Is a polar bear sighting guaranteed?

The polar bear migration is a special occasion, and it offers visitors a high probability of seeing the bears in the wild. Our specialized tour operators know the landscape extremely well, and will take you to places where bears are commonly spotted. There is no guarantee of a sighting, however.

What are the best months to see polar bears?

The peak bear viewing months in Churchill are October and November as the bears wait for the ice to freeze on the Hudson Bay. But you can see the bears and other wildlife (like beluga whales) throughout the summer.

Are the polar bear tours suitable for children?

Family friendly tours geared towards kids and adults are available. Ask your vacation advisor for more information on these special trips.

What else can I do on a polar bear trip?

When you’re not out looking for polar bears, there are opportunities to learn about northern Manitoba’s Indigenous culture, history and wildlife by visiting the Itsanitaq Museum, the Parks Canada Interpretive Centre and joining evening talks with a local expert. There’s also a chance to go dogsledding.

What is the VIA Rail experience like?

VIA Rail is Canada’s national train provider, with routes running Coast to Coast and through remote parts of northern Canada. The type of train depends on your journey, and can vary from the classic trans-continental sleeper trains to daylight trains with overnight stops.

Where do I sleep on the train and what are the features of Sleeper Plus Class?

This trip itinerary features a private cabin in Sleeper Plus Class on VIA Rail's The Canadian train. Each cabin features comfortable seating that converts to a bed. Cabins include a sink and toilet and access to a shared shower. In Sleeper Plus Class, you’ll also enjoy gourmet meals in the dining car and access to the train's viewing cars, where you can watch the passing scenery and meet fellow travellers. Complimentary tea, coffee and snacks are available throughout your journey. Alcoholic beverages are not included but are available for purchase.

Is there a dining car on the Canadian Train?

Yes. Sleeper Plus Class and Prestige Class passengers have access to the dining car, which serves three chef-prepared meals daily. In Economy Class, passengers have access to meals, snacks and a variety of beverages served by train attendants. For Economy Class passengers, the Canadian Train cost doesn't include meals or snacks. Most dietary requirements, food allergies, and other requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.

What are the expected weather conditions and what clothing is recommended for this polar bear trip?

During the fall season, temperatures in Winnipeg can vary from -6 degrees C to 11 degrees C (21 degrees F to 51 degrees F). Temperatures in Churchill can vary from -13 degrees C to -2 degrees C (9 degrees F to 29 degrees F). The Tundra Buggies are heated, but it is best to wear warm layers throughout the trip. We recommend bringing a warm winter coat, snow pants, thick socks, gloves, hat, and other insulated layers. Winter clothing rentals are available if you do not own the appropriate gear . These would be an additional cost and subject to availability. For more information, please speak to your Vacation Advisor.

What if I don't want to bring winter clothing?

No problem! We can arrange for clothing rentals to be waiting for you when you arrive.

What level of physical activity is required for polar bear viewing?

Most of the polar bear viewing is operated from the Tundra Buggy, so is suitable for guests who are less active. To access the Tundra Buggy, you will need to go up 12 steps. For other activity details, please see the full trip itinerary or speak to one of our Vacation Advisors.

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Itinerary

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Canadian Train and Polar Bear Adventure

5.0

6 reviews

Length

10 days / 9 nights

Where it goes

When to go

October - November

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Train trip and Churchill polar bear viewing

Take a spectacular journey across the Canadian Rockies, then fly to Churchill, the heart of polar bear country. See polar bears in the wild on a specially designed Tundra Buggy. Learn more about the North during immersive tours, and experience a thrilling dog sled ride.

Highlights of your trip

Spectacular overnight train ride through the Canadian Rockies

Time to explore the attractions of Winnipeg

Watching polar bears from the comfort of a Tundra Buggy

Unique activities such as dogsledding

Top experiences and features

Witness polar bears in the wild

Spend plenty of time on the Tundra watching majestic polar bears, and other arctic wildlife, in their natural habitat.

Three people on a dogsledding ride through the snowy forest in Churchill

Go dogsledding in Churchill

Enjoy an authentic dogsledding experience with a local Métis musher. Hear tales of Arctic racing, meet the pack of lovingly cared-for sled dogs, then feel the exhilaration of racing a team.

Person photographing a polar bear from a vehicle

Experience the Tundra

Get the perfect picture, from a safe distance, on the one-of-a-kind Tundra Buggy.

