Time Zone

GMT - 5 hours

Climate

Churchill has sub-arctic climate with long, extremely cold winter and short, cool to mild summers. September to November, which is the best time to see Polar Bears, can get quite chilly with mean temperatures hovering between −10°C to 5 °C. Strong sub-arctic winds, low pressure and the wet sea air from Hudson Bay region can lead to rapidly changing weather conditions, especially during the autumn and winter months.

Languages Spoken

English is the most commonly spoken language, followed by Inuktitut and French. English will be used for all communication during this journey.

Electricity Plug Details

120 v, Plug Type: A & B

Food

A selection of vegetarian and non-vegetarian continental dishes will be served over meals. Locally sourced ingredients will mostly be used as getting supplies from mainland Canada can be cumbersome because of the remoteness of the area.

Clothing & Equipment

Sub-Arctic weather is very variable; temperatures may hover around the freezing mark and winds can be strong. The continuous daylight warms sheltered areas so that you may sometimes find it warm enough for t-shirts. However, you may encounter snow squalls, fog and white-outs during a journey and should be ready for any conditions.

So here is the list of recommended items:

• Base layers (wool, synthetic or a blend)
• Mid-layer warm/fleece top
• Mid-layer warm/fleece pant
• Wool and synthetic sock (3 to 4 pairs)
• Neck warmer or balaclava
• Warm hat that covers ears
• Waterproof pants
• Waterproof gloves and glove liners
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses with UV protection
• Spare set of gloves
• Down Jacket

OTHER SUGGESTED ITEMS

• Waterproof, lightweight backpack or dry sack
• Binoculars
• Camera with charger and extra batteries
• Extra memory cards
• Earplugs
• Eye masks for sleeping
• Moisturizer and lip balm (sub-arctic air can be drying)
• Ski goggles (for Dog sledding excursions on snowy or windy days)

How To Get There

There are no roads into Churchill, so your options are limited to taking the train, or flying from Winnipeg. Return flights between Winnipeg and Churchill are included on this particular trip, so you need not worry about this bit.

Medication & First Aid

Please carry some easy to access medicines on the trip, for headaches, seasickness, diarrhea, constipation, and some re-hydration. powders like Electral etc. apart from any personal medication.

Internet

Satellite phones will be used by the guides. Wi-Fi connectivity will be unreliable due to the remoteness of the place.

Group Size

This is a fixed departure tour and you’ll be part of a decent sized group. The good part is that you can sign up as an individual traveler without worrying about any escalation in costs if you are willing to share accommodation.

Money to Carry

The official currency is Canadian Dollars although US Dollars are also readily accepted in Manitoba. However, we recommend exchanging funds at any Canadian financial institution or exchange booths at the border entry points.

Tipping

All tipping is optional and by no means mandatory, however if you feel that the expedition staff have performed at a satisfactory level, it is a great way to let them know you appreciate their efforts.