Know Before You Go: Polar Bear Tours
When is the Best Time to See Polar Bears in Churchill?
October and November are the prime months for polar bear viewing in Churchill. During this brief season, dozens of polar bears congregate along the Hudson Bay shoreline, waiting for the sea ice to return so they can hunt seals. Over the course of the fall, hundreds pass through the region, making Churchill the world’s most accessible place to see polar bears in the wild.
The tundra itself is transformed: cold, crisp air, a light dusting of snow, and the chance of northern lights shimmering across long Arctic nights. Wildlife is active, and the stark beauty of the subarctic landscape creates unforgettable encounters.
Why Do Polar Bears Gather in Churchill in the Fall?
Churchill is one of the first places on Hudson Bay where sea ice forms each year. As the bay begins to freeze, bears instinctively move to the coastline, conserving energy while waiting for the ice that signals the start of seal-hunting season. This natural cycle reliably brings large numbers of bears into the Churchill area each fall, offering a rare opportunity to view them on land before they disperse across the frozen bay for winter.
What is the Best Time to Visit Churchill for Polar Bears?
Early–Mid October: The start of the polar bear season. Sightings are less frequent than later in the month, but the tundra’s snow-free landscape creates unique photographic contrasts and a chance to experience Churchill before peak crowds.
Mid–Late October: Prime time for consistent sightings, with the largest number of bears gathering along Hudson Bay. Weather is still relatively mild, making this window ideal for both comfort and wildlife viewing.
Early November: Best opportunity to see and photograph mothers with cubs as they emerge before heading onto the ice.
Late October–Early November: Peak photography conditions, with golden low-angle light, fresh snow, and active bears sparring or roaming the tundra.
Can I See Polar Bears Outside of the October–November Window?
Yes, but sightings are far less reliable:
Summer (July–August): A few bears may be seen from boats or helicopters, often on beluga whale tours. They linger along the cooler coastline.
Winter (December–March): Once the bay freezes, most bears head onto the ice to hunt seals.
Spring (March–April): Mothers with cubs remain hidden in snow dens.
For the best chance of consistent sightings, plan your trip in October or November.
Can I See the Northern Lights During Polar Bear Season?
Yes, but it’s not guaranteed. Churchill lies directly beneath the aurora oval, one of the best places on Earth to see the northern lights. By late October, nights are long and dark enough for aurora displays, especially under clear skies. However, cloud cover and snow squalls can block visibility. Expect about eight hours of daylight, with extended Arctic nights that may reward patient travelers with glowing ribbons of green overhead.
When Is the Best Time for Polar Bear Photography?
Late October to early November is the sweet spot for polar bear photography. Low-angle golden light casts warmth and depth across the tundra. Bears are active—sparring, digging snow beds, or approaching rovers with curiosity. A fresh layer of snow creates contrast, making their white coats stand out beautifully. Whether you’re shooting with a zoom lens or a smartphone, this period offers the best light, activity, and scenery for unforgettable images.
What Are Churchill’s Temperatures Like During Polar Bear Season?
Cold, but manageable with proper gear:
Typical daytime range: 10°F to 25°F (-12°C to -4°C)
October: Brighter skies, lighter winds.
November: More snow, overcast conditions, and Arctic gusts.
Wind chills on the open tundra can make it feel much colder. Travelers need insulated boots, gloves, thermal layers, and a warm parka. With Nat Hab, heavy-duty loaner gear is provided, so you can stay comfortable and focused on the wildlife—not the weather.
Churchill Polar Bear Season: What to Expect in October and November
Churchill in Early October: Start of the Polar Bear Season
Polar Bear Activity: A few bears begin arriving along the Hudson Bay coast. Sightings are less frequent but possible.
Sea Ice Conditions: Minimal ice; bears remain on land waiting for freeze-up.
Northern Lights: Moderate chances, with longer evenings allowing early aurora viewing.
Daylight & Weather: Longer days, softer light, and milder early-season conditions.
Churchill in Late October: Peak Polar Bear Viewing
Polar Bear Activity: Highest concentration of the season; bears are active and often sparring.
Sea Ice Conditions: Bay begins partial freeze-up, keeping bears near the coast.
Northern Lights: High potential for aurora under clear skies.
Daylight & Weather: Shorter days but excellent visibility; crisp Arctic weather without the deep November cold.
Churchill in Early November: Mothers with Cubs
Polar Bear Activity: Prime time to see mothers with cubs; ideal for wildlife photography.
Sea Ice Conditions: Significant ice forming, though bears still visible on land.
Northern Lights: High chances, often paired with clear skies.
Daylight & Weather: Fewer daylight hours and colder temps, but golden light and snow create dramatic photo opportunities.
Churchill in Late November: Polar Bears Move Onto the Ice
Polar Bear Activity: Bear numbers decline as they head onto the frozen bay to hunt seals.
