How To Get Here
Two commercial airlines travel to Nunavut from the South.
Canadian North
Calm Air
These airlines depart from the following gateway cities:
Ottawa (to Iqaluit)
Winnipeg (to Rankin Inlet, Sanikiluaq)
Yellowknife (to Cambridge Bay, or connections to Rankin Inlet and Iqaluit)
It may surprise you, but most gateway cities are served by jet service, making the first leg of your trip faster and more comfortable than many think.
Once you arrive, most connecting flights will be on smaller aircraft. Weather can frequently cause delays or cancellations, so it’s a good idea to have a backup plan when travelling between communities or be prepared for longer waits in airports.
Cruises
As the North become more accessible by sea, our waterways open the door to rich culture, history, and entirely new ways of seeing the world – like from the top of the earth!
While Arctic cruises can come with a higher price tag, the comfort and luxury you’ll experience are worth every moment, and don’t worry, they don’t feel pretentious.
These ships are filled with adventurers and culture-seekers just like you, eager to connect with the land, the people, and the stories of the North. Travelling by cruise ship opens the door to historical sites and parks that are difficult to reach otherwise.
Warm, waterproof, and practical clothing is essential, especially for on-land excursions and taking in the breathtaking views from the crisp, cold viewing deck. Travel by water from July – October.
– Adventure Canada
– Quark Expeditions
Nunavut is massive. It occupies a fifth of Canada – which is over 1 million square kilometres. Seeing all of it in one visit is not practical for most visitors. Its important you know where you want to go when planning your trip – after all, there is no highway you can pull a U-turn on and head back to another community. Getting here is part of the adventure.
Air Access
All communities in Nunavut are accessible by air. You’ll find yourself flying on Canadian North, Calm Air or Chrono Aviation to get into the territory. The gateway cities to Nunavut are mostly served by jet service.
- Montreal (to Iqaluit)
- Ottawa (to Iqaluit)
- St. Hubert (to Iqaluit)
- Winnipeg (to Rankin Inlet)
- Yellowknife (to Cambridge Bay)
Once you get to Nunavut, if you’re continuing from one of the hubs to another community, you’ll be flying on a smaller plane likely. Pack your patience – the weather is boss in Nunavut which can sometimes mean waiting around in airports.
Cruise Access
Cruise ships are an excellent way to see unique parts of Nunavut. In addition to landing in some the most beautiful and inspiring communities, cruises also allow you to land at some unique historical sites and parks. Cruise ships visit Nunavut from July – October and your route will vary based on which ship you are travelling on. Adventure Canada and Quark Expeditions are great places to start your planning.