more on land than they did the year before, and when the bears are on land, they lose weight. That puts the world’s largest land carnivores at risk — especially for females that need to weigh more than 420 pounds to be able to reproduce. “Females are having fewer cubs on average, and the cubs are also smaller. We’ve lost about 30 percent of the bears in Western Hudson Bay since the 1980s,” Bechshoft said. For the bears that roamed outside our buggy, it had been more than 140 days since their last real meal; anything past 107 gets close to starvation, according to Bechshoft.

Bechshoft and York are two of more than a dozen researchers, scientists, and volunteers at PBI who share reports, give presentations, and run live cameras that offer people around the world a chance to see what’s happening with the bears. At PBI House — an education center in Churchill funded in part by the organization’s largest corporate sponsor, Canada Goose — there are displays, videos, maps, and models to teach travelers about the bears and their habitat.

Once you’ve seen a polar bear in the wild, it’s hard to imagine a world without them. The animals are a bellwether for other impending climate-change realities. To save them — and ourselves — we need to preserve and protect the sea ice, which has a profound influence on the global climate. “We call it the earth’s air conditioner,” Bechshoft explained, because the enormous sheet helps reflect sunlight and keep temperatures down worldwide.

On afternoons when I was not out in the buggy, I explored Churchill, snapping photos of the dozens of murals around town, painted by 18 international artists, and wandering the  Itsanitaq Museum , which has a collection of Inuit carvings and artifacts, some dating back to 1700 B.C. Over evening meals at the  Tundra Pub , my group gathered with the locals to swap stories, mostly about the bears — asking nervously about walks back home in the dark, or sharing recollections of the awe of seeing a mother and cub.

In the end, my only sightings came while inside the buggy, not out on the street. And once a bear was spotted, all conversation stopped. As quietly as possible, windows were lowered and cameras poised. Then, we waited, watched, caught each other’s eyes, and grinned.

A version of this story first appeared in the February 2023 issue of  Travel + Leisure  under the headline "Northern Exposure. "

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9 Things I Wish I Knew Before Watching The Polar Bears Migrate In Churchill, Manitoba

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations

Along the southwest shores of Hudson Bay lies Churchill, Manitoba, which hosts the annual migration of the planet’s biggest land predators. At the top corners of Northern Canada, Churchill stands alone as the “polar bear capital of the world,” with more than 1,000 bears in this single geographical area. Churchill boasts more polar bears than people! In this frozen tundra, you’ll come face to face in the wild with these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat to watch the males “spar,” the females tend to their young, and all graze in search of food. 

I was hosted by Tourism Winnipeg, Travel Manitoba, and Heartland International Travel and Tours, but my opinions are my own. 

Here are some of the things I wished I knew before embarking on this incredible journey.

1. Layer Up

The wind is fierce. Bring clothes to layer like hoodies, t-shirts, a neck warmer, and extra socks. Pack two of everything, like two hats, two pairs of gloves, and an extra scarf. When I embarked on this bucket list experience, the temperature was mild, just over 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The next week the high was only going to be 14 degrees Fahrenheit. However, add in the wind, and the outdoor temperatures can be daunting when you go outside on the viewing platform to take pictures.

Pro Tip: I suggest wearing thin gloves under your mittens so you can manipulate your camera without exposing your skin.

The temperature in the tundra buggy changes. It’s quite warm and cozy, but once the windows are opened for viewing all the action, it quickly gets colder, and you find yourself adding extra layers of clothing. A few minutes later, the buggy warms up and then you find yourself taking the extra clothing off. Just be mindful that you’ll have to do this several times throughout the day.

2. Moisturize And Stay Hydrated

Bring lip balm, and moisturizer because the cooler air does tend to make you feel dry. Wear sunglasses as well as they protect against the wind. Drink lots of water during the day to keep up your fluid intake. Don’t worry — there’s a bathroom on board.

3. Pack Chargers 

Take extra battery chargers for your phone and memory cards for your cameras. The chilly air makes the batteries run down more quickly. There’s nothing worse than wanting to capture that perfect shot and then your battery goes dead.

4. Bring Binoculars 

Bring binoculars so you get a better view of the action as the bears “spar” in the wilderness. Things tend to move quickly in nature and your experience will be that much richer when you’re able to catch the smaller details. Although you’ll have a chance to go outside on the viewing deck, some of the best scenes will be enjoyed through the windows of the tundra buggy, too. 

5. Walk Through Churchill

Churchill is a small town but take the opportunity to experience the local culture. Make sure to see the beautiful and colorful murals. Named the “Sea Walls” project, 18 amazing artists from around the world came to Churchill and created massive murals on local buildings along the shores of Hudson Bay. The murals initially began with a focus on protecting the ocean but have been expanded to include all aspects of the environment. 

6. Buy Local

Support the locals by shopping in town. Buy some soapstone sculptures, Inuit carvings, stuffed polar bears, and other locally-made goods. Moccasins always make great gifts. Try the grocery store, North Mart, for unique souvenirs and candy.

There’s also a great gift shop in the airport called Polar Bear Wear that stays open until the last charter flight departs. If you haven’t found a tee shirt or hoodie you wanted in town, this is a great chance to buy a lasting memento of your trip.

7. Learn About the Polar Bears Before You Go

Polar bears are marine mammals. They remain on the sea ice where they hunt their main prey, the ringed seal, the most abundant seal in the Arctic. They eat one of these seals every three to four days to bulk up for the winter, and usually snack on berries, mushrooms, and red kelp in between. While polar bears hunt on the ice year-round, they are forced ashore until the ice freezes in the fall.

8. The Variety Of Terrains

In addition to the magnificent wildlife, what I also found incredible about this adventure is the number of different terrains you see while riding in the tundra buggy. One minute you pass by tree-dotted landscapes, the next minute the terrain is covered in a blanket of ice and snow. A few minutes later, you see a collection of large, jagged rocks and stones that are remnants from the Ice Age. 

