churchill mb tourism

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Plan your next trip in Manitoba with us!

The COMPLETE Guide for Visiting Churchill, Manitoba (updated 2024)

Disclaimer: this page may contain affiliate links. please review our full terms and conditions for more information and our privacy policy. note that any pricing, operating hours, or other such information provided below may have changed since initial publication..

Compiled by the Road Trip Manitoba team

Last updated on March 27, 2024

One of the most amazing destinations in the province, Churchill, Manitoba is known as the polar bear capital of the world. And while seeing polar bears in the wild is certainly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, there are many other things to do in Churchill, too.

From the Northern Lights to kayaking with belugas to learning about the local Inuit culture, we’ve put together this guide for you with everything you need to know about Churchill. We’ve listed tour companies, where to stay, where to eat, and everything there is to do in the small community, no matter the season. Read on for your ultimate guide to visiting Churchill, Manitoba.

Land Acknowledgments

Churchill, Manitoba is located on Treaty 5 territory.

Brief History

Churchill has a history that dates back many centuries; Indigenous peoples established settlements and homes on the land we now call Manitoba thousands of years ago. Artifacts from Pre-Dorset, Dorset, and Inuit peoples have been found in the area, so it has been confirmed that people have been living in the Churchill region for many centuries.

Europeans first arrived in Churchill in the 17th century, and in 1717 the Hudson’s Bay Company built their first permanent settlement in the area. The fur trade became a popular industry in Churchill before quickly declining by the end of the 1700s.

Churchill then became a seaport, and with the completion of the Hudson Bay Railway in 1929, the focus of trading became grain.

Over the past few decades, however, Churchill has become famous as one of Manitoba’s biggest tourist attractions thanks to its abundance of polar bears (it’s the best spot to see polar bears in Canada ), beluga whales, and Northern Lights. The town with a permanent population of fewer than 1,000 people draws hundreds of thousands of tourists every single year.

Where is Churchill, Manitoba?

Churchill is found in Northern Manitoba on the Hudson Bay. As the crow flies, Winnipeg and Churchill are approximately 1,000 kilometres apart. There are no paved roads that lead to Churchill, so you’ll have to either fly there or take the train (more on that below).

As Manitoba is in Central Canada, you may have to connect to Winnipeg from Toronto or another Canadian city before travelling to Churchill (if you’re travelling from another province or country).

Churchill Weather

You guessed it… as an Arctic location, Churchill is very cold!

Churchill is very far north in Manitoba, and you’ll want to make sure to take the proper precautions in the winter months, i.e. dressing in lots of warm layers, checking the forecast for weather warnings, and so on. Even in the summer months, it is recommended to bring very warm clothing and to prepare for cold weather, including waterproof clothing, warm hats and mittens, and many layers.

In winter in Churchill, you can expect temperatures to range from a high of -15°C to a low of -24°C (although the windchill can make that feel much colder). If you’re photographing the Northern Lights at night, prepare for extremely cold conditions.

Spring in Churchill is quite cold as well, and you can expect anything from highs of 10°C to lows of -15°C.

The summer weather is warmer but can still bring cold and rain, with average highs around 18°C for June, July, and August. If you plan on any boat tours of the coast to see beluga whales in summer, make sure to bring lots of warm clothing.

Autumn (which is polar bear season) brings the same cooler temperatures as spring, but the average high will drop to -3°C by November.

In other words… plan for anything and everything, no matter when you visit Churchill! Always make sure to check the weather forecast for your visit to have a rough idea of the conditions.

And as Churchill is found in Northern Manitoba, it’s no surprise that you’ll find lots of snow there. While it’s extremely rare for it to snow in July or August, you can expect snow between September and June, and definitely from October until May. There are approximately 271 sunny days per year in Churchill, but summer brings an average of 8 rainy days per month.

Getting to Churchill, Manitoba

You’re in luck: we have a very detailed route guide on how to get from Winnipeg to Churchill ! If you’re coming from another province or country, you will most likely have to connect in Winnipeg before beginning your journey to Churchill.

The easiest and fastest route to Churchill is by plane. We recommend flying with Calm Air ; the most common route flown is Winnipeg to Churchill, which is a two-hour flight. You can also fly to Churchill from Thompson or Gillam, Manitoba.

One of the best ways to see a lot of Manitoba is to travel by train to Churchill. There are multiple stops along the way, but many people start the journey in Winnipeg; trains depart Winnipeg for Churchill every Tuesday and Sunday. While taking the train is usually cheaper than flying, be prepared to travel for at least 48 hours if you’re coming from Winnipeg. We recommend booking your train ticket to Churchill with Via Rail well in advance of your trip.

There is currently no possible way to drive to Churchill, as there are no paved roads that connect Churchill with the rest of the province. You can drive to Thompson or Gillam and then take the train or fly from either location.

As there are no paved roads that lead to Churchill, there are no direct bus routes to Churchill. You can take a bus to Thompson or Gillam and then take the train or fly from either location.

Practical Essentials

Thankfully, downtown Churchill is extremely walkable, and you’re never too far from many local restaurants or attractions when in town. It is extremely important to pay attention to the bear warnings, however, and stay far from restricted areas, even if you’re visiting outside of polar bear season.

Unfortunately, there isn’t any public transportation in Churchill, although there is a taxi service ( North Coast Taxi Service /Churchill Taxis, which you can reach by calling 204 675-2345). We recommend always calling ahead to book a taxi; it is rare to flag one down in the small town. Many hotels and tours also provide shuttle transportation to and from the airport and various attractions.

That being said, if you do have access to a car, Churchill and the surrounding area are incredibly easy to drive around. Most locations are within a few minutes’ drive from one another, and there is never any traffic. We do not recommend driving on your own to look for polar bears; always do that with an experienced guide (see more below).

If you’d like to rent a car or van while you’re in Churchill, Tamarack Rentals can help you out.

It is very easy to find parking around Churchill, and none of it is paid parking.

Polar Bear Warning

It should go without saying that polar bears are very dangerous animals, and it’s absolutely necessary to practice polar bear safety at all times when in Churchill. Polar bear attacks are extremely rare in Churchill, but that is because every precaution is taken to keep humans safe. It is recommended to always travel in a group, always stay near a vehicle or building, never walk at night after 10 pm, and avoid areas along the coastline with poor sightlines. We recommend joining guided tours for the safest way to explore Churchill and the surrounding area.

On the rare occasion that polar bears come close to the town of Churchill, they are dealt with swiftly and safely by trained professionals in order to minimize any harm to the bear or the community.

If you see a polar bear when you are in Churchill, do not attempt to approach it. Get inside a vehicle or a building as calmly as you can, and call 204 675-2327.

When to see the polar bears in Churchill

Autumn is polar bear season in Churchill, although you can often spot a few during the summer months as well. Mid-October until mid-November is the very best time to see the polar bears, as that’s when the Hudson Bay begins to freeze over and the bears can hunt for seals, bringing them out into the open. Special tours also take you to polar bear denning sites in February and March in order to see polar bear mothers with their cubs.

Fun fact: Polar bears don’t hibernate! They can hunt for seals all winter long, so there is no need for them to hibernate.

Tour Operators in Churchill, Manitoba

There are many tour companies in Churchill, all of which come highly recommended. Some are all-inclusive, meaning your tour includes airfare and accommodation. Many also provide transportation to and from the airport or around town.

Lazy Bear Expeditions

Lazy Bear Expeditions is one of the most popular tour companies in Churchill. Tours include the Ultimate Bears and Belugas Summer Adventure, the Ultimate Polar Bear Adventure, and the Bears and Aurora Arctic Adventure, all of which include airfare. The two-day Beluga Whale Dream Tour does not include airfare. There are also tour add-ons, including kayaking and AquaGliding.

