polar bear in Churchill, Canada

Behind the Scenes with Polar Bears

Physical Requirements

Most Earthwatch Expeditions take place in destinations that are wild and remote, with varying physical demands and limited medical facilities. All field research trips may not be suitable for every traveler. In order to participate on this expedition, you must comfortably and reliably be able to execute all physical requirements as noted below.

Level of Difficulty

Easy Moderate Challenging
physical difficult icon
Difficulty
  • Easy to Moderate
physical pace icon

Trip Pace

Full days with early starts, vehicle-based wildlife viewing, presentations, and travel by air. The schedule may change with weather and field conditions. 

  • Visit two locations over six or seven days, depending on the itinerary 

  • Two private charter flights 

  • Early mornings and late nights are scheduled to allow maximum time for wildlife viewing, research and exploration 

  • Guests should expect long, full days of research, activities and excursions.  

walking icon
Walking & Terrain

Short walks may take place around the Centre or in Churchill. Surfaces can be uneven, muddy, snowy, or icy. Confirm walking distances and availability of assistance. 

  • Travelers must be able to walk up and down stairs 

  • Town streets are often snow-packed and icy 

plane icon
Transportation & Vehicles
  • Travel by chartered aircraft, bus and Polar Rover 

  • Polar Rover rides take place on rugged trails with ruts and potholes and can be bumpy 

accessibility icon
Accessibility
  • Not appropriate for travelers using wheelchairs or walkers 

  • Accessible bathroom features such as walk-in showers or grab bars are unavailable in the accommodations used on this itinerary 

  • Hand railings may not be present on all stairways encountered during the trip 

sun icon
Weather
  • Daytime temps range from 16–36°F in Oct–Nov 

  • Overnight temps drop to -3–27°F 

  • Oct: Avg highs around 35°F, lows near 24°F 

  • Nov: Avg highs around 17°F, lows near 3°F 

  • Polar Rovers are heated for comfort 

elevation icon
Elevation
  • This trip takes place at sea level, with no elevation-related concerns

Questions?
We've Got Answers!
Talk with an Adventure Specialist
Call Our Boulder Office at 800-548-7555 or contact your travel advisor.