Nanuk, or I like to call him, the “King of the North”.
This tour is all about polar bears. You’ll view and photograph polar bears walking along the shoreline, testing the sea ice, cubs playing with one another, and if we are lucky adults wrestling and sparring with another. There are endless photography possibilities, including every pose and portrait you can imagine.
Seeing polar bears in the wild is special. But photographing wild polar bears on foot is an experience unlike any other.
From mid-October to mid-November, polar bears congregate near Churchill to test the newly formed sea ice. It’s been months since they’ve eaten a seal, their primary source of food, and they are eager to hunt. Unlike most other popular bear populations, these bears are tolerant of human activity, which allows for close encounters and amazing photographic opportunities.
Bear Witness Photo Tours works with a new full sized pickup trucks for a max of 3 guests per vehicle so everyone gets their own window and door to make easy access when you want to quickly get in or out of the truck to make an image. This gives everyone plenty of space for photography gear and large winter jackets. The back of the truck gives ample space for tripods and also can act as a bit of a step up if needed to see over a rock or grass when photographing the bears. I bring lunches and coffee with us so we can stay out in comfort till the daylight fades away. Your vehicle is equipped with oversized tires perfect for the terrain, a lift to give better clearance, towing equipment, shovels, two way radios, first aid kit and a booster battery.
Embark on an extraordinary journey with Bear Witness Photo tours in Churchill, Manitoba, where the rugged beauty of the sub-arctic landscape comes to life. Running for five weeks from October 18th to November 27th, 2026, this exclusive adventure is limited to just nine guests per departure (3 guests and a driver/certified guide per full sized pickup truck)—ensuring an intimate, immersive experience. Join Johnny Hayward and his crew for expert guiding, delving into the heart of polar bear territory, capturing stunning moments that will last a lifetime.
Picture yourself getting on the ground with majestic polar bears, truly connecting with these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. This isn't just a tour; it's a sub-arctic safari experience, where each day is dedicated to exploring and photographing these Arctic giants.
Flight from Winnipeg to Churchill return via calm air. (Flight valued at roughly $2500)
5 nights at one of our cozy and welcoming bed and breakfasts.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Aurora viewing depending on weather conditions.
A complimentary cocktail hour once we get back to our accommodations to celebrate and talk about our amazing day in the Polar Bear Capital of the World.
Optional coffee with canines on one of our mornings. I suggest that this is the perfect activity prior to saying goodbye to Churchill on your final morning.
Complimentary Bear Witness surprise. Our logo is well sought after and loved by many so we like to share it with our amazing guests as a lasting momento of their visit with us.
At Bear Witness, we don't charge single supplements. Early booking increases chances of a private room. Friends can share to help solo travelers. Thanks for your understanding!
Arrive in beautiful Churchill, Manitoba.
Your polar bear adventure starts midday when the Calm Air flight from Winnipeg arrives. For the guests arriving by plane, We will pick you up at the airport in a clean new full sized pickup truck and bring you to your room at the cozy Bluesky Bed & Sled. After a quick check in, we will head out in the afternoon to search for polar bears until sunset.
NOTE: TIMING OF THE ACTUAL START AND FINISHING OF THE TOUR WILL ONLY BE FINALIZED ONCE THE CALM AIR FLIGHTS ARE ANNOUNCE AND BOOKED. GUESTS WILL RECEIVE THE AMOUNT OF VIEWING NO MATTER THE TIMING.
For each of the next four days, our adventure begins with a hot breakfast prepared by one of the finest cooks in the North. Afterward, we will embark on our journey in spacious, full-sized pickups to search for polar bears until sunset. This ground-based tour offers the unique opportunity to observe polar bears at eye level—a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Upon spotting a bear, I will position the vehicle for optimal viewing, and when it is safe, we will step out to photograph these magnificent creatures. With our low guest-to-guide ratio, each guest enjoys a personalized and immersive experience like no other in Churchill.
In addition to polar bears, we may encounter arctic foxes, red foxes, wolves, ptarmigan, eagles, and arctic hares. As daylight fades and we return with a hearty appetite, we'll head back to our cozy home base to enjoy a delightful home-cooked meal, complete with dessert, drinks, and shared stories of the day's adventures.
If conditions permit, we will also venture out to photograph and marvel at the breathtaking Northern Lights—an indescribable natural wonder.
Your tour will end shortly after breakfast to coincide with the return flight to Winnipeg. We hope you had a trip of a lifetime and love to see you again soon.
