Polar Bears and Arctic Wildlife

Mar 22-28, 2027 - Sold Out!

Mar 26-Apr 1, 2027 - Sold Out!

Access one of the most remote and wildlife-rich regions of Baffin Island—far beyond established tourist routes and completely free of other tour operators. Reached by private charter ski plane, we operate from a custom-built expedition camp set deep in the Arctic wilderness, prioritizing time in the field, flexibility, and authentic wildlife encounters. Designed for adventurous photographers, this exclusive experience offers rare opportunities to photograph polar bears, walrus, ringed and bearded seals, whales, Arctic fox, and other Arctic wildlife—immersed in a pristine sea ice environment beneath vast, untouched Arctic skies, where the aurora borealis often dances overhead.

Tuition

$14,500

Max Group Size

Max 4 Students

Instructor(s)

David Swindler

Physical Intensity

Highlights

Ultra-Small Group - Just four photographers with one pro instructor.

Rare Arctic Access - Private charter flights deliver us to a remote, wildlife-rich region of Baffin Island far from tourist routes.

Iconic Arctic Wildlife - Photograph polar bears, walrus, bearded seals, whales, and Arctic land mammals including fox, wolves, and caribou.

Expedition-Style Arctic Glamping - Four nights in a basic but comfortable remote camp with heated, clear-walled sleeping domes.

Aurora Borealis - Dark Arctic skies allow for northern lights photography directly from camp when conditions are right.

True Adventure - Join a wildlife-focused expedition prioritizing access and photographic opportunity over catered comforts.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Iqaluit at any time today. No formal workshop activities are scheduled, allowing time to rest and acclimate after your travels. Optional local experiences such as dog mushing or a guided tundra walk may be available, with ground transportation provided. Overnight hotel accommodation is included.

Day 2: After breakfast, we leave civilization behind and board a private charter ski-equipped aircraft bound for an exceptionally remote and wildlife-rich region of Baffin Island—far beyond established tourist routes.

Upon landing, our expedition ground team meets us with a covered, heated all-terrain vehicle purpose-built for snow and sea ice travel. Cameras come out immediately as wildlife scouting begins en route to our exclusive, custom-built Arctic camp. After camp orientation and settling in, we head back out for our first dedicated wildlife safari in this pristine ice environment.

Days 3-5: Three full days are dedicated to immersive wildlife and landscape photography. Our primary focus is on Arctic marine mammals, including polar bears, walrus, bearded and ringed seals, and whales moving along the ice edge. We’ll also watch for terrestrial species such as Arctic fox, wolves, and caribou traveling the surrounding tundra and sea ice.

With no competing operators in the region, our days are flexible and dictated by wildlife behavior, ice conditions, and light. If skies are clear, evening opportunities may include photographing the aurora borealis dancing above the frozen Arctic landscape.

Day 6: Following a final wildlife outing, we return to the airstrip for our private charter flight back to Iqaluit. The afternoon and evening are free to relax, review images, and reflect on the experience. Overnight hotel accommodation is included.

Day 7: Departure day. You may schedule your return travel at any time today, with ground transportation provided to Iqaluit Airport.

Polar Bears and Arctic Wildlife Photo Workshop

Logistics

Plan to arrive in Iqaluit, Nunavut (YFB) at any time on Day 1. No workshop activities are scheduled that day. Ground transportation from the airport to the hotel is included, along with any optional local activities such as dog mushing or hiking in a nearby park. Return travel may be scheduled for any time on Day 7, with ground transportation provided back to Iqaluit Airport.

Canadian North Airlines serves Iqaluit. It is very unlikely you will be able to book a single itinerary from your home city directly to Iqaluit. Most travelers should plan to fly to Ottawa the day prior, overnight at an airport hotel, and continue to Iqaluit the following day. The same routing typically applies on the return.

This workshop is not for everyone. It is an expedition-style Arctic experience designed for adventurous photographers who are comfortable operating in a remote, wilderness environment. We will spend four nights camping in a wildlife-rich region of Baffin Island, far from any permanent infrastructure or other tour operators.

Our camp is comfortable but basic, featuring heated sleeping accommodations, a shared bathroom setup, and a communal meal tent. This is not a luxury experience—the emphasis is on maximum time in the field and meaningful wildlife encounters rather than amenities or comfort.

Hearty, warming meals are provided throughout the expedition. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice, though food will be simple and practical. There are no showers at camp, as melting and heating sufficient fresh water is not feasible—this is standard for remote Arctic expeditions.

Access to camp is via a private Twin Otter charter aircraft on skis from Iqaluit. Luggage space is limited, and participants should pack carefully. A waterproof duffel bag works best. Any excess luggage or non-essential items may be securely stored at the hotel in Iqaluit.

Drone photography can be excellent in this environment, particularly for marine wildlife and ice landscapes. All drone use must comply with Canadian regulations, avoid disturbing wildlife, and is subject to weather conditions and guide approval.

Arctic Wildlife Photo Workshop Arctic Fox

Who This Trip Is For

This experience is designed for adventurous photographers drawn to remote Arctic environments and immersive wildlife encounters. It is ideally suited for those who value exclusivity, flexibility, extended time in the field, and a simplified expedition-style routine over comfort or convenience.

Who This Trip Isn’t For

This trip is not a good fit for travelers seeking luxury accommodations, a fixed daily schedule, or a highly catered experience. It may also not be suitable for those who require constant connectivity, predictable conditions, or traditional sightseeing rather than a true wilderness expedition.

