Birds, Bears & Belugas

Arrive Winnipeg

Arrive into Winnipeg where you will enjoy a relaxing stay at The Grand, located at the Winnipeg Airport. At 7pm a dinner will be held at the hotel where you will meet the rest of your group, as well as your adventure specialist. You will need your rest tonight for an early morning departure to Churchill.

Overnight: Arctic Canada (D)

Winnipeg - Seal River Heritage Lodge

Be prepared for huge pods of whales, countless birds, as well as caribou and, of course, the magnificent ice bears. The Seal River Estuary is a summer favourite for these goliaths and they are regularly seen swimming or basking near the water's edge.  Upon your arrival, your hosts will provide a tour of the lodge and get you settled into your room. A thorough orientation on travel in polar bear country will be provided prior to any outings. After a full three-course lunch, experience the coast for the first time. The combination of diversity and sheer natural elegance will amaze you. Finish your day at the lodge with a sumptuous meal and some down time by the cosy fireplace.

Overnight: Seal River Heritage Lodge (B, L, D)

Seal River Heritage Lodge

They run depending on the local weather as well as interest from other members of the group:  

Marine Tours: Depending upon the tides and the weather conditions, during your time it may be possible to do at least two of these excursions in to the waters of Hudson Bay, where you can view beluga whales, seals, a variety of sea birds and, of course, polar bears! Beluga whales are curious, sociable creatures, so theses excursions will give an opportunity to get up close to them.   The inflatable boats, in which these tours are carried out, have a capacity for 9 passengers and are equipped with 2-way radios, safety gear, including lifejackets, and a hydrophone, so you can listen to the whale songs. The excursions are half a day in length so that they can be co-ordinated with the high-tides. Lunch and refreshments will be served on board.

Trekking/walking tours: There are daily walking tours, which range in length from a short walk to photograph a passing example of local wildlife, to full-day treks for which you’ll need to wear appropriate clothing and take a packed-lunch. These excursions are designed to help make sure that you will get the most out of your time in the area. Polar bears may also be seen on these excursions and your guide will be on hand to help make sure that a safe distance between the group and the bears is maintained.

Coast by buggy: The lodge has its own custom-built Tundra Tracker from which you can cover quite a large distance, searching for wildlife along the shores of Hudson Bay. A picnic lunch is served during the excursion and there is ample time for exploring and photographic opportunities along the way.

Wildlife photography workshops: For most, a visit to the Churchill area of Canada is a once in a lifetime experience. There are professional photographers on hand to provide you with tips and advice on how to help make sure that your photos match your experience.

Ocean paddles: By kayaking the tranquil waters of Hudson Bay, the only sound you may here will be the dipping of your paddle in the water. Canoes and Kayaks are at the lodge and free to use at any time for complete peace and tranquility.

Aurora watching: Churchill is a great place for seeing the Aurora Borealis – more commonly known as the Northern Lights. They are best viewed towards the end of the season, when the skies are clear and if you are planning on getting a good shot, make sure you bring a tripod.

Bird watching: There are around 150 species of Bird in the area, so Churchill is a great destination for keen bird watchers. Expert guides are on hand to help you spot and identify many of the species.

Photo presentations and lectures: There are a variety of subject matters, ranging from travelling in bear country to lectures on the Arctic wildlife, landscapes and the people.

Rest and relaxation: Should you choose or have time to, the lodge is a great place just to unwind and relax. The cosy fireplace provides the ideal opportunity for curling-up with your favourite book.

Generally you will be back at the lodge by 4pm for warm drinks and snacks, your delicious dinners are served at about 7pm, after which you will usually relax by the fireplace and discuss the days excitement. Your guides will also give informative lectures and slideshow presentations, as well as discussing the plans for the following day. The entire lodge is patrolled for bears throughout the night, so be prepared to have your sleep cut short by a nocturnal polar bear visit, or even by the dazzling Northern Lights.

Overnight: Seal River Heritage Lodge (B, L, D)

Seal River Heritage - Churchill

After your final breakfast you will be transferred back to Churchill by plane. There are many photo opportunities on the way back to Churchill, so make sure your camera is close to hand. Upon landing, your baggage will be taken and stored by our local representative. The rest of the day is at your own leisure. You may choose to arrange some local excursions through one of the tour agencies in town. This evening, you will board a flight back to Winnipeg where you will be met and transferred to your hotel, for your overnight stop.

Depart Winnipeg

After breakfast, you will have time to say your final farewells before taking your transfer to the airport in time for your onward flight.