Best Places To See Polar Bears

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For some people, seeing a polar bear in the wild is one of the ultimate rare adventures in life.  Polar bears are only found in the wild in parts of Alaska, Canada, Greenland, Russia, Norway, and on the sea ice surrounding the North Pole, and due to a changing climate, their natural habit is decreasing.  However, it is still possible to see polar bears in the wild and there are several different tour operators that will help increase your chances of spotting polar bears in their natural habitat. 

Kaktovik, Barter Island – Alaska
One of the best places to see polar bears is Barter Island, a small barrier island off the coast of Alaska.  Here, you can charter a small boat that takes you across the lagoon to view polar bears in their natural environment.  Best time to go: Mid-August through early October
Tour Operators: Northern Alaska Tour Company

Franz Josef Land – Russia
Another great place to see polar bears in the wild is the remote Russian archipelago called Franz Josef Land.  The only humans inhabiting these 191 islands near the North Pole are military personnel.  An expedition cruise is the best way to see polar bears on Russia’s northernmost point.
Best time to go: June – August
Tour Operators: Quark Expeditions and G Adventures

Svalbard – Norway
Norway’s Svalbard archipelago is another one of the best places to see polar bears in their natural environment.  There are two types of tours available for viewing polar bears in Svalbard.  In winter, you can take a snowmobile tour through the snowy tundra to see polar bears, or during the summer, there are expedition cruises available around the coast of Spitsbergen Island.  Your chances of seeing polar bears are higher on an expedition cruise in the summertime.
Best time to go: Snowmobiling tours are from February to May; Expedition cruises are from June to August.
Tour Operators: G Adventures and National Geographic Linblad Expeditions

Related posts: National Polar Day: Best Places to See Polar Bears

Churchill, Manitoba – Canada
Known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World,” Churchill, Manitoba is one of the best places to see polar bears in the wild.  Located along the Hudson Bay in Canada, Churchill is one of the most reliable locations for polar bear viewing.  There are a variety of tours available, ranging from half-day tours to multiple day tours and luxury lodging. 
Best time to go: October – November
Tour Operators: Tauck Tours

The Coast of Greenland
Expedition cruises to Greenland are another great way to see polar bears in the wild.  There is a range of tours available along the coast of Greenland, where your chances of seeing polar bears are the best.
Best time to go: July – September
Tour Operators: Quark Expeditions

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Sue Lobo
Sue, our esteemed Operations Manager, has been honored as a Top Travel Specialist by Condé Nast Traveler for 2023 and 2024. With over 25 years of experience in the travel industry, Sue brings a wealth of expertise to our company, particularly in the areas of group travel, event planning, and blogging. As a passionate traveler herself, Sue has explored more than 20 countries across three continents, including captivating destinations such as Cuba, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates. Her firsthand experiences allow her to provide invaluable insights and recommendations to our clients, ensuring that their travel dreams become a reality. Sue's dedication to the travel industry extends beyond her role as Operations Manager. She has successfully coordinated over 200 travel groups, meticulously planning and executing each trip to perfection. Her attention to detail and commitment to excellence have earned her a reputation as a trusted and reliable travel professional. In addition to her operational expertise, Sue is a gifted writer at heart. She leverages her writing skills to share her love of travel and provide consumers with essential industry-related news and updates. Her engaging blog posts offer a unique perspective on the world of travel, inspiring others to embark on their own adventures. When she's not planning extraordinary trips or writing captivating travel content, Sue indulges in her passion for cooking, exploring the diverse flavors and culinary traditions of the places she visits. With her unwavering enthusiasm and extensive knowledge, Sue continues to be an integral part of our team, ensuring that every traveler's experience is truly unforgettable.