Nunavut

Plan your trip to Nunavut

Nunavut is Canada's newest and largest territory, a vast Arctic wilderness home to stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and vibrant Inuit culture spanning thousands of years. This remote and pristine region offers unforgettable experiences ranging from Northern Lights viewing to Arctic expeditions and encounters with polar bears, musk oxen, and Arctic marine life. Whether you seek adventure, natural wonders, or cultural immersion, Nunavut delivers an authentic Arctic experience unlike anywhere else on Earth.

Getting there & around

Most visitors fly into Iqaluit, the capital, via connecting flights from Ottawa or Montreal; direct international flights are limited. Within Nunavut, travel between communities is primarily by air, as there are no road connections between settlements—charter planes and regional airlines service the territory. Some coastal regions can be accessed by ship during summer months, and snowmobiles are essential transport during winter.

How long to stay

Plan for at least 7-10 days to experience Nunavut meaningfully, as travel between remote communities is time-consuming and many activities require dedicated time. Longer trips (2-3 weeks) allow for wildlife viewing, national parks, and deeper cultural exploration across multiple regions.

When to go

Visit June-August for midnight sun, wildlife viewing, accessible terrain, and Arctic exploration; July and August offer the most stable weather and longest daylight. December-February is ideal for Northern Lights viewing, though extreme cold (-30°C/-22°F) and limited daylight require proper preparation and specialized tours.

Suggested itinerary

  1. Arrive in Iqaluit & Explore the Capital — Fly into Iqaluit and settle into Canada's newest capital, learning about Inuit heritage at the Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum. Explore local shops, restaurants, and the waterfront to acclimate to Arctic life and plan onward travel.
  2. Baffin Island & Arctic Wildlife — Take a charter flight to Baffin Island to experience the Canadian Arctic Archipelago's dramatic landscapes and spot Arctic wildlife including polar bears, musk oxen, and seals. Join a guided tour for safety and expert knowledge of local ecosystems.
  3. Auyuittuq National Park Adventure — Travel to Auyuittuq National Park for hiking, glaciers, and mountain scenery in one of Canada's most remote parks. Experienced adventurers can trek through pristine Arctic terrain while wildlife enthusiasts photograph Arctic birds and mammals in their natural habitat.

Frequently asked questions

Is Nunavut worth visiting?

Yes, if you seek authentic Arctic wilderness, unique wildlife, and Inuit culture; it's one of Earth's most remote and pristine regions. However, expect high costs, limited infrastructure, extreme weather, and require significant time and planning for travel between communities.

How much does it cost to visit Nunavut?

Nunavut is expensive; expect $200-400+ CAD daily for accommodation and food, plus $1,500-3,000+ CAD for flights from southern Canada. Guided tours, charter flights, and Arctic expeditions can add thousands more, making budget trips difficult.

Can you drive around Nunavut?

No, there are no highways connecting Nunavut communities—travel is by plane or boat only. Within communities, you can rent vehicles, but Arctic travel between settlements requires flights or chartered aircraft.

What is the best time to see Northern Lights in Nunavut?

December through February offers the best Northern Lights viewing with long, dark nights and minimal light pollution. Locations like Resolute Bay and Grise Fiord in the High Arctic offer exceptional aurora activity, though extreme cold (-30°C or colder) requires proper preparation.

Is it safe to visit Nunavut in winter?

Winter visits are safe with proper preparation—extreme cold (-30 to -40°C), limited daylight, and weather delays are common challenges. Travelers should book guided tours, wear appropriate Arctic gear, and have flexible schedules for flight cancellations.

History

Nunavut, Canada's newest and largest territory by area, was established on April 1, 1999, carved out from the eastern and central portions of the Northwest Territories. The region has been home to Inuit peoples for thousands of years, who developed sophisticated techniques for surviving in the Arctic environment and maintained rich oral traditions and hunting practices. The territory's modern borders reflect the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement of 1993, which recognized Inuit rights and self-governance in their ancestral homeland. Prior to 1999, the area was administered as part of the Northwest Territories, but the creation of Nunavut marked a significant step toward Inuit self-determination and control over their territory.

Culture

Nunavut is profoundly shaped by Inuit culture, with traditions of hunting, dog sledding, throat singing, and carving remaining central to community life and identity. The territory celebrates its heritage through events like the Nunavut Day festival and maintains strong connections to the land, wildlife, and the seasonal rhythms that have governed Arctic life for millennia. Contemporary Nunavut blends these ancient traditions with modern governance and services, creating a unique culture that honors its past while navigating present-day challenges such as climate change and economic development.

Language

Inuktitut is the primary indigenous language of Nunavut and is widely spoken alongside English and French, with several regional dialects reflecting the territory's Inuit communities. Useful phrases include 'Alianait' (hello), 'Qujanaq' (thank you), and 'Inuktitut' (the Inuit language itself), though English is commonly understood in most settlements and government services.

Best time to visit

Visit in summer (June-August) for wildlife and Arctic exploration, or winter for Northern Lights.

Places to visit

Where to eat