20100109 Winter Safaris (2)

Winter Safaris

For another ice adventure, this time in the Arctic, Natural Habitate Adventures offers a trip to Canada's Magdalen Islands and the surrounding ice floes. Travelers fly in by helicopter to spend time among the 250,000 harp seals that have migrated from Greenland to bear their yound. For centuries, harp seal babies have been hunted for their white pelts, but now ecotourism is helping to protect the babies. Other activities on the trip include snowshoeing and dogsled trips. What could be more exhilarating than viewing the king of the Arctic in the wild?


Polar bears abound on the tundra near Churchill, Manitoba, in early winter. Natural Habitat Adventures offers several polar bear encounters to let participants get close-up looks at the white bears. In America's first national park, Yellowstone Wolf Tracker takes adventurers on a winter wolf retreat. Participants learn about wolves, their habits and the conservation efforts on their behalf. Trips into Lamar Valley to see wolves in action and snowshoe adventures complete the tour package. These expeditions and others like them give nature enthusiasts opportunities to view wildlife and help preserve the animals' habitats for future generations.