Polar Bears, Beluga Whales, and Arctic Wildlife
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High up in the Canadian subarctic, in the kingdom of the mighty Polar Bear, an area called the “Land of Little Sticks” gives birth to the untamed Seal River. The estuary of this wild, remote, albeit accessible river abounds with a fascinating array of flora and fauna. On the Arctic shores of the Hudson Bay, our exclusive wilderness lodge caters to your every personal need in an environment as untamed and wild as any on earth.
When is the last time you had your dinner disturbed by a Polar Bear ambling across the yard? Or crouched quietly beside the trail while the caribou wanders past on some unknown mission? Then of course there are the wolves, Arctic Fox, Arctic Hare, Siksiks (Arctic Ground Squirrel), Snowy Owls, shorebirds, seabirds, birds of prey, seals and did we mention whales?
Whales, whales, whales!!! Dozens, hundreds, thousands of beautiful white whales. Puffing, splashing, blowing, squealing everywhere you look; your senses barely able to absorb this incredible display; one of the last great wildlife spectacles on the planet.
The Heritage Lodge on Seal River makes its home on a small rocky peninsula in the heart of a vast wilderness, where you can experience a truly spectacular environment. Sitting out on the deck watching the Arctic sunset, it is hard to imagine the struggle for survival that life used to be on these rugged shores. As you walk quietly through remnants of ancient Dene and Inuit hunting camps you will gain an appreciation for the tenacity of these people who traversed this land without the convenience of modern transportation and communication systems. Despite its primitive surroundings, the lodge is equipped with all 20th century comforts to make your visit as pleasant as possible. Our friendly, family owned operation will pamper you with first class lodgings combined with the finest in northern cuisine. Our gourmet meals win rave reviews from all our guests and have recently been published in a best-selling cookbook.
For your all inclusive tour packages we provide (in season) boat tours, sea kayaking, canoeing, walking, aerial tours and ground transportation. The winter season involves travel by dogsled, snow bus, snowmobile or good old leg muscles. We also use a variety of fixed wing aircraft and helicopters for transport into the lodge site. For those that need a day to relax there is no need to leave the lodge premises to enjoy our wildlife.
Its strategic location allows for hours of viewing and photo opportunities right on site. Our exclusive use of this area guarantees you a high quality Canadian adventure. For the more adventurous we offer day and overnight treks, sea kayaking and canoe trips either self guided or all inclusive. Our winter adventures have you traveling by dogsled and snowmobiles, building igloos under the northern lights and staying in tents, igloos or lodges.
Detailed Itinerary
Arrive into Winnipeg where you will enjoy a relaxing stay at your choice hotel – the Four Points by Sheraton at the Winnipeg Airport. At 7:00pm a dinner will be held at the hotel where you will meet your group and your adventure specialist. You will need your rest tonight for your early morning departure to Churchill.
1
Arrive in Churchill by air where one of our expert staff will meet you at the airport and will provide you with instructions of the morning transfers. Your adventure begins with a breathtaking aerial view of the winding Hudson Bay coast enroute to your home for the next 6 days- Seal River Heritage Lodge. Be prepared to see huge pods of whales, countless birds, as well as caribou and of course, the magnificent Ice Bears. The Seal River Estuary is a summer favorite for these goliaths and they are regularly 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 a full-course lunch Churchill Wild-style, you will experience the coast for the first time. The combination of diversity and sheer natural elegance will amaze you. Ensure your camera battery is charged as if you’re like previous Churchill Wild guests, you will be eager to document each and every moment in this extraordinary and rare ecosystem.
Your first day at the Lodge will be rounded out by the first of many full-course meals and a cozy fireplace for evening wind down. Relax, recharge and get a good rest because you have 5 amazing days to go!
2
In the coming days, your breakfasts will be served at 8:00 a.m. and the tour of the day will typically depart the Lodge at 9:30 a.m. Depending on both weather and group interest, you will enjoy the following activities:
Marine Tours – Tides and weather permitting we will do at least two expeditions by boat to view beluga whales, seals, seabirds, and polar bears. Marine tours are conducted in large, nine-man inflatable boats, fully equipped with two way radios, safety gear, floatation jackets for each passenger, and a hydrophone so that you can listen to the whale songs. Each expedition is a half day in order to coordinate with the high tides. Both refreshments and lunch will be served aboard. Expect to see hundreds of whales per outing! Beluga whales are very curious and social and will investigate our presence with a bold courage expressed by few other creatures. Getting up-close and personal with these awesome creatures has been life-changing for many Churchill Wild guests.
Trekking/Walking Tours – These are a daily part of the program and they range from short jaunts to photograph a passing caribou perhaps, to day trips with a pack lunch. There is no better way to experience the sheer vastness of the Arctic’s flora and fauna. Nesting bird life, fox dens, wild flowers, and caribou are just a few of the sights you will take in. When polar bears are sighted, your guide will advise you about the best way to maintain a safe viewing distance.
