Wolves & Northern Lights on the Kaska Coast | Photo expedition to Hudson Bay with lodge accommodation
from/to Winnipeg
10 days (9 nights)
Maximum 12 people
English-speaking
10 days / 9 nights photo expedition with intensive wolf watching, northern lights, and accompanied by National Geographic photographer Jad Davenport
+++ 5% Ermäßigung bei Neubuchung bis 31.10.2026 +++
On the Kaska Coast, where boreal forest almost touches the rugged coastline of Hudson Bay, you can observe one of the world's last large wolf populations. Join National Geographic photographer Jad Davenport on an expedition that combines science and up-close nature experiences. Our highly experienced guides and coastal scouts organize daily safaris where you can document and learn about wolf behavior. Between wolf encounters, you'll observe moose on ancient forest trailsand much more wildlife in the Arctic ecosystem.
In March, you can experience the wolves during their mating season. The crystalline winter light offers ideal conditions for observing and photographing the exciting social behavior of these predators. And thanks to the clear, icy air, you can often hear the wolves howling for miles through the Arctic silence.
In November, the groups that scattered during the summer come together to form strong wolf packs, and hunting success becomes crucial. The animals track the tracks of mighty moose, adapt to the landscape, and employ complex hunting strategies. In small groups, you will be so close to the action on your daily expeditions that you will be able to see the texture of their fur and look the wolves in the eye.
In the evening, stimulating conversations and lectures on wolf biology take place by the fireplace, before a shared meal brings you closer to the tundra in culinary terms. After dark, the action shifts to the Arctic night sky, where colorful auroras dance above the remote Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge.
Travel time: March & November
Stephanie Gräf
Travel expert, inventia | Travel beyond the ordinary
Specialist in personalized and exciting trips around the globe.
I am your contact person for questions and bookings regarding your trip.
You can reach me by phone or email:
+49 (0)201 858 90 960
welcome@inventia.de
Good to know
Getting there
On request, we can book your flights and pre- and post-programs individually in a package deal.
Please feel free to contact us!
Entry and safety information:
The U.S. Department of State provides the following information for travel to Canada.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Observe one of the last large wolf populations on earth up close in their natural habitat – even directly from your lodge.
- Daily expeditions with a high probability of close-up wolf sightings thanks to experienced scouts and guides
- Overnight stay at the extremely remote Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge on Hudson Bay, offering rustic comfort and only 8 rooms, which is one of National Geographic's Unique Lodges.
- Accompanied by renowned National Geographic photographer Jad Davenport for professional photography tips and tricks (also with iPhone and Samsung!)
- Watch the northern lights dance across the sky in the middle of the wilderness, far away from any light pollution – through the lodge's panoramic windows or in the sheltered outdoor area.
- Evening lectures and presentations on wolf biology, wildlife and landscape photography
- Tundra-inspired cuisine that will surprise your palate, accompanied by Canadian wines and culinary traditions from the Arctic region.
- Stunning photographs of distinctive landscapes and wildlife taken from close range
Location of Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge on Hudson Bay
itinerary
After arriving in Winnipeg, you can look forward to a relaxing night's stay at our selected hotel, The Grand by Lakeview, located right at the airport.
Beforehand, at 5:00 p.m., you will be issued with and try on your highly functional winter equipment, ensuring that you are optimally prepared for your upcoming Arctic expedition. During dinner, you will get to know your fellow travelers and receive an initial overview of the experiences that will leave a lasting impression on you over the next few days.
First, you will fly to Churchill. You will be met at the airport and given further information about your morning transfer. You will then continue your journey to Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge in a small plane. (Please note that travel to Polar Bear Lodge on tour dates in March may also be via Thompson.)
During the 60-minute flight, your gaze will wander over Wapusk National Park and historic York Factory. From this bird's-eye view, keep an eye out for wolves, caribou, and polar bears that call this untamed, remote region home.
Upon arrival at the lodge, your hosts will welcome you with an introductory tour before you check into your room. A detailed safety briefing on traveling in polar bear territory is also a must before your first excursions.
Then it's time to prepare your cameras, memory cards, and tripods. If the schedule allows, dress warmly on your first day at Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge for an introductory hike through the surrounding area.
To round off this eventful day, you can look forward to a first taste of the exquisite tundra-inspired cuisine that will spoil you throughout your stay at the eco-lodge.
Start the day with a hearty breakfast while your guide evaluates the latest observations from the scouts and presents the plan for the day. Then it's time to head out into the wilderness!
