Canada's Arctic communities offer visitors a glimpse into a different life; a view to spectacular scenery and wildlife; a flake of timelessness and an experience that will last a lifetime.
Our new series offers visitors the opportunity to spend three nights in a community; enough time to explore the area, learn about the cultures of the region, meet local peoples and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of these remote and unique villages. Whatever your reason to travel north, be it for the culture of the Inuit, solitude, clear air, wildlife, spectacular scenery, dramatic hiking or simply curiosity about the peoples of the far north, these programs will offer you the chance to explore your arctic dreams.
We have included no day-tours, although they may be available in the communities, and arranged locally, to allow each participant to colour their own Arctic voyage in their own way. Accommodation is in the comfortable and welcoming Inns North properties, each owned by the local co-operative. The communities are not used to many tourists, and are not set up to offer a myriad of local activities. They are simply home to a small and tightly-knit group who will be happy to talk to you of their lives, their land and their culture. Life in the north runs at its own pace, and operates on a very different wavelength to the south; which is, of course, a great part of the fascination of these villages. A tolerance of the northern lifestyle will add immeasurably to ther enjoyment of your northern expedition!
Kimmirut lies on the southern coast of Baffin Island is home to just 400 people; it is a "new" community, first settled in the early 20th century, but close to some evidence of habitation of the Dorset people from thousands of years ago. It prides itself on its warm, friendly people, and traditional way of life and indigenous culture.
Qikiqtarjuaq lies at the northern end of Auyuittaq national park, and means "Big Island". The area is rich in wildlife, various whales, walrus and narwhal, and offer some spectacular scenery. You can enjoy the walking trails, watch ice-bergs in the Davis Straight, rock climb or simply enjoy the community of 470 Inuit who call this village their home.
Pond Inlet is one of the major tourist attractions of Baffin Island, and offers visitors ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, including the spectacularly rich birdlife of the region. Local tours may be arranged through the co-op to see the floe edge, and learn about the remarkable wildlife of this region.
Repulse Baylies on the Arctic Circle, and visitors to this traditional community will be delighted by the wide bay, the wildlife, the hikes and ancient settlements. Boat tours may be available to spend time out on the Bay, and visit some traditional camping grounds that lie close to the community. Truly, a wonderful place!
