Northern Lights & Arctic Exploration

Have questions about the aurora borealis? We've got answers! We've compiled a list of our most frequently asked questions about the northern lights, Churchill, weather and more.

Take a virtual tour of our four aurora viewing locations near Churchill, Manitoba—the Aurora Pod®, Aurora Cabin, Aurora Domes, and a local dog musher's yard with a campfire-illuminated tepee.

The aurora borealis is a glittering, radiant display, only visible in the northern night sky. Read on to discover the origins of these wonderous lights and the science behind this astounding phenomenon. 

Maximize your chances of watching this wondrous natural spectacle by researching the best time to take a trip north to see the aurora borealis in Churchill.

Take our northern lights quiz to put your knowledge to the test, then share it with your family and friends to see who knows the most about the aurora borealis!

Through operating environmentally sensitive adventures for hundreds of visitors each year, we contribute financially to local communities while using travel as a means to spearhead conservation efforts.

Find out what the winter weather conditions are typically like in Winnipeg and farther north in Churchill during northern lights season.

Learn about Arctic foxes and other wildlife you may encounter on your Churchill northern lights adventure.

Check out our comprehensive list of all the clothing and gear you’ll want to pack so you'll be well prepared for winter on the tundra.

—By Expedition Leader Katrina Rosen
This winter will be an incredible time to bear witness to the aurora borealis as we reach the peak of Solar Cycle 25. I’m excitedly anticipating guiding in the best place on Earth to see this aerial phenomenon!

—By Megan Koelemay
Equip yourself with the right gear and an imaginative spirit, and you’ll have a delightful experience photographing the northern lights!

—By Nat Hab Expedition Leader Eddy Savage
I have several key preparations in my Northern Lights Photography Kit that make my life easier and the rush of photographing the aurora borealis a lot of fun...

—By Lavanya Sunkara
In addition to searching for Arctic wildlife on the tundra, we take time to learn about and experience Indigenous culture on all of our Nat Hab Churchill tours...

—By Eddy Savage
As a year-round Expedition Leader with Natural Habitat Adventures, part of my annual circuit of trips has me leading groups on the most extraordinary of winter adventures...

—By Nat Hab Expedition Leader Katrina Rosen
Georgina is a Cree elder and spent her childhood in the flats of Churchill, Manitoba. When Georgina was young, the lights would swirl above her family’s teepee, and her parents told her not to clap or whistle at them...

—By WWF
When you witness the lights streaking across the sky, reaching a height of up to 620 miles, it’s easy to understand how so many cultures came to develop mystical stories about them...