Polar Watching Guide

RIGHT PLACE, RIGHT TIME THE COMPLETE GUIDE TO POLAR BEAR SAFARIS

Natural World Safaris sticks to its niche, ensuring that we put you in the right place at the right time for unbeatable wildlife encounters. Depending on where you are, this can be in world-class luxury, or alternatively you may be sleeping in a tent in sub-zero temperatures. Our aim is to ensure you have the best opportunity to see the wildlife you are travelling to see and authentically experience the destination in question.

Accessing the Polar Regions may be a challenge, yet it remains an utterly worthwhile one. Due to the remoteness of these frozen northern landscapes, reaching (exploring) them can be a costly affair. While traditionally, most NWS safaris are tailor-made, bespoke to your specific requirements, the majority of NWS polar bear trips are offered on a set departure or small group basis. This reduces the per person cost, has less impact on the environment and provides guests travelling with NWS access to some of the leading polar guides and experts the Arctic has to offer.

With fixed departure dates and prices, opportunity for cabin sharing for solo travellers, and only a limited amount of places per departure (NWS small ship departures host just 12 to 16 guests) places are snapped up quickly so it is even more essential to book as far in advance as possible in order to reserve your preferred dates and departure.

In an online poll seeing polar bears was in the top 3 bucketlist experiences. I’d encourage you to do more than just add it to your list, set your compass north and go!. The saying ‘protect what you love’ becomes an overwhelming reality as you bear witness (excuse the pun!) to the bears diminishing habitat and return from your travels feeling committed to take personal action.

Will Bolsover

Founder & CEO Natural World Safaris will@naturalworldsafaris.com

© Andrew James

T HE BEST PLA C E S TO S E E P O L A R B E A R S ARCTIC CAN A DA Polar bears begin to emerge from their winter dens as soon as spring arrives, which means the months of March and April are the best time to see mothers and cubs together in the snow. There is no better place to spot these furry families than the northern reaches of Canada, beyond the Arctic Circle. Here expeditions to remote locales such as Baffin Island require expert guiding from the local Inuit, a great deal of weather-appropriate clothing, a willingness to set up camp in the frozen wilderness, and above all, an intrepid mindset.

CHURCHILL

GREENLAND

SVALBARD

ARCTIC RUSSIA

The town of Churchill in Canada’s

Of all our polar bear destinations,

Ship-based expeditions in the Svalbard

The sparsely populated lands of the

Greenland offers the slimmest chance

Archipelago offer a number of benefits

Russian High Arctic are among the most

of spotting the “King of the Arctic” in the

to the polar bear enthusiast. Small ships

remote places on earth where polar bears

wild. Greenland is the largest island in the

in particular allow for a greater degree of

can be observed. Franz Josef Land and

world and much of its Arctic shoreline,

manoeuvrability, allowing the captain to

Wrangel Island maintain just a tiny

where polar bears are most likely to be

navigate the region’s many waterways in

contingent of military and scientific

seen, is both uninhabited and virtually

response to sightings, while a close-knit

personnel between them, which means

impenetrable. Setting sail along the east

group of passengers and crew can be

your fellow travellers are likely to be the

coast between July and September may

mobilised for zodiac outings at a moment’s

only humans you encounter during your

yield sightings, and at the very least will

notice. Svalbard is also home to an array

expedition. The summer months of July

immerse you in a simply spellbinding

of fascinating Arctic species aside from the

and August are the best time to visit these

landscape, the sheer scale and diversity of

polar bear, while the bears themselves can

destinations, as the melting sea ice will

which has to be seen to be believed. On

be seen alone, with cubs, or even locked

allow passage for expedition ships while

our first trip here in 2018, we saw no fewer

in battles with rivals. The season lasts

colouring the tundra with the hues of Arctic

than 15 different bears!

from April to September, with trip routes

grasses and wildflowers. Note that if you’re

planned according to sea ice levels, which

looking to view the largest number of bears

dictate where the bears will be.

in one place, Wrangel is for you.

Manitoba province is the self-proclaimed “Polar Bear Capital of the World”, and it’s easy to see why. Visitors to Churchill are perfectly placed to observe the bears’ seasonal migration, with thousands of the 500kg+ predators amassing on the shores of Hudson Bay between October and November, waiting for the waters to freeze and open up a route to their winter feeding grounds. Climbing aboard one of Churchill’s specially outfitted tundra buggies gives you an almost guaranteed chance of spotting a polar bear, but this comes at the cost of a truly “wild” experience.

SEEING POLAR BEARS IN CANADA With around 15,000 bears and a huge swath of Arctic landscape to choose from, there are plenty of places

Canada holds by the far the largest population of polar bears in the world, with an estimated 60-80% found in the country.

in Canada where polar bear sightings can be had, but here at NWS we focus on just two locations that offer the best possible experiences. The first is the town of Churchill, which sits on the southwestern shore of

With around 15,000 bears and a huge swath of Arctic

Churchill safaris are not for everyone – the profusion of

landscape to choose from, there are plenty of places in

both bears and tourists near the town can detract from

Canada where polar bear sightings can be had, but here

the “wildness” of your experience – but for those who are

at NWS we focus on just two locations that offer the best

less able or who want an almost guaranteed polar bear

possible experiences. The first is the town of Churchill,

sighting, there is no better destination. If you’re wishing to

which sits on the southwestern shore of Hudson Bay and

look further afield than Churchill, Baffin Island is a prime

attracts thousands of visitors a year due to its proximity

destination that offers a more authentic experience than

to a major polar bear migration route. Naturally, the self-

what can be had on the shores of Hudson Bay. Much of

proclaimed “Polar Bear Capital of the World” and the

the island lies beyond the Arctic Circle and is a rugged,

surrounding area offer a number of well-established wildlife

largely uninhabited wilderness; anyone thinking of setting

excursions and accommodation options for those wishing

foot here must do so armed with the requisite equipment,

to come face to face with a polar bear. Aside from basic

clothing and constitution. The only way to get to the bears

hotels in the city, travellers may choose to take up residence

here is by camping somewhere out in the wild – perhaps

in fully bear-proofed and windowed cabins, a lodge further

on the edge of an ice floe or in the shadow of a mountain –

afield where the bears can be seen from the comfort of your

wherever your expert guides determine is the best location

own room, or the fully mobile Tundra Lodge. The latter is a

for launching excursions in search of bears. You’ll likely

unique lodging experience that allows guests to peer out

have to reach this location via a series of short flights and

of their cabin and see the bears from just a few feet away.

overland journeys made by snowmobile, skidoo or qamutik (a traditional Inuit sled).

