Overview

In the crystalline months of late October and November, when the edge of Hudson Bay prepares for winter’s embrace, a remarkable gathering occurs. The Polar Bear Photo Safari at Seal River Heritage Lodge offers seven days of extraordinary access to one of nature’s most profound spectacles – polar bears moving across the threshold of seasons, their white coats luminous against the austere autumn landscape.

Your first glimpse might come from the window of your flight from Churchill to the lodge, bears appearing like brush strokes against the tundra canvas below. But it’s at ground level where the true magnificence reveals itself. Here, uniquely positioned along the bears’ migratory route, Seal River Heritage Lodge offers what photographers dream of – unparalleled opportunities to document these magnificent creatures at eye level, their breath visible in the crisp Arctic air.

Each day brings two guided excursions, carefully timed to capture the ethereal light of late autumn. Our expert guides, who understand both wildlife behaviour and the needs of photographers, position you for moments that transform images into art. Watch through your lens as polar bears display their natural behaviours, while Arctic foxes ghost across the tundra, ptarmigan flutter white-on-white, and for the fortunate, snowy owls survey their domain from ancient rocks.

As darkness descends early in these transitional days, the lodge becomes both sanctuary and studio. Review your work beside the fireplace, share techniques with fellow photographers, and savour tundra-inspired cuisine that captures the essence of the North. When the night sky clears, another opportunity emerges – the mesmerizing dance of the aurora borealis, painting light across the Arctic darkness.

This is photography at its most profound – where technical excellence meets wild grace, and every frame captures a moment of pure Arctic authenticity.

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1 |  Anticipation builds during your overnight stay in Winnipeg

Arrive in Winnipeg where you will enjoy a relaxing stay at our choice hotel, The Grand by Lakeview at the Winnipeg Airport.

Your winter gear fitting and collection will take place at 5 pm prior to meeting the rest of your group at an orientation dinner hosted by a Churchill Wild representative.

Overnight at Winnipeg hotel.

Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2 | The Adventure Begins!

Arrive in Churchill by air where our expediter will meet you at the airport. You will then be transferred by fixed wing aircraft to Seal River Heritage Lodge.

This exciting flight takes you out over the historic Churchill River, and then northwest up the rugged Hudson Bay coast. Keep a sharp eye en-route for wildlife including the ‘Great Ice Bears’.

Upon arrival, your hosts will provide a tour of the Lodge and get you settled into your room. A thorough orientation on travelling in polar bear country will be provided prior to your first outings.

Overnight Seal River Heritage Lodge.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 3-5 | Tundra Trekking, Polar Bears & Priceless Photography

Each morning your guides will outline a plan for the day’s excursion, and after a hearty breakfast, you’ll head out, cameras in hand, in search of wildlife. This safari caters to the wildlife photographer dedicated to documenting Arctic wildlife, up-close-and-personal, so mealtimes will often be adjusted to take advantage of the encounter taking place. Your photos will have stunning backdrops with the sea and/or snowy landscapes surrounding the Lodge.

Scroll through the day’s photos during appetizer hour before enjoying one of our signature dinners. Then, top up your wine glass and head to the lounge, cozy up in front of the fireplace and enjoy a presentation by one of our team members.

Bedtime is at your leisure and you can rest easy knowing you won’t miss out on anything. Our staff monitor the compound and skies and will rouse you if the aurora or a nocturnal polar bear make an appearance.

Overnight Seal River Heritage Lodge.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 6 | Last minute wildlife viewing

After another hearty Lodge breakfast, we will begin air transfers back to Churchill. Have your cameras ready for the return flight as it affords excellent opportunities for great aerial shots.

Back in Churchill, you’ll spend the day with one of our tour guides exploring the town and surrounding, learning about its rich history as a seaport and ex-military base. Your tour will include stops such as the Parks Canada exhibit, the Itsanitaq Museum, and the Polar Bear Jail. Along the way, your guide will point out murals that were commissioned in 2016 as part of the SeaWalls mural festival. Before a group dinner, your guide will give you free time to shop for last-minute souvenirs at the unique gift stores in Churchill.

Your flight south to Winnipeg will take place this evening. Upon arrival, collect your bags, head out of the arrivals doors and back to The Grand Hotel.

Overnight at Winnipeg hotel. 

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

Day 7 | Depart Adventure

Guests may depart Winnipeg at their leisure.

Why we love it

Unique Lodging

Photography

Arctic Hare

Arctic Fox

Gallery

All images courtesy of © Churchill Wild