Backcountry Journeys Presents
Polar Bears of Churchill
Polar Bears of Churchill
The World’s Premier Polar Bear Destination
October 19 - 26, 2026
October 20 - 27, 2027
October 20 - 27, 2027
Pre-Booking Available Now
Pre-Booking Available Now
The Ultimate Polar Bear Photography Experience
Timed with the annual polar bear migration, this 8-day adventure gives you exclusive access to photograph polar bears in the wild—at eye level. With a small group and expert guidance, you’ll explore the subarctic tundra in search of unforgettable wildlife moments. Churchill is one of the only places on Earth where polar bears gather predictably on land, and this trip is designed to make the most of every moment.
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The Premier Polar Bear Destination
Every fall, Churchill, Manitoba transforms into the stage for one of nature’s greatest spectacles. As the sea ice begins to form on Hudson Bay, hundreds of polar bears gather along the shoreline—making it one of the only places on Earth where you can reliably photograph these apex predators on land, in the wild, and at close range.
This remote Arctic outpost isn’t just a bucket-list destination—it’s a magnet for wildlife photographers and adventurers worldwide, offering a front-row seat to the annual polar bear migration. If photographing polar bears is on your list, this is where you do it.
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Ground Level Photography
Ground Level Photography
Unlike standard tours that rely entirely on elevated tundra buggies, our approach is crafted specifically for photographers. We use custom, permitted 4x4 vans that keep us low to the ground—right at eye level with the bears.
This ground-level perspective produces far more intimate, powerful images and allows for greater flexibility as wildlife encounters unfold. It’s a responsive, immersive experience designed to bring you closer—not just physically, but emotionally—to the Arctic’s most iconic predator.
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A Day on Tundra Buggy
A Day on Tundra Buggy
As part of your photo adventure, we include one full day aboard a classic tundra buggy—the ultimate off-road vehicle of the North and a defining part of the Churchill experience.
These elevated, all-terrain buggies venture deep into the Churchill Wildlife Management Area, giving you a broader view of the tundra landscape and access to areas we may not reach in our 4x4 vans. It’s a chance to photograph polar bears and Arctic wildlife from a new angle, explore remote terrain, and enjoy the iconic feel of this uniquely northern experience.
While ground-level shooting remains the gold standard for intimate wildlife images, the tundra buggy day offers a different perspective that complements your portfolio, adds variety to your adventure, and helps round out your understanding of the ecosystem.
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Worry-Free Logistics
Churchill is one of the most remote towns in North America—accessible only by plane or train, with limited infrastructure. But with Backcountry Journeys, every detail is handled.
We include round-trip charter flights from Winnipeg, all local transportation, meals, daily field excursions, and trusted accommodations—no surprise costs or coordination headaches. While others charge extra for internal flights or leave logistics up to you, we streamline the entire experience so you can focus on what matters most: photographing polar bears in one of the wildest places on Earth.
Rest easy, shoot more, and let us take care of the rest.
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Our Most Requested Trip & A Milestone for BCJ
Our Most Requested Trip & A Milestone for BCJ
This isn’t just one of our most in-demand trips—it’s a true bucket-list experience for wildlife photographers. The chance to photograph wild polar bears at eye level, in a setting as reliable and intimate as Churchill, is virtually unmatched anywhere on the planet.
Each fall, Churchill becomes the best place on Earth to predictably see and photograph polar bears in the wild. That alone makes it remarkable—but for us, it also marks a milestone: our first-ever photography workshop in Canada.
Available Departures
Pre-Booking Available Now!
October 19-26, 2026
Limited to 10 guests
Trip Leader: Jon Resnick
Starting From
$11,995.00
$11,995.00
Single Supplement:
+$1,495
+$1,495
Deposit: $4,000
October 20-27, 2027
Limited to 10 guests
Trip Leader: Jon Resnick
Starting From
$12,995.00
$12,995.00
Single Supplement:
+$1,495
+$1,495
Deposit: $4,000
Start/End
Start/End: Winnipeg, Manitoba (YWG)
Dates
10/19/2026 - 10/26/2026
10/20/2027 - 10/27/2027
10/20/2027 - 10/27/2027
Fitness Level
Level 1 - What's This
Group Size
Limited to 10 photographers
Highlights
Prime Polar Bear Viewing Location: Churchill, Manitoba sits directly along the bears’ migration route, making it one of the best places in the world to observe and photograph polar bears in the wild.
Ground-Level Photography Access: Our specially equipped 4x4 vehicles allow for flexible travel and low-angle shooting—ideal for capturing intimate, eye-level images of the bears. Plus, get one day on an immersive tundra buggy!
A Rare and Meaningful Experience: With around 1,000 bears passing through the area each season, this trip offers not only thrilling photographic moments but also insight into a fragile ecosystem facing rapid environmental change.
This Special Trip Departure is valid for new trip reservations only (no transfers, trip credit, or discounts).