Generally your bear-viewing in Churchill will be conducted in tundra buggies, a type of large all-terrain vehicle that

Once you’ve established your base, each day of your

allows passengers to observe and photograph the bears

safari will be spent setting forth into the stark landscape

from an elevated and protected position. The buggies

of Baffin Island on the trail of the polar bear. If travelling

come equipped with large tyres, luxury reclining bus seats,

during the spring, your guides will be on the lookout for

comfortable suspension, flush toilets and a heating system,

mothers emerging from their dens with cubs in tow, and

and are a great option for travellers with reduced mobility

you’ll also be in with a chance of witnessing the Northern

providing they can make it up the steps.

Lights – a quite spectacular sight when coupled with the

Hudson Bay and attracts thousands of visitors a year due to its proximity to a major polar bear migration route.

Naturally, the self-proclaimed “Polar Bear Capital of the World” and the surrounding area offer a number of wellestablished wildlife excursions and accommodation options for those wishing to come face to face with a polar bear. Aside from basic hotels in the city, travellers may choose to take up residence in fully bear-proofed and windowed cabins, a lodge further afield where the bears can be seen from the comfort of your own room, or the fully mobile Tundra Lodge. The latter is a unique lodging experience that allows guests to peer out of their cabin and see the bears from just a few feet away.

Generally your bear-viewing in Churchill will be conducted in tundra buggies, a type of large all-terrain vehicle that allows passengers to observe and photograph the bears from an elevated and protected position. The buggies come equipped with large tyres, luxury reclining bus seats, comfortable suspension, flush toilets and a heating system, and are a great option for travellers with reduced mobility providing they can make it up the steps.

The reinforced and wide-bodied enclosure ensures the safety of all passengers, while additions like sliding

Churchill safaris are not for everyone – the profusion of both bears and tourists near the town can detract from the “wildness” of your experience – but for those who are less able or who want an almost guaranteed polar bear sighting, there is no better destination. If you’re wishing to look further afield than Churchill, Baffin Island is a prime destination that offers a more authentic experience than what can be had on the shores of Hudson Bay. Much of the island lies beyond the Arctic Circle and is a rugged, largely uninhabited wilderness; anyone thinking of setting foot here must do so armed with the requisite equipment, clothing and constitution.

The only way to get to the bears here is by camping somewhere out in the wild – perhaps on the edge of an ice floe or in the shadow of a mountain – wherever your expert guides determine is the best location for launching excursions in search of bears. You’ll likely have to reach this location via a series of short flights and overland journeys made by snowmobile, skidoo or qamutik (a traditional Inuit sled).

Once you’ve established your base, each day of your safari will be spent setting forth into the stark landscape of Baffin Island on the trail of the polar bear. If travelling during the spring, your guides will be on the lookout for mothers emerging from their dens with cubs in tow, and you’ll also be in with a chance of witnessing the Northern Lights – a quite spectacular sight when coupled with the constellations revealed through the lack of light pollution. Later on in the summer, you may even get the chance to kayak with narwhals and belugas in the freezing Arctic waters, with curiously sculpted icebergs floating past and flocks of eider ducks flying overhead.

Baffin Island does not offer luxury, but it’s all the better for it: this is polar wilderness at its most primal.

constellations revealed through the lack of light pollution.

The reinforced and wide-bodied enclosure ensures the

Later on in the summer, you may even get the chance to

safety of all passengers, while additions like sliding windows,

kayak with narwhals and belugas in the freezing Arctic

a front-sloping windshield and an open-air viewing platform

waters, with curiously sculpted icebergs floating past and

with mesh steel decking allow you to get the best view

flocks of eider ducks flying overhead. Baffin Island does

possible, whether you’re an avid photographer or just want

not offer luxury, but it’s all the better for it: this is polar

to catch a glimpse of the bears with your own eyes.

wilderness at its most primal.

© Jonathan Z Lee

SEEING POLAR BEARS IN SVALBARD Polar bears live throughout Svalbard and can be seen at all times of the year, but their exact whereabouts, though determined by sea ice levels, can never be pinpointed with a great degree of accuracy.

This is in contrast to some other destinations, for example

Thanks to their increased deck space, such ships can

Churchill in Canada and Wrangel Island in Russia, where

offer more varied evening activities and a broader range of

polar bear populations are highly localised. That isn’t to say

facilities, including libraries, infirmaries, gyms, bars and larger

that polar bear sightings are infrequent in Svalbard; they

public areas. Those sailing on larger ships can be as private

outnumber the archipelago’s human population and were

or as social as they choose, whereas small ships encourage

sighted 183 times during our 2018 season (including a

passengers to get to know their fellow seafarers individually,

record 38 in a single trip)!

ensuring a much more personalised seafaring experience.

Though it is possible to arrange land-based excursions for

NWS currently charter one small ship for use in Svalbard’s

safari-goers wanting to experience a different side of Svalbard,

waters: the 12-passenger M/V Kinfish. By travelling as part

it is the region’s extensive coastline – which stretches for more

of such a small contingent, you’ll benefit from a much greater

than 2,000 miles – that serves as the polar bear’s preferred

guest-to-guide ratio, with two to three expedition leaders on

habitat here. As its name indicates, Ursus maritimus is a

board each ship. In addition, certain departures will be led

marine mammal and is most often seen close to water, where

by a specialist leader, drawn from the ranks of the world’s

they prowl the shoreline and scavenge on whale carcasses.

leading naturalists and photographers. Using these small

Sea ice is another prime location for polar bear sightings,

ships as a base, you’ll be able to sail further into any of the

as the bears follow their keen sense of smell toward seal

fjords that lie along the coast, each one offering opportunities

breathing holes and wait to pounce upon their prey.

for exploration and new discoveries just around the bend.

