nunavut indigenous tourism

10 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nunavut

Written by Chloë Ernst and Bryan Dearsley Updated Sep 24, 2021

Officially established in 1999, Canada's Nunavut Territory is an administrative unit that was once part of the former Northwest Territories. And it's a very big place. Nunavut covers the whole of the eastern section of northern Canada and is a wonderful place to learn about the attractions, history, culture, nature, and best places to visit in Canada's Far North.

With an area of 1.9 million square kilometers, Nunavut is almost eight times the size of the United Kingdom and covers roughly one fifth of the total area of Canada. Its southern border is the 60th parallel, while the north extends to within about 800 kilometers of the North Pole. Most of the Territory is situated above the tree line, in a region of predominantly treeless tundra with dwarf shrubs, grasses, mosses, and lichens. Fjords cut deep inland from the coast.

Craft- and handicraft-based businesses have achieved extraordinary success here. Produced mainly in small workshops, the territory's leather goods, jewelry, and ivory work have great appeal for tourists visiting this and other regions of Canada . Hence, in addition to meeting the demand from the as-yet small number of tourists who visit the Far North, there is a lively "export trade" to the major tourist centers of the Canadian South, including Québec, Toronto, and Vancouver.

For inspiration and ideas about fun things to do when it comes to planning your northern Canadian adventure, refer often to our handy list of the top tourist attractions in Nunavut, Canada.

1. Baffin Island

2. auyuittuq national park, 4. ellesmere island, 5. quttinirpaaq national park, 6. sirmilik national park, 7. naujaat (repulse bay), 8. belcher islands, 9. pond inlet, 10. qaummaarviit territorial park, map of tourist attractions in nunavut.

With its breathtaking landscape, the warm hospitality of the Indigenous Inuit people, and the numerous opportunities for a unique holiday experience, Baffin Island is a strong draw for tourists. But it can hardly be said that it suffers from invasions of visitors, which is perfect for those who enjoy extremely remote, nature-inspired adventure travel.

The island is the fifth largest in the world, with a coastline and landscape that vary considerably. One of the best areas to visit is the island's eastern coast. It in fact shares a scenery that's very similar to Norway, with its steep fiords and small offshore islands, boasting a long, narrow alpine-like mountainous zone that reaches heights of 2,591 meters in Auyuittuq National Park on the Cumberland peninsula.

The main administrative town is Iqaluit on Frobisher Bay. The only way to get to the far north island is by air, which can be rather expensive. The cost of living is high, and the climate very "unfriendly," not to mention the hordes of insects that descend on the unfortunate traveler in summer. All in all, however, the region is perhaps somewhere for the travel specialist seeking a unique (and unforgettable) Canadian vacation adventure.

Literally translated as the "land where it never thaws," Auyuittuq National Park sits on the Cumberland Peninsula in the southeast of Baffin Island. The Penny Ice Cap , a remnant of Ice Age glaciations, takes up a large portion of the park.

The landscape is characterized by broad valleys and rugged mountains with vertical walls rising up to 1,200 meters in heigh. Of these, Mount Asgard is particularly impressive. Pangnirtung Pass is the best route through the park ending at the Pangnirtung Fiord.

Among extreme adventurers, the park is also known for its hiking. Of these, perhaps the best can be experienced on Mount Thor, a 1,675-meter-tall mountain peak that's known for its rock climbing. A word of caution: if you're contemplating such an adventure, you're first required to register with Parks Canada (see the website below for details).

Official site: www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/nu/auyuittuq

For many years, whalers, scientists, traders, and missionaries frequented Iqaluit, located at the end of Frobisher Bay. It was long known as the gateway to Baffin Island, and the Inuit name of Iqaluit means "many fish."

However, it was only in 1942, when the area was developed as a U.S. military airfield, that the community began to grow in size. Now the service and administrative center of the Baffin Region, Iqaluit is a modern town with a complete infrastructure and is home to the Nunavut Legislative Assembly, as well as hotels, schools, a hospital, and cathedral. There's also a weather and radio station, as well as a camping site.

Iqaluit is also where you'll find the Unikkaarvik Visitor Centre . This modern facility is a good place to gather information and learn more about this remarkable community. Also worth a visit is the Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum . Located in a former Hudson's Bay Company building, it's dedicated to the preservation of local Inuit art and culture.