Trip Itinerary
Enter the Realm of the Arctic’s Apex Predator
Enter the Realm of the Arctic’s Apex Predator
Most meals included – (B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 1 – Arrival in Winnipeg (D)
We’ll arrive in Winnipeg and meet at our hotel for a welcome dinner and orientation. This evening is all about getting acquainted, sharing excitement over dinner, and preparing for our journey north to polar bear country!
Day 2 – Flight to Churchill (B,D)
This morning, we’ll board a flight to Churchill, the gateway to the Canadian Arctic. After landing, we'll transfer to our local accommodations and get a brief orientation. Depending on flight timing and conditions, we may have a chance to explore the town a bit or head out for an introductory photo session.
Days 3–7 – Polar Bear Photography Adventures (B,L,D)
For five full days, we’ll immerse ourselves in the wild tundra surrounding Churchill in search of polar bears and other Arctic wildlife. Most days, we’ll head out in specially equipped 4x4 vans, allowing us to photograph bears from ground level—eye to eye, for more powerful and intimate compositions.
At some point during the trip, we’ll also spend one day aboard a classic tundra buggy, offering a unique, elevated view of the landscape and a different photographic experience. This adds variety to the trip and allows us to explore a different region of the tundra.
Each day will be shaped by light, weather, and wildlife activity. We’ll stay flexible, always aiming to be in the right place at the right time. From sparring males to solitary bears roaming the coastline, these days are the heart of our adventure—and every outing brings the chance for something extraordinary.
Day 8 – Return to Winnipeg (B)
We’ll say farewell to Churchill this morning as we board our flight back to Winnipeg. The trip concludes upon arrival, but we’ll leave with memory cards full of images, stories to share, and a deep appreciation for the Arctic and its most iconic wildlife.
Lodging & Logistics: What to Expect
Churchill is a very small, remote Arctic town. Our accommodations reflect that. We work with a trusted local lodge that offers clean, comfortable rooms and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s not a luxury resort, but it’s the perfect base for exploring this wild corner of the world. If you're expecting five-star amenities, this trip may not be the right fit—but if you value authenticity, access, and location, we think you’ll love it.
Important Note on Dates
Our listed trip dates are 90% confirmed, based on historical schedules. However, the charter flights between Winnipeg and Churchill are not finalized until March of the travel year. There is a small chance that trip dates may shift by ±1–2 days depending on finalized flight schedules. We will communicate any changes as early as possible.
What's Included
What's Included
- All listed meals and non-alcoholic beverages during the workshop
- All transportation during the workshop
- Internal flights to/from Churchill
- All lodging during the workshop
- Airport transfers
- All permits and park fees
- One day 'Tundra Buggy' adventure
- Professional photography guiding and instruction
- Gratuity for service staff
What's Not Included
What's Not Included
Flights to and from Winnipeg, Canada
Meals not listed as included on the itinerary
Lodging outside workshop dates
Alcoholic beverages
Souvenirs and personal items
Gratuity for photography guide and local guide. Please refer to our FAQ section for more details about gratuities
Trip Insurance & Medical Evacuation Insurance (recommended) - see plans here.
WORLD-CLASS PHOTOGRAPHY TOURS,
WORKSHOPS & SAFARIS
WORLD-CLASS PHOTOGRAPHY TOURS,
WORKSHOPS & SAFARIS
WORKSHOPS & SAFARIS
Backcountry Journeys offers over 100 global photography tours and workshops, spanning iconic U.S. National Parks to the wild savannahs of Africa, catering to all interests and skill levels. As one of the top-rated, all-inclusive providers in the industry, we ensure a highly personalized and memorable experience that's rooted in our deep passion for photography.
UNPARALLELED
PHOTOGRAPHY TRIPS
UNPARALLELED
PHOTOGRAPHY TRIPS
PHOTOGRAPHY TRIPS
Discover over 100 global photography tours and workshops, from U.S. National Parks to Africa's savannahs, designed for all skill levels. Enjoy personalized experiences with our small groups and hands-on guidance from certified photo instructors.
THE BEST TEAM IN THE BUSINESS
THE BEST TEAM IN THE BUSINESS
Our team handles all logistics, ensuring a seamless experience, supported by an on-call support line. World-class Trip Planners meticulously plan every detail, while our exceptional customer service ensures your experience exceeds expectations.
WORLD-CLASS PHOTOGRAPHY COMMUNITY
WORLD-CLASS PHOTOGRAPHY COMMUNITY
Our adventures blend breathtaking locations with lasting connections among like-minded photographers. We foster a warm, inclusive atmosphere that encourages friendships beyond the trip.
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Verified Guest
Worry Free Travel Guarantee!
Worry Free Travel Guarantee!
HERE’S THE DEAL
We offer one of the most rock solid guarantees in the travel industry - our worry free travel, peace of mind guarantee to you!We’re so confident that the Photography Trips we offer will not only meet but exceed the lofty expectations set forth on our website – if your trip experience does not 100% match the promises laid forth on our website we will gladly give you a credit toward a future trip.
Natural events such as wildlife & weather are certainly out of our control but every aspect of the trip including logistics, accommodations, vehicles, itinerary & your expert trip leaders will match the lofty promises we’ve made on the site – we guarantee it!