Small expedition ships are also more manoeuvrable than

On board an ice-strengthened expedition ship, you’ll be able

their larger counterparts, so you can sit back and relax as

to navigate the various fjords and waterways that thread

you travel between destinations overnight.

through the Svalbard Archipelago, and push north into the sea ice in search of the bears. The crew of your ship will

This type of travel enables you to really get to the heart of

be in radio contact with distant colleagues throughout the

Svalbard, allowing for greater intimacy with the seagoing

expedition, allowing the Captain to alter his or her course

mammals that can be spotted while on deck, including blue

according to ice conditions and wildlife sightings. In addition,

whales, fur seals and beluga whales. Sailing close to shore,

the bridge will be manned at all hours, with binocular-

you’ll also be able to scour the landscape for terrestrial

wielding guides watching like a hawk for any flashes of a

animals, like reindeer and Arctic fox. Svalbard undoubtedly

hulking white-furred frame in the distance. Once the call is

leads the way in the sheer diversity of wildlife that you’ll be

made – “Bear!” – the ship’s passengers can be mobilised

able to see in addition to polar bears. Colonies of walrus can

into zodiacs at a moment’s notice.

be seen lazing in “haul-outs” along the shore, while a bevy of bird species roost along the cliffs that drop into the sea, with

© Andy Mann

Larger expedition ships are much more budget-friendly than

your ship the perfect venue for a spot of twitching: here there

smaller ones and also offer other advantages that make

are guillemots, puffins, auks, terns, gulls, skuas, fulmars and

them the preferred option for some travellers.

kittiwakes, to name just a few species.

POLAR BEAR, SVALBARD The Svalbard Archipegalo is Europe’s largest wilderness, a fascinating collection of Norwegian islands that are located closer to the North Pole than they are to Oslo. According to the Norwegian Polar Institute there are an estimated 2,650 polar bears in the Barents Sea area. In comparison, there are about 2,000 residents in Svalbard’s main settlement Longyearbyen, and 2,600 in the entire archipegalo.

© Chase Teron

WHERE TO GO, WHEN JANUARY

M AY

SEPTEMBER

Polar night engulfs the Arctic at the turn of the year, with the

The peak season for polar bear safaris in Svalbard begins in

Falling temperatures bring the bear-viewing season to an

sun remaining below the horizon in Svalbard, Greenland,

May. Melting sea ice opens up the archipelago to expedition

end in Svalbard, Russia and Arctic Canada. The summer

Russia and Arctic Canada. Of course, a complete lack

ships, while rising temperatures and high levels of sunshine

melt will have made certain areas more easily accessible,

of daylight does mean that the Northern Lights are fairly

make conditions more amenable for their passengers. May

providing further chances to spot scavenging polar

common in January, but due to the dearth of other activities

is still relatively cold compared to the months to come,

bears, but with the pack ice having retreated further and

available we strongly recommend searching for the auroras

but the advent of the midnight sun in Svalbard means

further north, sightings as a whole in September are less

at a different time – Greenland in the autumn is a good

temperatures will at least be stable. Much of the sea ice will

likely than in previous months. Greenland, however, is an

alternative. It may be possible to take a snowmobiling

remain throughout May, translating into some picturesque

excellent place to travel in September: whale-watching

or dog-sledding trip in Svalbard in January, but the utter

photo opportunities as polar bears make their way across

is at its peak, chances of polar bear sightings are high,

darkness means conditions will be far from optimal, and the

the frozen waters in search of food. This month is also ideal

and passengers on board expedition ships may be lucky

temperature will be well below zero.

for sightings of narwhals on trips to Baffin Island.

enough to see the Northern Lights.

FEBRUARY

JUNE

OCTOBER

With a combination of extensive sea ice, freezing

As temperatures continue to increase and ice continues

Safari-goers hoping to see polar bears in and around

temperatures and an almost complete lack of sunlight

to melt across the Arctic, expeditions are able to push

Churchill can do so starting in mid-October. This is when

rendering ship-based expeditions in the Arctic unviable (not

further into polar bear habitat in search of the fearsome

the bears of the region begin to gather on the shores of

to mention undesirable), Svalbard does offer the possibility

predators. Svalbard is particularly welcoming to visitors

Hudson Bay, waiting for the water to freeze and provide

of a snowmobiling or dog-sledding safari for those intent on

in June, with the mercury rising above freezing for the

a route to their winter feeding grounds further north,

travelling in February. This is still not the best time to take

first time. Despite this change, plenty of icebergs can still

where they will feast on seals until temperatures warm

one of these overland trips – March and April are the peak

be seen floating through the silken waters, serving as

again. Cubs will accompany their mothers and it is not

months – but the polar night does at least come to an end in

makeshift rafts for seals, seabirds, walrus and itinerant

uncommon to see large groups congregating in the same

February, and you may get lucky by stumbling across some

polar bears. Baffin Island continues to offer an exciting

area. The waning daylight hours also provide a chance

polar bear tracks. Sightings of actual bears in the winter

alternative for travellers wishing to forego the comforts of

to witness the breathtaking natural spectacle that is the

months are very rare.

an expedition ship and camp in the Arctic wilderness.

Northern Lights.