Frontiers North Adventures

Frontiers North Adventures has perhaps the biggest variety of tours in Churchill available, and all offer a fantastic experience. Choose from tours that include polar bears, beluga whales, and/or the Northern Lights, some of which include airfare or train travel (check out this luxury 5-day option ). They also have the magnificent Tundra Buggy Lodge, a unique accommodation that allows you to stay overnight right on the tundra, as well as one-day tours to Churchill to see the polar bears from Winnipeg. It’s also possible to book summer and autumn day tours with Frontiers North Adventures, including the Tundra Buggy Adventure.

Wat’chee Expeditions

Indigenous-owned and operated, Wat’chee Expeditions is an incredibly respected tour company near Churchill. They are also one of the only tour companies that can take you to Wapusk National Park to see polar bear dens, therefore increasing your chances of seeing polar bear cubs. Their world-renowned lodge is famous among wildlife enthusiasts and nature photographers, and provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Great White Bear Tours

Great White Bear Tours has a variety of tours that include polar bears, beluga whales, and/or the Northern Lights. Some of their tours include meetings with local mushers who know the land better than anyone. They also have the Tundra Lodge, allowing you to stay directly on the tundra for an amazing experience alongside the polar bears. Want to plan your own tour? They offer individual tours at a price per person, per day. Their tours do not include airfare.

Discover Churchill Tours

Discover Churchill Tours are fantastic for day tours as well as multi-day tours. Whether you want to see the polar bears, Northern Lights, or belugas, there’s a tour for you. They also offer incredible photography tours, and are one of the only tour operators that takes you to Wapusk National Park to look for bear cubs (in February and March). They also have excellent town and area tours as well as Ithaka Shipwreck hikes in the low tide.

Beyond Boreal Expeditions

Beyond Boreal Expeditions is Indigenous-owned and operated and features tours of Churchill’s polar bears, Northern Lights, beluga whales, and more. Run by Tiffany Spence, tours range from weeklong expeditions that include airfare and accommodations to tours that last only a few hours (perfect for those who are visiting Churchill on their own or would like to tack on a few independent tours while in town). Tiffany also specializes in photography, so you can book portrait sessions to capture your time in Churchill.

Churchill Wild

One of the pricier tour operators on this list, there’s a good reason for that high price tag: Churchill Wild has an incredible selection of ecolodges that allow you to spend a few days in the remote wilderness, far from the tourist crowds of the town of Churchill. Head out on a polar bear safari in order to see the very best of the tundra and its amazing wildlife.

Iceberg Inn

The Iceberg Inn offers polar bear and beluga whale tours, as well as some all-inclusive deals that include the tours, meals, accommodation, and transportation. Respected for their knowledge and for their friendliness, Iceberg Inn is one of the smaller tour operators in Churchill, making them perfect for those looking for a more intimate experience.

Wapusk Adventures

Wapusk Adventures is Indigenous-owned and operated. Run by Dave Daley, a respected dog musher in Canada, tours offered include dog sledding and cultural talks, Northern Lights viewing, snowshoe walks, e-bike tours, and more. You can also custom-build your own tour of Churchill with Wapusk Adventures.

Sea North Tours

Sea North Tours is dedicated to beluga whale conservation and education. Take one of their day tours in order to learn more about the whales and the surrounding land; tours include whale watching on Zodiac boats, a walk around Fort Prince of Wales, floe ice tours, kayaking, paddle boarding, and more. If you plan ahead, you can even book two tours in one day, as most last for two to three hours.

Is it possible to visit Churchill independently or do you have to be on a tour?

It is entirely possible to visit Churchill, Manitoba independently… however, it is not recommended that you try to see polar bears unless you have a professional guide with you.

If you’d like to visit Churchill independently or on a budget, you can certainly fly or take the train there on your own. The cheapest way to get to Churchill is by driving to Thompson or Gillam first before flying or taking the train there, or by taking the train the entire way (there are no paved roads that lead to Churchill).

Once in Churchill, there are a few places to stay (see below). Without a tour, you can see the town’s attractions, see the Northern Lights at night, and see beluga whales from the shoreline in summer. It’s also possible to join half-day or day tours when in Churchill, but we recommend booking these far in advance.

No matter what season you visit Churchill, tours and hotels book up very quickly. If you plan on going to Churchill without a tour company, we recommend booking everything months in advance of your trip.

Where to Stay in Churchill, Manitoba

You have a few options for where to stay in Churchill, and if you book a tour that includes accommodation, you won’t have to worry about where to stay. We also have an entire guide on places to stay in Churchill, Manitoba.

For such a small town, there are a great variety of Churchill hotels to stay in. Here are a few of our choices for hotels in Churchill, Manitoba.

Lazy Bear Lodge

Lazy Bear Lodge is an excellent choice for a hotel in Churchill whether you’re on one of their all-inclusive tours or not. With our favourite restaurant in Churchill as well as clean, cozy rooms, Lazy Bear Lodge is also home to some of the best expeditions in the area. A solid choice for both a group tour and an independent trip when it comes to Churchill hotels.

Head to the Tundra Inn for a family-run hotel that promises excellent service and comfortable rooms. With 31 rooms available, they’re popular for business travellers, tourists, and everyone in between. Also check out the Tundra Pub across the street for dinner and entertainment.

Bed and Breakfasts

Looking for an even more intimate experience? Check out one of these Churchill bed and breakfasts.

Bluesky Bed and Sled

Owned by world-renowned musher Gerald Azure and his wife Jenafor, the Bluesky Bed and Sled is a favourite among tourists. With four rooms to choose from, the homemade breakfasts are divine and the service extraordinary. Join Gerald as you learn about dog sledding and even get out on a sled on the tundra yourself.

Polar Bear B&B

With three guest rooms (each with two single beds) and two shared bathrooms, the Polar Bear B&B is a good budget option in Churchill. Please note that all rooms are on the second floor so require climbing stairs.

Home Rentals

There are a few places to stay using Airbnb in Churchill . While there are private rooms, shared rooms, and entire homes available for rent, our choice is this entire home for rent . Please note that even shared rooms are quite pricey in Churchill.

Specialty Lodging

There are some amazing options when it comes to specialty lodging in Churchill. If you’re looking to splurge on a stay that allows you to be up close and personal with polar bears even as you sleep, check out one of the lodges below. These lodges are found far from Churchill itself, so you’re also in a prime position to view the northern lights at night.

Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge by Churchill Wild

Churchill Wild has three luxury wilderness eco-lodges to choose from, and the Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge near Churchill is, in our opinion, one of the most unique accommodations in the world. It’s incredibly remote, giving you the best vantage point for wildlife viewing in Canada’s north. Other highlights of the lodge include walking tours, photography tours, wellness retreats, and more. Make sure to check out their Seal River Heritage Lodge and Dymond Lake Ecolodge, too!

Great White Bear Tundra Lodge

Operated by the Great White Bear Tours company, this tundra lodge on wheels gives you a chance to spend as much time as possible with Churchill’s polar bears. Each guest has a private cabin with a sleeping berth, while viewing platforms take your experience to the next level.

Due to the danger of polar bears, there is no camping allowed in Churchill, Manitoba.

Things to Do in Churchill, Manitoba

Churchill has a ton of tourist attractions to add to your sightseeing itinerary. You can easily fill a week or more sightseeing in the town and the surrounding area. Here are a few of our favourite things to do in Churchill!

See the Polar Bears

Perhaps the most famous reason to visit Churchill is to see polar bears … it is the polar bear capital of the world, of course! The best time to see polar bears in Churchill is in October and November, when the bears are waiting for the Hudson Bay to freeze. That being said, you can also see polar bears in July, August, and September, though usually in smaller numbers (they’ll also be harder to find). You can also see polar bear mothers and their cubs on specialty tours in February and March. Remember, you can’t see polar bears independently; you’ll have to go on a tour to see them, both for your safety and for theirs!

See the Beluga Whales

There are many ways to see the beluga whales in summer in Churchill, whether by watching them from the shoreline or getting out on the water to get a closer look. Over 60,000 beluga whales migrate to the area every summer, and about 3,000 of them make their way to the mouth of the Churchill River. The best time to see beluga whales in Churchill is from mid-June to mid-August.