9. Stop In Winnipeg Before Or After Your Journey

Many travelers combine a trip to Churchill with a stop in Winnipeg where indigenous culture, fascinating museums, gourmet dining, and a warm, friendly vibe are waiting for you. Located on the banks of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, this delightful metropolis is the capital city of the province of Manitoba. Winnipeg is a four-season destination with each season offering exciting recreational activities. There are even a few you’ve probably never heard of like riding ice cycles and kick sleds.

Canadian Museum of Human Rights

One of the highlights of the city is the Canadian Museum of Human Rights , the only museum in the world dedicated to human rights issues. Founder Israel Asper wanted to build a family-friendly museum to educate people about the struggle for human rights around the world. Designed by architect Antoine Predock from Albuquerque, New Mexico, this unique structure opened in 2014 and serves as the icon of the city. It must be noted that the museum is located on ancestral lands, treaty one territory.

The museum offers interactive exhibits that teach about the various kinds of human rights violations from indigenous people, black Canadians, the LGBTQ community, people with disabilities, and the Holocaust. It certainly gives one pause for thought for all marginalized people. At the top of the building, you can go out to Israel’s tower and gaze out at the magnificent Winnipeg skyline. 

Forks National Historic Site

Forks National Historic Site has been a meeting place for 6,000 years. Yes, you read that right. Forks is actually where Winnipeg started with the Aboriginal groups. This gave way to the railroads in the prairies, which contributed to the city’s vast growth, and Union Station, which still operates VIA passenger rail today. 

Forks Market

Inside Forks Market is a collection of restaurants from around the world, including Caribbean, Asian fusion, and my personal favorite, fish & chips. On the second floor, you’ll find Manitobah Mukluks filled with all kinds of indigenous goods from moccasins to boots to tapestries and more. Look for live music and other performances at the plaza. 

One must-visit is Thermea — an outdoor Nordic spa just a few miles from downtown Winnipeg. Here you will find a unique relaxation and rejuvenation experience in nature using a series of hot, cold, and resting rituals. Starting at $77 for the day, this multisensory experience will help you connect to nature and creates the ultimate sense of well-being.  

Pro Tip: The Travel Manitoba Visitor Information Centre is located right outside the Forks Market. Check them out for expert trip-planning services around the province.

For more information about visiting Churchill, go to Travel Manitoba’s Everything Churchill page or Tourism Winnipeg .

Bonus Information On Churchill Polar Bears 

The only way to get there is by plane from Winnipeg or an exceptionally long train ride. The best way to experience the polar bears is with a licensed tour company to safely lead the group.

If you long for adventure but are short on time, check out the Heartland International inspiring, one-day journey to Churchill. Departing via a chartered jet in Winnipeg (October to November), you leave early in the morning, land in Churchill, and drive to the launch pad. You’ll spend the day in a comfortable, heated tundra buggy driving around the terrain looking for polar bears, foxes, and other wildlife. Wait, is that a silver fox? Everyone gathers around and someone with a camera and a very long lens snaps a picture. Yes indeed, it is a silver fox, all curled up, taking a nap. The group runs outside to take pictures. 

Pro Tip: There were people on the buggy that used crutches and had other mobility issues, but they were helped onboard and could enjoy the experience. 

Our knowledgeable guide, Trevor, told us that there are three kinds of bears in North America: black bears, brown bears, and polar bears. Only in Churchill can you spot all three. We also came across a red Artic fox that stood out against the landscape. In the warmer weather, Churchill draws explorers looking to spot beluga whales, bird watching, and eagles. 

Then the tundra buggy circles around to another area where two polar bears have been spotted, sparring in the snow, their way of playing. Trevor told us that only the males engage in this type of behavior, similar to roughhousing by teenage boys. 

When the buggy stops after a polar bear sighting, the riders head out to an outdoor viewing area to take pictures. Sometimes a polar bear will approach the buggy, curious as to what it is. Polar bears are not good climbers, so they can’t reach the viewing deck.

As the sun sets, you enjoy dinner in Churchill, shop for a few souvenirs in town, and fly back to Winnipeg the same day. All too soon, you’re on your flight back with visions of polar bears etched forever in your mind. It’s the easiest way to encounter all of Churchill’s wonders in a short amount of time.

According to the Northern Lights Aura application, it was prime time to see the aurora borealis or Northern Lights at night. We could see them as we were flying home.

If you have more time to spend exploring, Heartland International also offers multi-day packages that include dogsledding, coastal roads/hidden trail tours, and another day in the tundra buggy.

Looking back on my grand adventure to Churchill, I am filled with wonder about the natural phenomenon I witnessed in this fragile ecosystem. I can’t wait to return.

Related Reading:

• 11 Things To Do In Winnipeg, Canada
• How To Eat And Drink Your Way Through Winnipeg
• 7 Wonderful Winter Experiences in Winnipeg, Canada

Her stories have appeared in UrbanMatter, Orbitz, Travelocity, Red Tricycle, Tinybeans, and Splash Magazines Worldwide. She is a proud member of Society of American Travel Writers and a former member of International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association. Sporting plenty of bling with notebook in hand, she is always ready for her next adventure. You can further follow her travels on her website, Mira Temkin Travel .

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Photo Expeditions Available

Our immersive polar bear photography adventure includes three full days of photography on the tundra. No one offers you more time and proximity with the King of the Arctic, coupled with an intensive focus on helping you create outstanding images. Our Expedition Leader is an expert nature photographer and naturalist, by your side to offer hands-on coaching and augmenting your learning with evening lectures on Arctic wildlife and landscape photography. With just 16 guests aboard vehicles designed for 30-plus passengers, everyone has a window seat, plenty of room for gear, and space to position for the best shots.

There is a Difference in Polar Bear Tours—Choose Wisely!

