Safari in Canada

Similar to January, with deep cold and abundant snow dominating most of the country. Arctic regions experience extreme cold.

Wolf sightings remain good in the mountain parks. Beluga whales are not visible in Churchill as the bay is frozen solid.

We recommend focusing on the Rockies for winter wildlife, particularly the chance to see wolves against a snowy backdrop.

Temperatures begin to moderate slightly in southern Canada, but winter conditions persist in the north and Rockies. Snowmelt starts in some areas.

The last chances for winter wildlife viewing in the Rockies. Some marine life begins to stir in coastal areas.

We think March offers a final opportunity for classic winter wildlife photography in the Canadian Rockies before the thaw.

Spring arrives unevenly. Southern Canada sees green shoots, while the north remains frozen. Expect rain and cooler temperatures in many regions.

Bird migration begins in earnest. Bears start emerging from hibernation in the Rockies. Coastal areas see increased marine mammal activity.

We recommend heading to Vancouver Island for early whale watching and the return of seabirds.

A vibrant spring across much of Canada. Temperatures are pleasant, though snow can linger at higher elevations. The Arctic is still largely frozen.

Bear activity is high in British Columbia and Alberta as they forage. Birding is excellent with migratory species arriving. Whale watching season kicks off.

We love May for the sheer abundance of bear activity in places like the Great Bear Rainforest.

Warm and pleasant across most of Canada. Long daylight hours are ideal for wildlife viewing. The Arctic begins to thaw.

Grizzly and black bear sightings are common. Beluga whales arrive in Churchill. Puffins are abundant on the Atlantic coast.

We absolutely recommend Churchill in June for the arrival of beluga whales – the sheer numbers are astounding.

Generally warm to hot across Canada, with potential for thunderstorms. Ideal for exploring national parks and coastal areas.

Peak season for whale watching along the coasts. Bears are active across the country. Birdlife is plentiful.

We find July to be the perfect month for exploring the diverse wildlife of the Canadian Rockies, from elk to bears.

Warm and often dry, especially in the western provinces. Still excellent for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.

Bear viewing remains excellent. Salmon runs begin in British Columbia, attracting predators. Beluga whales are still in Churchill.

We recommend August for the incredible bear viewing opportunities in the Great Bear Rainforest as salmon runs intensify.

Crisp and cool with beautiful fall colours starting to appear. Temperatures are comfortable for wildlife viewing.

Autumn colours enhance the scenery. Bears are actively feeding before winter. Bird migration continues.

We love September for the stunning autumn colours in the Rockies, making bear sightings even more picturesque.

Cooler temperatures prevail, with frost and early snow possible in northern and mountainous regions. Coastal areas remain milder.

Last chance for bear viewing in many areas before they den. Migratory birds are heading south. The first sea ice may form in Churchill.

We recommend October for a final, less crowded opportunity to see bears preparing for winter in places like the Great Bear Rainforest.

Cold sets in across much of Canada, with snow becoming common. Arctic regions experience polar night conditions.

Polar bear viewing season begins in Churchill as the sea ice forms, allowing them to hunt seals. Other wildlife is less active.

We find November to be the start of the prime polar bear viewing season in Churchill – a truly iconic Canadian wildlife experience.

Cold and snowy across most of the country. Arctic conditions are extreme. Coastal British Columbia is cool and wet.

Polar bear viewing continues in Churchill. Winter wildlife in the Rockies, such as wolves and elk, can be spotted.

We recommend December for dedicated polar bear enthusiasts heading to Churchill for the peak of the hunting season.