October 26 – 31, 2012

If current climate change trends continue unabated, scientists believe that polar bears will be vulnerable to extinction within the next century. WWF refuses to let that happen. We support going into the field, for both scientists and travelers like yourself, to learn about the threats facing polar bears, their habitat and their prey. There's no better way to learn that than seeing them for yourself.

• Travel in a group of just 15 people, ensuring space to move around and spread out on the heated polar rovers.
• Interact one on one with our expert guides.
• Enjoy an average 6-10 bear sightings a day.
• Travel via private charter flights between Winnipeg and Churchill.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1:  Winnipeg, Manitoba
Arrive in Winnipeg, in the province of Manitoba. Meet your expedition leader and fellow travelers for an orientation dinner. (D)

Day 2: Winnipeg / Churchill
Fly to Churchill this morning. This hospitable outpost town, originally a fur-trading post, is our base for adventure. This evening we will head out in our specially-designed polar rovers for our first visit to the tundra. We will enjoy dinner in our vehicle and see the Arctic animals in an atmosphere rarely experienced by most visitors. If we chance upon a clear night, the Northern Lights may appear and brighten the entire sky. We will return late in the evening. Hotel TBA (B,L,D)

Days 3 & 4: Polar Bear Viewing
Unique polar rovers are our mobile means for spending time among the polar bears. Although they accommodate an average of 35 passengers, we take just 15, ensuring everyone a window seat. Our expedition leaders know the best places to view bears, which are waiting for the ice to solidify on Hudson Bay so they may begin the winter seal-hunting season. As we watch them interact, we're delighted by their antics and rugged beauty. From the warmth of our rover, we may see mothers with cubs and young adult males play-fighting. Our knowledgeable expedition leader offers interpretation along the way, explaining the bears’ behavior and how they thrive in such a harsh environment. In the evenings, we meet for dinner, followed by presentations on wildlife or local cultures.  (B,L,D)

Day 5: Churchill / Winnipeg
Return flights are scheduled to depart in the mid-to-late afternoon, to offer as much time as possible to explore Churchill. Pick up last-minute native handcrafts and souvenirs or, if time permits, take an optional helicopter journey over the tundra or go on an authentic dog-sledding excursion. Fort Garry Hotel (B; L or D)

Day 6: Return Home
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for flights home. (B)