• We Hold Exclusive Permits for the Best Bear Viewing Area Not every polar bear tour operator in Churchill holds permits to access the full range of the Churchill Wildlife Management Area where the best—and often only—polar bear viewing occurs. Naturally, the Nat Hab/Great White Bear team possesses one of these permits. Those who don't can only offer trips along the road to Halfway Point, which is, as the name implies, only halfway to the prime polar bear-viewing area . If you’re going to Churchill just once in your life, make it a complete experience!
• Our Polar Rovers are the Most Impressive Vehicles in the North The original tundra buggy designed for polar bear viewing was invented in the 1980s, an innovative concept that has since been substantially improved upon. Our partner in Manitoba, a world-renowned specialty vehicle designer, has created the world's premier tundra vehicle—the Polar Rover—which we operate exclusively in Churchill. Its innovative drive train allows us to traverse the tundra with virtually no chance of breakdowns. With the advanced elite suspension system that smooths the ride, plus on-board flush toilet facilities, our guests enjoy a superior level of comfort and safety. 
• Steel Mesh Flooring Offers Close-Up Bear Observation Built into the rear viewing platform of every Polar Rover is an innovative and exclusive feature we've pioneered for optimal polar bear viewing—corrugated steel-mesh floors that facilitate remarkably close encounters with curious bears that sometimes wander beneath our vehicles!
• The Smallest Groups Ensure the Best Nature Adventures A fundamental element of the best polar bear expedition is a small group. It may cost a little more, but considering the hugely superior experience, we know it’s well worth it. By limiting our groups to approximately 16 guests (even though our Polar Rovers hold more than 30 passengers), we ensure plenty of space aboard our vehicles, room to angle for the best photos, and a window seat for all.
• Private Chartered Planes Maximize Time with the Bears So we don't waste time dealing with airline schedules and airport security screenings, we charter our own aircraft to fly directly between Winnipeg to Churchill at a time that's most convenient for us. We know you'd rather spend your time watching polar bears rather than sitting around airports.
• Sled Dog Experience Included on Every Departure Every one of our Churchill tours includes a personal visit with a local dog musher and his team, and a ride through the boreal forest behind a team of sled dogs. Earlier in the season, if there isn't sufficient snow cover, the dogs pull us in a wheeled cart. But whenever you come to Churchill, this authentic northern adventure is part of your experience. 
• We Provide Heavy Parkas & Winter Boots for Your Use No need to go spend a lot of money buying heavy outdoor gear you may use just once—we provide Arctic-style parkas and heavy-duty winter boots for your use in Churchill, at no cost. 
• Special Photography Departures Spend Three Full Days on the Tundra If you're especially interested in polar bear photography, choose a Photo Tour: Our custom Polar Rovers get us in prime range of our subjects, and photo departures spend three full days roving the tundra in search of bears and other Arctic wildlife, with expert photography coaching from our Expedition Leader. 
• The Finest Naturalist Guides on the Planet Natural Habitat Adventures is known for employing the highest-quality guides in the industry. Our Polar Bear Expedition Leaders—who have been guiding bear tours for an average of more than 10 years each—receive additional training and resources from WWF’s top scientists, ensuring a superlative interpretive experience. Expedition Leaders meet you in Winnipeg and travel with the group the entire way, sharing their wealth of knowledge and insight at every turn. On our special photo departures, guides are professional photographers with extensive experience photographing polar bears and other Arctic wildlife—and they're constantly by your side to share their knowledge. Our philosophy is pretty simple: a nature adventure is only as good as the guide, so we simply must provide the best! See Expedition Leader bios with traveler comments regarding the quality of our leaders.
• Local Cultural Interactions Enhance Our Adventures Through years of developing close relationships with local people, we are able to offer our guests exclusive opportunities to meet revered elders of First Nations, Inuit and Metis cultural groups in Churchill. These storytellers are some of the most senior in their communities, passing on their knowledge of the past to younger generations and also to our travelers.
• Our Quality-Value Guarantee Ensures Your Special Polar Bear Experience Natural Habitat Adventures offers an exclusive guarantee, clearly stating that we will meet the lofty expectations we set in our promotional materials. To our knowledge, this is the most ambitious guarantee made by any adventure travel company. Read our important promise.
• Feel Good About Your Carbon-Neutral Journey We care deeply about our planet, as we know you do. When you travel with us, the carbon emissions from your trip are 100% offset—including your round-trip flights from home. Natural Habitat Adventures has been the world’s first carbon-neutral travel company since 2007.

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Manitoba Road Trips: Venture to Churchill

Posted April 08, 2024

Take Highway 6 north and explore the shores of Lake Manitoba as you head toward the coast of the Hudson Bay.

This summer, we're featuring an amazing collection of road trips that will help you explore every corner of Manitoba. The Journey to Churchill road trip takes you up the eastern side of Lake Manitoba, north to Thompson and then to the polar bear capital of the world. Take one part of the itinerary for a day trip, or combine them for a multi-day trip.

With a name like Rubber Ducky Resort and Campground , you know this park means serious business when it comes to keeping your kids entertained. But not to worry, this park hasn’t forgotten about the adults. From its two pools and two hot tubs, to the stocked rainbow trout pond, duck pond, pool hall, mini golf course and outdoor movie theatre, there’s enough fun to go around. Oh, did we mention the Ducky Express Train? This fun ride is available on weekends at the campground.

Lundar Be sure to stop at Lundar, Manitoba. Here, you'll find Lundar Beach Provincial Park where you can explore one of Manitoba's natural marshlands. Lake Manitoba is home to a healthy population of birds which include pelicans, songbirds and ducks. Spend a day on the beach or head into town to catch a glimpse into the region's history at the Lundar Museum . The sunsets over the lake can't be beat! While there, peek in to see Manitoba's largest goose. Situated along the north-south flyway, the goose rests upon a revolving mount that turns with the wind.

Eriksdale If butter makes you swoon, then stop in at Eriksdale Creamery Museum . One of a kind in Manitoba, it showcases the functions and equipment of making the world’s most beloved toast topping. Constructed around 1912, the building was of standard wood-frame construction and, like many early creameries, in later years focused on butter-finishing and cutting. The Eriksdale Creamery ceased operation permanently in 1990.

Take a short detour off HWY 6 to Steep Rock , easily one of the most popular and most photographed spots in Manitoba. In summer, cabin-goers flock to the shores of Lake Manitoba, where impressive cliffs tower over the lake below. Here thousands of years of waves lapping against limestone have created unique rock formations.

