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Looking for all inclusive Travel to Churchill?

Booking your entire trip just got easier

We are proud to be partnered with Heartland Travel, another family run, Manitoba company. We now offer packages through Heartland for all of Churchill’s sights and seasons. Contact Heartland travel to start booking your multi-day Churchill adventure now.

Heartland Travel

When To Visit

Churchill is an adventurer’s paradise.

With each change of season comes new wildlife and new sites to experience. Choosing the right season for your visit is important; whether you’re hoping for a once in a lifetime wildlife encounter, a cultural immersion, or to experience the barren beauty of the Arctic winter, there is a perfect time of year for your visit.

There are three main seasons to travel to Churchill: Polar Bear Season (October & November), Northern Lights Season (January & February), and Beluga Whale Season (Late June, July, & August). If you’re still not sure when is best for you to visit, scroll down to the FAQ section of this page, or contact us for personal advice.

Wildlife

Churchill is not only known as the "Polar Bear Capital of the World", but also the "Beluga Whale Capital of World" giving it some of the best wildlife viewing on the planet.

With as many as 1000 polar bears in the fall, and the Churchill River bubbling with nearly 4000 belugas in the summer, it's easy to see why this frontier town has become a destination for adventurers from around the globe. With over 270 species of birds, Churchill is a birder's paradise. The area is teeming with other wildlife too: red, silver and arctic foxes, caribou, wolverine, arctic hare, wolves and seals. If you are hoping for a trip packed with exciting polar bear sightings and beautiful foxes, the best season for you is fall. If you want to interact with playful beluga whales, watch migratory birds, and see a wildflower covered Tundra, the best season for your visit is summer.

“This exceeded my expectations. The icing on the cake included viewing two species of animals that I never thought I'd see in my life, much less have the chance to photograph.”

-Richard P. (Private Photography Group)
"I had the pleasure of touring with North Star multiple times during my trip. Both guides had a deep knowledge of Churchill and the surrounding area. Our trip was made special by them sharing personal stories of growing up in such a wild and vibrant place."

-Liz W. (Town & Area Tour)
"We can't recommend North Star Tours enough. We spent nearly a week in Churchill, touring with multiple companies, and North Star definitely stood out to us. The guides are skilled, knowledgeable, and fun to tour with."

-Suzanne V. (Coastal Roads & Hidden Trails Tour)
"Our Guide had great knowledge of the area and the history of Churchill. The vehicles are comfortable and can get you on all the side roads. Touring with North Star has been absolutely incredible. Book the Full Day Coastal Tour and you'll have a blast."

-Rohit V. (Coastal Roads & Hidden Trails Tour)
"We toured in a group with Kenny, the shotgun toting driver of our mini-bus. He informed us about the scope of the US Military involvement in Churchill after WWII, and took us to places that we would have never ventured to, like the abandoned radar station and “Miss Piggy” at the far edge of town. It was a wonderful experience. We are SO delighted we ventured that far north, and look forward to doing it again in the near future."

-Shawna C. (Town & Area Tour)
"The trip was amazing! We had a great group of riders, and the guides completely hit it out of the park. Everything completely exceeded any expectation I might have had; the organization and communication from the staff was flawless and on point. Remi was diligent in making sure we were informed about any possible problems in the upcoming portion of the ride each day and made sure we understood what we were to do in every situation. The accommodations and meals were also better than I expected, especially considering the remoteness of the area. I've been to a few top end hunting ranches in the states that have nothing on these offerings."

- Ken H. (Quest For The Bay Snowmobile Trip)
“We were blown away by this company. Remi and his staff did an outstanding job looking after us. Our guide was so knowledgeable about everything Churchill; the wildlife, flora, history and local legends, which really added to the whole experience. And the best part, we saw polar bears on both days— spectacular!”

-Michelle W. (Town & Area and Half Day Coastal Roads Tour)

History, Heritage, & Culture

The history and heritage of Churchill, Manitoba is rich and deep, dating back thousands of years.