Additional Info

Our primary focus is on Arctic marine mammals, including polar bears, walrus, bearded seals, and several species of whales. We will also watch for Arctic fox, caribou, and potentially wolves. Long days in the field are planned to maximize wildlife opportunities. This time of year also offers the possibility of encountering polar bears with small cubs.

Wildlife encounters are inherently unpredictable, and safety is always the top priority. All decisions regarding field activities are made by the guide and are final. Travel and evacuation insurance are required for participation. Due to Arctic weather and operating conditions, charter flights may be delayed, which could require flexibility with return travel plans.

There is no cell service or Wi-Fi while in camp. A satellite communication device will be available for emergencies, and a generator will provide limited power for charging camera batteries and small electronics. Charging opportunities are shared, typically in double-occupancy arrangements.

The Weather

Temperatures can be well below freezing, and wind exposure can significantly increase how cold it feels. We'll hold a zoom meeting with all participants to go over gear and clothing requirements a few months before the workshop. We'll also send out a detailed packing list to help you get ready.

The tents at camp along with the snow rover vehicle will be heated and comfortable. However, it can get cold when we are out photographing for an extended time period. We will help ensure you are well prepared for this adventure.

Accommodations

Sleeping accommodations consist of small, heated, clear-walled domes with visibility to the night sky, each equipped with a 4-inch ground mattress and a very warm Arctic-rated sleeping bag.

There are 2 domes available for single occupancy (see Pricing Section) and 1 dome for double occupancy same-gender share. The domes are small so that the heating is most efficient. Do not expect a large area to spread out in.

To use the restroom, you will have to exit your dome and go to the communal restroom tent. Eye-covers and ear plugs are highly recommended to ensure you get a good night's sleep. This workshop is not ideal for those with a CPAP machine.

Pricing

$14,500/Person + Tax

Trip Includes:

Charter flight to/from our remote camp on Baffin Island
Naturalist guide along with Inuit guides.
2 Nights Single Occupancy Hotel in Iqaluit, Nunavut.
4 Nights Fully Outfitted Camp on Baffin Island.
Heated, clear, sleeping domes with a 4-inch mattress and warm Arctic-rated sleeping bag. Two single domes are available for an additional $1,000.
All meals, beverages, and snacks from when we board the charter flight on Day 2 to when we deplane on Day 6.
Ground transportation in a heated ATV specially designed for snow and ice.
In-field and classroom instruction by a pro photographer.
All permits and entrance fees.
Airport transfers along with transfers to any tourist activies in Iqaluit.
Pre-workshop zoom meeting.

Trip Does NOT Include:

Transportation from your home to Iqaluit, Nunavut.
Meals, beverages, and snacks prior to or after the charter flight.
Travel and Evacuation Insurance.
Instructor and guide gratuities.

The Fine Print:

25% deposit required to hold your spot.
50% payment is due on Sept 22, 2026.
Remaining balance is due Nov 22, 2026.
If you need to cancel, a full refund less a $300 cancellation fee will be given once your spot is filled by another participant.
We cannot offer the Loyalty Discount on this workshop.
See the full Terms and Conditions

Recommended Camera Gear

Digital SLR or mirrorless camera body with fast frame rate and good autofocus performance. Bring 2 camera bodies if you have them.
Long telephoto lens capable of at least 500-600mm. We recommend zoom lenses for maximum versatility.
Mid-range lens in the 24-70mm, 24-105mm range.
Wide angle lens f/2.8 for night photography.
Tripod and L-bracket for your camera.
Backpack to carry your camera gear.
Waterproof cover for your backpack and camera.
Extra batteries, memory cards, and cleaning supplies.
Laptop if you wish to backup your photos or do any post-processing.

Personal Gear List

Warm, moisture wicking base layers for both upper and lower body.
Several warm layers like a down puffy, winter coat, and or fleece jacket.
Waterproof outer shell jacket (helps protect against wind and snow).
Warm snow boots with thick socks.
Waterproof snow pants with cuff that can go over your boots. If your pants do not have a cuff, make sure you get some gaiters to wear.
Warm gloves or mittens along with a pair of glove liners.
Warm hat, buff, or balaclava.
Micro-spikes. Make sure you get the ones with actual spikes on them (no rollers or Yak-Tracks).
Sunglasses or goggles and sunscreen for sunny days. The light reflecting off the snow can be intense.
Chemical hand/feet warmers can come in handy if you get cold extremities.
Thermos for bringing along your favorite hot beverage.
Headlamp for night photography.
Eye-mask and ear plugs for sleeping.

Arctic Wildlife Photo Workshop Bearded Seal

Trusted by Over 900 Reviews

David Swindler

Founder - Photography Instructor

David Swindler is an award-winning landscape and wildlife photographer. Among others, he has been recognized by the International Photography Awards, Siena International Photo Awards, Sony World Photography Awards, International Landscape Photographer of the Year, and National Geographic. He received a degree in chemical engineering and worked in the semiconductor industry specializing in optics and photolithography. In 2014, he left his day job to follow his true passion. He has traveled to some of the most remote regions of the world and has extensive experience photographing a wide variety of subjects and conditions. As the founder of Action Photo Tours, he finds great satisfaction in helping others learn photography, especially in the wild desert environment near his home in Kanab, UT. David is an expert in night photography and loves to get out and shoot the starry night skies.

Gallery Awards and Media Coverage

Having guided photo tours for years, David is very familiar with many different types of cameras. He is a master with light and composition. But most importantly, his dedication to his clients is what really sets him apart! But don't take our word for it - read what others are saying: Trip Advisor.