During your daily morning and afternoon excursions, you will track down wolf packs to observe and photograph the behavior of these mysterious animals up close.
Wolves can often be seen directly from the lodge's viewing platforms as they roam their territory in search of prey. It is not uncommon for wolves to cover distances of up to 40 kilometers per day . We are in constant radio contact with our scouts, who monitor various activity zones along the coast, enabling us to respond quickly and flexibly to sightings.
After the morning safari, you will return to the lodge for a light lunch and a relaxing break. In the early afternoon, you will head out into the bush again. Depending on the weather and animal activity, we may decide to go on a full-day safari to expand our range of activities.
Guests who are interested in scientific fieldwork can also actively participate in the Citizen Science Wolf Study and, for example, evaluate images from wildlife cameras, analyze animal tracks, or document wolf howls.
The quiet evenings at Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge begin with a cozy happy hour in the comfortable lounge area, accompanied by a short lecture on wolf biology or wildlife photography. Then the day draws to a close with a delicious dinner followed by a convivial get-together by the fireplace, far away from civilization.
However, it is quite possible that the lodge staff will gently wake you up later: with over 300 nights per year, the Kaska Coast is one of the best places in the world to experience the fascinating spectacle of the Aurora Borealis. March often brings clear, cool nights, creating ideal conditions for viewing the northern lights. Your photographer, Jad Davenport, is on hand to help you set up your camera so you can perfectly capture the spectacular light show in the sky.
As extensive as the range of activities is, you are free to organize your day at your own pace. Feel free to take a break in the morning or afternoon, treat yourself to some peace and quiet in the lodge with a hot cup of coffee and homemade brownies. You don't necessarily have to miss out on wildlife viewing. Who knows what wild animals will be drawn to the panoramic windows by curiosity...
After breakfast, it's time to say goodbye to Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge, which has been your home in the wilderness for the past eight days.
For travel dates in March, you will fly directly to Winnipeg.
To join the November photo expedition to see wolves on the Kaska Coast, first fly to Churchill.
After returning to the city, you will spend the day with a local guide. You will delve deep into the rich history of the place—from its past as an important maritime trading post to its role as a former military base.
Highlights of your tour include the Parks Canada exhibit and the Itsanitaq Museum with its impressive collection of Inuit art and artifacts. You will also visit the famous Polar Bear Jail and the Arctic Trading Post, where you can chat with Cree and Inuit women as they sew traditional moose leather mittens. At St. Paul's Anglican Church , you can learn more about the lost Franklin Expedition and admire the impressive stained glass memorial window.
Along the way, your guide will also point out the numerous murals that were created in 2016 as part of the SeaWalls Mural Festival and have since transformed the streets of Churchill into an open-air gallery.
Before dinner together, you will have time for a final shopping spree to browse for suitable souvenirs in the boutiques of Churchill.
In the evening, your flight will take you back to Winnipeg. Upon arrival, collect your luggage and proceed directly through the arrivals hall to The Grand Hotel, where you can relax and unwind at the end of your trip.
After a restful night, you pack your bags and board your flight home. In addition to the unforgettable images in your mind, you will surely have a fantastic collection of photos in your luggage.
Further information
You will stay here: Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge on Hudson Bay
Where boreal forest, tundra, and the wild waters of Hudson Bay meet lies Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge —a unique retreat in the midst of one of Canada's largest untouched natural landscapes. In addition to wolves , polar bears, black bears, moose, and other wildlife roam the seemingly endless wilderness surrounding the eco-lodge.
The panoramic windows of the sheltered lodge offer you the best view of the passing wildlife. It is not uncommon to see curious polar bears and other wild animals within sight. After dark, another natural wonder unfolds above you: the Northern Lights dance across the Arctic night sky. You can watch the breathtaking spectacle from the warmth of the lodge or from the sheltered outdoor area.
The eight comfortable guest rooms with private bathrooms are spread across two wings that are directly connected to the main building. From the cozy seating areas, panoramic windows offer views of the vastness of Hudson Bay. After an eventful day in the tundra, relax in the lounge in front of the crackling fireplace—in good company or for a lecture by your experienced guides.
Important note: Due to extreme winter conditions, there may occasionally be restrictions on the water supply during the coldest months. Please note that there will be no washing facilities available at the lodge during this time.
