Train-turned-hotel in Canada brings tourists close to polar bears

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The Canadian town of Churchill is known as the "Polar Bear Capital of the World" thanks to its strategic position along the migration route of the furry creatures on the west shore of the Hudson Bay.

The wandering bears, easily spotted thanks to their white coat against green shrubs, have proven to be a tourist magnet, with visitors flocking the small town of 900 residents in the thousands to enjoy the wildlife scenery.

It is estimated that 10,000 tourists travel to Churchill annually seeking the thrills of being close to polar bears.

An outside view of the Tundra Lodge Rolling Hotel. /VCG Photo

The fearsome bears time their movement with seasonal temperatures, which affect the formation of marine ice, an important factor in the survival of the bears as they double as a platform to haunt seals.

Guests take photos aboard the Tundra Lodge Rolling Hotel. /VCG Photo

In summer, when sea ice melts, the bears head inland, and in autumn, when they began to re-form, the animals trek back to the shore, passing inevitably by Churchill town.

Earlier this month, a new hotel opened its doors to wildlife lovers, offering a chance to get up close and personal – as much as safety allows – with polar bears.

An outside view of the Tundra Lodge Rolling Hotel. /VCG Photo

The Tundra Lodge Rolling Hotel is a converted train offering round-the-clock proximity to wandering polar bears, with views from the main lounge, open-air observation platforms, and individual private cabin windows.

Guests take photos aboard the Tundra Lodge Rolling Hotel. /VCG Photo

A three-night stay there will set you back around 8,000 U.S. dollars, but will get you as close as possible to one of the world's most beautiful yet vulnerable creatures.