Resolute Bay

Qausuittuq

One of the northernmost communities in the world, Resolute Bay is a gateway to Arctic exploration and polar wildlife, including polar bears, musk oxen, and Arctic foxes. It serves as a base for Arctic expeditions and offers unique cultural experiences of Inuit communities.

Things to do

• Polar Bear Viewing — Join guided expeditions across the ice floes and tundra to spot polar bears in their natural habitat, typically best from late winter through spring.
• Visit Resolute Bay Airport Historical Site — Explore the historic airstrip and surrounding facilities that have served as a crucial Arctic hub for exploration, research, and military operations since the 1940s.
• Musk Ox and Arctic Wildlife Tours — Embark on tundra excursions to observe musk oxen herds, Arctic foxes, and other northern fauna in the surrounding Quttinirpaaq landscape.
• Inuit Cultural Immersion — Participate in traditional activities with local Inuit guides, including dog sledding, hunting experiences, and learning traditional survival skills on the ice.
• Northern Lights Viewing — Experience the Aurora Borealis from late August through April when darkness permits, with Resolute Bay's far northern latitude offering prime viewing conditions.
• Arctic Ocean Ice Walks — Guided walks across the frozen Arctic Ocean provide opportunities to experience the ice landscape and observe marine wildlife like seals and whales at breathing holes.

Food to try

• Arctic Char — Freshwater fish caught locally from nearby lakes and rivers, often served grilled or smoked and prized for its delicate flavor and omega-3 content.
• Musk Ox (Qiviut) Meat — Lean, tender meat from locally hunted musk oxen, traditionally prepared as stews or roasted and representing a staple protein of Inuit diet.
• Seal Meat and Blubber — Traditionally hunted ringed seal, served raw, cooked, or as traditional country food essential to Inuit culture and nutrition in the Arctic.
• Arctic Berries — Cloudberries and crowberries foraged from the tundra during summer months, eaten fresh or used in jams and desserts.
• Dry Fish (Iqalugssuaq) — Arctic char or other fish air-dried traditionally, a preserved food that was historically crucial for winter survival and still enjoyed as a delicacy.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Arctic Wildlife Rules — Always follow strict guidelines when wildlife viewing and never approach polar bears or other animals; local guides know safety protocols essential in this predator-inhabited landscape.
• Dress Appropriately for Extreme Cold — Temperatures regularly drop below -40°C in winter; invest in quality Arctic gear including insulated parkas, boots, and layered clothing, and listen to local advice on conditions.
• Learn Basic Inuktitut Greetings — The Inuit community appreciates visitors who attempt basic phrases like 'Ajunnngsilak' (hello) and 'Qujanaq' (thank you), showing respect for Inuit language and culture.
• Understand the Midnight Sun and Polar Night — From May to August the sun doesn't set, while from November to January there is continuous darkness; plan activities and sleep schedules accordingly.