Polar Bears of Churchill

Each fall, about 1,000 polar bears of all ages congregate around the seaport town of Churchill while they wait for wintertime’s sea ice to form over the Hudson Bay. Join alumni and friends from November 2 to 7, 2026 for an unforgettable adventure to witness this extraordinary annual phenomenon.

This distinguished program features exclusive educational experiences including presentations by professional guides and local naturalists while observing, and photographing these magnificent Lords of the North.

Shared with participants from cosponsoring associations, and limited to just 30 participants in total, space is sure to fill quickly. Request a reservation today, or please contact the Georgetown Travel Society at 866-525-8664 or GeorgetownTravelSociety@Georgetown.edu for more details.

Dates & Rates

Trip Dates: September 30 – October 8, 2026

Rates: $8,995 per person based upon double occupancy. A limited number of places are offered for single travelers at $12,995 per person. Please contact us regarding single space availability prior to sending in a reservation.

Deposit: $850 per person main tour  (https://orbridge.com/terms-conditions  for complete terms and conditions)

Trip type: Land

Trip Status: Open for reservations. Reserve My Spot

Activity Level: Moderate

Tour days tend to be long, flow at a consistent pace and may include long periods of travel. Guests should be prepared to walk longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or excursions, on sometimes uneven surfaces including cobblestones or unpaved pathways and trails. Some destinations may have variations in altitude and/or temperature. Daily pace and timing may vary significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. Guests are expected to board transportation without assistance. Elevators are not always available at accommodations or sites visited.

Itinerary*

This itinerary is a general listing of activities and excursions that may happen during any part of the tour. Daily activities will be determined by weather, opportunities to view wildlife and other various elements that make up the diverse landscape. To ensure a personal and enriching experience for each guest, excursions will be in small groups of 30 people or fewer.

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception

Day 1: Arrive in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada – Monday, November 2, 2026 (R,D)

Upon arrival to Winnipeg Richardson International Airport an Orbridge representative will assist with your transfer to the hotel. This evening meet with fellow travel companions for a private reception and welcome dinner to kick off the exciting adventure ahead.

Fort Garry Hotel & Spa

Day 2: Winnipeg | Flight to Churchill | Cultural and Heritage Tour – Tuesday, November 3, 2026 (B,L,D)

Check out of the hotel this morning followed by the group flight to Churchill. Transfer to Lazy Bear Lodge in time for lunch at the café.

Afterward set off on a guided Cultural and Heritage Tour to visit the town’s waterfront, Miss Piggy Plane Crash, Polar Bear “Jail” and Cape Merry.

Return to the lodge to check in, unpack and familiarize yourself with the property.

Lazy Bear Lodge

Day 3: Churchill | Arctic Crawler™ Experience | Itsanitaq Museum – Wednesday, November 4, 2026 (B,L,D)

This morning head out into the stark and beautiful landscape aboard Lazy Bear’s Arctic Crawler™ for a guided wildlife excursion. Your expert naturalist will provide insight on the Arctic tundra’s wildlife, vegetation and ecosystem. Have your camera ready as photography opportunities are plentiful. After lunch visit the well-known local Itsanitaq Museum to learn more about the indigenous population and its rich history and culture.

Lazy Bear Lodge

Day 4: Churchill | Arctic Crawler™ Experience | Dog Sledding – Thursday, November 5, 2026 (B,L,D)

Today enjoy a second opportunity to observe and photograph polar bears. Take advantage of the Arctic Crawler’s™ large viewing deck and its tall windows. Participate in field presentations and interpretations by your Orbridge Expedition Leader and local guide. Appreciate the scenery and search for wildlife, perhaps catching sight of the arctic hare, snowy owl, ptarmigan or arctic fox living in this rugged area. Later meet an energetic team of sled dogs and their experienced handler. Learn about these industrious canines and the important role they play in the heritage of this remote region. Then bundle up for your own exciting dog sled experience.

Lazy Bear Lodge

Day 5: Churchill | Northern Studies Centre | Flight to Winnipeg – Friday, November 6, 2026 (B,L,R)

After breakfast continue to the Churchill Northern Studies Centre to gain insight into the unique arctic ecosystem and the environmental research in progress. Enjoy lunch at the Centre then transfer to the airport for the charter flight to Winnipeg. This evening gather with fellow travel companions one final time for a farewell reception to celebrate the exciting week exploring Churchill.

The Grand Winnipeg Airport Hotel

Day 6: Winnipeg | Depart for U.S. – Saturday, November 7, 2026 (B)

After breakfast make the short walk from the hotel to the airport for flights home.

*Itinerary subject to change

Inclusions:

• 5 nights in ideally situated and comfortable accommodations
• 5 breakfasts, 4 lunches (2 are picnic-style) and 4 dinners including a special welcome reception and dinner
• Full guiding services of an Orbridge Expedition Leader and a local naturalist
• All excursion transportation and entry fees
• Round-trip airfare between Winnipeg and Churchill
• All gratuities
• Airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times