2025: Churchill Canada Polar Bears, Belugas, Arctic Wonders

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Overview

2025: Churchill Canada Polar Bears, Belugas, Arctic Wonders
Churchill, MB, Canada
Aug 7 - 13, 2025
Green Edventures Eco Tours & Expeditions image
Green Edventures Eco Tours & Expeditions
$8,564
Deposit: $800

About your trip

Imagine the thrill of seeing a wild polar bear for the first time, a creature as powerful as the Arctic itself, yet as fragile as the ecosystem it inhabits. Witnessing the raw majesty of these giants against the backdrop of the Arctic’s breathtaking beauty—an environment that endures the harshest conditions while remaining acutely vulnerable to climate change—instills a profound desire to protect both the bears and their fragile world.


Prepare for a journey that will ignite your sense of wonder and deepen your connection to the natural world. This Arctic Wildlife Adventure offers a series of “wow” moments, from the exhilarating sight of polar bears in their natural habitat to the magical experience of AquaGliding™ alongside curious beluga whales. Each day is filled with breathtaking activities that reveal the raw beauty and delicate balance of the Arctic ecosystem.


As you stay at the charming Lazy Bear Lodge in Churchill, you’ll embark on unforgettable excursions that blend learning with awe-inspiring wildlife encounters. Glide through icy waters on the Matonabee vessel, savoring intimate views of polar bears and listening to the enchanting songs of belugas. Kayak alongside these gentle giants and experience the Arctic’s splendor from a truly unique perspective.


Join fellow adventuresses who share your passion for nature and the outdoors, all while respecting and protecting this fragile environment. Together, you’ll explore, learn, and witness firsthand the stunning beauty and critical importance of preserving this pristine Arctic landscape.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

  • Exploring Winnipeg: Enjoy a free day to discover the vibrant city of Winnipeg before your Arctic adventure begins.
  • Arrival in Churchill: Settle into the cozy Lazy Bear Lodge and explore the historic Prince of Wales Fort and the 'Polar Bear Jail,' immersing yourself in local history.
  • Journey to Fireweed Island: Spend a full day aboard the luxurious Matonabee vessel, where you’ll view polar bears and listen to the enchanting songs of beluga whales from underwater viewing lounges.
  • Beluga Whale Zodiac Boat Tour: Take a Zodiac boat tour through the Churchill River and Hudson Bay, observing beluga whales up close and visiting the historic Prince of Wales Fort.
  • Kayaking and AquaGliding™ with Belugas: Paddle alongside curious belugas and experience AquaGliding™, floating face-to-melon with these friendly giants as their songs resonate around you.
  • Arctic Crawler™ Tundra Tour: Explore the stunning sub-Arctic tundra and wildlife, including polar bears and caribou, in a custom-built Arctic Crawler™ before returning to Winnipeg.
  • Connecting with Like-Minded Adventuresses: Share every magical moment and thrilling experience with a group of like-minded women who share your passion for nature, adventure, and environmental respect.

GROUP SIZE

Minimum 10 / Maximum 12 


The booking platform will accept 10 sign ups and then a waitlist will be triggered. If possible, we may open up two more spots making the group no bigger than 12 participants, plus 1 Trip Leader, and 1 Guide. 


Note: From time to time, our group of 10-12 may be sharing boats, dining areas, and tours with other participants (up to 28 in the group total). 


To facilitate the most intimate and authentic experience of our adventure together, the group size is limited to no more than 12 participants. In addition to enhancing safety, a small group limits our impact on this pristine ecosystem

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Easy

Generally speaking, tours labeled easy are designed for those new to adventure travel or preferring a more relaxed experience. These trips include activities that require a basic level of fitness as well as downtime. Even with a light home exercise or activity routine, participants can enjoy these trips with minimal preparation.


Examples: Walks, boat tours, light kayaking


Preparation: No specific exercise routine required, but basic mobility and comfort with light activity, including climbing stairs at home, are recommended.

MAP POINTS & LODGING

Click HERE to view Google Map of the itinerary.


Lodging:

 

4 nights accommodations at the Lazy Bear Lodge 

2 nights in Winnipeg


Rooms are double occupancy.

MEALS

All meals in Churchill are included at the lodge. 


At the Lazy Bear Café, guests can look forward to a delightful array of meals that reflect the lodge’s commitment to quality and comfort. Here's a glimpse of what you can expect:


Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring classic options like fluffy pancakes, golden French toast, and sizzling bacon. For a more robust start, try their savory breakfast burritos or the lodge’s signature breakfast skillet, packed with fresh ingredients and local flavors.