Polar bears walk by a Tundra Buggy vehicle for going over ice

Explore in a specially designed Tundra Buggy

With your interpretive guide, navigate the Churchill Wildlife Management Area in search of polar bears and other subarctic wildlife.

The interior of one of the cabins on the VIA train

Relax in your private cabin onboard The Canadian

Your private cabin in Sleeper Plus Class includes a comfortable armchair next to a large window during the day. By night, settle into a cozy upper or lower bed.

Explore Vancouver

Surrounded by mountains and ocean, the city of Vancouver is a west coast gem.

Your Questions Answered

Find out what is included in your trip and have all your questions answered. We are here to help.

What’s Included

Hotel accommodation

Sleeper train experience

Meals onboard the train

All meals whilst on your polar bear tour

Polar Bear viewing from a specialized Tundra Buggy

Unique guided activities such as dogsledding, cultural tours and more

Train station transfers

Flights between Winnipeg and Churchill

Electronic travel documentation package

Personalized Fresh Tracks Canada customer service support

Frequently Asked Questions

Sample Itinerary

Speak to one of our Canadian Insiders about personalizing this trip.

Indicates featured inclusions

Arrive in Vancouver

Welcome to Vancouver, one of the world's most beautiful cities, surrounded by towering mountains and the sparkling ocean.

Private Transfer from Vancouver Airport
Bypass the crowds and start making the most of your vacation. A friendly driver welcomes you to the city.

VIA Rail - Depart Vancouver

After a morning in Vancouver, board The Canadian train and begin your journey to Winnipeg. Settle into your private cabin and watch the ever-changing scenery as you travel through beautiful British Columbia. See farmer's fields, winding river canyons, and pristine forests.

Private Vancouver City Tour
Experience this west coast gem with a private guide. See highlights like Stanley Park, Granville Island, Gastown and more before a drop off at the VIA Rail train station.
The Canadian Train - Onboard Service
Watch the changing scenery from the train's viewing cars and enjoy hot meals in the dining car. Ask your Vacation Advisor about the differences between Sleeper Plus Class and Prestige Class.

VIA Rail - Canadian Rockies

As you head northeast through the mountains of British Columbia and Alberta, keep your eyes peeled for bears and elk! See Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, then pass by the small town of Jasper. In the evening, the train winds towards Edmonton, Alberta's capital city.

VIA Rail - Arrive in Winnipeg

Make your way across the undulating plains of the Prairie provinces before arriving in Winnipeg, Manitoba's bustling capital city.

Private Transfer from Train Station
A friendly driver will meet you at the train station and take you to your hotel in Winnipeg.

Day in Winnipeg, then polar bear adventure begins

Today is yours to explore Winnipeg and its iconic attractions before checking in for your polar bear adventure.

Winnipeg Highlights Tour
Join a half day, private tour to explore Winnipeg. Visit "The Forks", Winnipeg’s French Quarter, Exchange District and 393-acre Assiniboine Park.
Meet Your Group and Guides
This evening, meet your host and group of fellow polar bear enthusiasts for a Q&A session. On your trip, you'll enjoy a small group experience (max. 22 guests) led by a knowledgeable guide.
Suggested Winter Clothing Rental (extra cost)
To ensure you are comfortable in Churchill's cold temperatures, ask us about how you can book winter clothing rentals. Options include Canada Goose parkas and snow pants, plus Baffin snow boots.

Fly north into polar bear territory

The excitement begins as you travel from Winnipeg to the remote town of Churchill. Situated on the Hudson Bay, Churchill is one of the best places in the world to view polar bears in the wild.

Fly to Churchill
Churchill Town and Area Tour
On this Churchill interpretive tour, view and photograph the Polar Bear Holding Facility, historical Cape Merry, and an impressive Inukshuk.
Polar Bears International House
Visit Polar Bears International House, hear from a PBI representative, and learn about ongoing polar bear research in the region.
Parks Canada Centre Visit
Discover Churchill's intriguing history through Parks Canada Centre's wildlife dioramas and interactive exhibits.

View polar bears up close

The moment has finally come — after a hotel pick-up, board a Tundra Buggy and start your search for polar bears.

Tundra Buggy Adventure
Your journey takes you through Churchill Wildlife Management Area's extensive trail network in search of polar bears.
The Tundra Buggy Experience
You'll travel in comfort throughout the Churchill Wildlife Management Area onboard a large, specialized Tundra Buggy vehicle. While a Tundra Buggy can hold up to 40 passengers, your smaller group size means you'll enjoy plenty of room. A hearty picnic lunch will be served onboard.
Evening Cultural Presentation
Hear the stories of a Churchill resident, such as a local trapper, and learn what it's like to live in the Northern reaches of Canada.

