Churchill Northern Lights Photography Tour Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Winnipeg

Arrive in Winnipeg and check into your hotel. Join the group for a welcome dinner and a quick tour briefing.
Overnight Location: Inn at the Forks in Winnipeg
Meals: Dinner

Day 2 Visit Manitoba Museum

After a hearty breakfast, the group is shuttled to the Manitoba Museum, known for its vivid portrayal of the region’s rich history. The day begins with an interactive planetarium presentation, offering an interactive tour of the Winnipeg night sky, highlighting constellations, planets, and the northern lights. Following the planetarium experience, there is an engaging program, “Inuit: People of the North”, providing deeper insights into the traditional Inuit lifestyle.

After lunch the museum guided tour continues, allowing a closer look at various exhibits showcasing Manitoba’s cultural and scientific heritage. The day concludes with a return to the hotel for a group dinner and a restful night.
Overnight Location: Inn at the Forks in Winnipeg
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 Flight to Churchill and Aurora Borealis Photography

After grabbing a quick breakfast to-go, the journey continues with a flight from Winnipeg to Churchill. Once in Churchill, there’s some free time to explore the town and take in the unique northern atmosphere. Later, the Photo Specialist provides a helpful review of northern lights photography tips to ensure everyone is well-prepared for the evening’s photography session.

In the evening, the group escapes the town lights for the first opportunity to view the aurora borealis. Traveling to a modern-style yurt tucked away in the boreal forest, the group enjoys a prime location for capturing the stunning northern lights. The illuminated yurt and surrounding treetops provide a magical backdrop for photography, and thanks to the earlier photo tips, everyone is ready to capture some unforgettable photos.
Overnight Location: Overnight at Churchill hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 Dan’s Diner Culinary Experience

The day begins with a guided tour of Churchill and its surrounding area, exploring key local and historical landmarks such as the Polar Bear Holding Facility and the Inukshuk. After lunch, the group visits the Parks Canada Visitor Centre to view detailed wildlife dioramas and fur trade exhibits, gaining deeper insights into the region’s natural and cultural heritage.

In the evening, journey across the frozen Churchill River by Tundra Buggy to Dan’s Diner, a pop-up restaurant offering regional cuisine. With skylights and panoramic windows, it’s the perfect setting for a delicious meal under the northern lights. After dining, there’s time to relax and socialize with fellow travelers before returning to town.
Overnight Location: Overnight at Churchill hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 Dog Sledding and Northern Lights Viewing

The day starts with a quick breakfast at the hotel before meeting up with the group for an exciting dog sledding excursion. Hosted by a local resident and expert, the adventure offers an opportunity to learn about Métis culture and the rich history of dog sledding in northern Canada.

In the evening, another special northern lights experience awaits. The group travels by Tundra Buggy across the frozen Churchill River to Frontiers North’s Thanadelthur Lounge, where the aurora can be viewed in comfort. With panoramic windows and a rooftop observation deck, it’s the perfect spot to photograph and enjoy the incredible northern lights as they dance across the sky into the late hours.
Overnight Location: Overnight at Churchill hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 Snowshoe Trek and Wapusk Adventures

Today’s highlight is an afternoon interpretive snowshoeing adventure through Churchill’s boreal forest. This unique experience allows for a deeper connection with the stunning winter landscape, guided by local experts who share insights into the region’s natural history. After dinner, a local resident gives an engaging presentation on the culture, history, and traditions of the Churchill area, offering a fascinating perspective on life in the north.

The evening concludes with one final northern lights viewing at Wapusk Adventures, where a teepee awaits. Surrounded by a warming fire, this cozy setting is perfect for storytelling and nighttime photography, with the glowing fire illuminating the traditional structure as the northern lights dance above.
Overnight Location: Overnight at Churchill hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 Last Day in Churchill

On the final day in Churchill, you will visit the Itsanitaq Museum, home to one of Canada’s finest collections of Inuit carvings, kayaks, and artifacts from various historical periods. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Next, a visit to Polar Bears International House provides an opportunity to learn from a Polar Bears International Ambassador about polar bear research, climate change, and conservation efforts. You will also tour the Interpretive Centre to discover ways to support polar bear conservation.

After spending the last few hours in Churchill, return to the Churchill airport for the evening flight back to Winnipeg. Upon arrival, check in to the hotel for the final night of the tour, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of the journey.
Overnight Location: Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Winnipeg
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 Departure Day

On the final morning in Winnipeg, it’s time to reflect on the unforgettable northern lights adventure. The experience has been nothing short of amazing, and the memories of Churchill’s stunning auroras and wildlife will stay with you. With a camera full of incredible photos to share, it’s time to head home.
Overnight Location: None
Meals: None