Pond Inlet community visit Explore Pond Inlet’s culture, history, and traditions with local guides and live performances.
A celebration of Inuit heritage
On this tour, you’ll arrive in Pond Inlet by small expedition boat and be welcomed by a local guide for a walk through this remote Arctic hamlet.
Visit the remains of a traditional Inuit sod house and learn how families once lived in these practical, earth-covered dwellings. Continue to the visitor center to explore a small museum that highlights the area’s cultural and natural history. Your visit concludes at the community center, where local residents share an authentic cultural performance that brings Inuit traditions to life through music, dance, and storytelling.
Duration: 4 hrs
Difficulty: Level 2 – Moderate – some mobility needed
Booking code: INCL-PDI1
Highlights:
• Visit a traditional sod house and learn how Inuit families once lived off the land.
• Enjoy a live cultural performance celebrating Inuit music, dance, and storytelling.
• Explore the local museum for insight into the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: Please wear comfortable walking shoes and dress according to the weather.
• Walking or Activity information: Involves moderate physical activity on relatively level surfaces and gentle terrain, including some gravel and inclines. Approx. 3 hrs of walking.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Pond Inlet - Light of Arctic: A Qulliq Experience Delve into the cultural importance of the qulliq, a traditional Inuit oil lamp, on this unique experience.
Light of the Arctic
Guided by Inuit women, you'll learn about the qulliq's origins, its significance in survival, and its symbolic meaning in modern Inuit culture. This hands-on experience allows you to participate in lighting a qulliq, discovering its traditional use for warmth and light, as well as its deep cultural connection to the responsibilities of women.
As part of the experience, Inuit elders will share captivating stories and personal reflections, offering a window into Inuit history and heritage.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Difficulty: Level 1 – Easy – suitable for most people
Booking code: A-PDI3
Min. number: 10 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Learn about the history, significance and traditional role of the qulliq in Arctic life.
• Discover the qulliq's symbolic connection to women's role in nurturing and resilience.
• Experience the sacred practice of lighting a qulliq under the guidance of Inuit women.
• Witness how the qulliq is used to boil tea and cook, and purchase a keepsake to take home.
Practical information:
• Walking or Activity information: Involves limited physical activity.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Pond Inlet - Guided Salmon Creek Hike with Storytelling Enjoy a guided hike along Pond Inlet's Salmon Creek, where natural beauty meets rich cultural heritage.
Hike and storytelling
Led by experienced Inuit guides, this hike takes you through breathtaking Arctic landscapes, offering opportunities to connect with nature and learn about the local culture and history.
You'll identify native Arctic plants and spot birdlife. You'll gather for storytelling and visit the remains of ancient sod houses, learning about the traditional ways of life in this community. Along the trail, you'll pause for light refreshments and soak up the serene surroundings.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Difficulty: Level 3 – Active – good mobility needed
Booking code: A-PDI2
Min. number: 12 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Discover the natural beauty of Pond Inlet, spotting Arctic plants and birdlife along the way.
• Gain cultural and historical insight as you explore the Arctic landscape with your experienced guides.
• Listen to authentic stories about the region's heritage from Inuit guides.
• Enjoy warm tea and snacks, surrounded by serene Arctic scenery.
Practical information:
• Included: Warm tea and snacks
• Walking or Activity information: Involves physical activity on uneven surfaces and/or steep terrain. Not suitable if you have limited mobility.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Pond Inlet - Seal Workshop: An Inuit Tradition Discover the traditions of Inuit life and learn about the importance of seals, from food to clothing.
An Inuit tradition
Guided by local Inuit experts, this workshop showcases the intricate process of preparing seal skins, from cleaning to drying. Learn about the craftsmanship behind seal skin parkas, mittens and boots, and the tools used like the ulu, a traditional Inuit knife.
Hear stories of Arctic life, the role of seals in Inuit history, and the ongoing cultural significance of these practices. You’ll also have the chance to purchase locally made seal skin crafts as souvenirs.
Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
Difficulty: Level 1 – Easy – suitable for most people
Booking code: A-PID4
Min. number: 6 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Learn about the importance of seals in Inuit life, including their role in traditional diets and clothing.
• Watch a demonstration of how seal skins are prepared after the hunt, from cleaning to drying.
• Discover how seal skin is transformed into clothing and the importance of these garments in Arctic survival.
