This article originally appeared on the Travel Manitoba website.
What brings nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts back time and time again to Manitoba's north? Every year in Churchill, Manitoba, savvy visitors have the opportunity to experience one of nature's most beautiful creatures: The polar bear. While polar bears nearly outnumber the population of humans in this remote, northern town, one of the best ways to get in close proximity with these animals is by tundra vehicle. Here's what you can expect from this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Big wheels
One of the first features you might notice while boarding a tundra vehicle is its massive wheels. Boasting a height of over five-and-a-half feet, the large wheels are essential for traveling over the uneven tundra landscape and for keeping passengers at a safe distance from the curious bears on the ground level below (which by the way, can reach up to 10 feet when standing on their hind legs).
Amazing photo ops
Undoubtedly, the most exciting moment on any tundra vehicle excursion happens when the driver spots a bear and brings the vehicle to a stop. There are plenty of windows to pop down and get an unobstructed view of the bears, all while snapping away for that once-in-a-lifetime photo op. Gloves that pull away at the fingers are particularly useful in moments like these, as the air from outside the vehicle will be chilly!
Warm eats
When you're spending a full day scouting for polar bears, chances are you're going to work up quite the appetite. A warm, hearty lunch can be enjoyed onboard while morning coffee or hot chocolate can be savored during breaks. Be sure to keep all delicious fare inside the vehicle, to prevent polar bears from associating humans with food.
Heart-pounding views
Your first moments on the tundra vehicle will most certainly be filled with anticipation and excitement as you keep your eyes peeled for sightings of your first bear. While the large boulders scattered across the landscape tend to look like sleeping bears, there will be no mistaking when you spot a polar bear in the wild. Heed this sage advice: Before pulling out your camera, take a moment to watch and be amazed by the majestic creature before you.
Heading north for a tundra vehicle experience? Choose from: Arctic Crawler with Lazy Bear Expeditions, a Polar Rover with Great White Bear Tours, or a Tundra Buggy with Frontiers North Adventures.
Post polar-bear visit, explore more of Manitoba and plan your trip with the help of the Travel Manitoba website.
