WORDS GUY WILKINSON
Imagine a place where vast expanses of arctic tundra collide with swirling acres of boreal forest, marine life, and ocean currents. A place where wild polar bears roam freely amid a pristine landscape and beluga whales populate the waters in droves. Now imagine if you could see these creatures, this unique confluence of ecosystems up close and personal, potentially all within the space of a single day.
Remarkably, beyond the realm of fantasy, such a place actually exists. Situated some 1400 kilometres north of Winnipeg, the remote town of Churchill has long garnered a reputation as not only the jewel in the province of Manitoba’s crown but as one of the ultimate bucket list destinations in the whole of Canada.
MANITOBA
MANITOBA
Churchill, Manitoba.
The 80-metre-long wreck of the MV Ithaca.
An 'Inuksuk' - a manmade landmark built by the Inuit.
Positioned on the outer rim of the arctic tundra, with a local population of just 900, Churchill is a frontier town and still North America’s only rail-serviced deep water Arctic port, receiving vital shipments via its lifeblood, the Hudson Bay Railway. Nowadays, more adventurous travellers can still choose to reach the town via a two-day rail journey from Winnipeg’s Union Station (every Sunday and Tuesday morning at 9am) though most will opt for one of the daily flights also departing Winnipeg.
Whether it's summer or winter, there's always something to see in Churchill.
ONE CRAZY SUMMER
Regardless of season, there’s always something special to see and experience in Churchill but summer months – between July and August – are the optimum window for seeing beluga whales. It’s estimated the western Hudson Bay population alone is somewhere around 58,000, they migrate here in summer favouring warmer waters, some even entering the mouth of the Churchill River – such is their ability to survive in both in fresh and saltwater. Well known for their curious and social disposition – as well as their distinctive chirp, often compared to the sound of a canary – belugas are rarely known to be aggressive, allowing humans to have unexpectedly close contact. In fact, you can get right alongside them in the water and observe them from a Zodiac, kayak, or even stand-up paddle board if you’re especially game. Seeing one of these magnificent creatures up close and personal is not something you’re likely to ever forget.
The summer months, July to August, are the best time to see beluga whales.
Standing up or kneeling down - either is good in Hudson Bay.
Unusual looking creatures, belugas can live in the wild for up to 50 years.
Beluga whales' dives may last up to 25 minutes and can reach depths of 800m.
*Terms and conditions apply.
Churchill is the polar bear capital of the world.
CLOSE ENCOUNTERS
Towards the tail end of summer, heading through to Autumn, another famous breed of visitor graces the shores of Hudson Bay, the mighty polar bear. Although generally solitary creatures, polar bears gather at this time of year along the coastline close to Churchill’s town limits to socialise, hunt and even spar with other bears. It’s why Churchill is known as the polar bear capital of the world, and it’s often said the town’s human population roughly approximates that of the bears during this season. Later, around November, when the icy weather kicks in, the bears head north onto the frozen plains in search of food but before they leave, viewing opportunities abound.
If your visit coincides with summer, it’s still possible to see polar bears around the township of Churchill itself though typically you’ll need to venture a little further out to see them gathered in sizable numbers. You’ll often spy more solitary, lazy bears basking in the sun around town, often within ambling distance of water where they cool off. During this lean time of the year when food is scarce, their behaviour shifts to conserve energy for the winter seal hunt.
Talk about colour!
There's the chance to go slow, or fast in Manitoba.
SURPRISING MANITOBA
Beyond Churchill, Manitoba has many superb activities in store. Though it’s a prairie province, there’s far more than wheatfields here. Try an eclectic mix of landscapes, endless outdoor pursuits, world-class fishing, wildlife viewing, and a rich indigenous history just to name but a few. Before booking your trip it’s worth factoring in a few days either side of your Churchill adventure to fully experience Manitoba’s capital, Winnipeg, the gateway to Churchill. As a relatively isolated mid-sized city, Winnipeg punches way above its weight in terms of culinary experiences, with restaurants such as deer + almond, Enoteca and Maque helping cement its burgeoning reputation as a surprising foodie hotspot. The 20-block Exchange District meanwhile showcases heritage architecture you just won’t find in the newer cities further west, while in The Forks District (so named due to its positioning at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine rivers), you can experience a buzzing mixture of boutique shops, craft breweries, classy dining options, a skatepark and more. One of the city’s newest attractions, The Canadian Museum for Human Rights is another must-see with immersive experiences that promote change for a better world.
The great outdoors - there's no shortage of this in Manitoba.
Manitoba is located in the traditional territories of the Cree, Dakota, Dene, Ojibway and Oji-Cree First Nations, and Metis nation.
Winnipeg is a culinary hotspot.
Beer drinkers will be at home in Winnipeg, which has a thriving craft beer scene.
SPEAK WITH AN ADVENTURE WORLD TRAVEL DESIGNER TO CREATE YOUR CUSTOM ITINERARY NOW!
Belugas, Bears & Blooms
6 DAYS | 5 NIGHTS | FROM ONLY $7335*
Enjoy the magnificent summer wildlife of Churchill, from beluga whales to polar bears, arctic fox and caribou as you travel by boat and tundra buggy.
Classic Churchill Polar Bear Adventure
6 DAYS | 5 NIGHTS | FROM ONLY $9625*
Venturing out on a set of established trails to minimize the impact on the tundra, you’ll go into areas with a high probability of wildlife sightings.
SPEAK WITH AN ADVENTURE WORLD TRAVEL DESIGNER TO CREATE YOUR CUSTOM ITINERARY NOW!
Belugas, Bears & Blooms
6 DAYS | 5 NIGHTS | FROM ONLY $7335*
Enjoy the magnificent summer wildlife of Churchill, from beluga whales to polar bears, arctic fox and caribou as you travel by boat and tundra buggy.
Classic Churchill Polar Bear Adventure
6 DAYS | 5 NIGHTS | FROM ONLY $9625*
Venturing out on a set of established trails to minimize the impact on the tundra, you’ll go into areas with a high probability of wildlife sightings.