Nunavut

All about Nunavut’s key experiences

Iqaluit is your gateway to vast and unique landscapes 

The capital of Nunavut – translated as “place of many fish” in Inuktitut – is situated on Baffin Island at the northern end of Frobisher Bay near the mouth of the Sylvia Grinnell River. It is full of traditional Inuit culture and is the transportation hub of the province. During spring and summer, arts and cultural festivals take centre stage, and Iqaluit attracts Inuit musicians, artists and filmmakers. Already located in vast wilderness, venturing from the capital will take you to parks where you can discover landscapes of rivers, waterfalls, and mountains. Qaummaarviit Territorial Historic Park, Sylvia Grinnell Territorial Park and Katannilik Territorial Park are within reach from Iqaluit.  

Discover the wonders of Nunavut’s majestic wildlife 

It may seem like there is little to see in the Arctic landscapes of Nunavut, but several species thrive in this wilderness. Polar bears are the world’s largest land predators. They are an iconic sight in the Arctic, and this is one of the best areas to spot them. There are several opportunities to be taken by guides on tours which give you the perfect chance to view polar bears from a safe distance. Muskox are another species that thrive in the province. Most of Canada’s population of muskox live across the Kivalliq and Kitikmeot region. Nunavut’s icy waters are home to spectacular marine mammals, most notably narwhals – with their unique spiral tusk – and beluga whales. Local guides can give you expert advice and take you to the best spots to give you a great chance of seeing them in the wild. Birdlife also thrives in Nunavut, with over 100 species – mostly migratory – filling the skies.  

Memorable activities await on land and at sea 

When you arrive in Nunavut you will not be short of adventures to enjoy during your time in this remarkable part of Canada. On land you can enjoy hiking, igloo building as well as meeting the province’s four-legged inhabitants as you experience dog sledding across the icy landscape and the thrill of snowmobiling. Head out onto the water for activities including canoeing, kayaking, fishing and cruising to take you to the most untouched areas of this Arctic wilderness, while viewing spectacular glaciers, fjords and icebergs. The vast emptiness of Nunavut means there is little light pollution and gives you a great chance of seeing the Northern Lights. The coldest months of the year offer ideal viewing opportunities to catch sight of this natural phenomenon.    

Pack the essentials to prepare for chills and thrills 

One of the most important aspects of a holiday in Nunavut is bringing appropriate clothing to prepare you for the weather conditions. The climate here can be unpredictable, but that just adds to its unique charm throughout the seasons. If you are visiting in summer, light layers are the key to comfort. Long days of sunshine can be followed by evenings when the temperature drops, so long trousers as well as long and short-sleeve tops are recommended. Fleece jackets, waterproofs as well as suitable and sturdy walking boots are also worth packing for your holiday.  

Winter in Nunavut sees temperatures fall dramatically and long, dark days when you’ll feel the force of bone-chilling winds. Warm, insulated winter jackets and trousers, hats, gloves and thick socks go without saying as you venture into the great outdoors. High-quality winter boots for the icy terrain are also a must. Hand warmers, snoods/neck-warmers and multiple thin layers are worth packing too, so you can add or remove accordingly to suit your body temperature. Some Nunavut airlines impose strict limitations on baggage size and weight, so it is important to check flight regulations with one of our My Canada Trips experts when booking your holiday. Depending on when you’re travelling and the activities you’ll be experiencing, our experts will be able to advise the best things to pack.