Coast by Tundra Tracker – See the Hudson Bay coast on our custom made Tundra Tracker. A day trip in one of these vehicles allows us to cover a lot of shoreline while searching out wildlife. Lunch is a picnic en route. We provide ample time for exploration and photography of the trail.
Whale Swim and exploration by Zodiac – Take to the bay for the ultimate plunge and join the belugas in their watery world. Dry suits will be provided to offset the chill of the Hudson Bay.
Wildlife Photography – Your guides have many years of experience in the field both as photographers themselves and working with professional photographers and can assist in many aspects of wildlife photography both in the composition and the execution of that memorable shot of a lifetime.
Ocean Paddles – We have several sea kayaks and canoes on site for your use at any time. Perfect tranquility with only the sound of your dipping paddle and the “sea canaries” is truly awe-inspiring!
Aurora Watching – Yes, you can enjoy the greatest light show on earth in summer especially in the latter part of our season. The northern skies are a perfect ballroom for the aurora but remember, the aurora are best photographed with a tripod so if you have one, bring it along.
Bird Watching – 150 species of birds visit this area and our expert guides can help you locate and identify a wide variety of these – chances are you will add several “lifers” to your book.
Photo Presentations and Lectures – From lectures on “Travelling in Bear Country” to “Wildlife of the Arctic,” our own northern adventurers will regale you with photos and stories. These conversations provide you the opportunity to learn about the Arctic wildlife, landscape, and people.
Rest and Relaxation – Should you decide that curling up by the fireplace with a good book or enjoying a hot drink and sharing stories with your fellow adventurers is what you need, you can feel free to do that too.
Marine Tours – Tides and weather permitting we will do at least two expeditions by boat to view beluga whales, seals, seabirds, and polar bears. Marine tours are conducted in large, nine-man inflatable boats, fully equipped with two way radios, safety gear, floatation jackets for each passenger, and a hydrophone so that you can listen to the whale songs. Each expedition is a half day in order to coordinate with the high tides. Both refreshments and lunch will be served aboard. Expect to see hundreds of whales per outing! Beluga whales are very curious and social and will investigate our presence with a bold courage expressed by few other creatures. Getting up-close and personal with these awesome creatures has been life-changing for many Churchill Wild guests.
Trekking/Walking Tours – These are a daily part of the program and they range from short jaunts to photograph a passing caribou perhaps, to day trips with a pack lunch. There is no better way to experience the sheer vastness of the Arctic’s flora and fauna. Nesting bird life, fox dens, wild flowers, and caribou are just a few of the sights you will take in. When polar bears are sighted, your guide will advise you about the best way to maintain a safe viewing distance.
Coast by Tundra Tracker – See the Hudson Bay coast on our custom made Tundra Tracker. A day trip in one of these vehicles allows us to cover a lot of shoreline while searching out wildlife. Lunch is a picnic en route. We provide ample time for exploration and photography of the trail.
Whale Swim and exploration by Zodiac – Take to the bay for the ultimate plunge and join the belugas in their watery world. Dry suits will be provided to offset the chill of the Hudson Bay.
Wildlife Photography – Your guides have many years of experience in the field both as photographers themselves and working with professional photographers and can assist in many aspects of wildlife photography both in the composition and the execution of that memorable shot of a lifetime.
Ocean Paddles – We have several sea kayaks and canoes on site for your use at any time. Perfect tranquility with only the sound of your dipping paddle and the “sea canaries” is truly awe-inspiring!
Aurora Watching – Yes, you can enjoy the greatest light show on earth in summer especially in the latter part of our season. The northern skies are a perfect ballroom for the aurora but remember, the aurora are best photographed with a tripod so if you have one, bring it along.
Bird Watching – 150 species of birds visit this area and our expert guides can help you locate and identify a wide variety of these – chances are you will add several “lifers” to your book.
Photo Presentations and Lectures – From lectures on “Travelling in Bear Country” to “Wildlife of the Arctic,” our own northern adventurers will regale you with photos and stories. These conversations provide you the opportunity to learn about the Arctic wildlife, landscape, and people.
Rest and Relaxation – Should you decide that curling up by the fireplace with a good book or enjoying a hot drink and sharing stories with your fellow adventurers is what you need, you can feel free to do that too.
3-6
After another hearty Lodge breakfast, we will begin air transfers back to Churchill. Have cameras ready again for the return flight as it affords excellent opportunities for great aerial shots. Today is your last day in the Churchill region.
Upon your return to Churchill, our representative will store your luggage. The balance of the day is then free for browsing the shops and exhibits of Churchill. We recommend Nature 1st Tours and Transportation (www.nature1sttours.ca/) should you prefer a guided tour of the area. Local places such as Cape Merry, the Port of Churchill, the Eskimo Museum, the Polar Bear Holding Compound (otherwise known as the Polar Bear Jail), as well as the Parks Canada exhibit are all of great interest. Helicopter tours are also available via Hudson Bay Helicopters who can be reached at info@hudsonbayheli.com or by phone at 204-675-2576. Lunch and dinner are on your own this day. Please refer to the Adventure Album for suggestions.
