Cambridge Bay

Ikaluktutiak

Located on Victoria Island, Cambridge Bay is a vibrant Arctic community known for being a transit point for Northwest Passage expeditions and Arctic wildlife viewing. The town offers authentic Inuit culture, excellent fishing opportunities, and access to pristine Arctic tundra.

Things to do

• Arctic Wildlife Viewing — Spot musk oxen, arctic foxes, and migratory birds across the tundra surrounding Cambridge Bay, best done with a local guide during summer months.
• Fishing on Dease Strait — Fish for arctic char and lake trout in the cold waters just offshore, a traditional activity central to local life.
• Northwest Passage Museum — Explore artifacts and exhibits documenting the history of Arctic exploration and the famous Northwest Passage shipping route through local waters.
• Tundra Hiking — Trek across the pristine Arctic tundra to experience the unique landscape, wildflowers in summer, and expansive views of Victoria Island.
• Visit Inuit Heritage and Cultural Sites — Learn about traditional Inuit hunting practices and settlement history at local cultural centers and historic camp sites around the community.
• Dog Sledding Excursions — Experience traditional Arctic dog sledding with local mushers during winter months as both a sport and cultural practice.

Food to try

• Arctic Char — Fresh-caught fish from local waters, typically grilled or smoked, a staple protein of the region with delicate pink flesh.
• Musk Ox Meat — Lean and flavorful local game meat often prepared as steaks, stews, or ground for traditional dishes, sustainable to the Arctic diet.
• Seal Meat and Inuit Country Food — Traditional Inuit preparation featuring seal or whale meat, representing authentic subsistence hunting practices and cultural food sovereignty.
• Arctic Berries — Cloudberries, crowberries, and lingonberries foraged from the tundra, served fresh in summer or preserved for winter consumption.
• Bannock Bread — Traditional fried bread made with simple ingredients, often served warm with butter or as an accompaniment to meals at local restaurants and homes.

Local customs & good to know

• Ask Permission Before Photography — Always ask community members before photographing people, especially during traditional activities, as privacy and consent are deeply respected in Inuit culture.
• Embrace Slow Travel Pace — Weather and logistics in the Arctic operate on their own schedule; flights and activities may be delayed, so flexibility and patience are essential virtues.
• Learn Basic Inuinnaqtun Greetings — The local Inuit language is Inuinnaqtun; learning simple phrases like 'Aiviuk' (hello) shows respect and is greatly appreciated by residents.
• Support Local Guides and Operators — Hire local Indigenous guides for hunting, fishing, and cultural tours to ensure authentic experiences and direct economic benefit to the community.