Ellesmere Island lies in the extreme north of Canada, and is the second largest island - after Baffin Island - on the Canadian archipelago. It was from Ellesmere's Cape Columbia that American explorer Robert Peary set out in 1909 to walk to the North Pole.

In the extreme north of the island, you'll find Quttinirpaaq National Park . This spectacular mountainous and glaciated region has a number of hiking trails known to serious backpackers and adventure seekers. There's plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities here, too. Tourists often post pictures of sightings of seals and walrus, musk ox, wolves, arctic hare and, from a safe distance, polar bears.

At the south end of Ellesmere Island is Grise Fiord . This very small community boasts good hunting conditions and a beautiful Arctic landscape that can be viewed during canoe or snowmobile tours.

Located in the extreme north of Ellesmere Island is Quttinirpaaq National Park . This extremely mountainous and glaciated region is popular with hikers with a penchant for adventure, drawn here for its remoteness and a number of hiking trails that are known to serious backpackers.

In this predominantly dry Arctic climate, pockets of (relatively) warm and moist temperatures enable plants to grow and animals to exist, such as in the area around Lake Hazen. Here, you'll see everything from muskoxen, Peary caribou, arctic foxes and wolves, lemmings, and more than 30 species of birds. Most trips to Quttinirpaaq begin in Resolute Bay.

Official site: www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/nu/quttinirpaaq

Soaring mountains, rugged glaciers, and a wide variety of wildlife perfectly describe Sirmilik National Park. This beautifully rugged area is one of Canada's most remote and northern national parks, encompassing Bylot Island , Oliver Sound , and the Borden Peninsula .

The land is made up of beautiful mountains, glaciers, ice fields, and coastal lowlands. While some visitors come here for boating and kayaking adventures, it's important to note that the coast is normally not free of ice until mid-July. During ice break up and freeze up, travel to the park is not possible.

Official site: www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/nu/sirmilik

Reached only by plane, Naujaat - known as Repulse Bay up until 2015 before reverting to its native name - thrives on tourism. The big draw? Tourists come in search of land and sea adventures under the wisdom of Inuit tour guides.

The European chapter of this part of Canada's history opened in 1741, when Captain Henry Middleton sailed into the deep bay - known to the Inuit as "Naujaat" (gulls' nesting place) - in search of the Northwest Passage. In his disappointment of not finding the Arctic route, Middleton christened the place Repulse Bay.

Off the Hudson Bay coast lie the barren Belcher Islands, another potential tourist destination in Nunavut. Known to the Inuit as Sanikiluaq, the islands support polar bears and an abundance of marine life, including beluga whales and walruses in the surrounding waters.

While some adventure travelers come here to kayak, the Belcher Islands are, however, extremely remote and see very few visitors each year. There is an airstrip in Sanikiluaq , which services the area, but most who visit arrive by boat..

Set on the Baffin Island coast, Pond Inlet - or Mittimatalik in Inuit - is an Inuit village to the west of a rugged mountainous terrain. It attracts visitors for its natural beauty and culture, though the region is extremely remote and therefore costly to access.

One of the top tourist attractions in the community is the Nattinnak Centre . Part museum, part visitor center, the facility features fascinating displays on the history, geography, and wildlife of the region.

Qaummaarviit Territorial Park , once home to the Thule People and known as the "place that shines," is a rugged destination located on an island. Accessible by ski, dogsled, or snowmobile during the winter months, and by boat during the open-water season, here visitors can see the remains of the old Thule sod houses and artifacts dating back more than 750 years ago.

Also of interest are the many features that point to evidence of Inuit settlement and culture dating as far back as the 1600s. (Editor's Note: No camping is allowed, so plan to visit as part of a day trip to the island.)

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Explore Canada's Great White North : While planning your Canada travel itinerary , be sure to consider some of the great attractions and destinations in the Far North. A few of our favorites include exploring Hudson Bay , known for its spectacular landscape and plentiful wildlife (yes, including polar bears), and the Northwest Territories , a vast region many times the size of the UK, which stretches toward the North Pole and is known for its abundant flora and fauna, as well as its capital city, Yellowknife , popular for its scenic drives and hikes.