Sea Ice Conditions: Full coverage; bears disperse across Hudson Bay.
Northern Lights: Still good potential, though cloud cover is more common.
Daylight & Weather: Very limited daylight, colder conditions, and fewer reliable sightings.
Nat Hab's Churchill Polar Bear Tours
Canada's Premier Polar Bear Adventure
Meet the King of the Arctic! Our flagship polar bear tour is an expertly guided small-group adventure to see the world's largest concentration of polar bears in their wild tundra home on Hudson Bay.
Polar Bear Quest & Helicopter Safari
A total immersion in the world of the polar bear! View bears from our custom Polar Rover, visit a polar bear den, survey the tundra by helicopter, and learn about the history and culture of the Canadian North.
Ultimate Churchill: Tundra Lodge & Town
Stay at our exclusive Tundra Lodge, situated for unparalleled proximity to roving polar bears—then add two nights in the frontier town of Churchill to experience the culture of the Canadian North.
Tundra Lodge Adventure
Watch polar bears around the clock from our private Tundra Lodge, stationed in an area of high bear density. This is arguably the most extraordinary polar bear encounter in the world!
Churchill’s Belugas, Polar Bears & Arctic Wildlife
Meet hundreds of friendly beluga whales up close via Zodiac and kayak, and look for caribou, polar bears, Arctic fox and more on this exhilarating summer adventure in the Canadian subarctic.
Churchill Polar Bear Photo Expedition
Our flagship polar bear photo safari is an exhilarating small-group adventure among the world's largest concentration of polar bears along Hudson Bay, guided by top naturalists who are photography pros.
Tundra Lodge Photo Expedition
The ultimate polar bear photography adventure! Stay at our private lodge in the bears’ domain 24/7 on this immersive Arctic photo safari, led by top photographers who are also expert naturalists.
Beluga Whales & Polar Bears: Churchill Summer Photo Expedition
Photograph hundreds of beluga whales in the Churchill River, take a private helicopter flight for aerial shots of roving polar bears, look for Arctic fox and hare, and capture close-ups of brilliant tundra wildflowers.
Travel Stories
An Indigenous History of Climate Change in Canada
—By Megan Brief
Since time immemorial, the Indigenous peoples of Canada have served as gatekeepers for the Earth and of the earth. First Nations, Inuit and Métis grow closer to the land with each passing season, and with it, a fear that climate change could sever their connection for good.
Watch Polar Bears Year-Round with WWF's Species Tracker
—By Marta Regn
Thanks to the WWF species tracker, you can keep up with polar bears during every season and from anywhere in the world!
A Year in the Life of a Hudson Bay Polar Bear
—By Cathy Brown
Let’s get to know these magnificent creatures that the Arctic’s Indigenous Inupiaq call the Nanuuq and learn a bit more about a year in the life of a typical Hudson Bay polar bear.
Arctic Adaptations: How Well Can Polar Bears Swim?
—By Michelle Peters
You may wonder, "Are they strong swimmers? "How far and fast can they swim?" "How are they being affected by the retreating sea ice?" During a Nat Hab Polar Bear Adventure, you'll have hours to discuss these very questions with Expedition Leaders who know these mammals best.
Getting to Know the Polar Bear: 8 Surprising Facts About the King of the Arctic
—By Cathy Brown
Here are eight facts about polar bears that will leave you even more enamored with these beastly beauties. There's definitely a lot more to these Arctic-dwelling bears than what most wildlife lovers know.
Six Things that Surprised me on my Polar Bear Adventure
—By Jen McNally
Besides the magic of seeing polar bears, what surprised me about my adventure was the breadth of unexpected experiences that didn't involve bears. Here are six of them, in no particular order!
Do Polar Bears Hibernate? The Answer May Surprise You
—By Megan Brief
Polar bears contend with extreme environmental conditions and face laborious tasks that result in high energetic demands. Unlike brown and black bears, polar bears do not hibernate...not in the traditional sense, anyway.
Feeling the “Arctic Squeeze” – The UN’s New Climate Report and What it Means for Polar Bears
—By Mark Jorahl
It would be tragically cliché and defeatist to say you should go see the polar bears in Canada now before they are gone. Instead, let’s say go now to get inspired to help save them. There is still time, and there is a roadmap.
What Are the Top Threats Polar Bears Face?
—By Michelle Peters
Let's take a closer look at the polar bear threats out there today and what we can do to further polar bear conservation efforts.
Act Now to Witness the Wonder of Polar Bears in Churchill
—By Natural Habitat Adventures
With International Polar Bear Day on February 27, we're drawing attention to the King of the Arctic's plight in a warming world.
A Successful Return to Churchill—Top Photos from the 2021 Polar Bear Season
—By Emily Goodheart
After two years away, travelers have finally returned to Churchill eager to explore the vast expanse of tundra in search of the King of the Arctic and were rewarded with prolific polar bear sightings.
