2024 Tour code: FN-WLNN-24
About the tour
A place so remote that it is only accessible by train or plane calls to you for this thrilling adventure. Churchill lies in the furthest reaches of Manitoba, right along the Hudson Bay, and is renowned for two things: polar bear viewing and the northern lights. Come bear witness to both as you explore this arctic tundra alongside an Interpretive Guide. This journey begins in Winnipeg, where VIA Rail's Winnipeg-Churchill train awaits to whisk travelers through the wide-open plains and boreal forests to Churchill. Situated under the auroral oval, this community is one of the best places in the world to watch the green and red hues of the northern lights spring to life. But it is not just the evenings you can look forward to while here; rather, each day is filled with opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture and get a taste of life in the far north. Enjoy a guided tour of the Churchill region, including points of interest like a polar bear holding facility and a visit to a local museum that portrays the history of the Inuit people. A snowshoeing expedition offers an up-close look at this frigid environment, while our dog-sledding excursion illustrates a way of life that is unique to this part of the world. In between adventures, experts share their knowledge about conservation, animals, history and more. Anticipation builds throughout the days, and then as the sun sets, the group ventures to different viewing areas around Churchill to soak in the wondrous sights. Whether it is round-the-clock excitement or arctic splendor you seek, there is no shortage of either on this 8-day journey.
Interpretive-Guided: These tours include lodging and transportation with a mix of cultural and wildlife or northern lights viewing activities built in. Interpretive-guided tours are medium-capacity, escorted departures so you can sit back and relax while we take care of all the details.
Highlights
What’s included
Itinerary
Arrive into Winnipeg on your own and check into your hotel. You have a free day to explore Winnipeg before an evening meet and greet with your interpretive guide. Overnight Winnipeg.
Additional information
Hotels
Train
Reviews
5.0 / 5 · 1 review
S Pasay
Submitted 1/Mar
Trip of a lifetime and saw the lights all three nights we were there. Our guide was exceptional and added so much to our trip with her unbelievable knowledge of the area and people. Accommodations were very nice in Winnipeg and rustic but clean in Churchill. Seriously thinking about another trip to see the bears this time but will book directly with tour operator and not Vacations by Rail. Extremely disappointed with Vacations by Rail's lack of communication after they took our money. We were ill prepared for this trip because of the extreme cold we encountered. Thank goodness for our tour guide who was able to get us the proper clothing.
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