Go Kayaking on the Churchill River

One of the best ways to see beluga whales is to go kayaking on Churchill River during the summer months. Suitable for beginners, the beluga whales are just as curious about us as we are about them, so don’t be surprised if they come right up to you!

Take a Boat Tour

Take a tour of the Churchill River and Hudson Bay in order to see beluga whales and, if you’re lucky, polar bears walking along the shoreline of the bay. Boat tours are only available for a few months of the year, as most of the time the water is frozen!

Check out Churchill’s Murals

The SeaWalls CHURCHILL murals are a testament to the value and strength of the community of Churchill. Find these incredible murals all over town as well as outside of it; each one is unique, and artists were brought in from all over the world to complete them.

Look for the Northern Lights

It’s entirely possible to see aurora borealis year-round in Churchill, although you’ll have the best luck in February and March, when the skies are clearest. There are tons of tour companies that take you to see the northern lights, including companies that host photography tours. Churchill is definitely one of the best spots in Manitoba to see the Northern Lights !

Check out the Polar Bear Jail

Polar bears that are considered dangerous or troublesome in Churchill sometimes find themselves in “polar bear jail”. They’re kept here until they can be safely relocated, sometimes even by helicopter. Plan a short visit here to see the building – it has a beautiful mural on the side – as well as a polar bear trap.

Visit the Prince of Wales Fort National Historic Site

The Prince of Wales Fort is a National Historic Site that is found across the Churchill River from the town. A bastion fort that began as a log fort in 1717 but soon turned into a massive stone structure, it was captured in 1782 by the French but returned to the Hudson’s Bay Company the following year. Today, it’s possible to walk around the ruins and imagine what life was like for those living there.

Wander Around the Itsanitaq Museum

The Itsanitaq Museum is a small but important museum found in Churchill, and is one of our top picks for Indigenous experiences in Manitoba . It has an incredible selection of Inuit carvings and artifacts and also has many fantastic local souvenirs for sale. Open year-round (though never on Sundays or holidays), the hours change depending on the season, so always check ahead before visiting.

See the Ithaca Shipwreck

Found 12 miles east of Churchill near Bird Cove, the Ithaca Shipwreck took place in 1960 when the ship was run into the gravel bank during a storm. At low tide, it is possible to walk out to the shipwreck (only with a professional guide, do not attempt this on your own).

Visit Miss Piggy

Miss Piggy is the nickname for a freight plane that crashed near Churchill in 1979. Thankfully, there were no fatalities, and the plane was left where it landed. Today, it is covered in graffiti and has become a popular photo opportunity.

Go Dog Sledding

Dog sledding is an integral part of Churchill’s history. Learn about the importance of dog sledding within the Indigenous community by booking a tour with Wapusk Adventures.

Try AquaGliding

AquaGliding is an activity you can try through Lazy Bear Expeditions. Lie on a floating mat tethered to a zodiac boat and put your face in the water for the ultimate beluga whale experience… if you’re lucky they’ll swim right up to you to say hello!

Get a Stamp in Your Passport

For those who love collecting stamps in their passports, head to the Churchill post office to get a special Churchill stamp! It’s the cheapest souvenir around.

Take to the Sky

For the ultimate sightseeing expedition, try a helicopter tour over Churchill and the surrounding area. Get a unique perspective on the landscape and try to spot as many polar bears as you can.

Festivals and Events in Churchill

Aurora winterfest.

Volunteer-run, Aurora Winterfest regularly hosts events in Churchill, and has a festival every year that includes ice carving, hockey, entertainment, games, food, and more. Check the Aurora Winterfest Facebook page for regular updates about what’s happening in Churchill.

Where to Eat in Churchill

There’s a nice selection of restaurants in Churchill , and you always know you’ll be supporting a local business when you eat in town. Here are a couple of our favourite places to eat:

Location: 23 Franklin Street, across from the Tundra Inn

This cozy hang-out is home to the famous Borealis Burger and consistently serves up home-cooked meals with a regional Arctic twist. Head here for hearty meals, a game of pool, and a lively atmosphere.

Lazy Bear Cafe

Location: 313 Kelsey Blvd, inside Lazy Bear Lodge

Lazy Bear Cafe is known for its excellent service, innovative menu, and warm atmosphere (we love the stone fireplace). Try some of the braised elk, Arctic char, or Manitoba bison.

Dan’s Diner

Looking for a truly unique dining experience in Churchill? For a few select evenings every February and March, Dan’s Diner operates as a pop-up on Churchill’s tundra so that you can dine underneath the Northern Lights. It’s the kind of meal you’ll never forget!

In the Area

Wapusk national park.

One of only two national parks in Manitoba (the other is Riding Mountain National Park ), Wapusk National Park is extremely remote and extremely beautiful. As the largest polar bear denning site in the world, it’s a popular spot to view baby polar bears in February and March. There are no roads into the park, so you must arrange aircraft transportation with a licensed tour operator; we recommend Wat’chee Expeditions.

It feels a bit ridiculous to say that Thompson is “in the area” of Churchill, as they’re 400 kilometres apart. But if you’re driving part of the way to Churchill or taking the train, you may pass through the small city on your way. Thankfully, there are lots of fun things to do in Thompson , so we recommend spending a day or two exploring if you have the time!

Related Posts

Sharing is caring!

We're here to help you plan your Manitoba vacation with real, local advice!

• Destination Guides
• Route Guides
• Driving Advisories
• Manitoba Driving Guide
• Manitoba Weather

We've created FOUR Manitoba specific bingo games to make your road trip even MORE fun. Included are some insider tips on what to see and eat in the province!

Our monthly newsletter is full of ideas for fun things to do in Manitoba, PLUS you get a *FREE* road trip bingo cards!

Skip To Content

• Information like Address, Phone, and Email Address
• Main Navigation
• Quick Links
• Search The Website
• Main Content
• What's your view?
• Download The Mobile App
• Get More Information
• Register to our Enews

Town of Churchill

Main content of the website.

• font size : A

Located on the shores of the Hudson Bay, the Town of Churchill and the surrounding area are steeped in history as old as Canada. Archaeology in the area shows evidence of human presence dating back 4,000 years to the Pre-Dorset and Dorset people.  For centuries, Churchill has been a meeting place for culture and trade. 

The first European to explore "The Bay” was Henry Hudson in 1608.  Jens Munck lead the ill- fated Danish expedition and they were the first Europeans to winter in the Churchill area in 1619 to 1620.  Ill equipped for the harsh winter 62 of his 64-crew perished from effects of scurvy, trichinosis and exposure. In 1670, The Hudson’s Bay Co. was formed, and the fur trade had begun.  In 1689 the Hudson Bay Company established a trading post on the wintering site used by Jens Munck, the site was approximately 5 miles from the mouth of river, later that same year the post burned.  It was rebuilt in 1717 and named Fort Churchill and serves as a solid reminder of the fur trade which first put Churchill on the map.

In 1713 a young Chipewyan woman named Thanadelthur was captured by the Cree where she was enslaved for a year.  Thanadelthur escaped her captures and eventually came across the HBC York Factory Post where she worked with James Knight as a translator, with a wealth of local knowledge.  Her knowledge and skills served her and the HBC well as she was instrumental in harbouring peace between the Cree and Chipewyan which has had lasting impact on all involved. 

Churchill became the site of the first astronomical observations made in Canada in 1769.  It also became the departure point for the first overland journey made by a European, Samuel Hearne, to the Arctic Ocean.Unrest between the English and French produced a military fort which was eventually turned over to a superior French force by Governor Samuel Hearne in 1782.  Hearne re-established the original post one year later.

