18-Day Northwest Passage &
Nunavut Expedition

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.

Nuuk (Godthaab)

Nuuk is the capital and largest city of Greenland and is considered to be the world's smallest national capital. Located on the country's southwestern coast, Nuuk has been inhabited for centuries by the Inuit people and today is home to a vibrant mix of cultures.

The town is spread across several islands, situated in a fjord surrounded by snow-capped mountains. When visiting Nuuk, visitors will be greeted by a picturesque landscape. There is a wide array of activities to do while visiting Nuuk, ranging from sightseeing to thrill-seeking adventures. 

The largest attraction in Nuuk is the Greenland National Museum, which exhibits artifacts and cultural objects from the country's history. Art lovers can visit several galleries where they can admire contemporary and traditional art. More adventurous visitors can explore the old town, where they'll find colorful wooden houses with unique architecture, as well as museums, churches, and other historical sites.

Nuuk has many opportunities for outdoor recreation. Hiking around the nearby mountains or taking a boat out on the fjord are popular activities, as are snowmobiling and kayaking. Visitors can also explore the nearby glaciers and take in the spectacular views. Many tour companies operate trips and guided tours to places including the legendary Ilulissat Icefjord and Kangerlussuaq National Park. 

During summertime, Nuuk's population swells with visitors taking advantage of the midnight sun, but for those visiting in winter, there is no shortage of fun. Ice fishing, snowboarding, fat biking, dog sledding, and other winter activities are all available options for visitors. 

Visitors should also take time to sample some of the local cuisine. Greenlandic dishes include suaasat, which is a soup made of reindeer meat and a variety of vegetables, dried cod or other fish dishes, mutton, and caribou. Whalemeat is also popular in Nuuk. For those who prefer something lighter, there are plenty of other options like pastries, eggs, and smoked salmon.

No matter when you visit Nuuk, you will find plenty of activities to keep you busy and memorable sights to take in. Whether you're looking to experience the country's rich culture or get your adrenaline pumping with some outdoor activities, Nuuk is the perfect destination for your Greenland adventure.

Iqaluit, Nunavut

Iqaluit is the capital of Nunavut, the newest and largest of Canada’s provinces. Located on the southeastern coast of Baffin Island, it’s a small, vibrant city surrounded by miles of tundra and the Arctic Ocean. It’s a great destination for travelers looking to experience a unique combination of old-world Inuit culture and modern conveniences.

Iqaluit is one of the most remote settlements in North America, but there are plenty of things to see and do here. Tourists can explore the city’s many attractions, including its art galleries, museums, and stunning natural beauty. Iqaluit also has a wide variety of restaurants, pubs, and other entertainment options.

One of the most popular activities in Iqaluit is wildlife-spotting. The area is home to caribou, muskoxen, seals, and a variety of sea birds. Whale watching is also possible during late summer months, when the waters are filled with humpback and beluga whales. Visitors can also explore the waters near Iqaluit in kayaks or canoes.

Inuit culture is a major part of life in Iqaluit. Tourists can visit community centers to learn about Inuit traditions and enjoy traditional expressions such as drum dancing and throat singing. Shopping in Iqaluit is unique as well; tourists can purchase traditional Inuit carvings, fur garments, and jewelry made with local materials.

No trip to Iqaluit would be complete without visiting Auyuittuq National Park. Located just south of Iqaluit, the park has breathtaking landscapes of rolling hills and mountains. The park also features a variety of wildlife, including caribou, polar bears, arctic foxes, and snowy owls. Visitors can explore by boat, snowmobile, or on foot.

Visiting Iqaluit is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed. From its scenery to its cultural experiences, there is something here for everyone. Whether you’re looking for wildlife viewing opportunities or a chance to learn more about Inuit culture, Iqaluit is sure to be an unforgettable destination.

Diana Island, Nunavut

Erik Cove

Exploring the Northwest Passage

Fury and Hecla Strait, Nunavut

Exploring the Northwest Passage

Cambridge Bay, 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.

Exploring the Northwest Passage

Sisimiut (Holsteinsborg)

Sisimiut is a city located in western Greenland, on the coast of Davis Strait. It is the second-largest city in the country, after Nuuk, and is often referred to as "the gateway to Greenland." With a population of over 6,000 people, it is an important commercial port in the country and has been home to a diverse population of Inuit, Danish, and other racial backgrounds for centuries.

Set against a stunning natural backdrop of mountains, glaciers, and fjords, Sisimiut is a picturesque town with plenty to offer visitors. Its most popular attractions are the historic ruins of the old Norse settlements that once existed here, and the nearby town of Qeqertarsuaq. Visitors can also enjoy a range of activities such as fishing, kayaking, boat trips, hiking, and skiing. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, guided tours can be arranged to explore polar bear dens and icebergs, or diving and dog sledding trips can be taken further north into the Arctic. 

For culture and history lovers, Sisimiut offers a wealth of options. A visit to the nearby Siilarmiut Museum will provide insight into the lifestyle, culture and traditions of the Inuit. The museum includes exhibits ranging from traditional tools and clothing to local wildlife and art. The nearby polar bear spottings in the north are also a highlight for many visitors.

Sisimiut also offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. There are plenty of hiking trails in the area, ranging from short day hikes through the hills up to more challenging routes with glaciers or hunting spots. Kayaking and fishing are also popular activities here, with both freshwater and sea fishing possible. Visitors can also enjoy snowmobiling and snowshoeing in winter months.

Aside from its natural beauty and rich history, Sisimiut is also known for its vibrant nightlife. A wide array of restaurants serving an array of foods from all over the world can be found here. Traditional Greenlandic cuisine is also well represented with specialties such as seal meat and smoked fish. For visitors looking for an evening out, there are plenty of bars and clubs along the waterfront. Music can be heard from most of these spots until late at night.

For those looking for a unique vacation experience, Sisimiut is the perfect destination. With its stunning natural beauty, cultural wealth, and vibrant nightlife, it has something to offer everyone. And with flights available from Copenhagen and other European cities as well as direct flights from Nuuk, it is easy to get to this remote part of Greenland. Sisimiut promises to be an unforgettable experience that will leave visitors with lasting memories!

Evighedsfjorden

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.