Seasons & What To Pack

Churchill has distinct seasons – the first thing to do when planning your trip is to figure out what you want to see or do.

Whether you'd prefer to bird watch, get up close and personal with polar bears, or kayak with the belugas will help determine when to visit.

Summer: June - August

From June to August you can see thousands of beluga whales as well as polar bears in their natural summer habitats.

What to pack: A variety of clothing is required as temperatures can soar to above 25˚ C (85 F) and drop to 6˚ C (42 F).

A good quality waterproof jacket
hat
toque (woolen hat) and warm mittens may also be needed
sunglasses
hiking boots
shorts
pants
sunscreen
bug repellent
camera
spare batteries

Fall: September - November

October and November is prime polar bear viewing season as the bears start moving from their summer habitat on the tundra back to seal-hunting territory on Hudson Bay. Fall is also a great time to go dog sledding and see northern lights.

What to pack: Be prepared for snow and cold conditions. Several layers of clothing is recommended:

insulated parka or waterproof jacket
insulated boots
thick mitts or gloves
toque (woolen hat)
long, thermal underwear are recommended
camera
spare batteries

Winter: February - March

Late November through late March is the perfect time to watch the northern lights. Winter is also a great time to go dog sledding.

What to pack: Several layers of clothing

insulated parka or waterproof jacket
insulated boots that are good to a temperature of -45˚ C (-25˚ F)
thick mitts or gloves
toque (woolen hat)
long thermal underwear are recommended.
balaclava
snow/ski pants
sunglasses to your fall weather gear
camera
spare batteries (they don't last as long when they get cold!)

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Explore Churchill

Polar bear and cub on the rocky shore in Churchill, by Max Muench

Welcome to Churchill, Canada

Known as the polar bear capital of the world, Churchill is also known as a beluga whale watching hotspot and one of the best places to see the northern lights.

Two people watching the northern lights in Churchill

Plan Your Trip

Start planning your trip to see beluga whales, polar bears or the northern lights!

Sleeping polar bear mural on a winter afternoon in Churchill.

About Churchill, Canada

Learn about the history of Churchill and its surroundings, from the Pre-Dorset to Modern Inuit cultures through to the european fur trade and exploration of the North.

Calm Air

Experience The North