Fort Churchill, located five miles east of Churchill was first established in 1942 by the United States Air force as part of proposed overseas air operations to Europe.  After the Second World War, Canada and the US jointly sponsored a training and experimental centre.  The base was officially closed in August of 1980. Between the two world wars, the railway was completed connecting Churchill to the rest of the province.  A grain elevator was also constructed at this time and the town was then moved to the east side of the Churchill River. This helped Churchill grow from a remote  outpost  to a bustling seaport. 

Tell Us What You Think

Current Fire Rating: Moderate

Weather Forecast

Churchill, manitoba, registration.

Info! Required Fields *

Sign up to register with our website to be notified of all that is happening within our region.

First Name *

Last Name *

Resident Yes No

Search and I Like To...

The Journeying Giordano's contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. If you make a purchase using one of my affiliate links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.

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

❄️ Don’t have time to read the whole article? The Classic 5 Night Churchill Polar Bear Adventure  is the best Polar Bear tour in Churchill. It offers a complete experience without the hassle of you having to book everything separately.

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!

Pin This Post for Later!

Related Posts:

• 4 Best Churchill Manitoba Tours to See Polar Bears, Belugas, and Northern Lights
• 24 Things to Do in Churchill Manitoba – The Ultimate Guide
• 55+ Best Polar Bear Quotes and Captions for Instagram
• Do Polar Bears Eat Penguins?
• 23 Fun and Interesting Facts About Polar Bears in Canada
• Where to See Polar Bears in Canada – A Complete Guide
• 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.

Touropia Travel Experts

Discover the World

10 Best Things to Do in Churchill, Manitoba

While Churchill is fittingly billed as the ‘Polar Bear Capital of the World’, the small Canadian town also has countless other wilderness and wildlife viewing opportunities to enjoy. Set in a secluded spot on the shores of Hudson Bay, it can be found at the mouth of the Churchill River, surrounded by endless Arctic tundra and vast boreal forests.

Due to the pristine nature and diverse ecosystems around it, Churchill is one of the best places on Earth to see, not only polar bears but birds and beluga whales too. Although most visitors come to view and take photos of its wildlife or the ethereal Northern Lights, other great Arctic things to do in Churchill include dog sledding and igloo building.

In addition, the settlement has a handful of historic tourist attractions that offer a fascinating insight into Manitoba’s unique history, heritage, and ecology.

10. Bird Watching

While most people come to Churchill to see majestic polar bears or the flickering Northern Lights, the town’s scenic surroundings are also home to an incredible array of beautiful birds. In total, over 270 species have been spotted nearby, with May through to August the best time to see huge flocks either nesting in or migrating through the area.

As well as the snowy owl and tundra swan, visitors can spot peregrine falcons, bald eagles, and the American golden plover alongside many others. Some of the best places to enjoy bird watching are along the shores of Hudson Bay. The sub-arctic tundra and boreal forests also offer untold opportunities. Remarkably enough, it is quite easy to spot over a hundred species in just a few days.

9. Miss Piggy Plane Wreck

Just a short drive from the center of town you can find the amazing Miss Piggy Plane Wreck which crashed just outside of Churchill Airport in 1979. It is so named because of the large loads she used to carry, her rotund shape, and the rumor that she once transported a cargo of pigs. The graffiti-covered wreck is well worth checking out if you have the chance.

On the 13th of November, the freight plane lost oil pressure in her left engine shortly after departing the airport. While attempting to make an emergency landing the plane crashed onto some rocks, just short of the landing strip. Miraculously all three crew members survived. Nowadays, the well-preserved wreck is a popular attraction and makes for some great photos amidst the rough terrain.

8. Wapusk National Park

Although quite challenging to visit, the wild and remote realms of Wapusk National Park warrant exploring due to their stupendous scenery, nature, and wildlife. Lying along the shores of Hudson Bay, the park was founded in 1996 to protect one of the Earth’s most important denning areas for polar bears.

Besides boreal forest and endless Arctic tundra, the park is also home to Cape Churchill, which is the best place in the world to view and take photos of polar bears in the wild. As so many reside within the park, visitors stand a great chance of spotting the mighty mammals when taking a tundra vehicle tour or helicopter ride from Churchill. In addition to polar bears, you can also spy Arctic foxes, caribou, and wolves from time to time.

7. Dog Sledding

As well as being an important tradition, mode of transport and sport, dog sledding is now also one of the town’s most popular tourist activities.

If you’re after an exciting and adrenaline-filled experience when in town then you can’t beat going dog sledding. While gliding across the surrounding snow-coated scenery makes for an unforgettable time, dog sled tours are also possible in summer with teams of huskies pulling wheeled carts behind them instead.

For a couple of miles guests can sit back, relax and take in the stunning scenery while being wrapped up warm in the back of the sled. Besides simply enjoying the ride and views, visitors can also meet and play with the dogs and learn all about the history and current practice of dog sledding in Churchill.

6. Churchill Northern Studies Center

Lying just under half an hour’s drive to the east of town is the excellent Churchill Northern Studies Center, which is set in a very serene and secluded spot. Besides acting as an important education and research center, it welcomes students, researchers, and tourists to stay and learn all about the history and ecology of the North.

Founded in 1976 to further people’s understanding of the area, it lies along Hudson Bay at the point where three major biomes meet. While visiting the field station visitors can take tours of the Arctic tundra, boreal forest and marine environments, and even see polar bears in the wild. In addition, you can also go dog sledding, learn how to build igloos and even see the magical aurora borealis light up the night’s sky.

5. Prince of Wales Fort

Another of the area’s main attractions is the fantastic Prince of Wales Fort which occupies a strategic spot just across the Churchill River from town. Only accessible by boat, it was built by the Hudson’s Bay Company in 1717 to help solidify and protect their control over the fur trade.

Now a National Historic Site, the star-shaped fort makes for a striking sight due to its sturdy stone fortifications and centuries-old cannons. While wandering around the wind-swept fort you’ll come across the remains of barracks and workshops, with commanding views to be enjoyed out over the bay from its parapets.

Guides are on-hand to teach you all there is to know about the fort’s fascinating past and what life would have been like for the hardy trappers who lived here.

4. Northern Lights Tours

As Churchill lies so far to the north and is positioned right below the Auroral Oval, the town and its surroundings make for a great place from which to view the Northern Lights. While visitors stand a chance of seeing the spectacular swirling lights at almost any time of year, the best season is from January to March, as this is when the nights are longest and there is less precipitation.

An incredible natural phenomenon, the polar lights and their captivating colors, shapes, and swirls appear when there is solar activity. Besides watching them out of your window, you can also take tours into the Canadian wilderness to see the shimmering lights from secluded, light-free spots and stay at cosy cabins, campgrounds, and lodges.

3. Itsanitaq Museum

Despite its small size, the splendid Itsanitaq Museum boasts one of the oldest and most impressive collections of Inuit artifacts in the country. Opened in 1944 by Christian missionaries, the one room is home to all kinds of interesting exhibits and archaeological findings that delve into the history and culture of Canada’s indigenous peoples.

As well as centuries-old carvings and kayak, you’ll find ancient weapons and old hunting gear with a taxidermied musk ox, walrus, and polar bear also on display. While these massive stuffed animals immediately attract your attention, there are just as many small but striking sculptures and carvings that depict everyday Inuit life. In addition, the museum has a well-stocked gift shop for you to stop by and can be found right in the center of town.

2. Beluga Whale Watching

Besides being famed for its polar bears, Churchill is also widely reputed to be the best place in the world to go Beluga Whale Watching. This is because each year over 3,000 of the majestic creatures venture into the Churchill River to feed and calf with countless other whales migrating along the western shore of Hudson Bay around the same time.

From mid-June to mid-August the massive river is packed with pods of the playful whales who are delightfully known as the ‘Canaries of the Sea’ due to their melodic clicks and calls. Visitors can take boat tours to see the whales, as well as kayak, swim, and even scuba dive amidst the masses of cute and curious beluga whales.