Little Limestone Lake

This stunning lake found at the northern tip of Lake Winnipeg, along a remote stretch of Hwy 6 through traditional territory of Mosakahiken Cree Nation, is on record to be the largest and most dramatically colour-changing marl lake in the world. Depending on the heat of the day, the colour can change from vibrant turquoise to calming robin’s egg blue due to increasing levels of calcite from the lake’s limestone bottom. Travellers to this provincially protected area need to be resourceful and adventurous as there are limited services and amenities to guide your way, whether you’re exploring by paddling, fishing or hiking.

Paint Lake Provincial Park

The pristine boreal wilderness of Paint Lake easily rivals the beauty of the Whiteshell and Nopiming in southern Manitoba. Better yet, it is more off the beaten path. At the park’s heart is Paint Lake Marina, the largest in Manitoba, where anglers and avid boaters meet under the scorching summer sun. Spend the night at Paint Lake Lodge . This family-run resort offers all-season vacation cabin rentals and one of the tastiest kitchens in the North. Camping abounds at Paint Lake with plenty of seasonal and overnight sites, and yurts with a lake view that make you feel like you are on a private island. Sunbathe at either of the two secluded beaches and when the sun is at its peak, cool off by walking the shaded Coffee Cove Hiking Trail that takes you through a forested rocky outcrop.

Pisew Falls Provincial Park

The profile of Pisew Falls Provincial Park , can’t be missed thanks to its Insta-worthy waterfall. You can hear the falls as soon as you exit your car in the parking lot; just follow your ear down a short boardwalk to two viewing platforms to take in the awesome site. Pisew, which means lynx in Cree, is where the Grass River drops 13 meters, switches directions and plunges through a gorge. Once you’ve got your fill of these falls, head over to the 0.5 km trail that leads to lower Pisew Falls, where a rotary bridge offers views of more rapids.

Another option for the very adventurous is the 30 km (return) Pisew-Kwasitchewan hike that starts at the end of the rotary bridge and is considered one of the most challenging backcountry trails in Manitoba. The rugged terrain leads hikers down the Grass River, a route travelled for thousands of years by Indigenous peoples and then during the late 1700s fur trade by Hudson Bay and Northwest Company men. Camping is allowed at designated sites, so plan to stay overnight when you reach the awesome climax of Kwasitchewan Falls, Manitoba’s highest waterfall (14 meters).

Sasagiu Rapids

Just beyond Pisew Falls lies Sasagiu Rapids Provincial Park part of the Grass River system; a waterway with historical relevance to Canada’s fur trading past. If you’re looking for a place to stay while in Sasagiu, you’ll receive a warm welcome at Sasagiu Rapids Lodge , where you can take in an afternoon boat ride on stunning Setting Lake with views of the boreal forest enfolding both sides of the lake. The parks rapids, opportunities for fishing, flora and fauna – lookout for the beaver dams along the lake and eagles flying overhead – abound. The lodge’s restaurant serves up delicious, authentic Thai cuisine with traditional dishes made from scratch and served in rustic surroundings.

At last, set your feet in the northern city of Thompson , famous for its nickel mines and nearby wolf population. Start your visit at the Heritage North Museum to discover the heart of Thompson’s identity. Not only will you see much of the wildlife native to the area housed in this grand spruce wood log structure, you will also gain a better understanding of how this mining town came to be. Located behind the museum is the Spirit Way Trail , a curated pathway and biking trail through the heart of Thompson that takes visitors past 16 points of interest, wolf statues and the iconic 10-storey wolf mural of a Robert Bateman painting that helps the city earn its moniker ‘the wolf capital of the world.’ Plan for about two hours to take in the sites along the two kilometre path.

Churchill It’s time to hop aboard the train north. There are no roads to leading to the tiny town of Churchill (home to about 800 residents, 1000 polar bears and in the summer, about 57,000 beluga whales). The overnight train journey travels only 260 km but takes about 16 hours due to the uneven terrain created by the permafrost that exists below. So, sit back and relax and watch the wildlife and scenery pass you by as you traverse over boreal terrain into the taiga and Churchill’s sub-arctic wilderness. Upon arrival in Churchill, there are numerous options for exploring the history, culture and wildlife of this bucket-list destination.

Known as the "canaries of the sea" for their underwater whistles and chirps, beluga whales are notoriously friendly and curious creatures. Each summer, 57,000 of these amazing animals make their way to the Hudson Bay to feed and give birth. 4000 of them enter the Churchill River Estuary. Experience this phenomenon by boat tour, sea kayaking or stand up paddle board. While they aren’t as active in the summer, Churchill is also home to the world’s most accessible polar bear population and you have a good chance to see bears as they lounge on the shorelines and play in the vibrant fireweed.

Churchill Beyond Wildlife

Northern Lights While peak northern lights season occurs from January to March, Churchill sees the sky light up with the aurora borealis 300 days a year, which means there's a pretty good chance you'll see them on your summer trip to Churchill. The trick is to download the aurora app to track activity, keep an eye on the forecast (clear skies are necessary) and be prepared to stay up late or set an alarm for the middle of the night when the sky is at its darkest.

Prince of Wales Fort National Historic Site

Embark on a guided tour and discover the Prince of Wales Fort National Historic Site , an early 18th century Hudson's Bay Company fur trade fortress. These stone ruins hold stories of fur trade days gone by; complete with a canon, the remains of a powder magazine, and carved signatures of historic people who once inhabited or passed through the fort.

Itsanitaq Museum

This unassuming museum is open year-round and features one of the world's finest collections of Inuit carvings and artifacts. These delicate and intricate works of art date back to Pre-Dorset (1700 BC) times. Sea walls murals Initiated and led by celebrated Manitoban artist Kal Barteski , SeaWalls CHURCHILL is a collection of murals that not only inspire but also educate on the need to protect the world's oceans. The murals can be accessed by a self-guided driving tour. Shopping Don't leave Churchill without finding that perfect souvenir keepsake. Must-shops include the Arctic Trading Company, Fifty Eight North and Wapusk General Store.