The lounge area at Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge | © Scott Zielke
Your cozy room at Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge | © Scott Zielke
Activities & highlights of your photo trip to the Arctic
Wolf watching on the Kaska Coast
During your stay at Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge, daily wolf watching expeditions are on the agenda. On guided tours with experienced guides, you will travel along the coast and through the boreal forest. Thanks to numerous scouts and intensive radio contact with them, active packs can be reliably tracked down. This gives you a great opportunity to learn more about and understand the social interactions, territorial behavior, and hunting tactics of these Arctic predators on a daily basis. You can also often see wolves directly from the lodge with its protected outdoor area and observation towers.
If you feel like it, you can actively participate in scientific field research during the expedition to Hudson Bay, for example by taking part in howling surveys, collecting recordings from wildlife cameras, or analyzing tracks.
Sightseeing in Churchill, Manitoba
The small town of Churchill is located 1,000 kilometers north of Winnipeg, the last outpost on the edge of the Arctic wilderness. In this remote location, the residents cultivate a strong sense of community as well as the culture and history of the region, which was once an important base for the Hudson's Bay Company. On a personalized tour of Churchill, you can gain a deep insight into Inuit culture at the Itsanitaq Museum and feel the local connection to Arctic nature as you view the SeaWalls Murals. A detour to the Polar Bear Jail, a shelter for polar bears that have attracted attention, highlights how closely life in Churchill is intertwined with the surrounding wilderness.
aurora borealis
Above the Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge, the magical Northern Lights dance across the Arctic sky on 300 nights a year. Far away from artificial light sources, you can watch this colorful spectacle directly from the Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge. Either from the warmth of the lodge through the panoramic windows or in the sheltered outdoor area. So that you don't have to sacrifice a good night's sleep, the lodge staff keep a close eye on the night sky and gently wake you as soon as the spectacle begins.
Photography with Jad Davenport, master of visual storytelling
Jad Davenport began his career as a photojournalist and documentary photographer, honing his visual storytelling skills in the crisis zones of over a dozen wars. His talent for capturing the essence of a moment continues to shape his work today. As a travel photographer on assignment for National Geographic Creative, Jad travels the world. His extraordinary skills have been recognized with four prestigious Lowell Thomas Awards —one of the most prestigious prizes in travel journalism.
His work appears regularly in leading international publications such as Newsweek, The New York Times, The Washington Post, Men's Journal, Audubon, Sierra, and Coastal Living. His photographs have also been exhibited in renowned galleries such as the Smithsonian.
Jad has traveled to over 160 countries and photographed some of the most remote and wildest regions on Earth—from mountain gorillas in the war zone of Congo to black pearl farms in Tahiti and, of course, polar bears on Hudson Bay!
His specialty is creating images that transport viewers back to the moment and allow them to feel the emotions of the experience. He was the first photographer to deliver a digital cover and inside story for National Geographic Adventure Magazine. He is also a master of the creative use of modern digital tools – ideal for travelers who don't always have the latest high-end camera equipment with them.
Under Jad's guidance, you will learn how to capture your Arctic journey in a unique way —whether with an iPhone, a compact camera, a DSLR, or a mirrorless camera. His focus on subject selection and image composition makes the art of photojournalism accessible to photographers of all experience levels.
Ethical wildlife viewing
The coastline of Hudson Bay is pure, untouched wilderness and the natural habitat of many wild animals such as polar bears, wolves, caribou, black bears, and arctic foxes. The adjacent Arctic bays are home to seals, ringed seals, and even beluga whales during the summer months. The combination of the three surrounding ecosystems—Hudson Bay, taiga, and tundra—creates a true paradise for cold-loving creatures.
What is ethical wildlife viewing?
Ethical wildlife viewing involves observing wild animals in their natural habitat without disturbing or influencing their instinctive behavior.
In practice, you must therefore observe the following principles:
Getting around on foot:
- The excursions are usually conducted on foot in order to approach the wild animals quietly and unobtrusively. Although this means covering long distances on foot, it is the only way to protect the rich ecosystem with your small footprint.
Keep your distance:
- Wolves are generally shy animals that avoid humans. In the wild, encounters are usually fleeting, as wolves have excellent senses and often retreat before you even notice them. Guided wolf watching tours, such as those on the Kaska Coast, are accompanied by experienced guides who are familiar with the animals' behavior and take safety measures to ensure the safety of both visitors and wolves. Respect the distance: Wolves are wild animals. Do not actively approach them and maintain the recommended minimum distance. No sudden movements or loud noises: This could scare the animals and drive them away.
Noise reduction:
- Psst! Wolves are very sensitive to noise and are easily startled by simple things like creaking wood.