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Inuit Culture

Inuit culture is steeped in the necessity to work together to ensure the safety and survival of others. And so, despite a noticeable difference in outlook and perception of the world, visitors can be sure to experience curious and genuine engagement with local people. Inuit, at their core, have an innate sense of welcoming and sharing - quick to smile, wave, share a laugh, or lend a hand.

One of the other recognizable characteristics of Inuit people across the globe is incredible resilience; the ability to survive in one of the world’s harshest environments for 15,000 years is indeed something to be proud of. This resilience is present in different ways in every community across Nunavut - different parka styles are associated with specific communities and people, creating a record of cultural expression and ingenuity. 

Inuit have always been nomadic, and though many now live in settled communities, they remain thoughtful, well informed guides with intimate knowledge of the land they have traversed their whole lives. Holding the same core values of their ancestors, Inuit culture 

Nunavut is a place with modern people living modern lives in an ancient environment - the Arctic - that offers the same challenges it has for centuries. It is a place that combines 21st century ideas, technology and society with the mindset and culture that Inuit have always adapted to suit the challenges that the environment around them has posed.

Experiences

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Arctic Travel , Nunavut

The ultimate nunavut travel guide.

Are you interested in experiencing the land of the midnight sun? A vast tundra of wildflowers, towering cliffs and meandering icebergs bobbing along freely in the arctic ocean? If this intrigues you, it sounds like you would be interested in travelling to Nunavut.

I spent four months living in Nunavut in 2015, made another visit in 2019 and I anticipate many more visits to come. In this post you’ll find everything you need to know to visit Nunavut yourself, as well as all the resources I’ve written about my favourite territory. Plus, throughout this post you’ll find external resources to provide even more information. If after all this, you have any additional questions, please leave a comment below!

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Your support is much appreciated! You can learn more by reading my full disclosure .

Welcome to Nunavut

Nunavut is a destination as off-the-beaten-path as they come. Nunavut receives just 14,000 visitors each year; it is often forgotten by foreigners and Canadians alike. So if you aren’t familiar with Nunavut, you are not alone. Here are some quick facts and reasons why Nunavut is a great place to visit.

Quick Facts about Nunavut

Country : Canada

Demographic : Approximately 85% of the population is Indigenous, ~12% is Caucasian and the remaining ~3 % are visible minorities.

Language : Four official languages (English, Inuktitut, French and Inuinnaqtun)

Size : 2 million square kilometers (20% of Canada’s landmass)

Regions : Nunavut is divided into three regions:

• Qikiqtaluuk (Baffin) Region includes Baffin Island, Ellesmere Island and surrounding islands on the eastern and northern parts of Nunavut
• Kivalliq Region extends north from Manitoba and includes most of the land along the coast of Hudson Bay
• Kitikmeot Region is the land around the center and western border of Nunavut

Communities : Iqaluit is the capital city of Nunavut; it is the largest community with approximately 7,500 people. There are 25 other communities, with populations ranging from 100 to 2,500. None of the communities have road access between them, nor are they connected to southern Canada.

Read more : Interesting Facts About Nunavut

Reasons to Visit Nunavut

You visit Nunavut to experience life at the top of the world. Witness magnificent wildlife – polar bears, narwhals, beluga, caribou – in their natural environment. Watch lonely icebergs floating in the frigid arctic ocean. Catch the northern lights as they dance across the sky. Learn about Inuit traditions and modern ways of life. There is so much to do and experience in this territory.

Read more: The Honest Reason Why No On Visits Nunavut

Logistics of Traveling to Nunavut

Planning a trip to somewhere so off-the-beaten-path can be daunting. Here are the answers to the most common questions you may have about planning a trip to Nunavut.

What is the best time of year to visit Nunavut?

The best time of year to visit Nunavut depends a bit on the activities you are interested in doing. If you want to go snowmobiling on the tundra or dogsledding on the frozen arctic ocean, mid-February to April is the best time to visit Nunavut. If you want to go hiking or kayaking, I’d recommend visiting in August or September .

However, if you are interested in doing an arctic safari or staying at a fly-in lodge, hiking the Pang Pass or seeing particular wildlife, the best time to visit is a little different. I have a comprehensive post coming out soon on this topic.