Lunch: Enjoy a relaxed lunch with a range of options, from delicious sandwiches and wraps to fresh salads and warm soups. The café offers a variety of comfort foods and lighter fare, perfect for a midday break. Popular choices include their juicy burgers, crispy fish and chips, and the daily homemade soup.


Dinner: Dinner at the Lazy Bear Café is a treat with its selection of hearty, flavorful dishes. The menu features a mix of classic favorites and unique creations, such as tender steaks, juicy rotisserie chicken, and locally sourced fish. Enjoy a rich, comforting meal with seasonal vegetables and house-made sides that complement each main course.


Snacks & Desserts: Don’t forget to indulge in a sweet treat or a light snack. The café offers an array of desserts, including decadent pies, cookies, and pastries, alongside a selection of coffee and tea to savor throughout the day.

DOCUMENTATION

All participants must have a passport valid for travel 6 months beyond the date of departure. 


Passports/Visas:

Visit the US State Department Website for the most current requirements. Most destinations require your passport to be valid 6 months beyond your planned departure date. Check your passport now to avoid last minute stress and hassle. 

State Department Website  

Vaccinations & Travel Health:

Visit the CDC website for the most current requirements for travel and other travel health related suggestions and concerns for your destination.


CDC Website

PACKAGE PRICE


Package Price:  $8564 per person double occupancy

Deposit: $800

Deposit Due: September 10, 2024


Prices are subject to change at any time and can only be locked in after deposits are made.


Service Fees & Payment Methods

Green Edventures does not charge a service fee. We use a third party merchant service called WeTravel and they use the credit card processor Stripe. 


Credit Card

WeTravel will add a service fee to the total amount of your trip if you pay with a credit card. Credit Cards fees: 2.9% (Amex: 3.9%). This is a bank fee not Green Edventures. 


ACH / Checking Account 

If you set up your payment method to be withdrawn from your checking account there are no fees. 


You can change your payment method at any time in your WeTravel Account. 

GREEN EDVENTURES' TERM & CONDITIONS

MEDICAL INSURANCE

Mandatory Medical Insurance


Green Edventures does not provide medical or travel insurance in the package price. Due to the remote nature of our tours, we require that all participants have, at minimum, $250,0000 medical evacuation coverage for this program. This is for the safety of all guests. A comprehensive travel insurance policy will cover medical evacuation.


Comprehensive travel insurance is available at www.greenedventures.com/travel-insurance 

PACKING LIST

All participants must bring quality outdoor clothing on this expedition for their comfort and safety to be prepared for all types of weather and the hiking activities. Some noteworthy items are: waterproof rain jacket and rain pants, down or synthetic down jacket 450-650g, waterproof and sturdy hiking boots , non-cotton hats and gloves, and one or two wool or smart wool base layers, including socks. Camera, binoculars, for viewing and photographing wildlife. 


Packing List - Coming Soon

FAQs

What airport do we fly into?

Winnipeg International Airport, Winnipeg, Canada. Detailed travel parameters will be proved when the trip is confirmed. 


How do we get to Churchill, Canada?

A roundtrip flight to Churchill Canada is included. The flight will be on Calm Air on a chartered or regular schedule flight. Details will be provided. 

TRIP DEVELOPMENT

We strive to deliver a seamless and unforgettable travel experience. However, all itineraries are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control. We reserve the right to modify the advertised itinerary, including changes to the order of activities, destinations, or accommodations, guides, and trip leaders without prior notice.


In the event of changes, we will make every effort to provide alternative arrangements of equal value to ensure your overall experience remains exceptional. Your safety, satisfaction, and enjoyment remain our top priorities.


We appreciate your understanding and flexibility as we work to create the best possible journey for you.

What's included

Roundtrip Airfare

From Winnipeg to Churchill return

Local Guide

Guide Services in Churchill

Tour Leader

6 Days

Group Airport Transfer

Courtesy shuttle service in Churchill between airport and lodge Day 2 & day 6

Group Airport Transfer

Winnipeg Hotel to Airport Days 2 & 6

All meals in Churchill

See itinerary for details

Activities

Described in the itinerary.

Entrance Fees

As advertised

24/7 Onsite Support

Provided by a Green Edventures Tour Leader

What's not included

Airfare

To/from Winnipeg, Canada

Gratuities

$400 USD minimum

Travel Insurance

Emergency medical required

Meals in Winnipeg

Except Hotel breakfast

Beverages

Personal Expenses

Snacks, souvenirs, beverages, alcohol, laundry, etc.