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The BEST Ways to Get From Winnipeg to Churchill (for 2024)

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Compiled by the Road Trip Manitoba team

Last updated on January 17, 2024

Churchill, Manitoba, often dubbed “the polar bear capital of the world” (and the best spot to see polar bears in Canada ), is one of Manitoba’s most incredible locations. There are very few places around the world where you can see so many polar bears and beluga whales in the wild, so it’s no wonder that Churchill is such a draw for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. There’s also a rich culture and history, Northern Lights viewing, mural tours, art galleries, and so many more things to do in Churchill .

From July to November, many tourists make their way to Churchill in order to see the polar bears, the beluga whales, or both, depending on the season. July, August, and September are known for spotting belugas in Hudson Bay and the Churchill River, although it’s still possible to see polar bears during these months, too. October and November are the most popular months for seeing polar bears, as they’re often quite easily found on the snowy tundra. January, February, and March are popular for the Northern Lights, which are at their brightest and most visible during the colder and darker months.

Seeing as it’s so remote, this tiny community on Hudson Bay has very few options when it comes to actually getting there, but you’ll most likely start your trip in Winnipeg, Manitoba’s capital city. Thankfully, there are regular plane and train routes from Winnipeg to Churchill during tourist season. Our biggest tip? Book EARLY. Tours, flights, trains, and accommodations all fill up months in advance, especially when it comes to tourist season. Here, then, is everything you need to know about getting from Winnipeg to Churchill.

Land Acknowledgments

Manitoba is made up of Treaty 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 Territory, as well as communities that are signatories to Treaty 6 and Treaty 10. Manitoba is home to the original lands of the Anishinaabe, Anish-Ininiwak, Dakota, Dene, Ininiwak, and Nehethowuk peoples, as well as the homeland of the Métis peoples.

About the Route

Winnipeg to Churchill is approximately 1,000 kilometres as the crow flies, and the two are found at near north and south opposites of one another in Manitoba. However, there are no paved roads that lead directly to Churchill, making this route slightly more complicated than others in the province. If you plan on visiting Churchill, your journey will have to involve a train or a plane at some point; there is currently no way to drive a car or take a bus to Churchill.

If you do want to drive the majority of the way to Churchill, most people drive from Winnipeg to Thompson and then take the train or fly from there. More on that below.

Winnipeg to Churchill by Plane

Without a doubt, the fastest and the most convenient way to get from Winnipeg to Churchill is by plane. Thankfully, there are many flights from Winnipeg to Churchill per week during tourist season, although air service is indeed available all year round. We highly recommend booking your flight well in advance of your trip, because flights fill up quickly, especially in polar bear season.

Calm Air is the best airline to get you from Winnipeg to Churchill (and, often, the only one). Your flight will depart from Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport and arrive at Churchill Airport. Flying to Churchill from Winnipeg takes approximately two hours, but be prepared for inclement weather to possibly delay or even cancel your flight; you are travelling to the rugged North, after all!

If you end up booking a tour – we’re big fans of Lazy Bear Expeditions here at Road Trip Manitoba – your flight is often included in your package price.

It is also possible to fly to Churchill with Calm Air from either Thompson or Gillam, so another option is to take the train or drive to either location and then fly to Churchill from there.

Winnipeg to Churchill by Train

Feeling adventurous? A fantastic way to see Manitoba is to do so by train. VIA Rail Canada offers trains from Winnipeg to Churchill every Sunday and Tuesday, while the train departs Churchill every Thursday and Saturday for the journey back to Winnipeg. Just as with flying to Churchill, we recommend booking your train tickets well in advance of your journey. Be sure to check prices and book your train tickets via the VIA Rail Canada website .

Taking the Churchill train is usually cheaper than flying, but it’s always important to compare prices and plan ahead of time in order to find the cheapest way to Churchill. Be prepared to settle in and get cozy: the train from Winnipeg to Churchill takes approximately 48 hours , or two full days. But don’t worry… you’ll have gorgeous Manitoba scenery out your window to keep you entertained! In fact, you’ll cover 1697 kilometres by train to Churchill once you leave Union Station in Winnipeg.

Another option is to take the train from Thompson or Gillam to Churchill. Some people drive or take the bus to either location and then catch the Churchill train from there.

Winnipeg to Churchill by Car

Currently, there are no paved roads that lead all the way to Churchill. However, if you would like to drive for most of the way, many people drive to Thompson or Gillam and then fly or take the train the remainder of the way. Winnipeg to Thompson is approximately 760 kilometres, or around eight hours of driving, while Winnipeg to Gillam is approximately 1,000 kilometres or about 11 hours of driving. It’s certainly an amazing way to see Manitoba, and you get to stop wherever you’d like along the way!

We have an entire guide on getting from Winnipeg to Thompson , including information about renting a car in Winnipeg.

Winnipeg to Churchill by Bus

Currently, there are no paved roads that lead all the way to Churchill, so taking a bus directly to Churchill isn’t an option. However, it is possible to take a bus to Thompson or Gillam and then fly or take the train from there.

Thankfully, there are multiple bus routes from Winnipeg to Thompson and Gillam. Prices and journey times will differ depending on the company, the day, and the time of year. We always recommend booking your bus journey ahead of your intended day of travel in order to find the cheapest price and best option for your trip.

The bus lines that run north from Winnipeg include Mahihkan Bus Lines , NCN Thompson Bus Lines , and Maple Bus Lines .

Winnipeg to Churchill by Other Options

It is entirely possible to take a private transfer or tour from Winnipeg to Churchill; you’ll have to book a private charter flight in order to do so. Be prepared to pay, though, as it is extremely expensive!

We hesitate to recommend any specific charter companies or private tours, as they can change daily. If this is something that interests you, we recommend reaching out to a travel agent that specializes in travel to Churchill.