Starting with the first explorers who set out in search of the notorious North West Passage, continuing to develop with the bustling fur trade, flourishing with a massive military presence during the Cold War, and now continuing with its new step into tourism. Churchill's history has always been an integral part of Canada's.

If the history and heritage of our frontier town is going to be the focus of your trip, we recommend visiting in the summer when historical sites are easiest to reach and the weather is mild. We also highly recommend the Town And Area Tour, which covers history and heritage and is offered during all travel seasons.

Churchill also has a very unique cultural background. The indigenous population of Inuit, Dene, Cree, and Métis people bring unique art, craftsmanship, music, and sacred traditions to the North. There is much to learn from the people here, as their language and their way of life contribute greatly to the areas history.

VIP, Private, & Custom Experiences

We offer completely customizable tours.

Whether you’re a serious photographer looking for amazing photo opportunities, seeking the knowledge that comes from one-on-one time with an experienced local guide, or loking to plan the most incredible trip including features such as private jets and ground transport, musicians, Service staff on site, and Private Chefs— We can help you out. Let us create a Churchill Experience like no other:

Photography Tours
Exclusive VIP All-Inclusive Packages
Private Guiding
Luggage Transfer and Service
Custom Camera Rigged Vehicles
Remote Area Services and Specialized Terrain Vehicles
Polar Bear Security
Private Shuttles and Transport

Contact To Begin Planning

Our Tours: Choose Your Adventure

Coastal Roads & Hidden Trails Tour (Full Day)

On this exciting full day expedition, we explore all of Churchill’s coastal roads and trails in search of polar bears and other arctic wildlife. While we travel across the subarctic terrain, you have the chance to talk with your guide and learn about the unique history of the area while seeing many of Churchill’s popular historic sites. Daily Departures Available in October & November (Lunch Included).
$395.00 CAD per person ($296.00 CAD Children ages 6-12 )
(Taxes not included)

More Polar Bears
Coastal Roads & Hidden Trails Tours (Half Day)

This is tour is designed for those hoping to spot some wildlife! Though a half day is not quite enough to explore all the sites and trails around Churchill looking for bears, it’s definitely enough for those short on time to make some unique Arctic memories. Daily Departures Available in October & November (Lunch not included).
$210.00 CAD per person ($157.00 CAD Children ages 6-12)
(Taxes not included)

More Polar Bears
Town & Area Tour

This is the perfect tour for those wanting a proper introduction to the community and both its historical and modern day treasures. Your guide will take you by 4x4 vehicle to all the important sites around town, including popular sights such as: Cape Merry, Miss Piggy, the Polar Bear Jail, The Churchill Northern Studies Centre, Ithaca Shipwreck, and more. Plus, we always keep a lookout for any wildlife that may stumble into our path.
Bear Season Price: $210.00 CAD per person ($157.00 CAD Children ages 6-12)
Beluga & Aurora Season Price: $150.00 CAD per person ($112.00 CAD Children ages 6-12)
(Taxes not included)

Contact To Book
Classic Aurora Borealis Tour

For this classic favourite tour, we will travel outside of town where there is less light pollution to chase these mystical dancing lights across the night sky. During this time of year, Polar bears are common, so your Guide is a trained polar bear guard, who keeps passenger and wildlife safety a top priority. This will insure your safety during the many viewing and photography opportunities of the evening. If the lights come out before 10:00pm, your guide will contact you by phone or knock on your hotel room door to let you know the tour is running and will pick you up. The remainder of the tour price can be paid the following morning. Pick up and drop off at your accommodation is included.
$225.00 CAD Per Person ($168.00 CAD Children ages 6-12) (Please note: There is a $25.00 non refundable deposit per evening to sign up)
(Taxes not included)

More Northern Lights
Quest For The Bay: Northern MB Snowmobile Adventure

Join us on this all new multi-day all inclusive tour by Heartland Travel as we journey by snowmobile from Thompson, MB all the way to Churchill. This unique winter adventure will give you the opportunity to get to know Manitoba and it’s winter landscapes and wildlife, as you head North on trails less travelled to the frontier of the mighty Hudson Bay. Once you get to Churchill, you can enjoy all the popular sites in a new and custom way: By sled! Experience the town and surrounding tundra in this new and exciting way.