MARCH

J U LY

NOVEMBER

March heralds the arrival of spring in the Northern

July is the warmest month of the year in Svalbard and is

The bear-viewing season in Churchill continues into

Hemisphere, and with it the emergence of polar bear cubs

also the ideal time for whale-watching. This is the best

November. Although temepratures can drop to between

from their winter dens. There are few places in the world

month for birders in Svalbard and is also around about

-10 °C and -20 °C, November is just as good a time

where one can witness young cubs exploring the outside

the time when Arctic fox cubs can start to be seen on

to catch the region’s polar bear migration as October.

world for the first time, which makes trips to Canada’s Baffin

the tundra here. Vegetation begins to carpet the Arctic

There is also a greater chance of seeing the Northern

Island so sought after. In addition to the heartwarming

tundra during July, providing a stunning backdrop for the

Lights during November, but this comes at the cost of

sight of these new polar bear families playing among the

polar bears and other Arctic wildlife that make their home

fewer daylight hours. Luckily, most Churchill trips are

snowbanks, you’ll also be able to cast your eyes upwards

here at the top of the world. This is a great month to visit

conducted in heated tundra buggies to prevent exposure

and, with luck, watch the Northern Lights dance across the

Russia or Greenland, where herds of prehistoric-looking

to the strong winds and bitter cold that have to be

sky overhead.

muskox can be seen grazing together.

endured at this time of year.

APRIL

AUGUST

DECEMBER

In Arctic Canada, April continues to be a good time to spot

The Arctic thaw will likely come to an end in August. Snow

Polar bear tracking is not recommended in the depths

polar bear mothers with their cubs, while in Svalbard the first

and ice cover will be at its lowest extent, so photographers

of winter. Tour operators cease virtually all activities for

ships of the season will depart towards the end of the month,

hoping to capture images of polar bears among Arctic

the next three months, and for good reason! Frozen seas

also offering the chance to see polar bear mums and cubs

grasses, on rocky shores and perhaps even high up on

become increasingly difficult to penetrate, even for ships

making their way from dens to the pack ice. Daylight hours

a mountainside searching for bird eggs would do well

with the strongest ice-strengthened hulls. Conditions

increase dramatically here, from as low as 3 hours in March

to travel at this time. With a lack of ice preventing the

on land are no better, with temperatures plummeting to

to as high as 15 hours in April, but temperatures will be cold

bears from hunting seals (their main food source), hungry

near-inhospitable levels. Polar bear mothers are denning

and should remain below -10 °C for most of the day. Though

individuals can often be spotted scavenging along the

beneath the snow with their cubs during this time,

the conditions may be challenging, the pure white snow and

shoreline. This is a great time for visits to Russia and

and while it is possible to see other bears braving the

gleaming sea ice make Svalbard’s landscape a magical sight

Greenland, as well as Churchill, where bears can be seen

weather, the obstacles required to do so would make any

to behold at this time of the season.

frolicking among the wildflowers.

expedition a fool’s errand.

© Jonathan Z Lee

N O R T H E R N L I G H T S V S MIDNIGHT SUN

W

© Chase Teron hen planning your polar bear trip, timing is

the time spent searching for polar bears and other animals on the

nightime activity than watching the spectacular Arctic landscape

fallen snow; during the season in Russia, Greenland and Svalbard,

everything. The month in which you travel will

horizon. Just be ready for a knock on the door in the early hours if

drift by from your vantage point up on deck, toasting with a glass of

bears are most often seen on ice or rock, and snowfall is a rarity

determine your chances of sightings, what kind

someone spots the King of the Arctic or a pod of belugas off the

champagne under the midnight sun – a wonderfully surreal experience.

in the summer. This makes Canada a sought-after destination for

of landscapes you’ll be exploring (snow-covered

starboard bow! The midnight sun benefits your safari in another way

photographers looking to capture wintry images of polar bears, the

coastlines or blooming tundra) and the amount of daylight you’ll

too, as the Captain and his crew will be able to sail on through the

Travelling in the spring or autumn may mean fewer daylight hours

kind that many of us have in our minds when we think of these icons

experience. The Svalbard ship season, for example, runs between

night to the next destination while their passengers are sleeping.

in which to spot polar bears, but the trade-off is more than worth it.

of the Arctic. Churchill in October-November, with its congregations

April and September – when the midnight sun is in full swing.

This is particularly useful if your itinerary includes sea crossings, for

There simply aren’t enough superlatives to describe the experience of

of bears, good chance of snowfall and opportunities to witness the

Unfortunately, there is no easy way to see polar bears and the

example those in Arctic Russia that combine Wrangel Island with

watching the Northern Lights (or Aurora Borealis), those shimmering

Northern Lights, is a particularly magical destination.

Northern Lights in the same Svalbard trip. At the time of the autumn

Chukotka, or the day-long voyage from Iceland to Greenland.

bands of light which span the spectrum from neon green to crimson

equinox on September 23rd, all tour operators will have conducted

that dance across the sky when solar winds interact with particles in

Our Baffin Island trips in particular offer spectacular aurora-viewing,

the earth’s upper atmosphere.

as anyone stepping foot on this remote landmass at the entrance

their final trip of the season, and as the season ends so too does

It should be noted that even aside from the lack of Northern Lights,

any reliable method of spotting a polar bear in Svalbard – at least

there is another aspect of trips taken during the midnight sun

until next year. Don’t be too disheartened though, as there are plenty

that some travellers may find difficult. Our biological clocks have

This spellbinding natural phenomenon, in which seemingly ethereal

virtually free from light pollution. Polar bear safaris on Baffin often

of advantages to embarking on a polar bear safari underneath the

conditioned most of us to be awake when it is light and asleep

streamers flutter in the firmament, can be seen on dark, clear, cloud-

attract astrophotographers looking to capture the Milky Way in

midnight sun.

