Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience - the wild, sub-arctic landscapes of Canada's Hudson Bay. Travel on a Tundra Buggy® and watch as these awesome creatures gather on the frozen landscapes in anticipation of winter. Caribou, Arctic fox, wolf, Arctic hare and lemmings are other wildlife you may spot, as well as the Snowy Owl and other arctic birds.
DAY 1: UK - Toronto.
Fly to Toronto where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for two nights.
DAY 2: Toronto.
Astride the northern shore of Lake Ontario lies Toronto, a thriving, cosmopolitan city of old English architecture, futuristic towers, buzzing culture and fabulous shopping. On this morning's tour you'll see its iconic landmark, the sky-piercing 1,815-foot CN Tower, as well as the splendid medieval-style castle of Casa Loma and bustling harbourfront. This afternoon and evening are yours to delve deeper into this vibrant city, perhaps with visits to the Royal Ontario Museum with its fascinating dinosaur and art exhibits, or the shop and restaurant-packed Eaton Centre. Tonight, why not enjoy one of the many musicals or shows staged in Toronto's theatre district?
DAY 3: Toronto - Winnipeg.
Time this morning to enjoy more of Toronto's attractions before flying to Winnipeg, the geographical centre of the country. Set on the banks of the Red River, the name stems from the aboriginal word 'win' meaning muddy, and 'nippee' meaning waters. This evening, a fascinating orientation talk on your upcoming polar bear adventure will whet your appetite for the thrilling natural spectacle that awaits you.
DAY 4: Winnipeg - Churchill.
Today starts with a morning flight to Churchill, a remote town on the west banks of the magnificent Hudson Bay. Called the 'Land of the Nanuk' - Nanuk being polar bear - this freezing sub-arctic region is famed for its vast tundras, pure air and the fact that every October and November, an estimated 1,200 polar bears gather here waiting for the ice to thicken. Our included tour of the area takes you to scenic Cape Merry with its military battery remnants, and the world-renowned Polar Bear Compound, where roaming bears are kept before being returned to the wild. Later, see the Eskimo Museum with its intriguing displays of Inuit artifacts. Dinner tonight is at a local restaurant. (D)
Note: The activities outlined in Churchill are operated as weather and safety conditions permit. We reserve the right to modify the sequence or change the programme if weather/safety requires.
DAY 5: Churchill. Full day Polar Bear Excursion.
The undoubted highlight of your trip begins this morning, as you board a comfortable Tundra Buggy® to seek out these proud 'Lords of the Arctic'. Heading into the frozen tundra with your camera poised, your guide and driver will position the vehicle so you can snap the best photographs of these amazing, fearsome creatures. From the vehicle's viewing platform, watch in awe as they play, roll in the snow and even inspect the Tundra Buggy®, whilst learning from your guide how they thrive in this unforgiving landscape. Your Tundra Buggy® is heated and equipped with a toilet to ensure your comfort. (B, L, D)
DAY 6: Churchill. Dog sled ride.
After breakfast, enjoy a dog sledding excursion. Meet the team of friendly huskies, hear stories and learn dog handling philosophy from an expert. Enjoy a mile long dog sled ride through the northern boreal forest along with hot chocolate and freshly made bannock. Next to the Parks Canada Interpretive Centre, for a fascinating insight into the history and wildlife of Churchill and this part of Manitoba. The rest of the day is at your leisure, giving you time to explore this beautiful region further, stock up with souvenirs or just relax. (B)
DAY 7: Churchill - Winnipeg. Full day Polar Bear Excursion.
A second day out in the tundra for more unforgettable sightings. The world's largest land predator, an adult polar bear weighs over 1,300 pounds, can stand 10 feet tall and move with incredible speed, so these truly are bears to beware of! If you're lucky, you may even witness mother bears tending to their cubs or young males play-fighting. Keep your eyes peeled for other wildlife, as this wild, rugged region is also home to Arctic hares, Snowy Owls and even caribou. Late this afternoon, take reluctant leave of Churchill for your return flight to Winnipeg and an overnight stay. (B, L, D)
DAY 8: Winnipeg - UK.
Transfer to the airport for your flight via Toronto to the UK.
DAY 9: Home landing in the UK.
Maximum elevation on this tour is 784 ft.
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