See Package Details
Multi Day Polar Bear Package Tours

We are excited to have a new partnership with Heartland Travel for all of our package tours! Packages are ideal for travelers who want the easiest way to plan their entire Churchill experience. If you’re looking for help with everything from flights to hotels, to tours, and great opportunities for add-ons such as dog sledding, Aurora Tours, and meals, Heartland will help you organize every aspect of your northern adventure.

See Package Details
Mulit-Day Aurora Package Tour

We are excited to have a new partnership with Heartland Travel for all of our package tours! Packages are ideal for travelers who want the easiest way to plan their entire Churchill experience. If you’re looking for help with everything from flights to hotels, to tours, and great opportunities for add-ons such as dog sledding, Aurora Tours, and meals, Heartland will help you organize every aspect of your northern adventure.

See Package Details
Private, VIP, & Custom Tours

We offer completely customizable tours. Whether you’re a serious photographer looking for amazing photo opportunities, seeking the knowledge that comes from one-on-one time with an experienced local guide, or looking to plan the most incredible trip including features such as private jets and ground transport, musicians, Service staff on site, and Private Chefs— We can help you out. Let us create a Churchill Experience like no other.

Contact To Book
Beluga Whale Package Tours

We are excited to have a new partnership with Heartland Travel for all of our package tours! Packages are ideal for travelers who want the easiest way to plan their entire Churchill experience. If you’re looking for help with everything from flights to hotels, to tours, and great opportunities for add-ons such as dog sledding, Aurora Tours, and meals, Heartland will help you organize every aspect of your northern adventure.

See Package Details
MV Ithaca Hike

Nearly a century old, this WWI vessel has been ship wrecked 12 miles East of Churchill since 1960. Come experience her history and beauty during a short hike at low tide on this 2 hour tour. Please note: The difficulty level of this hike is easy, However the ground is wet, possibly slippery, and uneven. Daily departure times vary according to tide schedules, please contact us for the tour days and times. Includes transportation to starting point of the hike. Departures only in July & August.
$175.00 CAD per person ($131.00 CAD Children ages 6-12)
(Taxes not included)

See More Summer Tours
Beluga Whale Paddle Boarding Tours

During the summer we partner with Sea North Tours to provide world class beluga whale tours for travelers from around the globe. They are the only Whale watching company on the Churchill River & Hudson Bay that is 100% Beluga Whale Friendly. Join their experienced guides out on the water this summer! contact them for more details.

Sea North Tours
Beluga Whale Zodiac Tours

During the summer we partner with Sea North Tours to provide world class beluga whale tours for travelers from around the globe. They are the only Whale watching company on the Churchill River & Hudson Bay that is 100% Beluga Whale Friendly. Join their experienced guides out on the water this summer! contact them for more details.

Sea North Tours
Beluga Whale Kayaking Tours

During the summer we partner with Sea North Tours to provide world class beluga whale tours for travelers from around the globe. They are the only Whale watching company on the Churchill River & Hudson Bay that is 100% Beluga Whale Friendly. Join their experienced guides out on the water this summer! contact them for more details.

Sea North Tours
Beluga Whale Charter Tours

During the summer we partner with Sea North Tours to provide world class beluga whale tours for travelers from around the globe. They are the only Whale watching company on the Churchill River & Hudson Bay that is 100% Beluga Whale Friendly. Join their experienced guides out on the water this summer! contact them for more details.

Sea North Tours
Floe Ice Tour

During the summer we partner with Sea North Tours to provide world class beluga whale tours for travelers from around the globe. They are the only Whale watching company on the Churchill River & Hudson Bay that is 100% Beluga Whale Friendly. Join their experienced guides out on the water this summer! contact them for more details.