• Get hands-on experience of traditional Inuit seal skin scraping under the guidance of local experts.
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements:
• Walking or Activity information: Involves limited physical activity.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Pond Inlet - Arctic Conversations: Hosted Community Visit Discover more about living in the remote Arctic as you’re welcomed into the local community at Pond Inlet.
Insight into community life
Whether it’s a welcoming home, cosy cabin or outdoor setting, this intimate gathering offers a rare chance to hear firsthand about life in the far north.
In the company of community members, you’ll hear stories about the joys and challenges of Arctic life. Enjoy refreshments prepared by your hosts and join them in their favorite pastimes, such as cooking or crafting. This experience is more than storytelling; it’s an invitation to ask questions, connect and gain insights into the unique way of life in the Arctic.
Duration: 1h00
Difficulty: Level 1 – Easy – suitable for most people
Booking code: A-PID5
Highlights:
• Gain insight into Arctic life and culture on an intimate small group community visit.
• Hear unique, authentic tales of resilience, traditions and modern Arctic professions.
• Join hosts in activities like cooking or crafting for a hands-on cultural experience.
• Enjoy local refreshments, ask questions and connect with community members.
Practical information:
• Included: Light refreshments
• Remarks/requirements: Groups for this excursion are limited to 4 people.
• Walking or Activity information: Involves limited physical activity.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Pond Inlet - Hike the Salmon River Explore the Arctic landscape up close and delve into Inuit life on this guided hike along the Salmon River.
Views, wildlife and Inuit life
Led by Inuit guides, this hike takes you along the picturesque Salmon River, offering stunning views of the tundra, Bylot Island and the peaks of the Arctic Cordillera Range.
As you hike, look out for Arctic flora and fauna, including migratory birds. Your guides will share stories, enriching your understanding of the land and its cultural significance. You'll also learn about the unique ecosystem of the Salmon River and its role in the lives of the people of Pond Inlet.
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
Difficulty: Level 4 – Challenging – good fitness needed
Booking code: A-PID6
Highlights:
• Hike the picturesque Salmon River surrounded by stunning views of the Arctic landscape.
• Look out for vibrant Arctic flora and fauna and enjoy engaging stories from your local Inuit guides.
• Learn about the ecosystem of the Salmon River and its importance to the local people of Pond Inlet.
Practical information:
• Walking or Activity information: Involves a high level of physical activity for an extended period over terrain that may often be uneven, slippery and steep. Not suitable if you have limited mobility.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Cambridge Bay Community Visit Discover the culture, art and traditions of Cambridge Bay on this guided community visit.
Visit community sites
Welcome to Cambridge Bay, where your local youth guide will show you around the community. At the Canadian High Arctic Research Station (CHARS) you’ll delve into science and browse cultural artifacts. If weather allows, you’ll visit Annana’s Camp to witness elders making bannock, brewing tea and sewing. At the Visitors Center, you’ll find historical marine exhibits, while at the Kitikmeot Heritage Society, you’ll be immersed in traditional language and culture.
Your tour ends at the Red Fish Arts Studio, where you'll enjoy some local refreshments.
Duration: To be advised on board
Difficulty: Level 2 – Moderate – some mobility needed
Booking code: INCL-YHI1
Min. number: 10 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Enjoy a locally guided tour of Cambridge Bay, gaining insight into community life.
• Marvel at the museum-quality depictions of history and traditional crafts at the Canadian High Arctic Research Station.
• Visit the elders at Annana's Camp (weather permitting) and browse the exhibits and artisanal crafts at the Visitor Center.
• Hear the story of the welded art program at the Red Fish Arts Studio and enjoy local delicacies, such as caribou and char.
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: Please bring local currency (CAD) as some locations do not accept credit cards. The community visit content is subject to change and our Expedition team will advise final details on board after liaising with community representatives
• Walking or Activity information: Involves moderate physical activity on relatively level surfaces and gentle terrain.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Cambridge Bay - Explore Victoria Island by ATV Experience a thrilling journey through the Arctic wilderness as you explore Victoria Island by ATV.
An ATV adventure
You can choose to take turns driving a two-person ATV or ride alongside a local guide in a UTV.