Read more : The Best Time of Year to Visit Nunavut

How long should you spend in Nunavut?

Forever! Kidding, kidding (though after visiting you might want to). How long you spend in Nunavut will depend on whether you are doing a guided tour or visiting on your own.

Many guided tours are seven to ten days in length, though they can be much longer too. Regardless of the duration, you’ll want to arrive at your tour’s meeting place one or two days early, and depart one or two days after your tour ends.

Weather can be unpredictable in the arctic, and sometimes flights don’t get out exactly when planned.

If you’re visiting one of the communities on your own, you generally need less time. For example, I recommend people spend three to four nights in Iqaluit (you can read more about visiting Iqaluit below).

How do you get to Nunavut?

Getting to Nunavut is actually quite straightforward. You can fly to Iqaluit from Ottawa or Montreal, or to some of the larger communities from Yellowknife.

There are several small airlines operating in the north, with the two major airlines being First Air and Canadian North , both of which offer flights from the south. I recommend using Google Flights to see what airlines fly to the exact destination you are looking to travel to.

Read more :  How to get to Nunavut, Canada’s Seemingly Inaccessible Territory

Things to do in Nunavut

There are plenty of activities to do in Nunavut, though they differ depending on whether or not you are going on your own or with a tour operator.

With a tour operator, you could visit a fly-in lodge or join a floe edge arctic safari for great wildlife viewing. There are tour operators in Nunavut who offer heli-skiing, cruises, dive trips and more. Going with a tour operator will be pricey, but can be an incredible experience. If you have the means, I highly recommend joining an arctic safari.

If you visit one of the communities in Nunavut on your own, here are some activities you could do (though it will vary by community). You could go snowmobiling or dogsledding in the winter, kayaking and hiking in the summer, visit cultural centres and attend a festival . You cansee the northern lights or check out Inuit art . There are lots of things to do in Nunavut!

Alternatively, Nunavut has four national parks you could plan a trip to. This would be on the pricier end and usually you need to have some experience camping in a remote area (or, of course join a tour operator).

Read more :  Snowmobiling, Kayaking & More: 10 Incredible Things to Do in Nunavut

What are the best tour companies in Nunavut?

Note: I am not sponsored by any tour companies.

Arctic Kingdom

AK is the best tour company for arctic safaris. On their trips, you stay at a base camp where the land or sea ice (depending on time of year) meets the open ocean. These areas are hotspots for all different kinds of wildlife (polar bear, narwhal and beluga, to name a few). AK is the company I worked for when I was living in Nunavut and I assisted with Glaciers & Polar Bear trip.

Quark Expeditions

Quark are the experts in Antarctic travel, however they’ve been gaining ground in the Arctic as well. Their trips tend to be on large cruise-like ships, which I’ve heard are very comfortable but the boat itself can be quite noisy. A Quark representative told me that if you want to see arctic wildlife, go with Arctic Kingdom not Quark (the loud boats will scare away the wildlife).

Inukpak Outfitting

Inukpak is your guide for short trips in and around Iqaluit. They offer half and full day snowmobiling, dogsledding, hiking and kayaking trips. Inukpak also has some short multi-day trips leaving from Iqaluit.

Weber Arctic

Weber Arctic offers two fly-in lodges in Nunavut. If you’re interested in seeing the caribou migration, I recommend choosing Weber Arctic. They also offer fat-biking and heli-skiing trips if you’re looking for something more active.

Black Feather

Black Feathers offers backpacking tours in Nunavut, specifically in Auyuittuq, Quttinirpaaq and Sirmilik national parks. In addition, they also do multi-day canoe trips on Nunavut rivers like the Hood and Coppermine.

There are numerous tour companies in addition to the ones I’ve listed above. The Destination Nunavut   website lists tour companies for specific communities, plus additional resources to make travelling to Nunavut as smooth as possible.

Planning a Visit to Iqaluit, Nunavut

What if I don’t have a ton of money? Can I still visit Nunavut?

