Birds, Bears & Belugas | Seal River Heritage Lodge
8 Days
From AUD 19,712
Trip Code: CACWBBB
DIFFICULTY RATING: 2 (light adventure)
Start: Winnipeg, Canada
Finish: Winnipeg, Canada
Destination
Canadian Arctic
Departure Date
04/07/2027, 14/07/2027, 24/07/2027, 29/07/2027, 02/07/2028, 07/07/2028, 12/07/2028, 17/07/2028, 22/07/2028, 27/07/2028, 01/08/2028, 11/08/2028
Meals
Orientation dinner in Winnipeg; All meals and snacks while in Churchill & at the Lodge ; All alcoholic beverages – Canadian wines and beers
Transport
Return flights to/from Winnipeg, Churchill & Seal River Heritage Lodge. Group transfers in Churchill as well as All Transport While at the Lodge
Accommodation
Luxury Lodge
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Included Sightseeing
Enjoy a Wide Range of Adventure Activities at the Lodge, such as Twice Daily Arctic Excursions in location, Specialized Tundra Vehicles, ATV, Zodiac Cruising, Expert Lectures & Briefings by the Experienced Lodge Naturalist Team
Please Note: This itinerary, including flights, are subject to change depending on weather conditions & logistical complications that can arise from travelling in remote locations.
OVERVIEW
Experience the Canadian Arctic in summer with unforgettable encounters as you walk among polar bears, watch thousands of beluga whales and discover the wildlife-rich coastline of Hudson Bay on this immersive adventure. Based at Seal River Heritage Lodge, this all-inclusive safari combines daily guided tundra hikes, marine excursions and ATV explorations to maximise wildlife viewing opportunities. The region is home to polar bears, Arctic foxes, Arctic hares, ground squirrels (sik-siks) and an abundance of migratory birdlife, while summer brings thousands of beluga whales to nearby estuary waters.
With expert guides leading daily activities, each day brings new opportunities for wildlife photography, nature interpretation and exploring the tundra to gain a deeper understanding of the Arctic environment. Combined with a visit to Churchill's historic attractions and fascinating evening presentations on Arctic ecosystems and wildlife, this itinerary offers one of the most rewarding ways to experience Canada's far north.
Seal River Heritage Lodge
National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World
Stay in one of Canada's most remote wildlife lodges, located on the western shores of Hudson Bay in the heart of polar bear country. Accessible only by air, Seal River Heritage Lodge places guests in a unique wilderness setting far from roads, crowds and traditional viewing platforms. Its location near the Seal River estuary provides exceptional world-class access to Arctic wildlife and landscapes that make northern Manitoba one of Canada's premier nature destinations.
Ethical Wildlife Viewing
The lodge is recognised for its ethical approach to wildlife encounters, allowing guests to connect with the natural environment while supporting responsible tourism practices. Small-group experiences with expert guides share their extensive knowledge of the region's wildlife, ecology and history through guided interpretation and educational presentations.
Wildlife viewing is often possible directly from the lodge grounds and observation areas, creating opportunities to observe the ever-changing activity along the coast. Whether watching wildlife from the lodge, learning from local experts or simply taking in the surrounding tundra and bay, guests remain connected to the Arctic environment throughout their stay.
Tundra-Inspired Cuisine
Discover the unique flavours of the Canadian North through the lodge's signature tundra-inspired cuisine showcases locally sourced ingredients and regional influences, with menus featuring sustainably harvested fish, wild game, seasonal produce and other Canadian specialities. Meals are thoughtfully prepared by skilled chefs and served in a welcoming setting overlooking the Hudson Bay coastline.
More than just a dining experience, each meal offers guests another connection to the region's local character, quality ingredients, exceptional hospitality, landscapes and wildlife, adding a memorable culinary element to their Arctic adventure.
ITINERARY
Arrive in Winnipeg where you will enjoy a relaxing stay at our choice hotel, The Grand by Lakeview at the Winnipeg Airport. Meet the rest of your group during an orientation dinner hosted by a Churchill Wild representative.
Arrive in Churchill by air where one of our expert staff will meet you at the airport and provide you with instructions for the morning transfers. Your adventure begins with an aerial flight over the winding Hudson Bay coast en-route to your home for the next six days, Seal River Heritage Lodge. Watch out for pods of whales, birds, and of course, the magnificent Ice Bears. The Seal River Estuary is a summer favorite for these goliaths, and they are seen swimming or basking near the water’s edge.
Upon your arrival, your hosts will provide a tour of the Lodge and get you settled into your room. A thorough orientation on travel in polar bear country will be provided prior to any outings.
After lunch, you’ll experience the coast for the first time. Ensure your camera batteries are charged!
Back at the lodge, enjoy appetizer hour followed by another of our signature meals. Evenings typically include an informative lecture or slide show presentation narrated by one of Churchill Wild’s knowledgeable guides or staff.
