Birds, Bears & Belugas
A specialist-led safari in the Arctic North taking in the variety of wildlife that inhabits this remote wilderness; from the majestic King of the Arctic - the polar bear - to the unique-looking beluga whale and more.
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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 polar 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 Holiday 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.
- Undertake a true adventure in remote temporary Camps along the ice floe or ice-scapes to see what polar wildlife you discover
Arctic Canada Safaris
From 13500 per person
The Great Ice Bear
A 7-day fly-in safari for polar bear viewing at Dymond Lake Lodge.
The Northwest Passage
Sail the fabled Northwest Passage aboard the beautiful Greg Mortimer on this 17-day safari.
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.
Arctic Canada Travel Inspo
Where to see polar bears
Where is the best place to see polar bears? Many people refer to Churchill as “The Polar Bear Capital of the World” such is the abundance of bears in the area.
Arctic Canada Safari Highlights
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Arctic Canada and where is it located?
Arctic Canada refers to the northern regions of Canada above the Arctic Circle, including Manitoba, Nunavut, Northwest Territories, Yukon, and Arctic coastlines. It is known for polar bears, tundra landscapes, Inuit culture, and extreme seasonal light.
Where is the best place to see polar bears in Canada?
Churchill, Manitoba is the best place in the world to see polar bears on land. Bears gather there each autumn as they wait for Hudson Bay to freeze, making sightings highly reliable.
What is the best time to visit Arctic Canada?
The best time depends on your goal: October–November for polar bears, February–March for northern lights and dog sledding, and July–August for tundra wildlife and summer expeditions.
Can you see the northern lights in Arctic Canada?
Yes. Arctic Canada is one of the best places globally to see the northern lights, particularly in Churchill, Yellowknife, and Nunavut, from September to April.
What wildlife can I see in Arctic Canada?
Wildlife includes polar bears, Arctic foxes, wolves, musk oxen, beluga whales, narwhals, seals, caribou, and migratory birds depending on region and season.
Is Arctic Canada safe for travellers?
Yes. Arctic Canada is safe when visited with experienced local guides. Travel is usually guided due to weather, remoteness, and wildlife, particularly polar bears.
What is Churchill, Manitoba famous for?
Churchill is known as the Polar Bear Capital of the World, as well as for beluga whales in summer and exceptional northern lights displays in winter.
What cultural experiences are available in Arctic Canada?
Visitors can experience Inuit culture through guided community visits, traditional knowledge sharing, Arctic cuisine, and storytelling led by local residents.
What should I pack for an Arctic Canada trip?
Pack insulated layers, windproof outerwear, thermal base layers, waterproof boots, gloves, hat, and camera protection. Temperatures vary widely by season.
How does tourism support conservation in Arctic Canada?
Tourism supports Indigenous-led conservation, wildlife research, and community employment, while strict regulations protect fragile Arctic ecosystems.
Why Natural World Safaris for your Arctic Canada Safari?
Wildlife Specialists
Whether spotting polar bears on the tundra, belugas in the bays, or narwhals threading through the sea ice, our Arctic Canada safaris are built around extraordinary wildlife encounters. We work with expert naturalists and Inuit guides to ensure you are in the right place at the right time for rare and intimate moments in nature.
Wealth of Experience
We’ve been exploring the Canadian Arctic for years, forging close partnerships with local communities and specialist guides. From navigating the floe edge to spotting polar bears or beluga whales, our team draws on deep knowledge to craft seamless journeys in one of the most remote and awe-inspiring regions on Earth.
Tailor-Made Safaris
Every journey to Arctic Canada is carefully crafted around your interests. From seasonal wildlife migrations to cultural encounters and off-grid adventure, we work with trusted local partners to design bespoke safaris that offer privileged access to one of the world’s last true wildernesses.