Destination Debrief: Churchill, Canada – Encountering Polar Bears with Natural Habitat Adventures
There are few wildlife experiences as powerful—or as humbling—as seeing a polar bear in its natural habitat. I recently traveled with Natural Habitat Adventures (NatHab) to Churchill, Manitoba, often called the “Polar Bear Capital of the World,” to witness this extraordinary spectacle firsthand. What I found was more than a trip—it was a reminder of how travel can connect us to wild places, conservation, and community in deeply meaningful ways.
The Experience
This journey is best described as a one-species safari. Each day, we ventured deep into the Arctic tundra aboard custom-built “polar rovers,” searching for the Western Hudson Bay population of polar bears as they waited for sea ice to return. Every guest has a guaranteed window seat, and NatHab intentionally limits capacity to just 16 travelers per vehicle to ensure comfort, space, and an unrushed viewing experience.
While sightings vary from day to day, the magic of this trip lies in the moments: a curious young bear padding toward the rover, a mother and cub nestled together in the distance, or the quiet awe of watching the vastness of Hudson Bay under a pale northern sun. Early-season departures like mine reveal the tundra in rich autumn colors—reds, golds, and mossy greens—while later departures often bring snow, colder temperatures, and a higher concentration of bears.
Immersion in the North
Travelers can choose from a variety of itineraries, but I’d recommend the version that combines two nights in Churchill with two nights at NatHab’s exclusive Tundra Lodge—a unique rolling hotel set right on the tundra. Staying at the lodge means waking up where the bears are, surrounded by quiet and open skies, far from any town lights. There’s no Wi-Fi and no distractions—just the hum of the heater, the crunch of snow under paw prints outside, and the chance (on a clear night) to glimpse the northern lights.
Days begin early, with hearty breakfasts and full days on the tundra. Lunch is served onboard the rover—warm soup, sandwiches, and hot drinks—while evenings bring local guest speakers, cozy dinners in town, and community connection. It’s a tightly organized itinerary, designed to make the most of the short polar bear season, only 6 weeks long. Boots and parkas are also provided to ensure you stay nice and toasty on the frigid tundra.
A Glimpse into Local Life
Churchill is a small northern community where every person plays a role in the visitor experience. 100% of the cost of each NatHab trip stays within the local economy, supporting seasonal employment, conservation efforts, and small businesses. Dinners are enjoyed at a handful of local restaurants around town, and evening presentations are led by Churchill residents, from scientists to storytellers. Guides like our polar rover driver Daric — a fifth-generation local — bring the landscape to life with personal stories and deep roots in the region.
One of the highlights of my trip was visiting Wapusk Adventures and hearing from Dave Daley, a lifelong musher who introduced us to his team of 45 sled dogs. Guests enjoy a short sled ride, meet the dogs, and hear about the heritage of dog mushing in the North. It’s a joyful, hands-on experience that adds a human dimension to the Arctic story.
The Bigger Picture
Beyond its natural beauty, this journey offers an important lens on conservation. The Western Hudson Bay polar bear population is estimated at just over 600 bears—a significant decline from decades past—as shorter ice seasons reduce their hunting grounds. NatHab works closely with scientists and local experts to promote responsible viewing and minimize environmental impact. They also offset 100% of the trip’s carbon footprint through hydroelectric power investments and operate with a strict leave-no-trace policy.
Who It’s For
This trip is perfect for travelers who:
Are passionate about wildlife and conservation
Appreciate structure, education, and community connection
Enjoy rustic comfort rather than high luxury
Want a truly unique, once-in-a-lifetime adventure
It’s not ideal for those seeking flexible schedules, nightlife, or guaranteed close-up encounters—but for travelers who value meaning and perspective in their adventures, Churchill is unforgettable.
The polar bear holding facility (also known as polar bear jail!) is where bears who are too curious about the town (and often looking for a free meal) are relocated to. They will stay here until the ice on Hudson Bay freezes over and can be safely released to hunt.
Why Go Now
As sea ice patterns shift and ecosystems change, opportunities to see polar bears in the wild may become more limited over time. Traveling with NatHab supports the local economy and the conservation work that helps protect these incredible animals. It’s an experience that reminds you just how interconnected we all are—people, planet, and place.
If you’re ready to witness one of the world’s most remarkable wildlife migrations, let’s talk about planning your own journey to Churchill.
