Canada's Nunavut
The newest territory formed in 1999, offers the ultimate in adventure destinations for North America. Hiking, sea kayaking, kiting, dog sledding, wilderness lodge accommodation, North Pole expeditions and Northwest Passage cruising are all found in Nunavut.
Like all exciting destinations in the world there is a challenge attached and Nunavut is, in our opinion worth the effort. With virtually no roads, air travel or boat are the only way to access the region. Not a destination for the average coach tour traveller, Nunavut’s appeal lies in its extraordinary magnetism for people who seek a vacation out of the ordinary.
Nunavut’s Adventure list includes: canoeing the Burnside and Thelon Rivers; sea kayak the fjords of Ellesmere and Baffin Islands, Dog sled from Pond Inlet, trek in Sirmilik National Park; discover the stunning beauty of a Floe-edge trip on Baffin Island; Polar expeditions from Resolute, hiking Somerset Island and kiting in Frobisher Bay. The National Parks of Auyuittuq, Sirmilik (North Baffin) and Ellesmere Island are certainly the remotest in the America’s and yet offer hikers and campers a once in a lifetime experience. Why go there? Stunning natural beauty and the solitude to enjoy it are two good reasons to travel north this year. Nunavut makes up 20% of Canada’s entire size, has a population of 29,000 and less than 28 km of roads all of which guarantees you an unspoiled wilderness adventure.
Wildlife watchers will not be disappointed; the arctic oasis of Lake Hazen is home to muskox and Peary caribou while polar bears roam vast tracts of Nunavut. Caribou, wolves, wolverine plus the barren ground grizzly prowl the endless tundra. Birwatchers in Bathurst Inlet and Wager Bay will be thrilled to find the healthiest peregrine falcon population in the world. Dozens of different bird species can be found during the summer months from McConnell River Sanctuary (Arviat) to the bird cliffs of Pond Inlet.
Lodge stays are a recommended way to explore Nunuvat; Arctic Watch on Somerset Island and Bathurst Inlet Lodge are the finest examples. With an array of activities, expert guides introduce you to their region and showcase the fascinating natural and cultural highlights of each.
Iqaluit, the Territorial capital is the main gateway and central hub. With good hotel accommodation, shopping and air connections, Iqaluit forms part of many trips. Pangnirtung is the regional gateway for Auyuittuq National Park and known for the fine art prints, woven tapestries and the local artists association. Pang makes a good excursion from Iqaluit.
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