Things to Do Along the Way to Churchill

If you’re driving north from Winnipeg to Thompson or Gillam, and you’re not in a huge rush, there are tons of spots to explore along the way. After all, you have hundreds of kilometres of Manitoba to drive across! Here are a few of our favourite stops along the way:

• As you’re driving past so much water on your journey – both Lake Manitoba and Lake Winnipeg are on the route – make sure to stop at one of Manitoba’s beaches ! One of our favourites is Twin Lakes Beach, about 100 kilometres northwest of Winnipeg.
• Head to Steep Rock on the edge of Lake Manitoba, where you’ll find one of the province’s most popular spots for photography due to its stunning rock formations.
• You also pass by many Manitoba provincial parks on your route from Winnipeg to Thompson; you might want to stop for a little adventure, picnic, or hike. Some of the best include Lundar Beach Provincial Park, Little Limestone Lake Provincial Park, and/or Pisew Falls Provincial Park.

• Stay at family-run Paint Lake Lodge in the middle of a boreal forest; Paint Lake Provincial Park is one of our top recommended spots in Northern Manitoba.
• While Lake Manitoba and Lake Winnipeg dominate the Manitoba landscape, there are actually over 100,000 lakes in the province… and you’ll pass by many of them on your journey to Thompson or Gillam! One of our absolute favourite lakes in Manitoba is Little Limestone Lake, a shimmering turquoise lake that changes colour depending on the light. It’s perfect for canoeing or kayaking in summer.

Upon Arrival in Churchill

You made it!

The Churchill Airport is very close to town – if you have a tour booked, they’ll arrange your transportation to your accommodation – and the train station is directly in town.

However you’ve chosen to get from Winnipeg to Churchill, once you arrive in the community, you’ll probably want to get something to eat or check in to your accommodation. Also, keep in mind there is also the Town of Churchill website for lots of tourist and travel information and advice on what to do in the “polar bear capital of the world”.

Where to Stay in Churchill

For places to stay, we recommend the Iceberg Inn , the Churchill Hotel , or the Bear Country Inn . All of these offer clean and comfortable accommodations, ensuring you a good night’s sleep so you can explore Churchill the following day. We have an entire guide on the best Churchill hotels .

For a more intimate local experience, book a stay at Sarah’s Dreamhouse B&B . They offer free pickup and drop-off at the airport, and you’ll be treated to breakfast every morning.

There are also lots of specialty accommodation options in Churchill, including the Frontiers North Adventures’ Tundra Buggy Lodge, the Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge and the Lazy Bear Lodge – an authentic Arctic log cabin.

Where to Eat in Churchill

There are not many restaurants in Churchill , but there are some options for good quality eats. We recommend eating at the Lazy Bear Café , the Tundra Inn Dining Room and Pub , or the Seaport Hotel , but note that some restaurants are seasonal and not open all year round! And if you want a truly unique dining experience, check out Dan’s Diner (a pop-up restaurant in February and March so that you can view the Northern Lights while you dine).

Planning to spend some time in the province’s capital before heading north? Don’t miss our guide on all the great things to do in Winnipeg . (Also, check out our article on our most beloved restaurants in Winnipeg as well!)

And if you’re making ANY drive in the province, don’t forget to download our FREE Road Trip Manitoba bingo cards to amp up the fun!

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How To Get to Churchill, Manitoba (the Cheapest and Fastest Way)

By Author Hal Brindley

Posted on Published: September 23, 2013  - Last updated: April 1, 2023

Adventure wildlife travelers have two great reasons to get to Churchill, Manitoba on Canada’s Hudson Bay: to swim with beluga whales in the summer (update: this is no longer allowed) and to see polar bears in the fall. Some even will venture on a walk with polar bears safari !

There’s no place in the world more accessible or more predictable to see either of these creatures in such great numbers. (Watch our videos about snorkeling with belugas and kayaking with belugas and  How To See Polar Bears in the Summer ) But accessible is a relative term.

* This article may contain affiliate links. We receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. *

You see, there is no road running to Churchill. You have only two choices and neither one is cheap: airplane or train. Generally airplane is the fastest and train is the cheapest, but there are a few other options to consider if you want to come up with the perfect hybrid of cheap and fast. (The following scenarios assume you are traveling through Winnipeg to Churchill.)

By the way, there are lots of things to do in Churchill , not just see polar bears and belugas!

Read Next: Our Best Polar Bear Photos

What is the Fastest Way to Get to Churchill?

Traveling by plane is certainly the fastest and easiest way. You catch a plane from somewhere in the world to Winnipeg, Manitoba. While there you can get psyched up by visiting some of their local wildlife-related attractions (read our article Wildlife Weekend in Winnipeg ). We recommend you stay at the Fairmont in downtown (I mean, they have an indoor salt-water pool!).

Then you jump on a smaller plane and make the short flight, approximately two hours, and land in Churchill. That’s it, Winnipeg to Churchill done. But it is also outrageously expensive for the distance traveled.

At the time of writing, a round trip ticket from Winnipeg to Churchill in polar bear season (November) cost around $1300. However, if you sign up for the Calm Air Newsletter you can be one of the first to hear about discounted seat sales. Visit the Calm Air website for current fares and schedules for flights to Churchill Manitoba.

AIRPLANE : Total Cost: $1300. Total Time: 2 Hours

Read Next: Walking With Polar Bears in Manitoba; The Ultimate Canadian Safari

What is the cheapest way to get to churchill.

Traveling by train is definitely the slowest way, and though it’s often considered the cheapest, that’s not necessarily true. The Via Rail Train from Winnipeg to Churchill takes almost 45 hours (two full days!). In fact, some have dubbed it “the slowest train in the world” and you can pick up a postcard to that effect in Thompson.

Why is it so dang slow? Because the repeated freezing and thawing of the marshy ground causes the tracks to buckle and heave, and traveling too quickly will almost certainly derail the train. I’m writing this on the train right now (read our post about Slow Travel in Manitoba ) and we seem to be moving at about a brisk walking pace.

TIP: If the train isn’t too crowded in economy seating, ask the attendant to turn the seats around in front of you and it will create something vaguely resembling a bed.

However, taking the train is substantially cheaper than flying. In fact a round trip ticket between Winnipeg and Churchill on an economy seat at the time of writing costs only $340 If you feel like living it up you can get a sleeper cabin. A single costs $928 and a double cabin costs $1392 (or roughly $700 per person).

