How to get to Arctic Bay

Arctic Bay is a secluded and picturesque Inuit settlement situated on the northern tip of Baffin Island in the Nunavut region. This unique corner of Canada attracts travellers dreaming of witnessing the authentic Arctic, majestic fjords, and observing narwhals in their natural habitat. Reaching this destination is an adventure in itself, as due to geographical isolation and the absence of roads, light aviation remains the primary means of connection with the outside world.

Since Arctic Bay does not host a large international airport capable of accommodating long-haul liners, the journey typically begins with a flight to one of the key hubs of Canada, such as Ottawa or Montreal. From there, the route proceeds through the capital of the Nunavut region — Iqaluit, which serves as the main gateway to the Eastern Arctic.

The final stage of the journey is performed on small turboprop aircraft of regional airlines specializing in flights under polar conditions. Despite the logistical complexity, the flight over boundless ice fields and tundra leaves unforgettable impressions and allows one to appreciate the vast scale of the northern territories.

Railway connection to Arctic Bay is completely absent, which is due to the extreme climatic conditions and the immense distance from major civilization. The railway network in Canada does not reach the Arctic islands, terminating thousands of kilometres to the south.

Travellers who prefer trains will have to limit their rail journey to the southern provinces of the country. Rail transport can only be used as a means to reach major airports, from where flights to the north are operated.

Reaching Arctic Bay by bus is impossible, as the settlement has no land connection with the continental mainland. The lack of road infrastructure amidst permafrost and challenging terrain makes bus transportation in this region unfeasible.

Intercity buses operate only in the southern, densely populated parts of Canada. For travel to the High North, this mode of transport is not applicable.

A trip to Arctic Bay by car is not possible, as the village is isolated from the general Canadian road network by the waters of the Arctic Ocean and impassable tundra. Neither highways nor seasonal winter roads suitable for standard tourist vehicles lead here.

Although local residents use cars and quad bikes for movement within the settlement, vehicles are delivered here by sea or cargo aviation. When planning a route through Canada, please exclude the car as a means of reaching this point.

Travelling to the High Arctic requires thorough preparation, as conditions here differ radically from typical tourist destinations.

1. Clothing and Equipment. At any time of the year, bring thermal base layers, as well as windproof and waterproof outerwear. Even in summer, the weather can be unpredictable and cold, so the principle of dressing in layers is mandatory.
2. Local Transport. Within the settlement, distances are short and can be covered on foot. For longer excursions into the tundra, it is best to arrange with local guides to rent a snowmobile or an ATV (quad bike).
3. Finances. The official currency is the Canadian Dollar. It is recommended to carry a sufficient supply of cash, as banking terminals may operate intermittently due to unstable connections.
4. Groceries and Supplies. Be prepared for prices in local shops to be significantly higher than in the south due to the complex logistics of goods delivery.
5. Communication and Internet. Mobile signals and internet may be slow or entirely absent. Download offline maps in advance and warn your family about potential unavailability.
6. Respect for Culture. The local population — the Inuit — are very hospitable but value respect for their traditions. Always courteously ask for permission before taking photographs of people.
7. Safety in the Wild. You are in the territory of polar bears. Never venture outside the settlement limits without an experienced guide who knows the safety rules.
8. Souvenirs. Pay attention to the works of local artisans: carvings from bone and stone, as well as traditional clothing — these are the best memorable gifts from the region.

Observing these simple rules will make your stay at the edge of the world safe and filled only with positive emotions.