At the park, explore at your own pace or hike to the top of Mount Pelly for breathtaking views. Along the way, forage for plants to make traditional tundra tea and observe flocks of migrating birds. Take part in Inuit games and enjoy a hot drink while listening to stories from your guides.
Duration: 3 hours 45 minutes
Difficulty: Level 4 – Challenging – good fitness needed
Booking code: A-YHI2
Min. number: 1 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Drive across the Arctic tundra accompanied by local guides.
• Explore Ovayuk Territorial Park, foraging for plants to make tundra tea and observing birdlife.
• Learn and participate in Inuit games using antlers, bones and other items.
• Enjoy hot drinks and snacks while listening to stories from your local guides.
Practical information:
• Included: hot drink and snacks
• Remarks/requirements: Guests can choose to drive their own ATV or ride an off-road vehicle (side by side) with a local guide.
• Walking or Activity information: Involves a high level of physical activity for an extended period over terrain that may often be uneven, slippery and steep. Not suitable if you have limited mobility.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Cambridge Bay - Arctic Char Fishing Experience Enjoy an authentic Arctic adventure as you fish for Arctic char and learn how to prepare the local delicacy.
An Inuit fishing experience
Join a local fisherman on his boat and learn the traditional method of harvesting Arctic char, even helping pull in the nets yourself.
After your catch, enjoy a guided tour of Cambridge Bay, traveling by van to the community’s summer cabin. Here, you’ll see how to prepare piffy, a local Arctic char delicacy, dried and preserved in the traditional Inuit way. Sample a variety of char while listening to stories from your guide about Inuit life, the land and the area’s rich cultural history.
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
Difficulty: Level 4 – Challenging – good fitness needed
Booking code: A-YHI3
Highlights:
• Join a local fisherman on his boat to experience the traditional way of harvesting Arctic char.
• Enjoy a locally guided tour of Cambridge Bay and the surrounding area.
• See how the Arctic char delicacy piffy is traditionally made and sample other local char delights.
• Listen to stories from your local guide and learn about the area and Inuit life on the land.
Practical information:
• Included: Arctic char sampling
• Walking or Activity information: Involves a high level of physical activity for an extended period over terrain that may often be uneven, slippery and steep. Not suitable if you have limited mobility.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Cambridge Bay - Mount Pelly Hike Enjoy an exhilarating guided hike up Mount Pelly amid the rugged beauty of Cambridge Bay.
Ancient esker hike
Your tour begins with a scenic drive from the community to the base of Mount Pelly in the stunning Ovayok Territorial Park. Mount Pelly is an ancient esker formed by glacial meltwater, and as you hike to its summit, take in panoramic views of the surrounding Arctic landscape.
Along the way, look out for local plant life and watch flocks of young fledglings as they prepare for their migration south. Enjoy hot drinks and snacks while your guides share stories of the land and its history.
Duration: 4h15
Difficulty: Level 4 – Challenging – good fitness needed
Booking code: A-YHI4
Highlights:
• Take in the scenery on a panoramic drive to the base of Mount Pelly in Ovayok Territorial Park.
• Hike to the top of Mount Pelly, an esker formed by ancient glacial meltwater deposits.
• Search for local plants and observe fledgling birds as they train for their migration south.
Practical information:
• Included: hot drink and snacks
• Walking or Activity information: Involves a high level of physical activity for an extended period over terrain that may often be uneven, slippery and steep. Not suitable if you have limited mobility.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Cambridge Bay - Discover Ovayok Territorial Park Discover the pristine beauty and rich heritage of the Arctic on a visit to Ovayok Territorial Park.
Nature, heritage and Inuit culture
Your tour begins with a scenic drive from the community of Cambridge Bay to Ovayok Territorial Park, once a hunting ground for the Copper Inuit.
As you explore the park with your local guide, forage for local plants to brew tundra tea and watch flocks for fledglings prepare for their migration south. Take part in Inuit games and enjoy a hot drink while your guides share fascinating stories about the land, the people and the wildlife.
Duration: 4h15
Difficulty: Level 4 – Challenging – good fitness needed
Booking code: A-YHI5
Highlights:
• Enjoy a scenic drive from Cambridge Bay to the breathtaking Ovayok Territorial Park.
• Forage for local plants to make tundra tea and look out for fledglings preparing for their migration south.
• Learn and participate in Inuit games using antlers, bones and other items.
• Enjoy hot drinks and snacks while listening to stories from your local guides.
