Polar bears (Ursus maritimus) are among the most majestic creatures on Earth and are the largest extant land carnivore. They have long fascinated humans, earning the nickname "King of the Arctic" and featuring in various legends, stories and even winter holiday-themed advertisements. While these apex predators can be dangerous to people, they are also under threat from hunters and habitat loss due to climate change.
Humans' interest in polar bears and how they're able to survive in such a hostile environment has led to the popularity of polar bear safari tours, where tourists head to the polar bears' habitat and observe their natural behaviors from the safety of a vehicle. Now entering its 19th year, Classic Canadian Tours is offering one-day polar bear safaris, flying out in the morning from three gateway cities – Calgary, Edmonton and Saskatoon – to polar bear country in Churchill, Manitoba, and back in the evening of the same day. The Fall 2024 polar bear-watching season begins on Oct. 25, Friday, with Classic Canadian's tour group heading out from Calgary. Additional dates are on Oct. 27, Sunday (Edmonton); Nov. 2, Saturday (Calgary); and Nov. 8, Friday (Saskatoon).
