The Great Ice Bear
A 7-day fly-in safari for polar bear viewing at Dymond Lake Lodge.
From 13000 per personMenu
Arctic Canada Safaris
The far northern reaches of Canada are a true wilderness of pristine icy expanses and rugged landscapes, with very little human presence. Home to over 65% of the world’s polar bears and an abundance of wildlife specially adapted for life in the extreme cold, migrating beluga whales, and narwhals - the ‘unicorns of the sea’. Caribou, wolves, moose and arctic foxes also roam the tundra plus bird life such as snowy owls, eider ducks, kittiwakes and more.
The Arctic Canada Safari Experience
- Live amongst the bears out on the tundra in cosy lodges or track the King of the Arctic on foot.
- Explore some of the most impressive ice formations on the planet on foot under the midnight sun.
- Spot bowheads, belugas and the unicorns of the sea - narwhals breaching the Canadian waters.
- Camp on the ice floes around Baffin Island or sleep among the bears in unique Tundra Lodges.
- Spring and Autumn birds are on their annual migration, a hot spot for Gyr Falcon, Peregrine Falcon, Snowy Owls, Tundra Swans, Arctic terns and gulls.
Why Natural World Safaris?
Our fascination for bears originally started over 10 years ago with our niche company named World Bear Safaris. Our CEO and Founder Will Bolsover spent many years alongside our specialists locating the best bear haunts amid the Canadian wilderness.
As a leading specialist operator with first-hand experience, we have specifically chosen lodges that are in some of the most remote areas in the heart of bear country, where it is possible to experience incredible close encounters with polar bears.
Arctic Canada Safaris
The Northwest Passage
Sail the fabled Northwest Passage aboard the beautiful Greg Mortimer on this 17-day safari.
From 17500 per person
Talk to an Arctic Canada Specialist
The Arctic Canada Safari Experience
How much does Arctic Canada Cost?
Typically, expect to budget around $9,500 per person for a 7 day safari to stay in a remote lodge, this includes charter flights from Winnipeg to Churchill and from Churchill to your lodge and back. To camp on the ice floes around Baffin Island, expect to budget $23,000 per person for a 8 day narwhal and polar bear safari. For a truly in-depth 17 day experience onboard the Sylvia Earle across the Northwest Passage, expect to budget $17,500 excluding national flights.
When To Go to Arctic Canada?
The best time to see the polar bears in Arctic Canada is between October and November, as they wait on the tundra for the “Big Freeze”, ready to begin the seal-hunting season; you are also likely to see the northern lights at this time. For other wildlife, typically the best time to visit is May through September. Read more about when to go to Arctic Canada.
Where to Stay in Arctic Canada?
As Canada’s last frontier and remote wilderness, the accommodation options in the area are not extensive, and the geographical isolation means that resources and provisions are more limited. Accessible only by scenic flights, we only use lodges that place you right in the center of the polar bear action. Despite the lodges being relatively basic, they are all clean, comfortable rooms and extremely cosy - perfect to enjoy hot food and warm beds that you need after a day of exploration on the tundra.
What to expect from a trip to Arctic Canada
Client Reviews
Rated 4.8/5 based on 6 customer reviews
- —Nigel S who travelled to Arctic Canada on The Great Ice Bear Safari
It was a truly memorable trip. While we also experienced the tundra buggy to get up close to lots of polar bears, the opportunity to walk with polar bears accompanied by guides was 100 times the experience of the tundra buggy. This trip was so well organised and nothing was left to chance.
- —Susan W who travelled on Arctic Canada: The Great Ice Bear Safari in 2022
All the staff and guides were thoroughly passionate and very knowledgeable. The lodge was very comfortable and the food was great too. We loved the experience of tundra walking and the tundra buggy trip which was great for adding to the bear count!
- —Timothy L who travelled to Arctic Canada in 2022 on the Northwest Passage & Greenland
The trip aboard the Greg Mortimer was beyond our expectations! The ship crew and expedition crew were welcoming, upbear, and very knowledgeable. We enjoyed the kayaking which was well-led by the kayak team and took us 'into the outback' where the scenery was stunning. We saw polar bears on the second day at sea which was awesome. We also had an insight into Inuit culture and their lives on the edge. We highly recommend this trip!
- —Joanne M who travelled to Arctic Canada on Birds, Bears & Belugas Safari
My destination specialist was very helpful and answered any questions rapidly and concisely. The overall trip was great and I saw some incredible wildlife!
- —Jennifer S who travelled on the Narwhal & Polar Bear Safari
We had an amazing time on this trip and received excellent service from Gemma and the team.
- —Richard S who travelled to Churchill on the Polar Bear Classic Tour Safari
The journey was very well organised with well briefed staff at every stage. If one had a problem it was quickly overcome. Our leaders were very knowledgeable and ensured everything went like clockwork.
Arctic Canada Safaris FAQs
How cold is the Arctic in August?
In the Arctic, August is relatively warmer with average daytime temperatures ranging from around 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F) along the coast and -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F) inland. However, temperatures can vary, and travellers should be prepared for chilly conditions, especially at night.
When heading to the Arctic, pack essential items like insulated waterproof clothing, layered outfits, warm accessories (gloves, hat, scarf), waterproof boots, moisture-wicking socks, eye protection (goggles, sunglasses), sun care (sunscreen, lip balm), a small backpack, swimwear (for saunas or plunges), indoor casual attire, and remember to consult guides for any specific requirements.What clothes do I need?
In the Arctic, you can engage in diverse activities such as observing polar bears, beholding the Northern Lights, partaking in dog sledding or snowmobiling, immersing in indigenous cultures, pursuing photography, kayaking, hiking, embarking on Arctic cruises, touring research stations, engaging in sauna and polar plunges, camping, fishing, partaking in traditional pursuits, scenic flights, and attending enlightening lectures. It's important to bear in mind that the availability of activities hinges on your location and the time of your visit.What can we do when we get there?
What wildlife is there in the Arctic?
Arctic wildlife is surprisingly varied and includes, Arctic foxes, polar bears, caribou, walruses, seals, whales, Arctic hares, lemmings, birds like snowy owls and puffins, Arctic wolves, musk oxen, and more.
These animals have evolved unique adaptations to survive in the cold environment, from polar bears hunting on sea ice to Arctic hares with specialised fur. The delicate balance of this ecosystem relies on the interactions between these species, each playing a vital role in the Arctic food web and contributing to its biodiversity.
What is the best month to go to the Arctic?
The best time to visit the Arctic depends on your preferences. Summer (June to August) offers milder temperatures, wildlife sightings, and activities like hiking. Winter (September to April) is ideal for experiencing the Northern Lights and snowy landscapes.
Can you vacation in the Arctic?
Guided tours and cruises allow travellers to experience the unique landscapes, wildlife, and cultures of the Arctic region. These safaris can include activities such as wildlife viewing, cultural interactions with indigenous communities, photography, adventure sports (like kayaking and dog sledding), and experiencing natural phenomena like the Northern Lights. Keep in mind that Arctic tourism is typically seasonal, with the most popular times being summer for milder weather and wildlife sightings, and winter for the Northern Lights and snowy landscapes.