Practical information:
• Included: Refreshments
• Walking or Activity information: Involves a high level of physical activity for an extended period over terrain that may often be uneven, slippery and steep. Not suitable if you have limited mobility.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Cambridge Bay - Arctic Char Experience Experience Inuit traditions and way of life on this Arctic char preparation and tasting experience.
An Inuit delicacy
This excursion begins with a guided tour of Cambridge Bay as you travel to the community’s summer cabin.
Here, you’ll harvest Arctic char from the shore using traditional fish nets alongside local fishermen. Watch as the freshly caught char is prepared to be dried in the sun, where it will turn into piffy, a traditional Inuit delicacy. You'll then sample these char delights while listening to stories from your guide about Inuit life, the land and the area’s rich cultural history.
Duration: 2h00
Difficulty: Level 3 – Active – good mobility needed
Booking code: A-YHI6
Highlights:
• Enjoy a locally guided tour of Cambridge Bay and the surrounding area.
• Harvest Arctic char from the shore alongside local fishermen.
• See how the local delicacy piffy is dried and prepared in the traditional way.
• Sample Arctic char while listening to stories about the area from your Inuit guide.
Practical information:
• Included: Arctic char sampling
• Walking or Activity information: Involves physical activity on uneven surfaces and/or steep terrain. Not suitable if you have limited mobility.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Cambridge Bay - Tour the Martin Bergmann Research Vessel Tour the Martin Bergmann, a repurposed East Coast fishing trawler, now a pivotal Arctic research vessel.
Delve into Arctic research
Step aboard the 18-meter research ship, Martin Bergmann, named after the legendary Canadian scientist.
Guided by Captain Gerry, who has spent over a decade navigating Arctic waters, you'll hear stories of adventure and discovery as you explore the onboard lab and state-of-the-art equipment. Discover the research that continues to shape our understanding of the Arctic and gain an insider's view of the vessel's ongoing scientific missions.
Duration: 1h00
Difficulty: Level 3 – Active – good mobility needed
Booking code: A-YHI7
Highlights:
• Learn about the important role of the Martin Bergmann in Arctic research and exploration.
• Hear captivating stories from Captain Gerry, who has over a decade of experience navigating Arctic waters.
• Take a closer look at the vessel's scientific equipment and get insight into ongoing research.
Practical information:
• Walking or Activity information: Involves physical activity on uneven surfaces and/or steep terrain. Not suitable if you have limited mobility.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Cambridge Bay - Arctic Conversations: Hosted Community Visit Discover more about living in the remote Arctic as you're welcomed into the local community at Cambridge Bay.
Duration: 1h00
Difficulty: Level 1 – Easy – suitable for most people
Booking code: A-YHI9
Gjoa Haven Community Visit Experience Inuit culture in Gjoa Haven, through dance, art, heritage, and warm community hospitality.
Insight into community life
Begin your visit to Gjoa Haven with a guided walking tour of the community’s key sites, including the Natillik Heritage Society, the elder’s center, and local landmarks like historic shipwrecks.
Stop by the Amundsen Hotel gift shop before gathering at the Community Hall for a vibrant celebration of Inuit culture. Enjoy square dancing, sample traditional foods, and weather permitting, watch or join in traditional games, bannock making, and tea boiling. With warm hospitality and deep cultural roots, this visit offers a rare window into daily life in Nunavut’s only community on King William Island.
Duration: to be advised on board
Difficulty: Level 2: Moderate – some mobility needed
Booking code: INCL-YHK1
Min. number: 10 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Meet cultural performers in traditional dress sharing stories, song, and dance.
• Watch artisans carve, draw, and write names in Inuktitut script by hand.
• Visit the Nattilik Heritage Society to explore Inuit history and community traditions.
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: The community visit content is subject to change and our Expedition team will advise final details on board after liaising with community representatives. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and dress according to the weather.
• Walking or Activity information: Involves moderate physical activity on relatively level surfaces and gentle terrain, including some gravel and inclines. Approx. 1.5-2 hrs of walking.
• Wheelchair accessible: Yes
• Language availability: English
Gjoa Haven - Storytelling with Sammy & Betty Delve into Inuit traditions and the rich history of the Arctic in this immersive storytelling experience.