1. Polar Bear Watching

As Churchill is the ‘Polar Bear Capital of the World’, no visit can ever be complete without seeing some of these incredible animals up close and in the wild. Each autumn, over a thousand of the big white bears migrate along Hudson Bay’s scenic shoreline, offering untold opportunities to see them on tundra vehicle tours or from the bows of boats.

While the odd polar bear can be spotted in and around Churchill in summer, the best time to see them is from October to November. This is when ice begins to form on the bay and the colony amasses around Cape Churchill, ready to set off in search of seals. An unforgettable experience, Polar Bear Watching really is the main reason that most people visit Churchill.

Best Time to Visit Churchill

While polar bears can be spotted near Churchill year-round, October and November is the best season to see them. Just before the pack ice forms, huge numbers congregate around town, ready to head out and hunt.

As this is when most visit, prices are highest with its tours and hotels booked up months in advance. As temperatures range from -9 to 1°C (16 to 34°F), you’ll have to wrap up warm. While November sees much less sunlight, its snowy landscapes create magical backdrops for photos of the bears.

Both July and August are also popular as thousands of beluga whales come to give birth and nurse their calves. While the days are longest and temperatures reach highs of 16 to 17°C (61 to 62°F), you’ll need to bring lots of insect repellant due to its incessant bugs. Other than boat tours, you can kayak and paddleboard about its waters.

If you visit towards the end of August or early September, you may spot the Northern Lights, as well as see belugas and polar bears. Otherwise, January through March is the best time to see the Aurora Borealis as the days are dark and cold.

During winter, temperatures plummet to -23 and -15°C (-9 to 5°F) so you’ll need special clothes. Although you won’t see much wildlife, you can dogsled and snowmobile across its frozen landscapes.

Map of Things to Do in Churchill

Share this post:

12 Best Things to Do in Winnipeg, Manitoba

12 Best Things to do in Edmonton, Alberta

12 Most Beautiful Lakes in Canada

Where to Stay in Vancouver: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels

10 Most Beautiful National Parks in Canada

17 Top Tourist Attractions in Vancouver

12 Best Things to Do in Montreal, Quebec

12 Best Things to do in Ottawa, Ontario

9 Best Day Trips from Vancouver

14 Free Things to do in Vancouver

Reader interactions, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The ultimate guide to summer in Churchill, Manitoba

Things to do

A version of this post originally appeared on the  Travel Manitoba blog External Link Title .

A trip to the northern town of Churchill, Manitoba is not the easiest trip in the world. It can be expensive. There are limited transportation options...and even more limited seasons. But guess what? A visit to this very special region is absolutely worth your trouble. To help you along your journey, here's everything you need to know about visiting Churchill in the summer months.

July and August

What you can see

Beluga whales.

View this post on Instagram External Link Title A post shared by Shafik Diwan (@flow_junkee) External Link Title on May 28, 2018 at 6:29pm PDT

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 birth, 4,000 of which enter the Churchill River Estuary. There are a number of ways that you can experience this natural wonder:

• Kayaking : 3 hour kayaking excursions with beluga whales are offered through  Lazy Bear Expeditions External Link Title  and  Sea North Tours. External Link Title  
• Stand-up paddleboarding : Get a new vantage point atop a SUP (stand-up paddleboard) with  Sea North Tours External Link Title .   
• Aquagliding : This brand new  Lazy Bear Expeditions experience External Link Title  gets you closer to the water, allowing you to glide along the surface as beluga whales swim in the river.   
• Zodiac/Boat : Several companies offer boat tours of the bay in their packages, or you can do it a la carte with  Sea North Tours External Link Title .

Polar Bears

View this post on Instagram External Link Title A post shared by hudsonroadphoto (@hudsonroadphotography) External Link Title on Jul 23, 2018 at 5:19pm PDT

Summer may not be polar bear season (that title is reserved for October and November), but you still have a good chance to see bears as they lounge on the shorelines and play in the vibrant fireweed. 

Northern Lights

View this post on Instagram External Link Title A post shared by Mark Daffey (@markdaffey) External Link Title on Aug 25, 2017 at 4:02pm PDT

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 External Link Title  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. 

View this post on Instagram External Link Title A post shared by Simon Gee (@canukimages) External Link Title on Jun 4, 2018 at 3:44am PDT

If you're a birding enthusiast, you may want to consider a trip to Churchill in the spring when activity is at its peak. But that's not to say you can't see an abundance of birds in the summer months, too. Keep your eyes peeled for hawks, falcons, snowy owls, tundra swans, and of course the rare Ross's Gull. 

View this post on Instagram External Link Title A post shared by Discover Churchill (@discover_churchill) External Link Title on Jul 30, 2017 at 6:53pm PDT

Every summer, the tundra comes alive with colour as the fireweed blooms and the snow gives way to the orange lichen, miniature shrubs, scarlet bearberries, and glacier-sculpted boulders that lay scattered across this unique landscape. 

View this post on Instagram External Link Title A post shared by katie goldie (@goldiekatie_) External Link Title on Aug 11, 2018 at 10:34am PDT

Polar bears and beluga whales often take the spotlight for summer in Churchill (and rightfully so), but you'll also be amazed by the abundance of other incredible subarctic wildlife, from the noble caribou to the hardy arctic fox.

Other things to do

Prince of wales fort national historic site.

View this post on Instagram External Link Title A post shared by Custom Helicopters (@customhelicopters) External Link Title on Oct 21, 2018 at 5:55pm PDT

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

Itsanitaq Museum

View this post on Instagram External Link Title A post shared by Hen (@henriettahammant) External Link Title on May 8, 2018 at 6:06am PDT

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.

View this post on Instagram External Link Title A post shared by Discover Churchill (@discover_churchill) External Link Title on Jun 18, 2018 at 7:11pm PDT

Cape Merry offers one of the best views in Churchill, overlooking the Churchill River, Hudson Bay, and the Prince of Wales Fort National Historic Site. A  guided tour of Cape Merry External Link Title  will provide all the background you need on this historical area.

Ithaca shipwreck

View this post on Instagram External Link Title A post shared by CeyGo ? (@travelling_ceygo) External Link Title on Jan 26, 2018 at 3:18am PST

Get a closer look at this ghost ship (which ran aground in the 1960's) on a guided tour with  Nature 1st External Link Title ,  Discover Churchill External Link Title , or  North Star Tours External Link Title .

SeaWalls murals

View this post on Instagram External Link Title A post shared by Discover Churchill (@discover_churchill) External Link Title on Jul 13, 2017 at 7:02pm PDT

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. External Link Title

Don't leave Churchill without taking a little shopping trip through town. Must-stops include the Arctic Trading Company, Fifty Eight North, and Wapusk General Store. Keep an eye on the  Churchill Creative Collective Facebook page External Link Title  for upcoming pop-up markets from local artisans. 

Dog carting

View this post on Instagram External Link Title A post shared by Travel Manitoba (@travelmanitoba) External Link Title on Oct 23, 2018 at 1:28pm PDT

Fear not, the quintessential dogsledding experience is also available in the summertime - just swap the sled for a cart! There are two businesses to choose from:  Wapusk Adventures External Link Title  and  Bluesky Expeditions. External Link Title

The best (and most carefree) way to experience Churchill is with a tour package. Tour packages will typically cover your transportation from Winnipeg, all your meals, accommodations, and excursions. Check out these options!

• Lazy Bear Expeditions:  Ultimate Arctic Summer Adventure External Link Title ,  Beluga Whale Dream Tour External Link Title  
• Natural Habitat Adventures:  Belugas, Bears & Summer Wildlife of Churchill External Link Title  
• Frontiers North:  Belugas, Bears and Blooms Adventurer External Link Title ,  Belugas, Bears and Blooms Enthusiast External Link Title ,  Frontiers North's Big Five Safari External Link Title ,  Summer Family Adventure External Link Title  
• Churchill Wild:  Birds, Bears and Belugas External Link Title ,  Hudson Bay Odyssey External Link Title ,  Arctic Discovery External Link Title ,  Summer Dual Lodge Safari External Link Title    
• Churchill Northern Studies Centre:  Into the Wildflowers External Link Title ,  Belugas in the Bay: Camera Lens External Link Title ,  Belugas in the Bay: White Whales External Link Title ,  Wild Planet External Link Title

DIY options

If you don't want to travel to Churchill with a package, there are do-it-yourself style options available! If you are planning on a DIY trip to Churchill, be sure to also plan to be polar bear safe - this means always exploring with an experienced guide. 

