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
Seeing polar bears in the wild is a bucket-list experience. For more adventure travel ideas — including options that pair perfectly with a romantic getaway — see Best Adventure Vacations for Couples.