Baggage fees

Special Travel

travel not included in the itinerary

Winnipeg Hotel Transfers

Arrival and departure to/from Winnipeg airport to hotel.

Day 1

Day 1 image

Welcome to Winnipeg, Canada.

Your adventure begins in the vibrant city of Winnipeg. Upon arrival, make your own way to your hotel. Transfer from the airport to the hotel your own using Unicity taxi’s or private pre-booked transfer it is $105 CAD ($75 USD) per sedan. Coordinate with fellow travelers to reduce the cost.


Settle in for a comfortable stay before the real adventure unfolds in Churchill. The day is yours to explore Winnipeg at your leisure—wander through the Exchange District, visit the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, or enjoy the scenic riverside walks.


Later in the day, meet your trip leader and fellow travelers in the hotel lobby (time to be announced). This will be an opportunity for introductions and to go over the exciting plans for the next few days. Enjoy the evening as you anticipate the unforgettable journey ahead.

Day 2

Day 2 image

Winnipeg to Churchill: Polar Bear Capital of the World.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before checking out. The group will then transfer together to the airport for your flight to Churchill, where the true adventure begins. If you’re staying at the designated hotel, the group transfer is included for a seamless experience.


After a scenic flight from Winnipeg to Churchill, you’ll arrive in this remote northern town, known as the "Polar Bear Capital of the World." Upon arrival, you'll transfer to Lazy Bear Lodge, your home base for exploring the wilds of Churchill.


Once settled, we will take a tour of the historic Prince of Wales Fort, an important site once frequented by explorers Samuel Hearne and Matonabee. From the comfort of your tour vehicle, you'll continue on a Cultural and Heritage Tour, visiting the historic Cape Merry—a key defensive post with stunning views of the Hudson Bay. You’ll also get a unique look at the ‘Polar Bear Jail,’ where these majestic creatures are safely housed when they wander too close to town, before being released back into the wild.


The day wraps up back at the lodge, where you can unwind and savor the anticipation of the adventures yet to come.


Meals Included: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner(D), Snacks and Specialty Coffees


Day 3

Day 3 image

Hudson Bay & Fireweed Island: Your First Look A Polar Bears & Belugas

Today, we hope to make your polar bear dreams come true with a full-day Journey to Fireweed Island. You'll board the Matonabee, a state-of-the-art vessel, for an unforgettable adventure on Hudson Bay. As you set sail, keep your eyes peeled for polar bears, often visible with the naked eye, though binoculars and zoom lenses are recommended for capturing those once-in-a-lifetime photos.


As you journey toward Fireweed Island, you’ll likely be greeted by the melodic sounds of beluga whales, known as the 'canaries of the sea.' Whether you're savoring a made-to-order latte in the comfortable salon or marveling at the underwater world from the 'Windows to Sea' viewing lounges, every moment promises excitement and wonder. Watch as beluga whales hunt for schools of Capelin, putting on a show that’s as captivating as the majestic polar bears roaming the shores.


Meals Included: BLD and Snacks and Specialty Coffees

Day 4

Day 4 image

Zodiac Adventure with Belugas and a Historic Fort Walk

Prepare for an exhilarating day as you embark on a Zodiac boat tour that puts you right in the heart of beluga whale territory. As you glide across the Churchill River and into Hudson Bay, the air is filled with excitement. The "canaries of the sea" greet you with their melodic whistles and clicks, a symphony of sounds that dance across the water. You can hear the distinctive whoosh of their blowholes as they surface nearby, creating an unforgettable connection with these playful and curious creatures.


Hundreds of beluga whales gather in these warm, shallow waters to feed, mate, and give birth, offering you a front-row seat to witness their incredible behaviors. Watch as they chase schools of Caplin, Arctic Char, and Brook Trout, their sleek white bodies darting through the water with grace and agility. It’s a mesmerizing experience that will leave you in awe of nature’s beauty.


After your thrilling encounter with the belugas, you’ll go ashore for a walking tour of the historic Prince of Wales Fort. As you explore the ancient stone walls, imagine the footsteps of explorers from centuries past, and take in the panoramic views of the Hudson Bay. This fort, a relic of the fur trade era, offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the region, rounding out a day that blends thrilling wildlife encounters with a rich cultural experience.