After breakfast, head out for either a marine tour or hike. Lunch will typically be back at the lodge, unless your guides take you on an ATV excursion further down the coast. Marine tours are tide-dependent, so scheduled mealtimes may be adjusted to accommodate whale watching.
Relive the excitement of the day during daily appetizer hour before sitting down to dinner, then top up your glass of wine and settle in for the evening’s presentation.
Bedtime is at your leisure. We monitor the Lodge area all night so be prepared to have your sleep cut short by a nocturnal visit from one of the great ice bears (or by one of our dazzling displays of northern lights!)
After one last hearty Lodge breakfast, we will begin air transfers back to Churchill. Have your cameras ready for the return flight as it affords excellent opportunities for great aerial shots.
Back in Churchill, you’ll spend the day with one of our tour guides exploring the town and surrounding area, learning about its rich history as a seaport and ex-military base. Your tour will include stops such as the Parks Canada exhibit, the Itsanitaq Museum, and the Polar Bear Jail. Along the way, your guide will point out murals that were commissioned in 2016 as part of the SeaWalls mural festival. Before a group dinner, your guide will give you free time to shop for last-minute souvenirs at the unique gift stores in Churchill.
Your flight south to Winnipeg will take place this evening. Upon arrival, collect your bags, head out of the arrivals doors and back to The Grand Hotel.
After a restful sleep you will pack your bags in preparation for your flight home.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS ITINERARY
Walking safaris to view Polar Bears, Sik-Sik, Snow Geese, Sandhill Cranes, Arctic Hare, Arctic Fox & more
Tundra-inspired meals prepared by on-site chefs
Zodiac cruising through the Seal River estuary, to be surrounded by Beluga Whales as they gather, sometimes in the thousands to sing & call to one another.
Educational evening presentations by lodge naturalist guides about Arctic ecosystems, landscape and lifestyle.
Staying at the Seal River Heritage Lodge which is a National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World
Accommodation
We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.
Standard
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Superior
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Deluxe
Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.
Included ACTIVITIES
These are included in your cruise fare. Activities vary by itinerary and destination and are subject to regulations, weather conditions and other factors.
Expert Lectures
Learn More
Zodiac Cruises
Learn MoreOPTIONAL ADVENTURES ADD ONS
These can be booked in advance at an extra cost. Activities vary by itinerary and destination.
Pricing per person & date
Standard
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service
8 Days FROM AUD 19,712 Enquire NowImportant Information
Prices are based on per person, twin share.
Prices are correct at time of publishing but are subject to change at any time.
Prices are subject to Canadian taxes of 8.5%
All entrance fees are subject to change without prior notice.
Itinerary is subject to change depending on weather conditions and logistical complications that can arise from travelling in the north and to remote locations.
Note: Return Flights between Winnipeg - Churchill -Seal River Heritage Lodge are Included in the "From Price" as well as 2 nights' accommodation in Winnipeg, Manitoba* The equipment provided at the Lodge (rain gear, rubber boots, and gear for use during marine excursions) is designed to fit guests from child to adult. Boot sizes larger than a men’s size 13 or a very small child are customized sizes that cannot be provided or accommodated. Additionally, guests over 6’4” may be required to bring their own gear as we may not have clothing sizes to fit.
In rare and unforeseen situations, an operator may apply a fuel surcharge after your booking has been confirmed and paid. This is outside our control and uncommon, but transparency with our travelers is important to us.
INCLUSIONS
Return flights to/from Winnipeg and Churchill, Manitoba
Return flights to/from Churchill and Seal River Hertiage Lodge
2 Nights' (1 x pre- & 1 x post-lodge night) accommodation in Winnipeg, Manitoba at The Grand by Lakeview at the Winnipeg Airport (or similar)
5 Night's accommodation at the Seal River Hertiage Lodge
Orientation dinner hosted by a lodge representative on Day 1 in Winnipeg
All meals, excursions, and guide services while in Churchill and at the Lodge
All alcoholic beverages – Canadian wines & beers
Excursion gear*
Guiding, Safety briefings and lectures by experienced expedition crew
* The equipment provided at the Lodge (rain gear, rubber boots, and gear for use during marine excursions) is designed to fit guests from child to adult. Boot sizes larger than a men’s size 13 or a very small child are customized sizes that cannot be provided or accommodated. Additionally, guests over 6’4” may be required to bring their own gear as we may not have clothing sizes to fit.EXCLUSIONS
All items of a personal nature
Customary gratuities for staff/crew
International Flights
Any pre or post cruise accommodation/extensions not mentioned in itinerary
Travel insurance
Additional baggage costs
Visa and reciprocity fees (if applicable)
- 2 (light adventure)
A single supplement surcharge applies and is subject to availability. Solo travellers can sign up to share a room with another person of the same gender at the regular rate per person based on double occupancy. Please contact us for more information.
Prices are subject to Canadian taxes of 8.5%; Currency fluctuation, seasonality and availability at time of booking.