Churchill is a town on Hudson Bay in the far north of Manitoba, Canada. It's best known for polar bears that inhabit the area in the fall, and safaris in raised, reinforced tundra vehicles allow for encounters in the wild. In summer, beluga whales are on view in the Churchill River. The area also offers the chance for wintertime Northern Lights visibility and seasonal bird-watching.
October - November: Best time to see polar bears as they migrate to Hudson Bay.
July - August: Ideal for beluga whale watching and experiencing the tundra in bloom.
December - March: Peak season for northern lights (aurora borealis) viewing.
By Air: The only direct way to Churchill is by plane. Calm Air operates flights from Winnipeg and Thompson.
By Train: VIA Rail offers a two-day train journey from Winnipeg to Churchill, a scenic but lengthy option.
By Car: No roads lead to Churchill, so driving is not an option.
Polar Bear Viewing:
Best in October-November, when polar bears gather near Hudson Bay.
Tundra Buggy Tours provide safe, up-close encounters.
Beluga Whale Watching:
In summer, thousands of beluga whales migrate to the Churchill River.
Take a boat tour or kayak with them.
Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis):
Best viewed from December to March.
Dark, clear nights offer spectacular displays.
Prince of Wales Fort:
A historic 18th-century stone fortress built by the Hudson’s Bay Company.
Wapusk National Park:
A remote park home to polar bears, Arctic foxes, and caribou.
Eskimo Museum (Itsanitaq Museum):
Displays Inuit carvings, tools, and artifacts.
Miss Piggy Plane Wreck:
A crashed cargo plane from 1979, now a local landmark.
Dog Sledding:
A thrilling way to explore the snowy tundra in winter.
Bird Watching:
Over 250 bird species migrate here, including snowy owls and tundra swans.
Cape Merry Battery:
A historic site offering panoramic views of the Churchill River and Hudson Bay.
Join a Polar Bear Safari – Ride a tundra buggy for an unforgettable bear-watching experience.
Go Snorkeling or Kayaking with Beluga Whales – A rare and thrilling Arctic adventure.
Take a Photography Tour – Capture wildlife, landscapes, and the northern lights.
Visit the Churchill Northern Studies Centre – Learn about Arctic ecosystems and wildlife conservation.
Explore the Arctic Tundra – Go on guided hikes to see the unique flora and fauna.
Experience Indigenous Culture – Learn from local Métis and Inuit guides about their traditions.
Lazy Bear Lodge – Cozy, log-cabin-style lodge with tours and local cuisine.
Tundra Inn – A budget-friendly option with a welcoming atmosphere.
Churchill Northern Studies Centre – An eco-friendly, educational lodging experience.
Aurora Inn – Comfortable suites ideal for northern lights viewing.
Gypsy’s Bakery & Restaurant – Famous for fresh pastries, sandwiches, and local dishes.
Tundra Inn Pub – Serves bison burgers, Arctic char, and local comfort food.
Lazy Bear Café – Offers Northern Canadian cuisine, including wild game and fish.
Seaport Hotel Restaurant – A casual spot with hearty meals and seafood.
Indigenous Influence: Inuit, Dene, and Cree cultures shape Churchill’s history and traditions.
Wildlife Conservation: The town is a leader in polar bear and Arctic wildlife preservation.
Remote & Rugged Life: With no road access, Churchill is a true frontier town with a resilient community.
Churchill is one of the most unique destinations in the world, offering unforgettable encounters with polar bears, beluga whales, and the northern lights. Its remoteness adds to its charm, making it an adventure-seeker’s paradise for those willing to embrace the Arctic wilderness.