Beluga Whale Viewing

Meet thousands of belugas as they gather near Churchill.

Many know Churchill as the Polar Bear Capital of the World but in the summer, beluga whales take the spotlight when thousands of these friendly creatures choose the Churchill River Estuary as their summer home to mate, birth and feed.

Whether you kayak, stand-up paddleboard or view them from the deck of a boat, there’s no doubt you’ll be delighted by the beluga whales’ friendly and curious nature. Over 57,000 whales make their way into Hudson Bay each year, with 4,000 of those entering the Churchill River Estuary. There are a number of multi-day, single-day and DIY style tours to choose from on your northern summer adventure.

Featured Experiences

Lazy Bear Expeditions

VISIT BELUGA WHALES - CANARIES OF THE ARCTIC SEA

60,000 beluga whales live in Hudson Bay each summer. Experience these playful and inquisitive 'canaries of the sea' while whale-watching, kayaking or Beluga AquaGliding™ with Lazy Bear Expeditions in Churchill, Manitoba.

Monday, Feb 02

H: -27°

L: -30.5°

Scattered clouds

Tuesday, Feb 03

H: -22°

L: -31.5°

Broken clouds

Wednesday, Feb 04

H: -19.5°

L: -25.5°

Overcast clouds

Thursday, Feb 05

H: -16°

L: -20.5°

Broken clouds

Two people kayaking with a pod of beluga whales near Churchill, Manitoba.

Summer Safari

Bucket List. Transformative. Life changing. Aha moment. Whatever word you use to describe travel, Churchill leaves an impression.

What are the best places to see beluga whales in Canada?

Each summer, over 50,000 beluga whales migrate to the Churchill River Estuary, making it one of the best places in Canada to see these playful creatures. In Churchill, visitors can take a boat tour, go kayaking or go paddleboarding to glide alongside the whales.

When is the best time of year to visit Churchill to see beluga whales?

The best time to see beluga whales is in July and August, when over 57,000 whales make their way into Hudson Bay, 4,000 of those entering the Churchill River Estuary.

What should I pack for a trip to Churchill in summer?

While summer in Churchill can be temperate to warm, layers are still recommended, as well as a bug net and/or bug spray.

Can I drive to Churchill?

There are no roads to Churchill. Churchill is a remote community that sits on Hudson Bay and the only way to reach the town is by train or plane!

Can I see beluga whales and polar bears in one trip?

While polar bear viewing peaks in October-November, summer visitors (June-August) may still see polar bears near the coastline.

Top five reasons to head to Churchill, Canada, this summer

This remote town on the edge of Hudson Bay is an ultimate summer destination, not only to view polar bears, but for bonding with another white mammal: the beluga whale.

Tour Operator

Red-White & Blue Get-A-Ways

We offer packaged multi day Rail Tours to Churchill. Our Professionally Certified Tour Director accompanies group to ensure your time in the subarctic runs smoothly! Celebrating 25 years in the tour business we are experienced creating itineraries and...