Narwhal & Polar Bear Safari
Small group departure with expedition leader and Inuit guide
PRICE FROM | DURATION | |
---|---|---|
CAD
$31,025
|
Days
8
|
Nights
7
|
PRICE FROM | DURATION | |
---|---|---|
CAD
$31,025
|
Days
8
|
Nights
7
|
Introduction
Experience the classic spring floe edge where you may have the opportunity to view polar bears, narwhal and icebergs under the midnight sun.
Travel to the northern reaches of Baffin Island where the sea ice meets the open water, and marine mammals and other wildlife congregate at the floe edge. Revel in the stunning landscapes of towering granite cliffs, glaciers and icebergs at a Tented Safari Camp with stunning views of Bylot Island, access to Sirmilik National Park and the world-renowned floe edge of Eclipse Sound.
Guided by Inuit and travelling in small groups, journey to the floe edge for days of discovery. With good conditions there’s fantastic narwhal watching with the chance to see a variety of seabirds, polar bears and seals as well as possibly beluga and bowhead whales.
Highlights include: Experience the floe edge – also known as the “line of life”, observe the iconic tusked narwhal as they swim and feed near the floe edge. There will be an opportunity to view polar bears, bearded seals, ringed seals, walrus, bowhead whales and belugas. Experience the 24 hour daylight of the midnight sun in the early Arctic summer, and enjoy breathtaking views during transfers to the camp.
Tented Safari Camp on ice:
While it may appear like a basic tented camp from the outside, the Tented Safari Camp continually surprises and exceeds guest’s expectations with its roomy and warm interior. The sleep tents are large and spacious with a large entrance vestibule, ample standing room and space for all your camera gear and luggage. Set on the sea ice, this allows for an authentic Arctic experience in this remote location, which provides the best opportunity for rare polar bear sightings. The sleep tents feature steep sidewalls, 14 sq m of livable space and a ceiling height of more than 2m. All sleep tents contain two twin metal frame beds with mattresses, duvets, comforters and full size pillows. The insulated double walls of the tent act as a greenhouse, keeping you warm on the coldest nights. A heater is also provided to ensure you have warm, comfortable accommodation.
Itinerary
Day 1 : Ottawa > Pond Inlet > Eclipse Sound
Upon landing in Pond Inlet, you will meet your Expedition Leader for a trip briefing and travel by qamutik (a traditional Inuit wooden sled with suspension or foam padded seats pulled behind a snowmobile) to camp located on Eclipse Sound. You will experience the exhilaration of gliding across the ice. The journey’s time will vary depending on ice conditions but will include some breathtaking views and a stop for dinner and hot beverages. You will then continue your journey to your Arctic Safari Camp, which will be set up a few kilometres back from the floe edge.
Day 2 : Eclipse Sound
After breakfast, participate in an orientation from Parks Canada then meet your guides on the beach in preparation for your departure to your camp on Eclipse Sound. You will then travel to our Arctic Safari Camp by qamutik (a traditional Inuit wooden sled with suspension or foam padded seats pulled behind a snowmobile), you will experience the exhilaration of gliding across the ice. The journey’s time will vary depending on ice conditions but will include tea and coffee stops. Depending on ice and snow conditions, we aim to set our camp up a few kilometres from the floe edge. Travel time will vary.
Days 3 – 6 : Eclipse Sound
During the next few days, excursions will include trips out to the floe edge to look for wildlife. Enjoy the mild spring weather and engage in a variety of activities at the floe edge. Snorkel and kayak among sea ice when conditions permit. One of the greatest highlights for many guests on this safari is the opportunity to observe a variety of arctic wildlife in their natural habitat. Migratory birds are also in abundance and with the stillness of the Arctic, you are able to hear the songs of the birds before you even see them. Ice conditions permitting, you may also visit the Bylot Island Migratory Bird Sanctuary, where more than 200,000 birds choose to nest each year. For birders, the earlier departures are best for this activity.
Day 7 : Eclipse Sound > Pond Inlet > Iqaluit
After breakfast, depart camp by qamutik and snowmobile to Pond Inlet and from there you will fly to Iqaluit. Enjoy your final night in Iqaluit with a special Inuit cultural presentation. Overnight in hotel.
Day 8 : Iqaluit > Pond Inlet > Ottawa
Wake up in Iqaluit and have the option to briefly explore Iqaluit before your flight to Ottawa. You have a chance to briefly experience craft shops and local highlights before transferring to the airport.
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Pricing
Pricing (per person), CAD
TYPE |
TWIN from |
SINGLE from |
EXTRA from |
---|---|---|---|
2025 | |||
May – Jun |
CA$31,025 |
Departs
2025 |
Mid-May |
Late-May |
Early-June |
Mid-June |
Included
- Small group journey (maximum 16 guests except 13-May maximum 8 guests)
- 5 nights’ accommodation in the Tented Safari Camp (ice-based)
- 2 nights’ accommodation in a Pond Inlet hotel
- Services of Inuit guides, an Expedition Leader, and a Lodge Manager
- Return flights between Ottawa and Pond Inlet (via Iqaluit)
- Return qamutik (Inuit wooden sled) transfers between Pond Inlet and the camp
- 1 breakfast, 1 snack, and 1 lunch on your flights
- All meals during your stay (B, L, D) at the camp
- Snacks and hot drinks at the camp
- Daily wildlife viewing at the camp
- Use of kayaks and dry suits, masks, fins, & gloves for snorkelling
- Inuit cultural presentation in Pond Inlet
- Local taxes
Not Included
- Field rescue and medical evacuation insurance (mandatory)
- Pre and post-accommodation in Ottawa
- Gratuities
Important Notes
- Please contact us for single pricing
- The price of the included flight in the above package is subject to change
- The itinerary is intended to be representative only as weather and wildlife conditions play a large role in dictating daily activities and movements
- It is important to have a spirit of flexibility when travelling to any Arctic location
Please refer to World Journeys terms & conditions