One big benefit to taking the train the whole way is that it is certainly the most environmentally friendly mode of transportation with far lower carbon emissions than a plane. Unless of course you manage to sail into the Hudson Bay under wind power or walk straight through polar bear country (which I wouldn’t recommend.) Visit the Via Rail website for rates and schedules.

TRAIN : Total Cost: $340. Total Time: 45 hours.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: TRAIN SERVICE REINSTATED

As of June 9th 2017, the train service between Gillam and Churchill is suspended indefinitely. According to the press release issued by Via Rail , service will resume when the track reopens. Due to catastrophic flooding (caused by two huge March blizzards), the track has been damaged in at least 19 locations and may take more than a year to repair.

Update: After 18 months of hard work, the train from Winnipeg to Churchill was reinstated on the 4th of December, 2018.

  What is the Cheapest AND Fastest Way to Get to Churchill?

1) drive to thompson, train from thompson to churchill.

But there’s one more option that most people don’t think of. Drive your own car to Thompson and then get an economy seat on the train the rest of the way. This is actually the cheapest way to get to Churchill if you’re driving your own vehicle, especially if there are two or more of you in the car. Plus it’s much faster than taking the train all the way from Winnipeg.

Driving the 475 miles between Winnipeg and Thompson takes only about 8 and a half hours, as opposed to the 24+ hours it takes the train to cover the same distance (because it veers all the way into Saskatchewan and back).

If you drive to Thompson, then you’ll only have a 16-hour overnight train ride remaining to Churchill. Yes the train from Thompson to Churchill is still painfully slow for covering only 300miles, but it’s much better than starting on the train in Winnipeg. The roads are fast and well-maintained, the scenery is beautiful and the attractions are many. We saw two different black bears along the drive and camped by a beautiful lake.

We took our time and spent two days but it could easily be done in one. We drove up during beluga whale season (July-August) and the weather was great, although the mosquitoes were fierce. Keep an eye on weather and road conditions if driving up during polar bear season (November)

Here’s my scenario (based on 2-person occupancy, $1.30/liter gas, and my car which gets 24 miles per gallon):

• Gas from Winnipeg to Thompson round trip = $190 (For two people in a car this = $95 gas per person)
• Economy train fare Thompson to Churchill round trip = $118

As you can see this is even cheaper than an economy train ticket all the way from Winnipeg (depending on your fuel efficiency and how many are in your car), and with proper planning, the trip can theoretically be done in only 24 hours instead of 48. If you have to rent a car at a minimum of $50 a day, then the cost gets prohibitively high again and it doesn’t really make sense.

DRIVE TO THOMPSON, THEN TRAIN FROM THOMPSON TO CHURCHILL : Total Cost: $213. Total Time: 24 hours

2) Bus to Thompson, Train to Churchill

A roughly equal alternative to this technique is to take a bus from Winnipeg to Thompson and then an economy seat on the train from Thomson to Churchill .

The bus rate when I just looked it up was $178 round trip and the time in transit was about 9 hours. This means it is about the same price as a single person driving a car (though you’d still have to fly yourself to Winnipeg) and only marginally slower. Plus it is even more environmentally friendly. BUT NOTE: even though total time in transit is still roughly 24 hours, according to my research the bus arrives at 6:30PM and the train leaves at 5:00PM so you can’t actually catch them back to back and make the full journey in under 24 hours. I do see an overnight arriving in Thompson at 7AM (leaving a ten-hour layover in Thompson) making a total travel time of about 36 hours.

See below about what to do when you’re hanging around in Thompson. Visit Greyhound Canada for current rates and schedules.

BUS, THEN TRAIN Total Cost: $296. Total Time: 36 hours

3) Drive to Thompson, Fly Standby to Churchill

This is the best kept secret about the cheapest and fastest way to get to Churchill. You can actually drive (or take a bus) to Thompson and then fly standby on Calm Air to Churchill for substantially cheaper than the published fares. Simply call reservations (1-888-CALM-AIR) to inquire about availability and rates on standby fares flying from Thompson to Churchill. These unpublished fares are only available in Thompson and farther north; you can’t get them from Winnipeg. So if you have a little flexibility and a little luck you can cut your transit time by quite a bit, without paying the full painful airfare from Winnipeg.

Here’s how I estimated total cost. Gas for two people round trip Winnipeg to Thompson is about $190 so for two people in the car that’s $95 each. I just called the number and was told that current round trip standby airfare between Thompson and Churchill is $589. Visit the Calm Air website to find other current deals between Thompson and Churchill.

DRIVE, THEN FLY STANDBY Total Cost: $684. Total Time: 10 hours

Where Do I Leave My Car in Thompson?

You can just leave your car at the train station for free, and many people do just that. Don’t let reports of crime in Thompson scare you. This is a pretty safe option. However, if you’re really paranoid, there is another great option: leave your car at the McCreedy Campground and catch their shuttle to the train station. They will only charge you $8 per day to leave your car in their parking area and included in that price is shuttle service to and from the train station. This is your ONLY good option if you’re driving an RV.

That’s what we chose to do and Colleen was very friendly and helpful. Contact Colleen at [email protected] for more info or call 204-778-8810 or 204-677-4837. I’ve also read you can leave your car at the Thompson City Hall with 24 hour security, provided you make a small charitable donation (phone 204-677-7910).

Where To Stay in Thompson?

Trains only leave for Churchill on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. If you don’t plan your arrival correctly, you may find yourself hanging around for a day or two. Don’t fret. There are lots of great lodging options in Thompson.

Budget travelers will enjoy the McCreedy Campground mentioned above because it’s in a beautiful natural spot next to the river and very close to town. We stayed at the Lakeview Inns & Suites and thought it was excellent. The service was friendly, we used the coin-op laundry on site, and had a nice breakfast included (I love those waffle machines.) It also has a fitness center, but we are lazy and didn’t check it out.  Click here to check current prices and availability at the Lakeview Inns & Suites .

Other places to stay in Thompson:

• Best Western Thompson: Just like the Lakeview, it is an excellent choice of hotel in Thompson. It has a fitness center, free wifi, and breakfast is included.  Click here to check current prices and availability .
• Days Inn & Suites: Another great option for your stay in Thompson. Wifi, breakfast, and also a fitness center.  Click here to check current prices and availability.