Sea North Tours
Polar Bear Security

North Star is not just a tour company. We offer a variety of other services, including Polar Bear Security. Security is ideal for anyone who may be working outdoors or in remote parts of Churchill and the surrounding area. Each of our guides has the bear guiding and guarding experience to keep you safe during your work days.

Contact To Book
Airport Transfers & Luggage Service

North Star is not just a tour company. We offer a variety of other services, including Airport Transfers and Luggage service. Our large and diverse fleet of vehicles can accommodate groups of almost any size! From private vans, to large busses, to off road capable vehicles, we have the perfect solution for your group and luggage.

Contact To Book

Churchill FAQ

When should I visit Churchill?

It depends on what you would like to see! The Fall (October & November) is best for wildlife like polar bears, foxes, arctic hares, and ptarmigan. Summer (July & August) is best for beluga whales, flora, and historic sites. Lastly, Winter (February & March) are great for Northern Lights and learning about Churchills rich cultural background.
Why are wildlife tours (Polar Bears) not listed for July, August and September?

Though we will occasionally run wildlife tours during these months, we do not generally recommend it as the best time for viewing polar bears. We are willing to book a tour for groups of three or more , as long as all participants have full understanding that it is the "Shoulder Season" and that we do not guarantee wildlife sightings on any of our tours. The time of year we recommend coming to see bears and other wildlife is beginning in October. A better tour to do in this shoulder season is our Town and Area Tour, which focuses on the cultural and historical sites in and around town rather than wildlife (But we always keep a lookout for it of course!)
How do I book my tours?

All of your tours can be booked over the phone, or via email. Just visit our contact page and reach out. We will happily book you for the tour of your dreams.
Can I see Polar Bears, Belugas, and Northern Lights all in one trip?

Though it could technically be possible, the different natural attractions of Churchill are rarely seen all in one trip. Churchill has different wildlife viewing opportunities with each season and we highly recommend planning your trip timing around the type you most want to see. Want to see polar bears and whales on the same trip in the summer? Sure, maybe you’ll catch a glimpse of a bear sleeping on shore during a beluga whale tour, but to see bears at their most active, plentiful, and for closer encounters, the only time to go is in the fall. Are you a Photographer who’s priority is to get stunning northern lights photos? You will likely see the Aurora during Bear Season but the brightest and best lights are during the winter months. The same goes for all natural wonders in the area; you may see them during different seasons, but to see them at their best is something entirely different.
How do the Aurora Tours really work? What is the "Call List"?

To sign up for an Aurora Tour, we take a $25.00 non refundable deposit for each guest to be placed on what we refer to as "The Call List" this is the list given to our Guide who stays on duty until 10pm watching for the lights. If the lights come out, the Guide calls you, picks you up and takes you out on tour and you pay the remaining tour price in the morning. If the lights do not come out by 10pm, the guide will not contact you and you do not pay the remaining tour price of $200.00, but you will not.be refunded the $25.00. If you sign up for multiple nights, and for example, the lights come out on the first night and you do not wish to go again, you only forfeit your $25 for each night you signed up for, not the whole tour amount.
Where is the North Star Tours Office?

Our tour desk is located inside the lobby of the Polar Inn & Suites Hotel. This is also the meeting place for all of our tours and the spot to visit if you have any questions while you’re in Churchill.
How do I get to Churchill? Can I drive?

The short answer is no! There are actually no roads in and out of Churchill Manitoba. The only ways to travel here are by Train or by plane, which we thinks makes it an even more exciting destination. See www.viarail.ca for train travel options, and www.calmair.com for flights.
Can children come on these tours?

Yes! We love when little ones can appreciate wildlife sightings too! All children must be accompanied by an adult who assumes full control and responsibility for them. They also must be able to abide by the safety rules put in place by the guide at the start of the trip. If your child requires special items such as a booster seat, you must provide it yourself.
What kind of vehicles do you tours use?