Dogsledding in Churchill

Go on a thrilling dogsledding tour and experience this uniquely northern way of getting around.

Dogsledding Adventure
Meet a local Métis musher for an authentic dogsledding experience. Hear incredible tales of Arctic racing before embarking on your own race through the boreal forest.
Itsanitaq Museum Visit
Learn about Inuit culture at the Itsanitaq Museum. The museum's collection of Inuit carvings and artifacts are among the finest and oldest in the world.

Another tundra buggy adventure

Head out for another day on the Tundra searching for polar bears.

Tundra Buggy Adventure
Enjoy another extraordinary day on board the Tundra Buggy. As well as polar bears, you may see arctic fox, ptarmigan, and snowy owl.
Fly back to Winnipeg

Depart from Winnipeg

Too soon, you bid farewell to the Canadian North as you depart from Winnipeg.

Sample Itinerary

Speak to one of our Canadian Insiders about personalizing this trip.

Indicates featured inclusions

Day 1
Arrive in Vancouver...
Arrive in Vancouver
Day 2
VIA Rail - Depart V...
VIA Rail - Depart Vancouver
Day 3
VIA Rail - Canadian...
VIA Rail - Canadian Rockies
Day 4
VIA Rail - Arrive i...
VIA Rail - Arrive in Winnipeg

Arrive in Vancouver

Welcome to Vancouver, one of the world's most beautiful cities, surrounded by towering mountains and the sparkling ocean.

Private Transfer from Vancouver Airport
Bypass the crowds and start making the most of your vacation. A friendly driver welcomes you to the city.

VIA Rail - Depart Vancouver

Private Vancouver City Tour
Experience this west coast gem with a private guide. See highlights like Stanley Park, Granville Island, Gastown and more before a drop off at the VIA Rail train station.
The Canadian Train - Onboard Service
Watch the changing scenery from the train's viewing cars and enjoy hot meals in the dining car. Ask your Vacation Advisor about the differences between Sleeper Plus Class and Prestige Class.

VIA Rail - Canadian Rockies

VIA Rail - Arrive in Winnipeg

Make your way across the undulating plains of the Prairie provinces before arriving in Winnipeg, Manitoba's bustling capital city.

Private Transfer from Train Station
A friendly driver will meet you at the train station and take you to your hotel in Winnipeg.

Day in Winnipeg, then polar bear adventure begins

Today is yours to explore Winnipeg and its iconic attractions before checking in for your polar bear adventure.

Winnipeg Highlights Tour
Join a half day, private tour to explore Winnipeg. Visit "The Forks", Winnipeg’s French Quarter, Exchange District and 393-acre Assiniboine Park.
Meet Your Group and Guides
This evening, meet your host and group of fellow polar bear enthusiasts for a Q&A session. On your trip, you'll enjoy a small group experience (max. 22 guests) led by a knowledgeable guide.
Suggested Winter Clothing Rental (extra cost)
To ensure you are comfortable in Churchill's cold temperatures, ask us about how you can book winter clothing rentals. Options include Canada Goose parkas and snow pants, plus Baffin snow boots.

Fly north into polar bear territory

The excitement begins as you travel from Winnipeg to the remote town of Churchill. Situated on the Hudson Bay, Churchill is one of the best places in the world to view polar bears in the wild.

Fly to Churchill
Churchill Town and Area Tour
On this Churchill interpretive tour, view and photograph the Polar Bear Holding Facility, historical Cape Merry, and an impressive Inukshuk.
Polar Bears International House
Visit Polar Bears International House, hear from a PBI representative, and learn about ongoing polar bear research in the region.
Parks Canada Centre Visit
Discover Churchill's intriguing history through Parks Canada Centre's wildlife dioramas and interactive exhibits.

View polar bears up close

The moment has finally come — after a hotel pick-up, board a Tundra Buggy and start your search for polar bears.

Tundra Buggy Adventure
Your journey takes you through Churchill Wildlife Management Area's extensive trail network in search of polar bears.
The Tundra Buggy Experience
You'll travel in comfort throughout the Churchill Wildlife Management Area onboard a large, specialized Tundra Buggy vehicle. While a Tundra Buggy can hold up to 40 passengers, your smaller group size means you'll enjoy plenty of room. A hearty picnic lunch will be served onboard.
Evening Cultural Presentation
Hear the stories of a Churchill resident, such as a local trapper, and learn what it's like to live in the Northern reaches of Canada.