when it is dark; the midnight sun throws this off-kilter, which can

free nights in areas of low light pollution. Arctic Canada offers just

all its glory, and set timelapses that take in the movement of the

to Hudson Bay will be hundreds of miles from civilisation and thus

take some getting used to. Luckily, modern-day expedition ships are

such conditions in the months of March-April (when young polar

constellations. In Greenland, passengers on expedition ships can hope

24-hour sunlight is a boon for the crew of expedition ships, who

equipped with blackout blinds that help with this slightly disorienting

bear cubs can be seen with their mothers on Baffin Island) and

to see the Northern Lights in August and September, which coincides

are able to safely navigate Svalbard’s waterways and search for

side effect of the Arctic summer. bear-viewing season on the world’s

October-November (when large numbers of bears arrive in the area

with prime bear-viewing season on the world’s largest island.

wildlife throughout both day and night. By working in shifts, your

largest island. Night owls may revel in the lack of darkness of

around Churchill). Trips to Canada in the aforementioned months

expedition leaders – each a wildlife expert – will be able to maximise

course, and if you find yourself unable to sleep, there is no better

are also a great opportunity to see polar bears among freshly

1

POLAR BEAR FACTS

2

The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) lists 19 distinct subpopulations of polar bear, eight of which are in decline. As a whole, they are classified as a Vulnerable Species.

3 5 7

4

Polar bears are extremely intelligent and have been seen to crack open ice blocks to expose freshly frozen fish. They have also been seen stacking up plastic piping just to knock it down for the fun of it.

Polar bears are amazing swimmers and will swim comfortably at about 6 miles per hour, using their front paws as paddles and their rear paws as rudders. They can swim for up to 100 miles at a stretch – apt for an animal whose Latin name, Ursus maritimus, translates as ‘sea bear’.

The indigenous peoples of the Arctic have traditionally hunted polar bears. Today this is permitted only in Canada, Alaska and Greenland where the hunt is strictly controlled by quota systems. Polar bears have formed a crucial part of these peoples’ lives for countless generations, from both a practical and cultural perspective.

Polar bears mate in April and May with a male often following a breeding female for 100km or more. The denning

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areas are often used by the same subpopulation of bears each year. Cubs are born between November and February, and weigh about the same as a guinea pig. They are also born deaf and blind.

Polar bears have short, sharp claws and the soles of their feet are furry, allowing them to gain traction on ice. Their feet are slightly webbed and can reach a width of 12 inches, which helps spread their weight across the ice. They are the largest living terrestrial predator.

The fur of a polar bear is not white, but clear and hollow, an adaptation that helps them conserve heat. This fur is oily, water-repellent and doesn’t get matted when wet, allowing them to easily shake off any excess water and ice after a swim. Polar bears have black skin with a layer of fat measuring up to 4.5 inches thick, which acts as a natural drysuit – another way of conserving heat in the cold Arctic conditions.

© David Yarrow

POLAR BEAR C O N S E R VAT I O N Thanks to its Arctic habitat, the polar bear has not suffered the same degree of human persecution as other large predators, like the lion or tiger. Human populations in the Arctic are and always have been sparse, and while indigenous peoples have hunted polar bears for millennia, these hunts have always been sustainable.

Although the hunting of polar bears is restricted to

10 days in order to survive; less ice means fewer hunting

indigenous peoples in Greenland and Alaska and banned

opportunities, resulting in starving bears across the Arctic.

completely in Svalbard and Russia, Canada actually issues

These bears are being forced to either head miles from

hunting quotas each year, meaning you can kill a bear

land on pieces of drift ice in search of the more solid

yourself if you have the funds and the inclination.

pack ice – their prime hunting ground – or tough it out on land. The latter of those choices means more and more

Despite this, hunting is not a major threat to the survival

bears are heading to towns in search of food, bringing

of the polar bear. While population estimates are difficult,

them into closer contact with humans than ever before.

some 20-25,000 bears are thought to exist throughout

This of course brings its own risks – the number of bears

the Arctic, and in 2013, the decision was made not to ban

being shot for being too close to human settlements has

international trade in polar bears and their parts, as the

increased dramatically in recent years. For the bears who

species was deemed stable enough for this not to have a

head north with the receding ice, their shrinking territory

significant effect on its survival. By far the biggest threat to

makes for difficult hunting.

the polar bear is climate change, for which Ursus maritimus has become something of a poster child. Though rising

Another threat posed to polar bears and all Arctic wildlife

temperatures are not the only symptoms of climate change,

is marine plastic pollution. The Clean Up Svalbard initiative

the devastating effect that the warming Arctic is having on

removed over 40,000kg of litter from the beaches of the

the polar bear is perhaps the most poignant symbol of this

Norwegian archipelago in 2018, a colossal figure which

modern-day ecological catastrophe.

indicates the extent of the manmade waste problem facing even the most remote and relatively pristine corners of

The period of 1995–2005 was the warmest decade in

the world. Plastics and other debris – much of it from the

the Arctic since at least the 17th century, while Arctic air

fishing industry – can be ingested by polar bears either

temperatures for 2014-18 exceeded all previous records

directly or indirectly, when they consume prey that have

since 1900. In 2018, it was reported that the 12 lowest

themselves ingested foreign objects. As a proud member

extents of Arctic sea ice in the satellite record occurred

of the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators

in the preceding 12 years, with sea ice cover showing an

(AECO) since 2016, Natural World Safaris and our clients

average decline of 13% year on year. The frozen world

participate in Clean Up Svalbard during every Svalbard trip.

that the polar bear relies on is disappearing before our eyes. Ice is critical to the survival of the polar bear: dotted

People rarely come home from the Arctic the same as

with seal breathing holes, it serves as the predator’s main

they arrived. By joining us on an expedition, learning about

hunting ground.

the bears, seeing the challenges they face first-hand and falling in love with this magnificent polar wilderness, we

Research published by the University of Mexico in 2018

believe you will be as determined to protect and preserve

showed that an adult polar bear needs to consume the

its future as we are.

equivalent of at least one fully grown ringed seal every

© Chase Teron

GLACIER, SVALBARD Svalbard is a place of extremes and superlatives. It is not only the location of the world’s northernmost permanently inhabited settlement, where you can experience both 24-hour daylight and darkness; it is also a place of natural wonder, from the stunning landscapes you encounter to the unique wildlife to be seen.

