Baffin Island
Located between Greenland and the Canadian mainland in the territory of Nunavut, Baffin Island is the fifth largest island in the world and home to spectacular wildlife, enormous glaciers, stunning fjords and small coastal Inuit communities.

Northwest Passage
A sea route which connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans through the Canadian Arctic it is a fascinating waterway not frequently explored. It is a stunning area suited to those seeking true Arctic exploration with opportunities to visit Inuit communities and dig into the history of past explorers.

Beechy Island
A small island which is actually a peninsula connected to the larger Devon Island and a Canadian National Historical Site, best known for the lonely graves of past explorers on a desolate rocky beach. The bare windswept landscape is a popular landing site for Arctic expeditions.

Resolute
Also known as Resolute Bay, it is an small Inuit hamlet on Cornwallis Island and one of Canada’s northernmost communities. The many small islands and arctic waters are home to nesting birds and large migrating pods of Beluga Whales, along with Polar Bears frequenting the community and surrounding area!

Axel Heiberg Island
An uninhabited island in the Qikiqtaaluk Region, Nunavut, Canada, it is one of the least visited islands in the world approximately 1200km from the North Pole. Journeys here are limited and suited to those wishing to visit Canada’s most northerly islands.

The Canadian Arctic is generally explored between May to September when the ice has melted, making it easier to access remote places.

Best time to see:-
Polar Bears: July/August Polar Bear Mothers & newborn cubs: March
Polar Bear Migration: Oct, Nov
Narwhal, Ring Seals, Migratory Birds: Late May, June, July
Walrus: Late Jun, July
Bowhead Whales: Late May, June, July
Belugas: June, July
Caribou Migration Autumn: Early September
Caribou Migration Spring: May
Northern Lights: March, Early April

Arriving at Arctic Watch Wilderness Lodge, located 800 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle was like stepping into another world. Nestled on Somerset Island in Nunavut, this remote eco-lodge promised an adventure unlike any other, and it did not disappoint.

The journey began with a scenic flight from Yellowknife over the Arctic Circle, offering breathtaking views of the frozen landscape below. When we touched down on the gravel runway, I felt a mix of excitement and awe at the vast, pristine wilderness surrounding me.

My first day at the lodge was filled with introductions to the knowledgeable and friendly staff, followed by an orientation on the activities and safety protocols. The lodge itself was surprisingly comfortable, with cosy accommodations and a dining room offering hearty meals to fuel our Arctic explorations.

The next morning, we set out on our first adventure: a guided hike in the Cunningham River estuary. As we trekked across the tundra, I was captivated by the stark beauty of the landscape—endless expanses of wildflowers, ancient rock formations, and the occasional sighting of Arctic wildlife. We spotted muskoxen grazing in the distance and a snowy owl perched silently on a rock. Along Somerset’s coastline, we also encountered fascinating archaeological sites and artefacts dating back to Viking contact, adding a historical depth to the natural beauty.

One of the highlights of the trip was a kayaking excursion down the Cunningham River. Paddling through the crystal-clear waters, we marvelled at the stunning scenery and the playful beluga whales that swam alongside our rafts. The experience of seeing these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat was truly humbling.
In the evenings, we gathered in the lodge to share stories and photos from the day’s adventures. The sense of camaraderie among fellow travellers’, coupled with the breathtaking Arctic sunsets, made for a perfect end to each day.

On our final night, the Arctic sky treated us to a spectacular display of the Northern Lights. Watching the vibrant colours dance across the sky from the warmth of the lodge was a magical experience that I will never forget.

Leaving Arctic Watch Wilderness Lodge, I felt a profound sense of connection to the Arctic environment and a deep appreciation for the efforts to preserve this pristine wilderness. This trip was more than just a vacation; it was a journey into the heart of one of the world’s last great frontiers, and it left me with memories that will last a lifetime.

Blair

Currency
Canadian dollar

Language
English, French, Inuit languages

Why we love it
Outdoor activities, a plethora of flora and fauna, and a truly unique blend of cultures awaits you in Northern Canada. Catch a glimpse of the spectacular aurora borealis, see black bears and grizzlies in the wild, and be awe-struck by the incredible mountainous landscape. Much of Northern Canada – including all of Nunavut – is only accessible by sea or air, resulting in many areas of untouched wilderness just waiting to be explored.

Weather
For over half of the year, the majority of Northern Canada is covered in ice and snow, with temperatures usually remaining sub-zero from October to May. The coldest months can average -29ºC to -34ºC and the short summers tend to average 7.2ºC but can occasionally reach 19ºC. In other words, don’t forget to pack the winter woolies!

Social customs & quirks
Because of the remoteness of so many of the communities in the Canadian Arctic, many of the Inuit people acquire their food primarily by hunting. Many northern foods such as raw seal meat, Arctic char, and caribou meat can be bought from local hunters and cooked.

In many places in Nunavut there are bylaws that prohibit all alcohol, due to high rates of addiction in many places. It is not recommended to bring any alcohol into an officially “dry” community. In other communities, local bars are permitted to operate.

Festivals & events
A huge range of festivals and other events are held in Northern Canada, with many of them making the most of the area’s exceptionally long days during summer. From sporting events such as the Midnight Sun Golf Classic in Yellowknife, to traditional Inuit celebrations, a variety of musical events, and much more, there’s something for everyone.

Canada Day is celebrated on the first of July, signifying the day when Canada became a Dominion (rather than a British colony). Canadians also celebrate Thanksgiving at the same time as the neighbouring United States, although in Canada the day is celebrated as a harvest festival and doesn’t have anything to do with Columbus and the pilgrims.

Health*
There are currently no health requirements for entering Canada.

Notes *Please be aware that Health information is subject to change at any time and you should always double check these requirements at the time of booking and before travel.