Welcome to Churchill, Canada!

Called the polar bear capital of the world, Churchill is also known as Manitoba’s beluga whale watching hotspot and is a birder’s paradise. The approach of winter also makes Churchill one of the best places to experience the northern lights. While in Churchill, take in some of its extensive fur trade history, adventure kayaking, hiking and outstanding cuisine (Arctic Char is a must!). So get set for your once in a lifetime tundra experience in Churchill.

Northern Lights

Churchill Northern Lights The aurora borealis (or northern lights) is a natural phenomenon caused by the interaction of charged particles from the sun with atoms in the upper atmosphere. Scientists from around the world have come to Churchill to study the northern lights in the active night sky – Churchill is one of the top three places on the planet to see the northern lights.

These otherworldly dancing curtains of light glow in a rainbow of colours, and are at their most resplendent in January through March. Under clear winter skies, visitors can watch the colourful artistry of the Aurora borealis light up the pitch-black nights. Grab a front row seat in the comfort of the plexiglass-covered Aurora Domes to watch this spectacular natural lightshow. Start here to plan your trip to see the Northern Lights!

Polar Bears

Churchill Polar BearsPrime time for polar bear viewing! October and November are the best months to see polar bears as they get prepared to move out on the newly formed ice in search of seals. Come face to face with the mighty polar bear from unique tundra vehicles that let you travel in comfort and safety over the snowy terrain. Follow the bears as they gather along the shores of Hudson Bay, waiting for the ice to freeze. Wilderness hikes offer a bears’ eye view of the stunning coastal landscape. During prime polar bear viewing season, it’s even common to see an ambling bear pass by your window. When you’re not bear watching, enjoy the colourful lightshow of the aurora borealis or try dogsledding for an exhilarating arctic adventure.
Get started building your polar bear adventure!

Beluga Whales

Churchill Beluga WhalesNicknamed “sea canaries” for their strange high-pitched whistles, clicking, chirping and other underwater vocalizations, thousands of beluga whales inhabit the warmer waters of the Churchill River after the ice breaks up. Zodiacs and larger passenger boats can take visitors out among the intelligent and curious pods of whales. Listen in on the whales’ conversation using hydrophones and try to figure out what they are saying.
Begin building your beluga viewing getaway!