Wilderness Lodge is sited near the south western coast of Hudson Bay, north of Churchill.  You will see polar bears around the lodge as they come to investigate often and we have large picture windows through which you will have a great view.  In addition to the walking safaris we also have a full day of wildlife observation on the tundra in specially equipped vehicles, with many sightings of the polar bears expected.

The nights spent at the Wilderness Lodge gives a great chance to see the northern lights - aurora borealis, as there is virtually no light pollution as we are a good distance away from the lights of Churchill.

One of the highlights is the float plane / helicopter flight to the remote location of the lodge from Churchill. Round trip flights Winnipeg / Churchill are normally with Calm Air.

We have room for just 14 guests, giving plenty of time to talk with the group leader who has a wealth of experience in the area.  When on the roving tundra vehicle you will have plenty of space as it is designed for more than twice as many people. If travelling alone we can only accept you if there is someone else in our group who will share with you or if you pay for two places.  This polar bear tour is best suited to active wildlife enthusiasts only.

 

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Winnipeg, Canada - Upon arrival transfer to the hotel of your choice. We suggest the Sheraton 4 Points if you have just one night in Winnipeg, as it is close to the airport.  If you want a scenic railway journey to / from Churchill or from / to Winnipeg you need to allow an extra 2 days in Canada as it takes 36 hours to reach Churchill by train from Winnipeg or visa versa. Meals and hotel in Winnipeg are not included (we will arrange the hotel accommodation for you, as an extra if you want help).

Day 2: Winnipeg to Churchill - Early morning we fly to Churchill, normally Calm Air is the operator. You will be met by one of our staff who will provide an orientation to the tour, including a quick check of your cold weather gear.  If required we take you to a rental clothing supplier in Churchill, where boots, parkas and other warm clothing is available. Please note you can be pre-book clothing by email to the Polar Inn .  At about 11:30 we fly from Churchill by helicopter to the Wilderness Lodge. Settle in to your room and then take lunch.  After lunch you will learn about the safety measures that protect us from the bears, then we go for a walk on the tundra near the lodge. Over a gourmet dinner the staff will tell you more about what to expect in this very special area.  This evening we have a slide presentation by one of our senior guides about the bears and the northern environment AND your first chance to see the northern lights. L, D.

Day 3: Tundra - Polar Bear Viewing on Foot - During the next two days we will take a number of walks on the tundra. The tour leader will specifically search for polar bears, but we may also see caribou, moose, seals and wolves. Being on foot we cannot allow the bears to get too close and the guides are expert in providing a safe environment so you can relax and observe the wildlife. There are resources for the group to split up as some may not want to walk very far, and others may wish to take an extended hike. Overnight in the Wilderness Lodge.  B, L, D.

Day 4: Tundra - Polar Bear Viewing on Foot - Another day on foot on the tundra viewing the bears and other wildlife. Overnight in the Wilderness Lodge.  B, L, D.

Day 5 Churchill Town Tour - After breakfast we fly by helicopter or fixed wing aircraft to Churchill.  On arrival we will transfer you the guest house / lodge in Churchill town. Take lunch at one of the many cafes or restaurants in the town (at own cost). In the afternoon our guide will take you on a brief tour of the town. If you wish dog sledding can be arranged for part of this afternoon. There is also free time to see some or all of the following - the Eskimo Museum, the Parks Canada Centre and the shops of Churchill.  Dinner tonight is in the private house of a local gourmet cook. Overnight in a guest house in Churchill.  B, D.

Day 6: Tundra - Polar Bear Viewing by Tundra Vehicle - We take another full day on the tundra, this time in the special vehicles designed for polar bear viewing.  The vehicle will provide at least two seats per guest, so that there is plenty of space for your cameras and other items.  These vehicles have huge tyres so that the sliding windows are just out of reach of the bears, however you get a great close up view of the inquisitive bears. This evening we fly to Winnipeg. Check in at your choice of hotel (we will arrange the hotel accommodation in Winnipeg for you, as an extra).  B, L, and a hearty snack before you fly to Winnipeg. The train back to Winnipeg is an option.

Day 7: Ideally your return flight should be scheduled for late morning or later in the day. Breakfast not included.

Dates - October / November 2008:  Oct 20-24, 23-27, 26-30 (< only 4 places available), 29-Nov 2, 1-5, 4-8, 7-11(< only 3 places available), 10-14, 13-17.

Age Limits: 18 years or older, if you are passionate about polar bears. Only suitable for those who can stay confined for 8 hours or so in the tundra vehicle and can cope with flying in small aircraft and walking (we have various options that allow more or less time out walking) on the tundra.

Ask about availability         Ask questions about this option

What is Included
Round Trip flights Winnipeg / Churchill / Winnipeg, plus Churchill / Wilderness Lodge / Churchill by fixed wing or helicopter. All meals as indicated by the code (B, L, D.). Accommodation at the Wilderness Lodge and one night in a Churchill guest house.  Professional group leaders and assistants. Roving tundra vehicle and driver. All activities and evening wildlife and cultural presentations, service charges. Local taxes are included as applied to non residents.

What is Not Included
Travel (international flights etc.) from your home to Winnipeg and back. Accommodation in Winnipeg for the 25th and 31st (we help you to arrange this). Meals other than specified by the code (B, L, D.).  Alcoholic beverages, gratuities, travel insurance, items of a personal nature (telephone calls, laundry, etc.). Entrance fees to museums etc.

 

2008 Prices

 

CAD5995 / USD5896 / GBP2997 / AUD6407 - Taxes of 6.5% net are included

The Canadian Dollar is the base currency.
Please note that exchange rates can affect the prices shown, except the base currency.

The prices in US Dollars & GB Pounds were calculated on the 20th February 2008
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For other tundra lodge options see -  More Specialist Dates, Enthusiast Tours and the Adventurer Tours