Dogsledding in Churchill

Go on a thrilling dogsledding tour and experience this uniquely northern way of getting around.

Dogsledding Adventure
Meet a local Métis musher for an authentic dogsledding experience. Hear incredible tales of Arctic racing before embarking on your own race through the boreal forest.
Itsanitaq Museum Visit
Learn about Inuit culture at the Itsanitaq Museum. The museum's collection of Inuit carvings and artifacts are among the finest and oldest in the world.

Another tundra buggy adventure

Head out for another day on the Tundra searching for polar bears.

Tundra Buggy Adventure
Enjoy another extraordinary day on board the Tundra Buggy. As well as polar bears, you may see arctic fox, ptarmigan, and snowy owl.
Fly back to Winnipeg

Depart from Winnipeg

Too soon, you bid farewell to the Canadian North as you depart from Winnipeg.

Download Itinerary

Get more details in a sample itinerary that includes day-tour options and descriptions, departure dates, and suggestions for personalizing your trip

Prices

Get your personalized quote as trip prices may vary by departure date. Prices shown are our lowest rates per person, based on double occupancy, and exclude taxes.

Polar Bear Safari

Hotel Accommodations

3 and 4 Star

Activities and Wildlife Viewing

Fully Guided

Meals

Most meals included

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Accommodations

These are examples of the places you can stay on this trip. Please get in touch to discuss your options and to check availability.

Tundra Inn

Example of a Comfort hotel in Churchill

The Tundra Inn is a charming, family-run hotel located in the northern town of Churchill. With comfortable accommodation and complimentary amenities, this is the perfect place to relax after each day of outdoor adventures.

Inn at the Forks

Example of a Superior hotel in Winnipeg

In the heart of downtown Winnipeg, right where the Assiniboine River meet the Red River, lies the Inn at the Forks. The hotel’s superb location means that the city’s top attractions, including the Forks National Historic Site, are all nearby.

Personalize This Itinerary

Here are some of the most popular ways to personalize this journey.

Stay longer in Vancouver

Vancouver's mild climate, large outdoor spaces and diverse neighbourhoods attract visitors year-round. Add on a couple of extra nights here, so you have time to explore the city.

Great Bear Rainforest

Ask us to arrange a visit to one of British Columbia's most unique treasures - the Great Bear Rainforest. Stay in remote yet luxurious accommodations and witness eagles, grizzly bears, sea otters, dolphins, whales, wolves, and more in the wild.

Spend time in Jasper

Step off the train in Jasper and stay for a few nights. This small alpine town is the perfect base for exploring Jasper National Park, the largest park in the Canadian Rockies. Stroll the charming downtown, relax during a spa treatment, snowshoe through pristine wilderness, and soak up spectacular scenery.

Upgrade to Prestige Class

Prestige Class is a luxury experience. Available on VIA Rail’s The Canadian Train between Vancouver and Toronto, this spacious double cabin includes a special concierge service throughout your journey. This is one of our most popular upgrade options.

What Our Customers Say

Excellent overall rating based on 6 reviews

The arrangements were seamless

The arrangements were seamless – reservations, luggage transfers, dining, transportation – all taken care of. We just followed our expect guide! I was impressed with the helpful in...

David and Mary Kay

MN, USA

We loved the Tundra buggy days

We loved the Tundra buggy days, the dog sledding and seeing the Polar Bears. All tour guides were great as well, the buggy drivers and the whole group at the dog sledding! We found...

Janet and Paul

CT, USA

Seeing the polar bears and dog sleds was an amazing experience

We had a wonderful time on our trip. The guide was terrific - I never had to worry about where to go or what to do because he was very organized. The people in the tour group were...

Danielle and Claudia

NC, USA

We had a truly outstanding trip

We had a truly outstanding trip. The train ride was a special feature which definitely made the trip special. Our group was a very congenial one from all over the world. Tour guide...

Greg and Coralyn

MN, USA

The dog sled was like icing on the cake

The trip was amazing! It started with our trip to the Human Rights Museum in Winnipeg - by far the best museum we have ever seen! Thank you for recommending we visit the museum. Ou...

Joyce and William

CA, USA

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