Š Chase Teron

OTHER ARCTIC WILDLIFE You might be heading to the Arctic to see polar bears, but that’s not the only wildlife you should watch out for. The Arctic plays home to a fascinating array of hardy animals that have adapted to live and thrive, in the harsh conditions at the very top of the world.

TERRESTRIAL MAMMALS • • • • • • •

Caribou (reindeer): often seen in Canada and Svalbard, you can even witness their migration on our Caribou Migration & Autumn Arctic Tundra Safari. This is the only deer species where both the male and females have antlers.

Arctic wolf: a seldom-seen subspecies of grey wolf native to the Canadian Arctic.

Arctic fox: a small fox that can be seen throughout the Arctic.

Arctic hare: an attractive animal, also known as the polar rabbit, which has adapted to live in the harsh Arctic environs through a variety of behavioural and physical traits. Its fur is white in the winter, but darker in the summer.

Muskox: easy to recognise with its long shaggy coat and curved horns. Named after the strong musky smell that males omit during the rutting season.

Wolverine: can be seen in the Canadian Arctic; a member of the weasel family that looks a little bit like a furry otter.

Canada lynx: an elusive cat found throughout Canada that has dense silvery fur, a double-pointed “beard”, pointed ear tufts, remarkably long legs and broad furry feet.

MARINE MAMMALS • • • • •

Walrus: recognised by its huge mass and protruding, fang-like tusks. Can be seen on coastal Arctic itineraries.

Beluga whale: a white whale with a big forehead, also known as a melonhead, or sea canary due to the highpitched sounds it emits.

Narwhal: known as the unicorn of the sea, this intriguing whale has a large protruding tusk and is one of two members of the Monodontidae family, along with the beluga whale.

Bowhead whale: a huge whale with a robust, dark body and strongly bowed bottom jaw, and two blowholes.

Seals: curious animals that will often pop out of the water unexpectedly, Rambo style. Ringed-seals make up a majority of the polar bears diet.

BIRDS • • • •

© Chase Teron

Eider duck: these wonderful birds are often seen at the floe edge in Svalbard.

Guillemot: one of several species of seabird with black-and-white plumage.

Snowy owl: a large owl with bright eyes and stunning white plumage which helps it stay hidden in Arctic surroundings.

Atlantic puffin: distinctive seabirds with brightly coloured beaks.

SVALBARD POLAR BEAR EXPLORER DURATION

9-11 DAYS PRICE FROM

£7,195 $8,995 DESTINATION

SVALBARD WHEN

APR - AUG © Nate Small

ITINERARY DAY 1: ARRIVE LONGYEARBYEN Today you will arrive in Longyearbyen ready to board your expedition ship in the afternoon and start your Arctic adventure. Meet your fellow passengers and sail through the spectacular icy fjords of the Svalbard Archipelago.

DAYS 2 - 10: EXPLORING SVALBARD During your Arctic safari you can expect to visit ice-filled fjords framed by breathtaking snow-capped peaks, towering bird cliffs with colonies of seabirds numbering in their thousands, and gigantic glaciers crashing into the icy seas. In the midst of stunning landscapes you’ll go in search of polar bears as they hunt for seals, seek out colonies of walrus basking in the sun and spot whales breaching in the icy seas.

DAY 11: DEPART LONGYEARBYEN You will arrive back into Longyearbyen in the early morning, disembark and then have time to say your final farewells and begin your journey home.

Our Svalbard Polar Bear Explorer trip is a small group wildlife expedition. The M/S Freya and M/V Kinfish are small, intimate ships perfect for exploring the icy shores of the Svalbard Archipelago, ensuring your proximity to wildlife-rich areas of interest.

Carrying between 12 and 16 passengers, they create unique and enchanting wildlife experiences with unrivalled up-close encounters of Arctic wildlife, including the mighty polar bear.

NARWHAL & POLAR BEAR SAFARI DURATION

7 DAYS PRICE FROM

£8,395 $10,495 DESTINATION

ARCTIC CANADA WHEN

MAY - JUN ITINERARY DAY 1: ARRIVE POND INLET This morning, catch a flight over the sprawling Arctic landscape to Pond Inlet.

Upon landing, you will be welcomed by our local representative and transferred to a comfortable hotel. During dinner later in the evening, your expedition leader and lead Inuit guide will give a briefing and perform a gear check. After dinner, enjoy a truly authentic cultural presentation of Inuit throat singing, drum dancing and storytelling by local elders.

DAYS 2-5: FLOE EDGE sun never dips below the horizon and

DAY 6: FLOE EDGE - POND INLET

DAY 7: POND INLET OTTAWA

all sense of time is easily lost during

After breakfast you depart camp via

Wake up in time for breakfast,

your adventure. You’ll spend the next

qamutik and head back to Pond Inlet

then say your goodbyes and

few days venturing out into the Arctic

where you can enjoy lunch and change

check out of your hotel. Your

wilderness by snowmobile and qamutik.

out of your expedition layers ready

local representative will transfer

At the floe edge you will watch the

for your onward journey. If you have

you to the airport for your

Arctic wildlife come to life, spotting eider

purchased the return flight package from

morning flight to Ottawa (if you

ducks and murres and keeping your

Ottawa to Pond Inlet, we will transfer

have purchased the optional

eyes peeled for walrus and curious seals

you to the airport for your flight to Iqaluit.

flight package).

poking their heads out of the water.

Here, you will spend the night at a hotel.

During these summer months the

T H E G R E AT I C E B E A R DURATION

7 DAYS PRICE FROM

£7,795 $9,745 DESTINATION

ARCTIC CANADA WHEN

OCT - NOV ITINERARY DAY 1: ARRIVE WINNIPEG Arrive in Winnipeg where you will enjoy a relaxing pre-safari stay. Meet your group and adventure specialist at dinner which will be at about 6pm, then get a good night’s rest for an early start tomorrow.