Our Full Day and Half Day Coastal Roads Wildlife Tours use large 4x4 vans— after many years of operation, we’ve found this is the best vehicle for navigating the tough trails and roads of the Tundra to get to the best spots for wildlife viewing. Our vans also have the perk of doors on both sides, providing easy entry and exit for all passengers. We also never fill our vehicles to max capacity, keeping passenger comfort and safety a top priority.
What should I pack?

During Bear Season or Northern Lights season, warm clothing is priority! We recommend layers, long underwear, a neck warmer, beanie, gloves, & mitts (We suggest having thin gloves under mitts so you can remove your hands to manipulate a camera without exposing your skin). Luckily, parkas, snow pants and boots are available for rent at the Polar Inn Botique & Suites if you don’t own cold weather gear (be sure to call ahead of your trip to check availability of rentals). Along with proper clothing, we also highly recommend bringing extra batteries! The cold will drain your devices batteries at a rate you might not expect. If you have USB power banks to charge your phone, and a USB charger for your camera batteries, we suggest packing these so you’ll never miss out on a photo opportunity during long, chilly tours on the Tundra. In the warmer summer months, we recommend packing for a range of weather. Temperatures can be high during the day and low at night, meaning you’ll want to make sure you have plenty of layers you can pile on or peel off according to the weather. A waterproof jacket is the best outer layer. Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and bug repellent are a must to keep you as comfortable as possible during your stay.
Why is Churchill called “The Polar Bear Capital of the World?"

There are just under 20 places on Earth to see Polar Bears in the Wild. Thirteen of those places are in Canada, and Churchill is the most accessible place of them. The Western part of the Hudson Bay where Churchill is situated is the perfect spot for the bears to come ashore when the ice melts in the summer, and wait for it to freeze again in the winter. With a large bear population, easy accessibility, and amazing hospitality, it’s no wonder that the town draws an estimated 10,000 visitors every year during this time.
How cold will Churchill be in October and November?

Weather can vary greatly in the North during any season, which is why we recommend coming prepared for anything. Typically during Polar Bear season in October and November it can be mild enough for a light jacket, or could be -30 Celsius, in which case you’d want full winter gear with no exposed skin. Unpredictable weather is a predictable part of adventuring this far north, and we hope you’ll embrace it as much as we do.
What is included/not included in my tour with North Star?

Each of our tours has different add on options and includes different things. We recommend reading the tour description very carefully before booking. If you still have questions after reading, just contact us and we will be happy to clarify on anything. None of our tours include insurance, so we always recommend you purchase this before coming, making sure your coverage includes Remote Area Travel and Trip Cancellation.
Am I guaranteed to see a polar bear on my tour?

Although it is rare to not see a polar bear during peak season, unfortunately it can sometimes happen. Having a great guide exponentially increases your chance of seeing polar bears, but at the end of the day, we are all at the mercy of nature which can be unpredictable for even the best guides in the world. For this reason we can never make a guarantee about viewing animals.
What if I book my Northern Lights Tour and don’t see the lights?

Just like with all of our nature tours, the lights are a natural phenomenon and we can not guarantee you will see them. We use your non-refundable deposit money to pay our guides to stay up late and look for the lights every night you sign up. Our guides are working around the clock to provide you with the best Churchill experience possible (Even the ones that happen late at night), and we hope you understand the non refundable nature of our deposits.

Our Team

We know Churchill.