What Do I Do In Thompson While I’m Waiting For the Train

If you’re on your way to Churchill to see wildlife, then Thompson is a great destination of its own. It has begun to bill itself as “The Wolf Capital of Canada.” Is Thompson actually the wolf capital of Canada? Well, maybe not quite yet. But it certainly is well on its way to becoming so. It all began with the world’s largest wolf mural (10 stories tall!) and has bloomed into a series of projects aimed at making Thompson a world-class wolf tourism destination.

First of all, there are plenty of wolves around. We spoke at a Chamber of Commerce luncheon and I asked by show of hands how many had seen wolves around Thompson. All fifteen of them had, except for one guy who had only lived in the area for a week.

Roughly half of them had seen a wolf this year alone, and that was without actually trying. Secondly, plans are under way to lure international wolf research projects to the area and to construct an impressive nature center with a world-class wolf enclosure. Throw in a few excellent wolf tracking tour guides and Thompson just might pull it off.

After speaking with some of the dedicated volunteers behind these projects, I have no doubt that they will. Until then you can walk the Spirit Way and check out the wolf mural and visit the museum. And if you have your own car, take a short drive north of town and watch beavers working on their lodge , or head south to look for otters near the Pisew Falls.

Summary of How to Get To Churchill

In short, if you’re long on money and short on time, take a plane. If you love slow trains and want to minimize your carbon footprint, take the train from Winnipeg. If you want to save a few bucks and want to see some beautiful destinations along the way (including the up-and-coming wolf capital of Canada) then drive yourself to Thompson and take a train the rest of the way.

Disclosure: We had several sponsors that made this trip possible for us. Namely Travel Manitoba who provided our stay in Thompson and Tourism Winnipeg who provided our lodging in Winnipeg. Our train ride was provided by VIA Rail. However, all the opinions expressed herein are entirely our own.

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Hal Brindley

Brindley is an American conservation biologist, wildlife photographer, filmmaker, writer, and illustrator living in Asheville, NC. He studied black-footed cats in Namibia for his master’s research, has traveled to all seven continents, and loves native plant gardening. See more of his work at Travel for Wildlife , Truly Wild , Our Wild Yard , & Naturalist Studio .

Thursday 29th of July 2021

Surprisingly no mention of great birding as this destination is highly desirable, and staying at the research center is a possibility.

Sunday 7th of October 2018

I am a former resident of Churchill. In fact I was born up there. Accommodations can be made a whole host of ways. Look online to see what's available and phone them. There is a road to get to Gillam from Thompson. But am told that it provides it's own unique challenges. If you stay at a local hotel there while you're over-nighting, you can ask the manager, or owner if it's okay to keep the vehicle in their parking lot. The only Ice road to make it up to Churchill was created for the winter of 2017-2018. It took 2 months to complete and can only be used by snow tracked vehicles. Other wise the only current 2 ways to get to Churchill is by boat (cruise ships) that very rarely go there, or by air. With the completion of the rail and the trains can start using them on Nov. or Dec. 2018, keep checking the prices. It might be too late to see the polar bears, But The Aurora should put on a spectacular show. For those reading this. The best time to see the Belugas are the months of early or mid July through till early or mid Sept. Polar Bears are best to seen in mid or late Sept. through till early or mid Nov. For viewing Auroras, In the summer it's all most impossible for 1 month on either side of the longest day. For the rest of the year, wait about 1-2 hours after sunset and look strait up on a clear night. Enjoy.

karl luther

Wednesday 12th of September 2018

When I drove to Thompson in November roads were clear. When I drove back there was a snow storm and I followed a plow truck a good part of the way back!

Monday 9th of April 2018

Hi, Great article thanks. I hope i wont come out harsh with my comment. When you look back it, and looking at all the other trips that you have made in Canada and elsewhere in the world, realistically do you really think this trip worth the effort and cost for you? Would you have rather done some other of your trips instead or use the same budget for a much longer trip.

I bet is very beautiful and would offer some unique wildlife exposure opportunities and when you have a lot of time-when not working,retired,etc- or money it would definitely worth it. And my partner is dying to see the polar bears in the wild.

But I am trying to decide if for an early 30s, well traveled couple with limited time and budget for trips, if such an expensive-short-low value for money- trip really worth it. We live in Toronto atm and we traveled 80 days around south America with an all-in budget of 6000cad per person. We traveled Iceland for a week, seeing the most diverse and dramatic landscape for such a small area for just over 1100 cad.

A 5-8 days trip to Churchill seems that it will burn at least the 1/3 or 1/2 depending if we choose to sacrifice time and comfort to get there. Also Canada has other incredible destinations like the east coast, west coast, rockies, vancouver island which seem to be a lot more easier accessible and better value for money. Right now a week i

Wednesday 11th of April 2018

Hi Yian, of course only you can decide if it's worth it. There is no more predictable place on the planet to swim with beluga whales and see lots of polar bears (and even walk with them at Churchill Wild's Nanuk Lodge). If you want an intimate experience with these animals, then yes it is absolutely worth it. If you don't really care about seeing polar bears and belugas, then I would say no it is not worth it. Pretty straight forward I guess! I have been 3 times already and it's still worth it to me. -Hal

Friday 23rd of June 2017

Some other worthwhile items to consider, there are best months to see the polar bears, different month for beluga whales when they're calving in the Churchill river estuary and the other big attraction imo is the northern lights which combined with very long sunsets and very long sunrises make for a terrific 20 hr light show. Sadly there is no best time for all three of these features. Take the train if you possibly can, once it's operational again - there are only a handful of comparable train trips to be found anywhere in the world.

Hi Tony, You're right, the peaks of each of these spectacles do not line up very well. Thankfully it is quite possible to see all three in a single trip. We've successfully seen all of them on a trip in July and another trip in August (in fact we saw the aurora from the train in July!) This is great beluga season, but obviously not prime polar bear season (which is now in November). However we saw a bunch of bears during each of our summer visits so it can be done! Thanks for your input Tony! -Hal

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