DAY 2: WINNIPEG - DYMOND LAKE LODGE Arrive in Churchill by air or train. From here you will be taken by helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft on an exciting flight over the historic Churchill River, then northwest over Hudson Bay to Dymond Lake Lodge. Watch for the local wildlife including caribou, moose, seals, wolves and polar bears as you admire an incredible aerial view.

DAYS 3-4: DYMOND LAKE LODGE In the coming days, your gourmet breakfast will be served at 8:00am and the first walking tour generally leaves at 9:30am. Should there be a polar bear in camp (which is quite often) walks are delayed for some photo opportunities. The walks are guided by our professional and knowledgeable tour leaders and so you’ll learn lots along the way.

DAY 5: DYMOND LAKE LODGE - CHURCHILL It is time to pack for the flight back

DAY 6: CHURCHILL WINNIPEG

to Churchill, say your goodbyes

Today you will travel across

and snap a few more pictures!

the tundra in the world-famous

After another exciting aerial tour,

tundra buggies for more polar

you’ll arrive in Churchill where

bear viewing! Tundra buggies are

your bags will be stored for you

chartered, which means fewer

until you can check into your hotel

guests, better views and a higher

later in the day. You are then free

level of comfort. After your last

to explore and dine in this frontier

day with the bears, you will be

community at your leisure.

escorted to the airport for your flight to Winnipeg.

DAY 7: DEPART WINNIPEG Today you will catch your flight home, or, if you haven’t had enough of the bears yet, please contact us about the many options that can be added on.

SPRING POLAR BEARS DURATION

9 DAYS PRICE FROM

£12,995 $15,595 DESTINATION

ARCTIC CANADA WHEN

MAR - APR ITINERARY DAY 1: OTTAWA QIKITARJUAQ Today you’ll arrive into Ottawa and board your scheduled flight to Qikitarjuaq via Iqaluit. You will be met by your expedition team upon arrival, who will then transfer you back to your hotel in time for dinner and a briefing of the trip that lays ahead.

DAYS 2-7: PHOTOGRAPHING THE BEARS You will get to enjoy full-day explorations of the immense wilderness as Inuit guides bring you out onto the ice to locate, view and photograph magnificent polar bears.

Your guides will be on the lookout for mothers and cubs as the young bears explore the wilderness with their mothers, having emerged from their dens just a few weeks earlier.

DAY 8: CAMP QIKIQTARJUAQ After a hot breakfast, spend the morning capturing a few last memories and photographs while on the sea ice. Return to Qikiqtarjuaq and overnight at the local hotel, joining your fellow adventurers for dinner.

DAY 9: QIKIQTARJUAQ - OTTAWA After breakfast at your hotel, it’s time to leave the Arctic as you fly from Qikiqtarjuaq to Ottawa via Iqaluit. You will then be able to catch your international flight home or spend time exploring Canada’s capital, depending on your arrangements.

REALM OF THE POLAR BEAR DURATION

8-11 DAYS PRICE FROM

£2,499 $3,125 DESTINATION

SVALBARD WHEN

JUN - AUG ITINERARY DAY 2-10: EXPLORING SVALBARD During your Arctic journey you will visit ice-covered seas,

DAY 1: ARRIVE LONGYEARBYEN Today you will arrive in Longyearbyen where you will be met and embark the M/S Expedition - your home for the next 7 or 10 nights.

breathtaking fjords and glaciers flowing into the sea. Arctic fauna is also on the agenda as you look out for polar bears hunting seals, walrus hauled out on ice floes, Svalbard’s unique subspecies of reindeer and much more.

DAY 11: DEPART LONGYEARBYEN This morning you will disembark the M/S Expedition after breakfast, say your goodbyes and begin your journey home.

This is a small group, set departure aboard the M/S Expedition with up to 126 passengers. The M/S Expedition features stabilisers and due to its size, can often navigate further north than some of the larger ships. Each departure is led by seasoned professionals who, along with the crew, will ensure you are in the best locations for optimum wildlife experiences.

F R E Q U E N T LY A S K E D Q U E S T I O N S AM I GUARANTEED TO SEE POLAR BEARS?

We can organise for you to rent this if required. We

Keep everything as charged as possible throughout the

All our safaris send you out into the wild, not to a zoo.

will provide you with a full packing list designated to the

trip. The cold weather really can take its toll on everything

We can’t guarantee you will see polar bears, or your

destination you are travelling to when you book, so you’ll

and you may find your battery power running low very

animal of choice. We can, however, put you in the right

have time to get prepared.

quickly. Make sure you have additional storage cards to

place at the right time for the best chances of seeing them.

CAN I SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS?

what you think you need. Make sure you have waterproof bags or covers for your camera. You also have to consider

How likely you are to see the Northern Lights will

that you could drop it on the ice, or get it splashed when

depend on which destination you choose and when you

on board a zodiac. For more information about camera

travel. There is 24-hour daylight in the Arctic during the

equipment suited for your journey, you can read our

We offer a huge range of safaris and trips – each have

summer, so you will not see the auroras then. However,

specialist leader and renowned photographer Shannon

different requirements for fitness. Trips to Churchill are

Churchill – just south of the Arctic Circle – has one of

Wild’s guide to photography in the Arctic.

generally suitable for travellers with concerns about

the highest frequencies of Northern Lights sightings, so

fitness or with minor mobility concerns, whereas trips

if you are travelling there in the winter you will have a

WILL THERE BE LOTS OF STRENUOUS HIKING?

to Baffin Island are better suited to travellers with a

good chance of sightings.

This will be dependent on the season and the

HOW FIT DO I NEED TO BE TO SEE THE POLAR BEARS?

good level of fitness due to the extreme and remote

type

of

safari

you

choose.

