How to get to Iqaluit

When planning a trip to Iqaluit, the capital of the Nunavut territory, it is worth immediately considering the unique geography of this place: the city is located on Baffin Island and is isolated from the North American road network. You can reach Iqaluit almost exclusively by air, as there are simply no land routes connecting it to the rest of Canada. This destination attracts true connoisseurs of Arctic exoticism, ready to travel to the edge of the world to experience Inuit culture and the harsh northern nature.

Air travel is the only year-round and reliable way to get to this remote region. All civil flights are served by Iqaluit Airport (YFB), which is a key transport hub for the entire eastern Arctic. Most often, travelers fly here on direct flights from major Canadian cities such as Ottawa or Montreal.

The airport itself is located very conveniently in relation to residential areas, and its infrastructure is fully adapted to the harsh conditions. A flight to Iqaluit will gift you with unforgettable views of the icy expanses and tundra even before landing, making the journey itself an exciting part of your holiday.

It is impossible to reach the city of Iqaluit by train, as there is a complete absence of railway infrastructure on Baffin Island. The railways of Canada end far to the south, not reaching the Arctic territories due to the difficult terrain and permafrost.

Train lovers will have to complete their rail journey in one of the major cities on the mainland, for example, in Montreal or Ottawa, and then transfer to a plane to cover the remaining distance to Nunavut.

A trip to Iqaluit by bus is unfeasible: the city has no land connection with the mainland, and roads leading here from other provinces do not exist. Intercity bus routes are not laid out to this region due to the geographical isolation of the island.

Inside the city itself, public transport is poorly developed, however, for arriving from the outside, the bus as a means of transport is absolutely unsuitable. The only option remains a combined route with a transfer to a plane in southern cities.

Traveling to Iqaluit by car is impossible, as the city is cut off from the North American road system by the waters of the Hudson Strait and Frobisher Bay. Neither highways nor seasonal winter roads lead here, so it is physically impossible to drive from other regions of Canada.

There are cars in the city, but they are delivered there by sea during the short summer navigation or by cargo planes. For getting around the city, tourists usually use the services of local taxis, which operate at fixed rates.

A trip to the Arctic region requires careful preparation, as conditions here differ significantly from usual tourist destinations. Here are some practical recommendations to make your stay in Iqaluit comfortable and safe.

1. Clothing and Equipment. The principle of layering is your main rule. Even in summer, you will need a windproof and waterproof jacket, thermal underwear, and sturdy shoes for walking on rough terrain. In winter, a specialized Arctic parka is necessary.
2. Transport in the City. The most popular way to get around is by taxi, which operates here at a fixed rate per trip to any point in the city (per person). Renting a car is possible, but it is expensive and often not required, as the centre is compact.
3. Finance and Prices. The currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Be prepared for the fact that prices for groceries and services in Iqaluit are significantly higher than in the south of the country due to complex logistics. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but having some cash for souvenirs from local craftsmen is advisable.
4. Health and Safety. Medical assistance is available at the local hospital, but serious cases require evacuation to the south. Beware of wild animals: polar bears sometimes enter the outskirts of the city, so do not go outside the settlement without a professional guide or protection.
5. Communication and Language. The official languages are English, French, and Inuktitut. You will have no problems communicating in English. Mobile connection and internet exist but may work slower than you are accustomed to.
6. Local Etiquette. Respect the Inuit culture. It is customary to take off your shoes when entering a home. Ask for permission before photographing local residents, especially elders.
7. Buying Souvenirs. When buying art objects made of bone or stone, make sure you have an export permit if you are flying outside the country (although inside Canada this is simpler).
8. Polar Day and Night. Consider seasonal features: in summer the sun shines almost around the clock (take a sleep mask), and in winter the daylight hours are very short, but there is a high chance of seeing the Northern Lights.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid unpleasant surprises and fully enjoy the unique atmosphere of the Far North.