Your flight south to Winnipeg will take place this evening and we hope to see you back at one of our Eco-Lodges for some more bear viewing very soon! Upon your arrival into Winnipeg collect your bags and head off to your hotel for the evening. The Four Points by Sheraton is conveniently located at the airport.
Your flight south to Winnipeg will take place this evening and we hope to see you back at one of our Eco-Lodges for some more bear viewing very soon! Upon your arrival into Winnipeg collect your bags and head off to your hotel for the evening. The Four Points by Sheraton is conveniently located at the airport.
7
Today you will have breakfast at your hotel in Winnipeg and then begin your journey home.
Inclusions: All accommodations required within the package dates as well as return airfare from Winnipeg to Churchill are included in the cited price.
8
Synopsis
Trip Grading:
Length: 8 days
Max. Altitude: 30m/100ft
Begins / Ends in Winnipeg
Land Cost: $9,695 CAD Not included: taxes (6.5% for non-residents, 9% for Canadians). Airfare to Winnipeg dependent on city of origin.
July & August 2015:
Available
July & August 2016:
Available
Lodge accommodations are luxurious by Arctic standards. Beautifully decorated viewing lounges are complimented by well appointed bedrooms. The lodge is equipped with full bathrooms, hot and cold running water and generated electricity. Towels and bedding are supplied. Meals are gourmet and we do cook for special needs as required, please advise ahead of time. See our "What to Bring" list for specialty items to include in your packing. People arrive with a wide range of physical abilities and interests, we will have optional activities for those wishing not to join in a particular tour.
Travel by air is provided by Calm Air and travel by train is provided by Via Rail, combinations of the two can be arranged for a "complete" trip experience.
Our Climate / Environment: The logde sits on the edge of the vast northern plain called the Arctic Tundra. The weather is dominated by the chilling effects of the frozen inland sea, known as the Hudson Bay, just meters from our doorstep. Ice free for only a couple of months each year, this natural "refrigeration" unit sees to it that our summer temperatures average about 12C. Temperatures can vary wildly, as in any arctic environment, depending on wind direction.
Bugs! Yes, there are bugs, our ecosystem needs them, but with some proper precautions they are easily manageable. Most of our hikes are on breezy ridges (caribou trails) which means fewer bugs.
What to Bring basics:
General:
Camera, binoculars, indoor shoes or slippers, personal items, notebook, sunscreen and sunglasses.
Clothing:
Layers are best. Fleece or wool sweater with waterproof 3\4 length hooded jacket will protect you on the coldest days. Rainpants, waterproof boots, gloves and wide brim hat should round out your outerwear. Light long sleeve shirts for the hot sunny days. (Temperatures can vary from 5C to 30C in a few hours!) Bug juice and bug jackets can be purchased at the lodge or bring along, we can recommend best types.
You can also contact Canadian Himalayan Expeditions directly for more information.
Synopsis
Trip Grading:
Length: 8 days
Max. Altitude: 30m/100ft
Begins / Ends in Winnipeg
Land Cost: $9,695 CAD Not included: taxes (6.5% for non-residents, 9% for Canadians). Airfare to Winnipeg dependent on city of origin.
July & August 2015:
Available
July & August 2016:
Available
Lodge accommodations are luxurious by Arctic standards. Beautifully decorated viewing lounges are complimented by well appointed bedrooms. The lodge is equipped with full bathrooms, hot and cold running water and generated electricity. Towels and bedding are supplied. Meals are gourmet and we do cook for special needs as required, please advise ahead of time. See our "What to Bring" list for specialty items to include in your packing. People arrive with a wide range of physical abilities and interests, we will have optional activities for those wishing not to join in a particular tour.
Travel by air is provided by Calm Air and travel by train is provided by Via Rail, combinations of the two can be arranged for a "complete" trip experience.
Our Climate / Environment: The logde sits on the edge of the vast northern plain called the Arctic Tundra. The weather is dominated by the chilling effects of the frozen inland sea, known as the Hudson Bay, just meters from our doorstep. Ice free for only a couple of months each year, this natural "refrigeration" unit sees to it that our summer temperatures average about 12C. Temperatures can vary wildly, as in any arctic environment, depending on wind direction.
Bugs! Yes, there are bugs, our ecosystem needs them, but with some proper precautions they are easily manageable. Most of our hikes are on breezy ridges (caribou trails) which means fewer bugs.
What to Bring basics:
General:
Camera, binoculars, indoor shoes or slippers, personal items, notebook, sunscreen and sunglasses.
Clothing:
Layers are best. Fleece or wool sweater with waterproof 3\4 length hooded jacket will protect you on the coldest days. Rainpants, waterproof boots, gloves and wide brim hat should round out your outerwear. Light long sleeve shirts for the hot sunny days. (Temperatures can vary from 5C to 30C in a few hours!) Bug juice and bug jackets can be purchased at the lodge or bring along, we can recommend best types.
You can also contact Canadian Himalayan Expeditions directly for more information.
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