12-Day The High Arctic:
Beyond Baffin Bay

Reykjavík

Back in the first century AD, legendary Viking, Ingolfur
Arnarson, named the settlement he founded on a southwestern
peninsula Reykjavik, meaning 'Smokey Bay'. The smoke he found
wafting over the area, however, had nothing to do with pollution,
but rather the bubbling, boiling natural geysers and geothermal
springs that now underlie the modern capital of Iceland. This
source of heat and water has ensured that Reykjavik has no need to
burn fuels to warm its heart, and the crisp, clean air is
delightful.

The sky is not always blue, however: Reykjavik receives more
than its fair share of rainy weather blown in from the sea, and
during the long, bleak winter its northern latitude ensures that
the sun makes no more than a brief appearance every day.

Despite this, the capital of Iceland is definitely a hot spot,
renowned for its lively pubs and clubs, which draw hundreds of
merry-making visitors, particularly during the long, light, bright
summer nights.

Reykjavik's growing reputation as a fun tourist destination is
enhanced by its fiery but friendly inhabitants, relaxed pace of
life, many cultural attractions, and dozens of opportunities for
fascinating day trips, not to mention the novelty of bathing in one
of the steamy public geothermal swimming baths.

Reykjavik's setting on the southwest corner of Iceland is
another drawcard. Panoramic views surround the majestic Mount Esja
rising behind the bay, while vistas stretch as far as the
crystalline Snaefellsjokull Glacier to the west across the
Atlantic. The city is well positioned to act as a springboard for
southern Iceland, and many of the country's most popular
attractions are within easy reach.

Reykjavik has a small-town atmosphere, its centre easily
explored on foot, the quaint whitewashed wooden buildings and
colourful houses interspersed with plenty of open space. Even those
who come to indulge mainly in the hedonistic nightlife cannot fail
to leave Reykjavik feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Kangerlussuaq Havn

Kangerlussuaq is a small town in western Greenland, located on the western shore of the same named fjord. The area has been an important area for humans for thousands of years and is a popular tourist destination today. Kangerlussuaq offers visitors an experience unlike any other - where the traditional Inuit culture, stunning natural landscapes, and scientific research all meet in one fascinating place.

A visit to Kangerlussuaq will first and foremost treat you to the sight of its spectacular natural landscape. The area is characterized by rugged mountains, deep fjords, and immense glaciers. It is possible to take advantage of the area's stunning beauty by exploring on foot or taking a boat trip in the nearby fjords. The nearby Russell Glacier runs down from the Greenland Ice Sheet all the way to the coastline and offers hikers the chance to see some of the most incredible sights in Greenland.

The town itself is home to a small population of local Inuit people who live a traditional lifestyle without running water or electricity. The town has a store, two churches, and several cafés, restaurants, and lodges. It also offers visitors the chance to try out some of the traditional dishes of the town - most notably the local fish soup. Being able to experience life in this small, remote fishing village is an unforgettable experience and provides visitors with a real insight into the lives of the locals.

Scientific research is also an important part of life in Kangerlussuaq. Research teams from all over the world come here to study glacial retreat, atmospheric science, natural disasters, wildlife populations, and more. Visiting scientists usually live in dorms owned by NASA and can be seen walking around the town during their stay.

Finally, Kangerlussuaq is home to a fascinating museum dedicated to its history and wildlife. The Polar Museum contains artifacts from more than 100 years of occupation and showcases wildlife from the area such as musk oxen, Arctic hares, caribou, owls, polar bears, and more.

Kangerlussuaq is one of the most unique places on earth and offers visitors an experience unlike any other. It's a place where nature dominates and where traditional culture and modern research merge. Seeing it for yourself is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for many years to come.

Pond Inlet, Nunavut

Pond Inlet is a small Inuit community located in the northernmost part of Canada. It is part of the Arctic Archipelago, and is situated along the northern coast of Baffin Island, off the eastern edge of the Arctic Ocean. The stunning natural beauty found in this region is unmatched and it is a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the true wonder of the north. 

Upon arriving in Pond Inlet, travelers are often captivated by the sheer magnitude of the landscape. The Arctic tundra stretches as far as the eye can see, with snow-covered hills and glaciers glistening in the sun. Everywhere you look, you can appreciate the untouched beauty of the Arctic and how untouched nature has remained despite centuries of human habitation. 

The Inuit cultural experience in Pond Inlet is unique and deeply meaningful. Visitors can participate in traditional ceremonies and learn about life in an Inuit community. This offers a unique opportunity to gain insight into a rich cultural tradition. Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to explore the nearby national wildlife refuge, which is home to polar bears, walruses, caribou, Arctic foxes and a variety of other wildlife species. 

There are also plenty of activities available for those interested in exploring further into the region. Ice fishing is a favourite pastime among locals and visitors alike. Other activities include snowshoeing, snowmobiling and snowboarding, as well as kayaking and canoeing. Additionally, helicopter and boat tours are available to explore more distant parts of the Arctic Archipelago. 

Another great feature of Pond Inlet is its stunning night sky. When visiting during winter, you will have the opportunity to witness the amazing aurora borealis. This phenomenon is truly breathtaking and can be seen from this small Arctic community on clear winter nights. 

