Experience the Rockies by Train and Churchill Polar Bears

Absolutely! We personalize all our guests’ trips to fit their exact tastes and needs:

• Add extra days: Spend more time at locations you’d like to explore.
• Modify the route and stops: Omit areas that don’t interest you, add destinations and iconic landmarks, or adjust the direction of your itinerary.
• Pick your experiences: Choose from our vast selection of small-group sightseeing tours and unique local activities.

Simply discuss your travel goals with our local travel experts and they'll ensure your trip aligns with your preferences and budget.

Because each of our trips is fully customized, the total cost depends on your travel dates, preferred accommodations, train service level, and chosen activities.

To ensure you get an accurate estimate, our local experts will take the time to understand your preferences and specific needs. Based on this information, they’ll provide you with a personalized quote that clearly outlines what’s included.

In Sleeper Plus Class on VIA Rail's Canadian Train, your experience includes:

• A private cabin: Your cabin features comfortable daytime seating that converts to bunk-style beds at night, plus a sink and toilet. A shared shower is available nearby.
• Delicious meals: Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and/or dinner in the classic dining car. Meals are prepared by chefs onboard the train.
• Scenic viewing cars: Relax and enjoy panoramic views of the passing scenery in the glass-domed upper level of the Skyline and Prestige Park cars. These are great places to socialize with fellow travelers.
• Complimentary refreshments: Tea, coffee, and snacks are available throughout the journey. Non-alcoholic drinks are included in Sleeper Plus, while alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.

The best time to see polar bears is in October and November, during the annual fall migration. The polar bears congregate on the shore of Hudson Bay near Churchill waiting for the water to freeze so the annual seal hunt can begin.

When you’re not out looking for polar bears, there are opportunities to learn about northern Manitoba’s Indigenous culture, history and wildlife by visiting the Itsanitaq Museum, the Parks Canada Interpretive Centre and joining evening talks with a local expert. There’s also a chance to go dogsledding.

During the fall season, temperatures in Winnipeg can vary from -6 degrees C to 11 degrees C (21 degrees F to 51 degrees F). Temperatures in Churchill can vary from -13 degrees C to -2 degrees C (9 degrees F to 29 degrees F). The Tundra Buggies are heated, but it is best to wear warm layers throughout the trip.

We recommend bringing a warm winter coat, snow pants, thick socks, gloves, hat, and other insulated layers. Winter clothing rentals are available if you do not own the appropriate gear. These would be an additional cost and subject to availability. For more information, please speak to your Vacation Advisor.

Most of the polar bear viewing is operated from the Tundra Buggy, so is suitable for guests who are less active. To access the Tundra Buggy, you will need to go up 12 steps. For other activity details, please see the full trip itinerary or speak to one of our Vacation Advisors.