Authentic storytelling
The experience offers a glimpse into the cultural heritage of Gjoa Haven. Hosted by Betty and Sammy Kogvik, you'll gather in a cozy canvas tent, sitting on caribou skins, to listen and share food in the authentic Inuit way.
Sammy will recount his personal story of discovering the wreck of the HMS Terror, a key piece of the lost Franklin expedition. Betty will guide a tea-making session using hand-harvested heather to build a fire and share her knowledge of the land.
Duration: 1h15
Difficulty: Level 1 – Easy – suitable for most people
Booking code: A-YHK2
Highlights:
• Gather in the Inuit way for an intimate cultural experience with Betty and Sammy Kogvik.
• Learn about how Sammy discovered the HMS Terror from the lost Franklin expedition.
• Listen as Betty shares her knowledge of the tundra and leads a tea-making session.
• Engage in discussions with Betty and Sammy about their lives in the community.
Practical information:
• Included: Snacks
• Walking or Activity information: Involves limited physical activity.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Gjoa Haven - Community Bingo Enjoy a bingo game in Gjoa Haven – a popular event that brings the community together multiple times a week.
Get ready for bingo
Join local players as you mark off numbers in hopes of completing a winning pattern. Whether it’s a line, four corners or a full house – shout “Bingo!” to claim your prize.
In this popular community game, guests compete for handcrafted items from local artists, adding a unique cultural keepsake to the fun. With all proceeds going towards community projects, this is a great way to dive into an authentic Gjoa Haven pastime and make a meaningful impact at the same time.
Duration: 1h00
Difficulty: Level 1 – Easy – suitable for most people
Booking code: A-YHK3
Highlights:
• Join local players in a popular game that fosters connection and camaraderie within the community.
• Mark off numbers as they’re called and compete for handcrafted items from local artists.
• Make a positive impact on the community by participating in this local event.
Practical information:
• Walking or Activity information: Involves limited physical activity.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Gjoa Haven - Arctic Conversations: Hosted Community Visit Discover more about living in the remote Arctic as you're welcomed into the local community at Gjoa Haven.
Insight into community life
Whether it's a welcoming home, cozy cabin or outdoor setting, this intimate gathering offers a rare chance to hear firsthand about life in the far north.
In the company of community members, you'll hear stories about the joys and challenges of Arctic life. Enjoy refreshments prepared by your hosts and join them in their favorite pastimes, such as cooking or crafting. This experience is more than storytelling; it's an invitation to ask questions, connect and gain insights into the unique way of life in the Arctic.
Duration: 1h00
Difficulty: Level 1 – Easy – suitable for most people
Booking code: A-YHK4
Highlights:
• Gain insight into Arctic life and culture on an intimate small group community visit.
• Hear unique, authentic tales of resilience, traditions and modern Arctic professions.
• Join hosts in activities like cooking or crafting for a hands-on cultural experience.
• Enjoy local refreshments, ask questions and connect with community members.
Practical information:
• Included: Light refreshments
• Remarks/requirements: Groups for this excursion are limited to 4 people.
• Walking or Activity information: Involves limited physical activity.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Ulukhaktok community visit Arctic Traditions and Adventure: A Journey Through Culture and Community
Be warmly welcomed by the Ulukhaktok community dressed in traditional attire and enjoy an authentic cultural experience. Marvel at the skill of drum dancers, enjoy lively music, and witness an Arctic sports performance. Explore the community; perhaps watch an intriguing fish filleting demonstration showcasing time-honored techniques passed down through generations or take a hike at leisure through the landscapes close to the community. Enjoy a perfect blend of adventure, tradition, and heartfelt hospitality.
Duration: To be advised onboard
Difficulty: Level 1 – Easy – suitable for most people
Booking code: INCL-ULU1
Min. number: 10 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Immerse yourself with the vibrant traditions and warm hospitality in the Ulukhaktok community
• Enjoy lively and skilled drum dance performance and music
• Admire traditional Arctic crafts and skills
• Enjoy a hike at leisure in the surrounding countryside
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: The content of this community visit may be subject to change. Details will be confirmed on board once the Expedition Team has made final arrangements with the community representatives.
• Walking or Activity information: Exploring the community on foot involves a walk of approx. 1.25 miles on roads and paths. The hike at leisure is an additional 2-3km over inclined and uneven paths. Local guides will be stationed along the way.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