As soon as a wolf or other wild animal approaches the lodge, you should remain quiet and, for example, turn off the shutter sound when taking photos. This will allow both you and your wild visitors to enjoy the experience undisturbed.
No drones:
- As tempting as it may sound to film the wolves from high above, you should refrain from using them. The flying drones are a visual and acoustic stimulus for the polar animals and expose them to avoidable stress.
No perfume:
- Wolves have highly sensitive noses and can detect smells from miles away. To avoid irritating the animals, you should therefore refrain from wearing perfume.
Do not feed wild animals:
- Feeding wild animals can trigger a dependency on humans and, in extreme cases, can even be fatal.
Please note:
To ensure this, our customers travel in small groups and are accompanied by experienced nature guides. The daily program is flexible and depends on the current movements of the wild animals, the tides, and the weather.
inventia and our local partner accept no liability for unforeseen events ("force majeure") that affect the sighting of wild animals in their natural environment. Although our travel itineraries and content are the result of many years of experience, we cannot guarantee the extent or diversity of animal sightings.
Weather conditions, population density, behavior patterns, and migrations of other wildlife are some factors that can influence the behavior and activity of animals. Therefore, there is a possibility that the desired wildlife may not be sighted. While this is unlikely, it is not impossible.
Due to the remote location of your destination in the Arctic, flight irregularities are possible due to rapidly changing weather conditions. It is important to remain flexible on this type of expedition trip. We will always arrange alternatives for you.
Be aware that traveling to remote regions of Canada can involve risky activities such as polar bear encounters, which may pose risks to your health. These experiences are vastly different from visits to the zoo or Disney World. Please follow the instructions of our local partners and guides at all times. Any deviation from these instructions is at your own risk.
DATES & PRICES
Request your trip here!
Submit questions via email Arrange a callback Call now: +49 201 85890960
or please select your preferred date
July 24, 2026 – August 2, 2026
From €21,959 €20,861 per person
10 days/9 nights
Photo expedition to see wild wolves on the Kaska Coast
Winnipeg Winnipeg
A heart for solo travelers: shared rooms available
5% Ermäßigung bei Neubuchung bis 31.10.2026
November 16, 2026 – November 25, 2026
From €21,959 €20,861 per person
10 days/9 nights
Photo expedition to see wild wolves on the Kaska Coast
Winnipeg Winnipeg
A heart for solo travelers: shared rooms available
5% Ermäßigung bei Neubuchung bis 31.10.2026
November 23, 2026 – December 2, 2026
From €21,959 €20,861 per person
10 days/9 nights
Photo expedition to see wild wolves on the Kaska Coast
Winnipeg Winnipeg
A heart for solo travelers: shared rooms available
5% Ermäßigung bei Neubuchung bis 31.10.2026
March 19, 2027 – March 28, 2027
From €23,357 €22,189 per person
10 days/9 nights
Photo expedition to see wild wolves on the Kaska Coast
Winnipeg Winnipeg
A heart for solo travelers: shared rooms available
5% Ermäßigung bei Neubuchung bis 31.10.2026
March 26, 2027 – April 4, 2027
From €23,357 €22,189 per person
10 days/9 nights
Photo expedition to see wild wolves on the Kaska Coast
Winnipeg Winnipeg
A heart for solo travelers: shared rooms available
5% Ermäßigung bei Neubuchung bis 31.10.2026
July 22, 2027 – July 31, 2027
From €23,357 €22,189 per person
10 days/9 nights
Photo expedition to see wild wolves on the Kaska Coast
Winnipeg Winnipeg
A heart for solo travelers: shared rooms available
5% Ermäßigung bei Neubuchung bis 31.10.2026
17.03.2028 – 26.03.2028
ab 24.677 € 23.443 € p.P.
10 days/9 nights
Photo expedition to see wild wolves on the Kaska Coast
Winnipeg Winnipeg
A heart for solo travelers: shared rooms available
5% Ermäßigung bei Neubuchung bis 31.10.2026
22.03.2028 – 02.04.2028
ab 24.677 € 23.443 € p.P.
10 days/9 nights
Photo expedition to see wild wolves on the Kaska Coast
Winnipeg Winnipeg
A heart for solo travelers: shared rooms available
5% Ermäßigung bei Neubuchung bis 31.10.2026
20.07.2028 – 29.07.2028
ab 24.677 € 23.443 € p.P.