Locally owned and operated for four generations, and serving northern adventurers since the 1950’s, North Star is first choice for many travelers seeking a sub arctic experience. The main reason? Our Guides!
Each North Star Guide has the expertise and experience to make your trip to Churchill unforgettable. Our focus is to share the areas rich natural history, wildlife, indigenous culture, and heritage through interesting and engaging tours on the shores of the stunning Hudson Bay.
Through our personal stories and experiences, unique personalities, and life-long passion and respect for wildlife, you'll be sure to find an experience that will make your trip unforgettable.
Let us show you our home!
-North Star Team
Remi

Wildlife Guide
From the planning all the way through to the execution, he’s sure to be a memorable part of your trip. A fourth generation born and raised Churchillian, guide, and mechanic, Remi’s passion lies in wildlife and in the equipment and vehicles necessary to traverse the stark and beautiful land he grew up on. Raised in Churchill’s tourism industry, he’s been showing people from around the world his home town and surrounding area for years.
Kenny

Wildlife Guide
An electrician by trade, Kenny spends his free time guiding for North Star Tours. If you tour with him, you’ll be sure to have a day filled with stories about living in a northern town. Kenny grew up in Churchill, and when he’s not working, you’ll likely find him hanging out at the Tundra with friends, cruising around in his beloved Jeep, or in the shop building or working on his snowmobile waiting for the snowfall so he can get out for a ride.
Lindsey

Wildlife Guide
Lindsey first came to Churchill in 2018 in hopes of seeing "just one polar bear" and now a few years (and many polar bears later), she has fallen in love with the wildlife and community and just can't seem to stay away! Travelling all over the world for unique seasonal work, when she's not in Churchill, you might find her at a heli ski lodge, in a treeplanting camp, on a yacht, or maybe planning her next backpacking trip.
Adam

Wildlife Guide
Always up for an adventure, Adam has been working in the North and around polar bears as long as he could walk and talk. He loves learning more every day about the area around him while bringing his unique experiences with wildlife to his guests. Passionate about work, wildlife, and community, Adam strives to lift up the people he meets and care for the wilderness around him.
Emma

Wildlife Guide
Emma originally came to Churchill during the summer months to be a Beluga guide for our partner Sea North Tours and like so many others, decided to stay for the Polar Bears! An outdoor enthusiast to say the least, during the off season, you’ll probably find Emma guiding hunting and fishing expeditions or working on a welding project in the shop. She’s definitely more comfortable hanging outside than she is inside.
Rhonda

Town & Area Expert
Rhonda moved to Churchill in 1999 and has been working on and off as a guide for North Star Tours since 2000, so she comes with tons of expert Churchill experience. Rhonda is a self proclaimed “Bird Nerd” — she loves to bird watch and is very talented at spotting and identifying many of Churchill’s abundant bird species. If your interest is in flying creatures, Rhonda can certainly be the guide to help you out!
Kate

Wildlife Guide
Hailing from New Zealand, Kate has spent the last 14 years living, working, and travelling all around the world! With a life in Churchill a dream years in the making, Kate attended the Expedition Guide Academy before moving to Canada earlier this year. A lover of wildlife and all things outdoors, she now gets to hang out with the bears and belugas on the daily and loves getting to share these experiences with guests.
Claude

Snowmobile Expedition Guide
Thirty-Five years in Churchill and five years working for North Star Tours makes Claude our most experienced guide! Many hobbies keep him busy both during and between tourist seasons; snowmobiling, boating, being a Grandfather, photography and spending time at the cabin. Claude’s favorite tour is our “Quest for the Bay” a multi-day snowmobile trip that brings all of the things he likes together: Guiding, machines, and the north!
Jeremy

Wildlife Guide
Whether it’s a story about sneaking out to play in old military buildings as a child, his grandparents trap line, or growing up at the old family Cabin at Goose Creek, Jeremy is filled with stories about Churchill and will have you enthralled for your entire tour with him. Another born and raised local, he is an outdoor enthusiast and spends his free time enjoying the spoils of the Taiga.
Tim

Wildlife Guide
Tim first came to Churchill 5 years ago and learned all about Churchill and the surrounding area from local legend Brian Ladoon, who he worked closely with to preserve the last remaining population of Canadian Eskimo Dogs. Tim likes to get up close and personal with the land, so if you have questions about the flora and fauna in the area, Tim is the guide you’ll want to ask!