Getting there

Flights : A flight with Calm Air from Winnipeg to Churchill takes approximately 2 hours. Some flights stop in Rankin Inlet, which adds a few hours onto the trip total. Tip: if you have Airmiles and are flying within Manitoba, try searching Winnipeg to Churchill. Typically, flights cost 1,400 points, but the seats go quickly. During the week is your best option for finding flights.

Train : Via Rail offers train service from Winnipeg to Churchill, leaving every Sunday and Tuesday from the VIA Rail Station in Winnipeg and arriving in Churchill 48 hours later. From Churchill, the train departs every Thursday and Saturday.  Multiple cabin levels are available. External Link Title  Another option is to combine a train trip and flight with one-way trips! 

For getting around town:  Tamarack Car Rentals External Link Title

While you can get to Churchill DIY, you will still need to sign up for excursions to safely experience all that Churchill has to offer. Check out these companies for day tours that can be purchased a la carte. 

• Sea North:  Kayaking External Link Title ,  Paddleboarding External Link Title ,  Sloop Cove Tour External Link Title ,  Zodiac Boat Charter External Link Title ,  Churchill River Estuary Boat Tour External Link Title ,  Beluga and Fort Tour External Link Title  
• Lazy Bear Expeditions:  Kayaking External Link Title ,  Aquagliding External Link Title  
• Frontiers North:  Tundra Buggy Day Tours External Link Title  
• Nature 1st Tours:  Half Day and Full Day Churchill Tours External Link Title  
• Hudson Bay Helicopters:  Helicopter Tours External Link Title  
• Nanuk Operations:  Polar Bears & Wildlife External Link Title  
• North Star Tours:  Town and Area Tour, Private Guiding, MV Ithaca Hike External Link Title  
• Discover Churchill:  Wildlife and Nature Photography Tours + Ithaca Hike External Link Title ,  contact External Link Title  for more details

Where to stay 

With limited accommodations in the town of Churchill, it's best to make your reservations as far ahead of time as possible.

• Tundra Inn External Link Title
• Churchill Hotel & Guesthouse External Link Title
• Iceberg Inn External Link Title
• Polar Inn & Suites External Link Title
• Lazy Bear Lodge External Link Title
• Seaport Hotel External Link Title
• Bear Country Inn External Link Title
• Up The Creek Bed & Breakfast External Link Title
• Polar Bear Bed & Breakfast External Link Title
• Bluesky Bed & Sled External Link Title

Where to eat

• Lazy Bear Cafe External Link Title
• Tundra Inn Dining Room & Pub External Link Title
• Dancing Bear

For more on summer in Churchill,  visit the Travel Manitoba website! External Link Title

• Tourism Industry
• Travel Media
• Meetings & Conventions
• Travel Trade
• Email Signup
• Beaches & Boating
• Hiking & Biking Trails
• Indigenous Experiences
• Urban Escapes
• Stunning Stays
• Northern Manitoba
• Dog Sledding
• Ice Fishing
• Snowmobiling
• Skiing & Snowboarding
• Arts, Culture & History
• Outdoor Adventures
• Canadian Museum For Human Rights
• French Manitoba
• Historic Places
• Performing Arts
• Public Art Galleries
• Equipment Rentals
• Wildlife Viewing
• Northern Lights
• Horseback Riding
• Manitoba Adventure Dog
• Polar Bears
• Beluga Whales
• Recreation & Gaming
• Spas & Wellness
• Peg City Grub
• Eastern Region
• Central Region
• Interlake Region
• Parkland Region
• Western Region
• Manitoba North
• Clear Lake Country
• Morden-Winkler
• Portage La Prairie
• St. Boniface
• The Pas / OCN
• Island Getaway on the Prairies
• Wheat City Wanderings in Brandon
• Escape to the water and the wild
• St. Boniface Winter: Passion and History
• Follow the path to a story in Neepawa
• Unleash your inner Viking this winter
• Explore Clear Lake this winter like never before
• Breathe in the Whiteshell this winter
• Go North for a boreal forest escape
• Treaty Areas
• Bed & Breakfasts
• Cabins & Cottages
• Private Campgrounds
• Provincial Campgrounds
• Fishing & Hunting Lodges
• Hotels & Motels
• Vacation Farms
• Travel Deals
• Educational Resources
• Update Your Information
• Visitor Guides Request Form
• Visitor Information Centre
• Explore Churchill Pass
• Manitoba Brew Pass
• Manitoba Flight Pass
• Manitoba Perogy Trail
• How To Play
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Know Before You Go
• #ExploreMB Blog

Navigation Options

• 211 Kelsey Blvd., Box 176
• CHURCHILL, MB R0B 0E0
• (204) 675-2022 | [email protected]
• Alt Phone: 1-888-389-2327
• Full wheelchair access
• Guided package/tour
• Manitoba History
• Provincial Heritage Site
• Provincial Historic Park
• Self-guided tour
• Step-on guide service
• Wildlife/Nature Viewing
• National Historic Site

Passes & Deals

Explore craft breweries, museums and...

Experience builder.

Loading your recommendations…

Explore Churchill

Plan your trip to churchill: best of churchill tourism.

Essential Churchill

Trending in the forums

• Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge by Churchill Wild
• Lazy Bear Lodge
• Frontiers North Adventures' Tundra Buggy Lodge
• Churchill Hotel & Guesthouse
• Lazy Bear Cafe
• Seaport Hotel
• Churchill Motel & Restaurant
• Via Rail Train
• Churchill Northern Studies Centre
• Itsanitaq Museum
• Blue Sky Expeditions
• Wapusk National Park
• Tundra Buggy Autumn Day Tours
• Tundra Buggy Summer Day Tours
• 6 Nights Polar Bear & Beluga Whale Adventure
• 8-hr Tour of Churchill Manitoba, Popular Attractions, Wildlife Observations
• One Day Polar Bear Adventure

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…

Plan with a local

Experience the real Canada

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

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.

Aug 30, 2018 • 5 min read

Mar 16, 2018 • 6 min read

Mar 15, 2016 • 12 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Churchill

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Churchill with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

• 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 .

• Previously Off the beaten path
• Has custom banner
• Verbose Climate graphs
• Has map markers
• Airport listing
• Go listing with no coordinates
• Has mapframe
• Do listing with no coordinates
• Has routebox
• North of 53
• All destination articles
• Star cities
• Star articles
• City articles
• Has Geo parameter
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

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.

You May Also Like To Read:

Pin This Post For Later:

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 Churchill Area
• Video Gallery
• Newsletters
• Pursue Research
• Research Booking Request
• Northern Research Fund
• Publications
• Research Papers
• Winter Skies
• Spring’s Wings
• Belugas in the Bay
• Lords of the Arctic
• Tours and Talks
• School Programs
• University Courses
• Conferences & Meetings
• Group Booking Request
• Rocket Greens

COVID Update:

THE WORLD OF INDIGENOUS TOURISM

Indigenous tourism is an immersive experience that allows travelers to connect with the rich histories, traditions, and stories of Indigenous peoples. This form of tourism is not just about visiting a place; it’s about understanding and respecting the cultures that have existed there for thousands of years. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the burgeoning world of Indigenous tourism and why it’s such an impactful and constructive way to experience deep, meaningful travel.

What Is Indigenous Tourism?

Indigenous tourism refers to activities, attractions, and experiences that are rooted in the culture and traditions of Indigenous communities. These experiences are often led by Indigenous people themselves, ensuring authenticity and a genuine representation of their heritage.

