Skip to content
  • Leisure Travel
  • Blog
  • FREN

    • Wildfires are affecting several regions of Manitoba and could impact your travel plans. Before heading out, check the most current conditions and advisories. Stay informed with the Manitoba Wildfire Status Dashboard.

    More Info

    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!)

    Get Inspired with our #ExploreMB Blog!

    Graceful Polar Bear in Churchill, majestically exploring its Arctic habitat.

    The ULTIMATE Guide to Polar Bear Season in Churchill, Manitoba

    Wildlife enthusiasts know that Manitoba is one of the most magical places in the world to visit in the autumn months. And it's not for the wicked fall foliage. 1000 kilometres north of capital city Winnipeg lies the northern port town of Churchill, made...

    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.

    Close up on the Calm Air logo on the tail of an airplane.

    Calm Air

    Experience The North