Meals Included: BLD and Snacks and Specialty Coffees

Day 5

Day 5 image

Up Close & Personal With Beluga Whales

Are you ready for a day like no other as you experience not one, but two incredible ways to connect with the playful beluga whales of Hudson Bay?


Your day starts with a kayaking adventure that takes you right into the heart of their natural habitat. As the tide goes out, you’ll paddle through the calm waters, surrounded by these curious creatures. Belugas are known for their friendly nature, and you’ll likely find them trailing behind your kayak, popping up beside you as if inviting you to join in their fun. With each stroke, you’ll feel the thrill of being so close to these majestic animals, their white bodies gleaming against the deep blue water.

But the excitement doesn’t end there. 


Next up is Beluga AquaGliding™—an experience that truly redefines getting up close and personal with wildlife. Donning a wetsuit, mask, and snorkel, you’ll lie flat on a floating mat tethered to a zodiac boat. As the boat gently pulls you through the water, you’ll glide with your face submerged, offering a one-of-a-kind view of the underwater world. The belugas, ever curious, may swim right up to you, their faces—known as melons—nearly touching yours. It’s a surreal and magical encounter, where you become part of their world, even if just for a moment.


This is a day that combines adventure, connection, and pure joy as you immerse yourself in the vibrant life of Hudson Bay’s beluga whales.


Meals Included: BLD, Snacks and Specialty Coffees

Day 6

Day 6 image

Summer Tundra Tour & Farewell Churchill Bears & Belugas

As your Arctic journey comes to a close, there’s one more adventure waiting for you. After checking out from Lazy Bear Lodge, you’ll board the Arctic Crawler™ for a final Summer Tundra Tour. This custom-built, state-of-the-art vehicle is designed for enhanced wildlife viewing across the stunning Churchill Wildlife Management Area.


For approximately three hours, you’ll traverse the breathtaking sub-Arctic tundra and the rugged coastline of Hudson Bay. As you roll through this unique landscape, keep your eyes peeled for a last look at the incredible wildlife that calls this region home. Polar bears, caribou, red and Arctic foxes, ptarmigans, and Arctic hares are just some of the creatures you might spot on this unforgettable farewell tour.


After soaking in the wild beauty of the tundra one last time, the group will transfer to the airport for your flight back to Winnipeg. Once you arrive in Winnipeg, you’ll transfer as a group to the hotel, carrying with you memories of an extraordinary journey through the Arctic.


Meals Included: BL (in Churchill)

Day 7

Day 7 image

Flights home from Winnipeg

Breakfast at the hotel. Check-out from Winnipeg hotel. Transfer to the airport on your own using Unicity taxi’s or private pre-booked transfer it is $105 CAD ($75 USD) per sedan.


Meals Included: Breakfast

About The Itinerary

About The Itinerary image

Please stay flexible

Even the best laid plans might need a detour from the advertised course.


Given the expeditionary nature of our trip, on some occasions, adverse conditions, local resources (both people driven and supplies) and other factors outside of our control may require us wait a little longer than planned, or to deviate from our intended itinerary as practical considerations arise. Rest assured, it will be an adventure and there will be stories to tell!

Tour Leader

Tour Leader image

Tara Short

Tara is the Owner and Founder of Green Edventures Tours and your First Edventure Buddy! She has curated every trip and hand-selected all international partners to ensure unforgettable adventures. With a passion for exploring the world to see iconic wildlife in endangered ecosystems, Tara has over 20 years of guiding experience, leading trips from Africa to the Caribbean, from the Galapagos to Iceland, and many places in between. She loves challenging herself and has led hikes to remarkable places like the summit of Kilimanjaro, the Inca Trail, the Ausangate Trail, and Patagonia’s Torres del Paine. 


The joy she experiences sharing these adventures with her Edventure Buddies is one of her greatest rewards. Tara provides comprehensive pre-trip support to prepare you for your once-in-a-lifetime adventure to Greenland and will be alongside you onsite, helping you get ready for each day’s activities and encouraging you every step of the way. 


Tara holds a B.S. in Natural Resource Management with an emphasis in Environmental Education/Interpretation and is Wilderness First Aid & CPR Certified. She lives in Chicago with her partner Kelly and their two dogs. 


Tara is excited to travel to Churchill with you to see polar bears and get face to face with belugas!

Location

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1. Churchill, MB, Canada

Churchill, MB, Canada

About your organizer

Fun, active, and educational nature-based group eco-adventures for people to connect with wild places and animals in extraordinary environments. Specializing in women's adventure travel groups, and teacher-led student groups. Inquire about private departures and co-ed trips.

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