During

the

early

for most travellers and while a good level of fitness

WHAT ACTIVITIES CAN I DO ON A POLAR BEAR SAFARI?

will ensure you can make the best of the expedition,

Your polar bear safari can be as active as you like. You

cleared and a longer walk may be more practical. A leisure-

there are generally less strenuous options available for

can choose where you are going and which trip to take,

ly walk will usually be available for those that don’t fancy a

those who wish to take it easy and avoid long hikes.

based on what activities are available. If you would like to

longer hike. For our trips to Arctic Canada it varies greatly,

If you are worried about your fitness level, please pick

relax and sit back while the guides find bears for you, we

from almost no walking involved to long hikes.

up the phone and give us a call. Our team of expert

can do that. On the other hand, if you would like to spend

Destination Specialists can easily guide you to the

your days trekking, kayaking with belugas, swimming with

HOW COLD DOES IT GET?

most suitable trip for you.

narwhals, clambering over icebergs and dog-sledding, well

The temperature in Svalbard will depend on the time that

we can do that too.

you are visiting the archipelago. Early May can experience

nature of the trips. Ship-based expeditions are suitable

WHAT SHOULD I PACK? This is a tricky one to answer as it definitely depends on your time of travel and the activities you plan to do. In the summer and the winter, layers are key. You will heat up and cool down more than you thought possible in a day, so make sure you can always take off and add on layers to keep yourself at a good temperature. This goes for your hands too. The wind can be extremely chilling in Arctic climes, so we would always recommend something to cover your face.

In Svalbard, Greenland and Russia, good sturdy waterproof boots are mandatory as you will be jumping out of zodiacs into shallow water. Some ships include these, some don’t, but we can advise you at the time of booking whether you need to purchase or rent your own. In the summer, ski clothing is usually okay for a safari in Arctic Canada. In Svalbard you may get wet on zodiac excursions, so make sure your clothing is waterproof. You also need to wear good sunglasses. In the winter months, your ski gear won’t be appropriate. Ski and snowboard clothing is designed with movement in mind, so it won’t keep you warm enough if you are standing around. Special polar clothing is recommended at this time.

WHAT TYPE OF CAMERA EQUIPMENT DO YOU RECOMMEND?

season in Svalbard the snow may be too thick for long hikes, whereas later in the season the snow will have

temperatures as low as -8 °C, while in late August this may rise to as high as 12 °C. Don’t forget the wind chill though, which can bring the temperature right down at any time.

The body of your camera is totally up to you. We recommend

During the winters in Arctic Canada the temperatures can

using something that you feel comfortable with and that

plummet to a biting -20 °C to -35 °C.

you have used before. New digital cameras and SLRs have calving glaciers or passing wildlife. The landscapes will

WHAT ARE THE VEHICLES LIKE ON AN ARCTIC SAFARI?

often mainly be white; the surface of the snow can reflect a

On some safaris you will explore the Arctic on foot, while

lot of light. Take a little time to practise getting the aperture

on others you may use traditional means of transport such

right, playing with the iso settings and adjusting the white

as qamutiik (traditional Inuit sled), dog sled, or snowmo-

balance, to make sure you don’t overexpose your images.

bile. On many trips in Arctic Canada you will set out across

a quicker shot response time so you can easily capture

the tundra in specially adapted vehicles, including the poYou will often be quite a distance from the wildlife so a

lar rovers (or tundra buggies). In Svalbard, Greenland and

good zoom is beneficial. Our specialist photographers

Russia, you will cover most distances on board your ship,

usually travel with a lens in the 400-600mm range. A

with excursions each day by smaller zodiac boat. Once

lens in the 30-250mm range can also be useful for

ashore in these destinations, if the season allows, you can

closer encounters – on tundra buggies in Churchill

walk and hike across the tundra in search of wildlife.

and occasionally on ship expeditions, bears have been known to approach and get as close as a metre or two

AM I SAFE ON A POLAR BEAR SAFARI?

away. With so much water around in Svalbard and Arctic

Your safety is our priority. We use the best trained guides

Canada, we would definitely recommend a polariser filter

for the job. Listen to their instructions and you will keep

(if you have one) to reduce reflection and glare off the

yourself safe.

water. Bring your chargers and plenty of spare batteries.

IN T HE P R E S S // AWA R D S Natural World Safaris has won various awards for our unique and carefully crafted safaris. We’ve also featured in the press around the globe, receiving rave reviews from some of the world’s most respected travel writers.

“The Fixer to use”

“A marvel for first-hand knowledge of destinations”

“One of the most unique experiences in the world”

“One of the more intrepid operators in southern and eastern Africa”

“An adventure off the scale - a place and experience to make your heart beat faster”

ATOL All the flights and flight-inclusive holidays in this brochure are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. When you pay you will be supplied with an ATOL Certificate.

Please ask for it and check to ensure that everything you booked (flights, hotels and other services) is listed on it. Please see our booking conditions for further information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate ABTOT The Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT) provides financial protection under the Package Travel, Package Holidays and Package Tours Regulations 1992 for Natural World Safaris, and in the event of their insolvency, protection is provided for the following: 1. non-flight packages commencing in and returning to the UK; 2. non-flight packages commencing and returning to a country other than the UK; and 3. flight inclusive packages that commence outside of the UK, which are sold to customers outside of the UK. 1, 2 and 3 provides for a refund in the event you have not yet travelled. 1 and 3 provides for repatriation. Please note that bookings made outside the UK are only protected by ABTOT when purchased directly with Natural World Safaris.

FRONT COVER: Image courtesy of Shannon Wild

Natural World Safaris Second Floor 130a Western Road, Brighton East Sussex, BN1 2LA, UK UK Tel +44 (0) 1273 691 642 US Toll Free 1866 357 6569 Australia Toll Free 1800 668 890 naturalworldsafaris.com @natworldsafaris NaturalWorldSafarisLtd naturalworldsafaris Registered address: Natural World Safaris Ltd Granta Lodge, 71 Graham Road, Malvern Worcestershire, WR14 2JS, UK Registered in England Company No: 05649357