How to get to Cambridge Bay

Located on the southern coast of Victoria Island in the Canadian region of Nunavut, Cambridge Bay (or Ikaluktutiak) is a significant transport and administrative hub of the Arctic. Reaching this remote settlement is a genuine adventure in itself, as familiar land routes here give way to polar aviation. Travellers should be prepared for the fact that the path to this rugged yet beautiful land lies exclusively through the sky, revealing incredible views of the boundless tundra.

Air travel is the only year-round and reliable way to get to Cambridge Bay. Guests are welcomed by the regional Cambridge Bay Airport (YCB), which serves as a vital artery connecting the settlement with the "mainland". Regular flights here are usually operated from major northern hubs, such as Yellowknife.

The airport itself is located in close proximity to the residential zone, making arrival as convenient as possible. Despite the remoteness of the location, the air gateway ensures stable connections, allowing tourists and researchers to safely reach the heart of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago.

Railway connections with Cambridge Bay are completely absent, which is unsurprising given the city's location on an island in the Arctic Ocean. The railways of Canada do not reach such high latitudes, ending thousands of kilometres to the south. Train enthusiasts will have to choose this mode of transport only for the initial stage of their journey across the country to reach cities that have air links with the Arctic.

Reaching this Arctic settlement by bus is impossible, as Cambridge Bay has no road connection with the continental part of North America. The absence of highways and motorways makes intercity bus transport in this region irrelevant. Land transport here is used exclusively for local movements within the village, and the role of "long-distance buses" is fulfilled by small aircraft.

A trip by car to Cambridge Bay from other cities is unfeasible due to the geographical isolation of Victoria Island. Neither toll roads nor unpaved roads from the mainland lead here, so getting there by private transport or taxi is not possible. Cars do exist in the settlement, but they are delivered there by sea during the navigation period or by air and are used only for trips around the surroundings.

Travelling to the Arctic requires special preparation and respect for the harsh conditions of the north. To ensure your trip to Cambridge Bay is comfortable and safe, we have prepared a list of important recommendations.

1. Clothing and gear. Even in summer, temperatures can be low, so the principle of layering is mandatory. Bring a windproof jacket, thermal underwear, and sturdy waterproof footwear.
2. Local transport. The settlement is compact, and much is accessible on foot. For longer trips, locals use quad bikes (ATVs) in summer and snowmobiles in winter; taxis are available, but the fleet is limited.
3. Finance and payment. The currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Bank cards are accepted in major shops and the hotel, but carrying cash is highly desirable, as ATMs may operate intermittently.
4. Connectivity and internet. Be prepared for mobile signals and internet to be slow or absent outside the settlement. Download offline maps in advance.
5. Safety and wildlife. You are in polar bear territory. Never venture outside the settlement without a guide or having protection means and appropriate knowledge.
6. Local etiquette. Respect the culture of the Inuit. Ask permission before photographing local residents, and do not touch archaeological artefacts in the tundra.
7. Food supplies. Food prices in local shops are significantly higher than in the south of the country due to complex logistics. Consider this when planning your budget.
8. Polar day and night. In summer, the midnight sun shines here (24 hours of light), while the polar night reigns in winter. Bring a sleep mask for summer and a good torch for winter.

Following these simple rules will help you enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Far North without unnecessary worries.