Pond Inlet is a truly magical destination that combines breathtaking natural beauty with rich cultural experiences and plenty of adventure activities. It is a remarkable place to visit, and one that visitors will never forget.

Exploring the Northwest Passage

Ellesmere Island, Nunavut

The second largest country in the world, Canada offers visitors a range of experiences as varied as the land itself. It provides something to suit the taste of every traveller: large cosmopolitan cities; frozen northern tundra and snowy mountain peaks; rugged coastlines; rich farmlands; and pioneer outposts.

Canada is bound to the west by the Pacific Ocean and Alaska, to the east by the Atlantic Ocean, to the north by the polar ice cap, and to the south by the United States of America. It's a country renowned for its natural beauty, making it a favourite destinations for lovers of the outdoors.

The cities have been carefully designed to preserve metropolitan green belts and parklands, ensuring that Canadians are never far from their natural heritage. The country has a French and British colonial history, reflected in its cuisine, culture, and customs. Canadian identity is mixed in with the legacy of the country's own aboriginal First Nations history.

In the south, the Rocky Mountains separate Canada's two main tourist provinces of British Columbia and Alberta. The mountains abound with winter sports resorts, with the most popular venues for outdoor pursuits being the country's huge national parks. There are more than 41 national parks in Canada, with the Wood Buffalo National Park in Alberta being larger than Switzerland. Canadian national parks are unique in that they have cities and towns within the protected areas, providing comfortable bases for exploring the natural and manmade attractions.

Northeast Greenland

Kangerlussuaq Havn

Kangerlussuaq is a small town in western Greenland, located on the western shore of the same named fjord. The area has been an important area for humans for thousands of years and is a popular tourist destination today. Kangerlussuaq offers visitors an experience unlike any other - where the traditional Inuit culture, stunning natural landscapes, and scientific research all meet in one fascinating place.

A visit to Kangerlussuaq will first and foremost treat you to the sight of its spectacular natural landscape. The area is characterized by rugged mountains, deep fjords, and immense glaciers. It is possible to take advantage of the area's stunning beauty by exploring on foot or taking a boat trip in the nearby fjords. The nearby Russell Glacier runs down from the Greenland Ice Sheet all the way to the coastline and offers hikers the chance to see some of the most incredible sights in Greenland.

The town itself is home to a small population of local Inuit people who live a traditional lifestyle without running water or electricity. The town has a store, two churches, and several cafés, restaurants, and lodges. It also offers visitors the chance to try out some of the traditional dishes of the town - most notably the local fish soup. Being able to experience life in this small, remote fishing village is an unforgettable experience and provides visitors with a real insight into the lives of the locals.

Scientific research is also an important part of life in Kangerlussuaq. Research teams from all over the world come here to study glacial retreat, atmospheric science, natural disasters, wildlife populations, and more. Visiting scientists usually live in dorms owned by NASA and can be seen walking around the town during their stay.

Finally, Kangerlussuaq is home to a fascinating museum dedicated to its history and wildlife. The Polar Museum contains artifacts from more than 100 years of occupation and showcases wildlife from the area such as musk oxen, Arctic hares, caribou, owls, polar bears, and more.

Kangerlussuaq is one of the most unique places on earth and offers visitors an experience unlike any other. It's a place where nature dominates and where traditional culture and modern research merge. Seeing it for yourself is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you for many years to come.

Reykjavík

Back in the first century AD, legendary Viking, Ingolfur
Arnarson, named the settlement he founded on a southwestern
peninsula Reykjavik, meaning 'Smokey Bay'. The smoke he found
wafting over the area, however, had nothing to do with pollution,
but rather the bubbling, boiling natural geysers and geothermal
springs that now underlie the modern capital of Iceland. This
source of heat and water has ensured that Reykjavik has no need to
burn fuels to warm its heart, and the crisp, clean air is
delightful.

The sky is not always blue, however: Reykjavik receives more
than its fair share of rainy weather blown in from the sea, and
during the long, bleak winter its northern latitude ensures that
the sun makes no more than a brief appearance every day.

Despite this, the capital of Iceland is definitely a hot spot,
renowned for its lively pubs and clubs, which draw hundreds of
merry-making visitors, particularly during the long, light, bright
summer nights.

Reykjavik's growing reputation as a fun tourist destination is
enhanced by its fiery but friendly inhabitants, relaxed pace of
life, many cultural attractions, and dozens of opportunities for
fascinating day trips, not to mention the novelty of bathing in one
of the steamy public geothermal swimming baths.

Reykjavik's setting on the southwest corner of Iceland is
another drawcard. Panoramic views surround the majestic Mount Esja
rising behind the bay, while vistas stretch as far as the
crystalline Snaefellsjokull Glacier to the west across the
Atlantic. The city is well positioned to act as a springboard for
southern Iceland, and many of the country's most popular
attractions are within easy reach.

Reykjavik has a small-town atmosphere, its centre easily
explored on foot, the quaint whitewashed wooden buildings and
colourful houses interspersed with plenty of open space. Even those
who come to indulge mainly in the hedonistic nightlife cannot fail
to leave Reykjavik feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.