Polar Bear Tours – Tips to Choose One and What to Pack
Polar bear tours offer a one-of-a-kind experience for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone who loves nature. Observing these majestic bears against the stunning backdrop of the Arctic landscape is a rare opportunity. That said, there are many polar bear tours, so one must select the right one that promises a fulfilling experience and doesn’t compromise on safety. One should also pack the right gear and clothes to prepare for the Arctic weather.
Choosing the right polar bear tour
When choosing a tour, one must consider several factors, such as the dates, duration, activities offered, and the size of one’s group.
- Time of the year
Since travel companies organize tours during different times of the year, individuals must decide when to take the trip. Traveling to the Arctic region between late September and late March is ideal because one is also likely to witness the Northern Lights during these months. Similarly, one may be able to watch the midnight sun in the sky during certain times of the year. That being said, some seasons are colder than others in this region, so one must choose carefully and check the temperature range expected during the trip. - Duration of the trip
One can choose a duration depending on how much time off they can afford to be away from home.
But a trip of at least six to seven days is recommended to get a good glimpse of the polar bears in their original habitat. When deciding the number of days to set aside for the tour, individuals must account for the traveling time or the time it will take to reach and return from the destination. Most people would want to select tours that require less travel time. Having a buffer is also important in case one is stuck at the destination due to harsh weather conditions. Trails covered
Companies customize their polar bear tours to cater to different people. While a few tours cover rarely explored areas and allow ample time to photograph some glorious views, others cover sensitive trails on which mother polar bears and cubs are likely to appear. Seeing the newborn cubs can be a unique experience. Activities included
Another thing to consider when planning trips to see polar bears is the kind of activities organized by the tour company. Individuals can look at different activity levels based on how relaxing they want their trips to be. Some may want to unwind during the trip and only concentrate on a couple of experiences so that they can choose tours accordingly. The activities one might enjoy include wildlife sightings, landscape viewing, adventures on a snowmobile or qamutik, and boating over the Arctic waters. Number of travelers
The number of travelers and their age play a role in deciding the best tour. While traveling alone is easier, as one can choose any experience, traveling with friends or family requires considering the majority’s preference. One would also need to consider the comfort and convenience people of different ages require during the trip. Some might be uncomfortable covering a portion of the trip on a boat. Similarly, older travelers might not enjoy spending hours on their feet, especially in the colder climate. Depending on everyone’s preferences, one should choose a suitable tour.
Companies customize their polar bear tours to cater to different people. While a few tours cover rarely explored areas and allow ample time to photograph some glorious views, others cover sensitive trails on which mother polar bears and cubs are likely to appear. Seeing the newborn cubs can be a unique experience.
Another thing to consider when planning trips to see polar bears is the kind of activities organized by the tour company. Individuals can look at different activity levels based on how relaxing they want their trips to be. Some may want to unwind during the trip and only concentrate on a couple of experiences so that they can choose tours accordingly. The activities one might enjoy include wildlife sightings, landscape viewing, adventures on a snowmobile or qamutik, and boating over the Arctic waters.
The number of travelers and their age play a role in deciding the best tour. While traveling alone is easier, as one can choose any experience, traveling with friends or family requires considering the majority’s preference. One would also need to consider the comfort and convenience people of different ages require during the trip. Some might be uncomfortable covering a portion of the trip on a boat. Similarly, older travelers might not enjoy spending hours on their feet, especially in the colder climate. Depending on everyone’s preferences, one should choose a suitable tour.
Packing for the tour
Once the trip has been decided, the next step is to prepare and pack. To ensure the trip goes smoothly, individuals must remember a few things when packing. It’s a good idea to make a checklist of what one needs.
- Handwear and neckwear
Fleece-lined hats can be handy for covering the ears and protecting them from cold weather. Similarly, a balaclava can help protect the face and neck. Along with these, one may benefit from an extra pair of gloves , just in case a single pair does not do the needful. Insulated, waterproof gloves or mittens are necessary for added warmth and protection. They work better when layered with moisture-wicking liner gloves. - Footwear
Multiple pairs of high-quality thermal socks made from wool or synthetic fibers are ideal. Waterproof and insulated boots with good traction are also essential for navigating icy and snowy terrain. When shopping, one can look for boots rated for extremely low temperatures. - Multi-layered clothing
Touring the Arctic can be difficult if one is not adequately layered up. Individuals must invest in moisture-wicking thermal tops and bottoms made of merino wool or synthetic materials. These help regulate body temperature by drawing moisture away from the skin. One can top the base layers with insulating clothing like down vests and fleece jackets. These layers provide extra warmth by trapping the heat inside. - Waterproof clothes
A waterproof layer is important when touring in the Arctic. One should carry enough windproof and waterproof pants and jackets to get through the trip. These are vital to protecting oneself from the harsh weather in the snowy regions. One must pick durable materials that are also known for their weather resistance.
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