10 days/9 nights
Photo expedition to see wild wolves on the Kaska Coast
Winnipeg Winnipeg
A heart for solo travelers: shared rooms available
5% Ermäßigung bei Neubuchung bis 31.10.2026
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personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
Activities
mandatory fees
appointment
options
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
Activities
mandatory fees
appointment
options
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
Activities
mandatory fees
appointment
options
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
Activities
mandatory fees
appointment
options
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
Activities
mandatory fees
appointment
options
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
Activities
mandatory fees
appointment
options
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
Activities
mandatory fees
appointment
options
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
Activities
mandatory fees
appointment
options
personal data
By clicking on the "Request now" button, you agree to the Processing of your personal data to complete the reservation.
Summary
Activities
mandatory fees
Information
Included services:
- Round-trip airfare between Winnipeg and Churchill or Thompson
- Round-trip flight between Churchill/Thompson and Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge
- 9 nights: 2 nights at The Grand by Lakeview at Winnipeg Airport, 7 nights at Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge on Hudson Bay
- Meals: 1 dinner on day 1; breakfast, lunch, and dinner on days 2 through 9
- Full-time, knowledgeable English-speaking tour guide and nature guide
- All guided expeditions around Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge, including trips in ATVs and tundra buggies
- Accompanied by renowned photographer Jad Davenport
- Provision of high-quality insulated boots, pants, and a warm expedition parka for the duration of the trip (up to shoe size 46.5 and height 1.93 m)
Not included in the price:
- Long-haul flight from Germany to Winnipeg and back
- Personal expenses
- Persönliche Ausrüstung (z.B. Mütze, Schal, Fäustling)
- Health insurance with emergency repatriation (required)
- Luggage and travel cancellation insurance (highly recommended)
Note for solo travelers:
Individual travelers can register for shared occupancy of a room with a person of the same gender at the regular price per person for double occupancy. If you are an individual traveler and prefer a private room, we also offer a single room supplement, as listed above. This rate guarantees a private room both at the lodge and at the hotels included in the package.
- Maximum number of participants: 12
- The probability of seeing wolves and the Northern Lights is very high, but not guaranteed. The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon. We cannot guarantee that they will appear.
- No experience or prior knowledge is required for this trip, as you will be accompanied by experienced guides at all times.
- A basic level of fitness and mobility is required.
- You should be prepared for outdoor activities in a climatically challenging region. During the travel periods of March and November, temperatures can drop to as low as -30°C. You will therefore be provided with rental equipment including insulated boots, pants, and a parka. This equipment is designed for adult guests. Shoe sizes above men's size 46.5 are considered special sizes, which we do not provide. In addition, guests taller than 1.93 m may need to bring their own equipment, as we may not have suitable clothing sizes in stock. For your own safety and comfort, we provide you with an additional packing list of recommended items.
- In extremely cold weather, the water supply in the lodge may be restricted, meaning that there are no washing facilities available.
woelfe-kaska-coast_gray-wolves_jad-davenport_churchill-wild
Two gray wolves in the snow | © Jad Davenport
woelfe-kaska-coast_playing woelfe_jad-davenport_churchill-wild
Wolf pack in the snow | © Jad Davenport
Arctic discoveries Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge lounge Scott Zielke Churchill wildlife
The lounge area at Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge | © Scott Zielke
Arctic discoveries Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge_Northern Lights_Charles Glatzer_Churchill wildlife
Northern lights above your lodge | © Charles Glatzer
Arctic discoveries Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge_hallway_Scott Zielke_Churchill wildlife
Hallway with panoramic windows at Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge | © Scott Zielke
Arctic discoveries Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge Aurora Borealis Dennis Fast Churchill wildlife
The Aurora Borealis | © Dennis Fast
woelfe-kaska-coast_snowy-owl_jad-davenport_churchill-wild
A snowy owl in the clear sky | © Jad Davenport
woelfe-kaska-coast_moose-sunset-nanuk__churchill-wildlife
Sunset at Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge
woelfe-kaska-coast_polar-bears-in-the-snow_andy-skillen__churchill-wildlife
Two polar bears at Hudson Bay | © Andy Skillen
woelfe-kaska-coast_arctic fox_elizabeth-coates__churchill-wild
An arctic fox in the snow | © Elizabeth Coates
woelfe-kaska-coast_owl-sitting-in-the-snow_dennis-fast__churchill-wild
Owl in the snow | © Dennis Fast
woelfe-kaska-coast_wolf-at-the-lodge_jad-davenport_churchill-wild
A wolf visits the lodge | © Jad Davenport
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