Examples of Indigenous tourism include:

• Learning about Indigenous art. 
• Engaging in storytelling sessions that pass down age-old legends.
• Exploring natural landscapes that hold significant cultural value.

The Growing Popularity of Indigenous Tourism

The world is becoming increasingly curious about authentic experiences. As travelers seek more meaningful connections with the places they visit, Indigenous tourism is seeing a surge in popularity. This type of educational travel offers:

• Cultural immersion: Indigenous tourism provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in cultures that have been preserved for millennia.
• Sustainable travel: Many Indigenous tourism experiences prioritize sustainability, ensuring that tourism benefits both visitors and the local community.
• Authentic experiences: With Indigenous tourism, there’s no commercialization. Every experience is genuine, offering insights into the real lives and traditions of Indigenous communities.

Spotlight on Churchill, Manitoba

Churchill, Manitoba, often referred to as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World,” is not just about its iconic bears. It’s also a thriving hub for Indigenous tourism, offering a deep dive into the traditions and lifestyles of local Indigenous communities.

In Churchill, visitors can:

• Engage with local guides who share stories passed down through generations.
• Explore traditional dog sledding practices.
• Participate in traditional drumming and dance sessions.
• Learn about the spiritual significance of the Northern Lights, a natural phenomenon that has inspired countless Indigenous legends.

Local Indigenous tourism operators in Churchill include: 

Experiences: 

• Contact: [email protected]
• Contact: [email protected]  
• Contact: watchee.com
• Contact Heather Spence-Botelho at [email protected]

Lodge/Accommodations: 

• Contact: aurorainnchurchill.com 
• Contact: churchillriverlodge.com

Indigenous Interpretation Experiences (Not Indigenous Owned): 

• Itsanitaq Museum 

Encounter these experiences and more by visiting us here at the Churchill Northern Studies Centre!

Why Is Indigenous Tourism Important?

In the vast landscape of the global tourism industry, Indigenous tourism is a beacon of cultural preservation and authentic storytelling. It offers travelers an intimate glimpse into the rich histories, traditions, and narratives of Indigenous communities. Each experience is a tapestry of age-old customs, teachings, and stories, shared by the very people who have inherited them through generations.

The tangible beneficial impacts of the Indigenous tourism industry can be seen in socio-economic empowerment within Indigenous communities. By promoting and sharing their unique heritage, these communities can harness a sustainable source of income, ensuring that their traditions not only survive, but thrive in the modern world.

Indigenous tourism also serves as a powerful platform for Indigenous peoples to reclaim their voice and author their own narratives. For too long, Indigenous stories have been told through external lenses, often distorting their true essence and perpetuating stereotypes. By taking control of their tourism initiatives, Indigenous communities can present their histories, traditions, and values authentically and unfiltered.

This direct engagement dispels the damaging myth of the “vanishing Indian,” a trope that wrongly suggests Indigenous cultures are fading or becoming obsolete. Instead, through Indigenous tourism, visitors witness the vibrancy, resilience, and evolution of these ancient cultures, understanding that they are very much alive, relevant, and integral to the global cultural tapestry.

Furthermore, as travelers from diverse backgrounds immerse themselves in these authentic experiences, bridges of understanding are built. This fosters a global environment of mutual respect, breaking down barriers and driving out misconceptions. In sum, Indigenous tourism enriches the traveler’s soul, fortifies the cultural and economic fabric of Indigenous societies, and cultivates meaningful human connection that transcends borders.

Discover Indigenous Experiences at the Churchill Northern Studies Centre

If you’re looking to embark on a journey of cultural discovery, there’s no better place to start than the Churchill Northern Studies Centre (CNSC). Not only will you get to see the mesmerizing beauty of Churchill in person, but you’ll also have hands-on experiences and learning opportunities that are steeped in the region’s Indigenous culture. Here at the CNSC, we strive to acquaint visitors with local culture and history, ensuring that every traveler leaves with a deeper appreciation for the Indigenous communities of Churchill.

Don’t just travel; immerse yourself in the stories, traditions, and landscapes that have shaped the Indigenous communities of Churchill for thousands of years. Explore our Learning Vacations, Volunteer Expeditions, tours, and more at the CNSC today!

The Churchill Northern Studies Centre is an independent, non-profit field station working to understand and sustain the North. We provide accommodations, meals, equipment rentals, and logistical support to scientific and social researchers working on a diverse range of topics of interest in the subarctic. We also facilitate learning programs throughout the year for non-credit learning vacations, university credit courses, and youth programming.

Explore our Learning Vacations to see how you can experience the Canadian subarctic in a way that’s meaningful, personal, and unforgettable. Or, donate today to support greater understanding of — and deeper appreciation for — the natural, social, economic, and cultural environments of the North.

Thank you to the local voices who guided us and contributed to this article.

Photos courtesy of Travel Manitoba. 

• September 27, 2023

RECENT BLOG POSTS

• The Tundra Biome: Climate, Characteristics, and Wildlife
• How Local Food Systems Support Sustainability and Food Access
• Researcher Feature: Holly Gamblin
• The History of Arctic Exploration
• Where The Polar Bears Are
• The World of Indigenous Tourism

Discover Canada’s Hidden Paradise: A Tiny Town with 300 Nights of Northern Lights, Polar Bears, and Beluga Whales

Churchill, Manitoba, is a remarkable northern gem, uniquely poised beneath the Auroral Oval. This position gifts Churchill with an extraordinary display of the Northern Lights, visible up to 300 nights each year.

But the allure of Churchill extends beyond this luminous spectacle. As the world’s Polar Bear Capital, it offers unparalleled opportunities to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, especially during the colder months.

In summer, the waters near Churchill become a haven for beluga whales, drawing thousands to the region. This remote town, accessible only by air and rail, presents a breathtaking fusion of natural wonders, with its impressive history and rich cultural tapestry adding depth to the adventure.

Whether it’s marveling at the polar bears, swimming with belugas, or gazing at the ethereal aurora borealis, Churchill beckons as a destination like no other​.

How to Travel to Churchill

Traveling to Churchill, Manitoba, a spectacular destination for witnessing the Northern Lights, polar bears, and beluga whales, is an adventure in itself, as the town is only accessible by train or plane.

If you’re taking the train, VIA Rail Canada offers services from Union Station in Winnipeg every Sunday and Tuesday, returning from Churchill on Thursdays and Saturdays.

This journey spans approximately 48 hours, covering 1697 kilometers through Manitoba. For those preferring to fly, several airlines provide year-round service to Churchill, with flights from Winnipeg taking around two hours. It’s wise to book well in advance, especially for fall trips.

For a more budget-friendly option, consider driving to Thompson and then taking a train to Churchill. This can be more economical than a direct train ticket from Winnipeg, especially if shared between two people.

Alternatively, you can take a bus from Winnipeg to Thompson and then catch a train to Churchill. This route, however, may involve a layover in Thompson, offering an opportunity to explore the local area, which is making strides to become a prominent destination for wolf tourism.

Best Times to Visit Churchill

Churchill, Manitoba, is a year-round spectacle with each season offering its own unique experiences. For those enchanted by the mesmerizing dance of the Northern Lights, the best time to visit is between February and March.

During this period, Churchill’s location directly under the aurora oval and the clear, dark winter skies provide optimal conditions for viewing this stunning natural phenomenon.

Summer, specifically July and August, is the ideal time for beluga whale enthusiasts. Thousands of these gentle creatures migrate to the warmer waters of Churchill’s rivers for feeding and breeding, creating an unforgettable wildlife spectacle.

For polar bear sightings, plan your trip between July and November. As the Polar Bear Capital of the World, Churchill offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe these majestic animals in their natural habitat, especially as the Hudson Bay begins to freeze over in the later months of this period.

Best Things to Do in Churchill

Churchill, Manitoba, offers a trio of unforgettable experiences, each providing a unique glimpse into the natural world. These activities not only showcase Churchill’s remarkable wildlife but also provide an immersive experience in the natural beauty of Manitoba’s north.

Polar Bear Watching  

As the “Polar Bear Capital of the World,” Churchill is the premier destination for observing these majestic animals. The best time for polar bear watching is during the autumn months, especially from October to November.

This period aligns with the formation of ice on Hudson Bay, drawing the bears close to the coast in preparation for seal hunting.

Beluga Whale Watching

During the summer, specifically from mid-June to mid-August, Churchill’s waters are abundant with beluga whales. These sociable creatures, known for their distinct vocalizations, congregate in the Churchill River to feed and nurse their young. Various tour operators offer boat tours to see these fascinating mammals up close.

Northern Lights Viewing

Churchill’s geographical location under the Auroral Oval makes it an excellent spot for observing the Northern Lights. The best viewing opportunities are during the clear, dark nights of February and March.

Various tour packages are available, including those that offer heated domes or custom viewing lounges for a comfortable and mesmerizing aurora watching experience.

Final Thoughts

Churchill, Manitoba, is a unique and enchanting destination, offering more than just breathtaking views of the Northern Lights. It’s a place where nature’s grandeur unfolds with the majestic presence of polar bears and the gentle elegance of beluga whales.

This small town, nestled in the vast Canadian wilderness, opens a window to the Arctic’s soul. Here, the harmony between humans and nature is not just observed but deeply felt.

COVID-19 Travel UpDATE – KEEPING YOU INFORMED

Adventure into the SubArctic

STEP INTO THE WILD

CONNECT WITH NATURE

Discover within.

For us ecotourism represents the intersection of ecology and economy.  In truly unique places like Churchill our future depends on preserving natural systems so we can share them with travellers from around the world.  We let this concept guide us and endeavour to have as little impact on our environment and wildlife as possible.  It is our commitment to you, our community, and our environment to strive for constant improvements in this regard.

Discover Churchill operates on Treaty 5 land.  These are the traditional lands of the Cree, Dene, Inuit, and the homeland of the Métis people.  

Feel the rush of spotting a Polar Bear in the wild! From sunrises at shipwrecks to Auroras at abandoned airplanes, our tours are designed to help guests get the most out of their journey to Churchill. Small group sizes create a more intimate experience and allow more flexibility to customize tours based on guest’s interests. Without a rigid schedule our tours often depart town earlier and return back later based on light and wildlife viewing conditions.

Ithaka Shipwreck Hikes

June 21 – September 21

Wildlife and Sightseeing Tours

February 1 – March 31, June 21 – September 21

Polar Bear Tours

October 1 – November 18

COLOURS OF THE TUNDRA

September 1-14

Northern Lights Tours

February 1 – March 31, August 1 – September 21

TRAVELER REVIEWS

“Discover Churchill is the choice for photographers, no doubt! Churchill is an incredible place, the history, the people and of course the bears. With Discover Churchill you are immersed into all of this. There is no better way to photograph polar bears in Churchill, experienced guides and their local network make all the difference in finding and putting you where you need to be. The photography experience you receive is a bucket list item for any wildlife photographer.”

Graeme Purdy @graemepurdy

Well, Alex from Discover Churchill made this dream a reality and I would without any hesitation whatsoever recommend him. In fact, I have several times and all returned as delighted as I was. You see, Alex is everything you would want in a polar bear guide and more. For starters, your safety is his prime concern. He has your back while your face is behind the camera. He understands the bear’s behavior and reads the situation around you in such a way that you always feel totally safe. Equally important, Alex gets you into position. In many instances, he anticipated the bear’s trajectory and relocated us to a prime location to get unbelievable images. His knowledge of the area really pays off. Of course, you spend a lot of time with your guide on these types of trips, so his personality should also be a key consideration. You will quickly discover Alex to be a very nice guy with an amazing sense of humor. He is definitely passionate for what he does, and has an undoubtable profound respect for these wonderful animals.

So if you are seriously considering a trip to the polar bear capital of the world, do not hesitate to reach out to Discover Churchill. I guarantee you will have a trip of a lifetime.

Jose Albero @jose.albero_wildlife

In Nov. 2020 I headed back to Churchill, MB. for my 5th time in search of polar bears to photograph. In preparing for this trip I did my typical research along with reaching out to a couple of fellow photographers to get some insight into guide recommendations for the area. I needed a guide to get me out on the land safely while fulfilling my need of capturing beautiful images of the polar bear.

Research led me to Alex and Discovery Churchill and he didn’t disappoint. Pick up times were prompt and the days were filled with locating the bears in a safe and respectful manner. Alex communicated with his other drivers and guides to ensure that the area had eyes on it without having to needlessly race all over the area which would cause disturbance to the otherwise peaceful tundra along the shores of Hudson’s Bay.

Alex along with the keen eyes of his other guides ensured that we were able to photograph bears everyday while maintaining safe distances and protocols for both the photographers and the bears.”

Jonathan Hayward

@johnnyhaywardphoto

Alan Poelman

“I can’t say enough about the crew over at Discover Churchill! They were all amazing in so many ways. Their love for the Bears came through in every action and every word. You could tell this was more than just a job for them but a true calling. Norman with his hawk eyes spotting the slightest movement, Stephanie with her warmth and hilarious humour. Let’s not forget Alex with all of his knowledge, passion and dedication to his clients, team but most importantly the wildlife. Thank you for an amazing bucket list experience! Can’t wait for next year!!”

David Wilder @davidwilderphoto

Alex de vries.

Owner / Guide

DREW HAMILTON

Tomas taylor, lianne thompson, dave allcorn, ready for your adventure, follow our journey.

@discover_churchill

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Live the Adventure!

CHURCHILL, MANITOBA

Take a journey to the awe-inspiring heart of canada and polar bear capital of the world, home to polar bears, beluga whales and northern lights.

Churchill, Manitoba is a remote gateway to polar bear encounters, beluga whales sightings and Arctic wonders.

Nestled along the west shore of Hudson Bay, Churchill is a remote wilderness haven and a true Canadian gem located in northern Manitoba. With its blend of untamed natural beauty and captivating wildlife encounters, Churchill is a destination that promises to ignite your spirit of adventure like no other. This quaint northern town, often referred to as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World”, invites travellers to explore its rugged terrain, witness the majestic polar bears and beluga whales in their native habitat, and immerse themselves in the breathtaking Arctic landscapes and that define this remote corner of Manitoba. Churchill is also a great destination to witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis , situated beneath the Auroral Oval and with over 300 nights of auroral activity each year. Churchill offers three distinct tourist seasons, each with its own unique attractions:

• October and November are known as the ‘ Polar Bear Season ‘, as they await the freezing of the sea ice. This season allows guests to have close encounters with these majestic creatures from official Tundra Buggies®.
• In February and March , the ‘Subarctic Aurora Borealis Season, offers breathtaking Northern Lights displays as well as thrilling winter activities like dog-mushing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.
• Finally, the months of July and August bring the ‘Beluga Whales Season’, when the Churchill River teems with these friendly and inquisitive creatures. This season also provides opportunities to see polar bears.

CHURCHILL BELUGAS, BEARS & BLOOMS

CHURCHILL NORTHERN LIGHTS & WINTER NIGHTS

CHURCHILL CLASSIC POLAR BEAR ADVENTURE

Learn more about our tours and destinations or contact us to inquire about private tours.

636 Hornby Street Vancouver, BC V6C 2G2

Tel: (604) 689-8128 Toll Free: 1-855-689-8128 Email: hello@discovercanadatours.com

Office Hours:

Every day (Monday – Sunday) 9:00 am – 5:30 pm

• In the News
• Tour and Travel Deals
• Adventure With Confidence
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy

Brand Portfolio

Discover Vancouver Tours Extraordinary Experiences West Trek Destination Snow Discover Canada Student Adventures Uniglobe Specialty Travel

Agent Resources

Agent Login New Agent Sign Up E-Brochure

Be Social with Us