Because of how remote Nunavut is, going on a multi-day tour (like an arctic safari or fly-in lodge) is extremely expensive. Does this mean a lack of funds will prevent you from ever travelling to Nunavut? Heck no! Luckily, travellers can visit Iqaluit (the capital city of Nunavut) for a taste of the arctic without breaking their budget.

How do you get to Iqaluit?

As mentioned above, you can fly to Iqaluit from Ottawa or Montreal with Canadian North airlines. Flights will generally cost about $700 each way, In my post How to Visit Nunavut on the Cheap , I have some tips for getting cheap airfare to Iqaluit.

How long should you spend in Iqaluit?

I recommend travellers spend  four nights in Iqaluit . Three nights would allow you to do all the major activities, however weather can be unpredictable in Iqaluit so I think it helps to have a one day buffer.

Read more : 21 Unique Things to do in Iqaluit, Nunavut + The Ultimate Iqaluit Travel Guide

Where to Stay in Iqaluit

Iqaluit has four hotels, of which I recommend Accommodations by the Sea or The Discovery. However, as restaurants are extremely expensive in Iqaluit, I suggest looking at Airbnbs where you’ll have access to a kitchen. This is also a great way to meet residents in Iqaluit and learn more about life there.

What are the food options in Iqaluit?

There are two main grocery stores in Iqaluit – Arctic Ventures and North Mart . I think Arctic Ventures is better for produce, whereas North Mart has a greater selection of non-grocery items (it’s sort of like a Walmart in the north).

There are also some good restaurants. The Frobisher Inn has the Frob Kitchen & Eatery , and The Discovery Lodge Hotel has The Granite Room . These two options would be a little more high-end. Yummy Shawarma is also really good.

My favourites include The Storehouse (for the pool tables, though the food is decent) and Black Heart Cafe which has great lattes and amazing breakfast sandwiches (they put a hashbrown IN the sandwich – it’s heavenly). There is also a new (to me) brewery called NuBrew Co . in Iqaluit that my friends speak highly of, though I’ve never been there myself.

What activities are there to do in Iqaluit?

Many of the activities listed in 10 Incredible Things to do in Nunavut can be done in Iqaluit. This includes snowmobiling, dogsledding, kayaking, hiking, ATV-ing and cultural activities. I’ve written posts dedicated to my favourite activities and linked them below. I recommend contacting Inukpak Outfitting , as they lead most of the tours in and around Iqaluit.

Over Arctic Ocean & Endless Tundra: Snowmobiling in Iqaluit : If you’re visiting between February and April, one activity I recommend is snowmobiling on the arctic ocean. Whether you’ve snowmobiled before or you’re brand new, you’ll have an unreal experience snowmobiling here.

Ruff Riding: Dogsledding in Iqaluit : Thinking of going dogsledding in Iqaluit? Read about my experience dogsledding and all the information you need to book this experience yourself.

Stories from Living in Nunavut

As I said, I lived in Nunavut for four months when I was working as a tour guide. I led groups to hike onto the tundra, kayak around icebergs and more. It was a crazy summer and I picked up a few stories from my time living there.

How a flaming wooden dog gave me a social life in the Arctic : The story of a lonely girl trying to make a home in the arctic, and how one unexpected night changed everything.

North of the Arctic Circle: A Look Inside a Remote Arctic Base Camp : Go behind the scenes and into the inner workings of a remote arctic basecamp. I had the pleasure of working at one for ten days and I wish I could have stayed there longer. You can stay at one as a guest on an arctic safari.

The reality of arctic tourism, as explained by the youngest explorer to the North Pole : In this post I interviewed Tessum Weber about the harsh realities of tourism in the arctic. Astonishingly expensive trips, contributions to climate change and keeping the territory a seldom-traveled destination are all topics Tessum answers with refreshing honesty.

Travelling to Nunavut: Additional Resources

There are two destination marketing websites in Nunavut: Destination Nunavut and   Nunavut Tourism . Both websites provide information to help you plan and book your trip.

I hope this has been helpful. Should you have any other questions, please comment below.

Mikaela | Voyageur Tripper

Mikaela has been canoeing, hiking and camping for over ten years. She previously worked as a canoeing guide in Canada, and spent a season guiding hiking and kayaking tours in the high Arctic. Mikaela is a Wilderness First Responder and Whitewater Rescue Technician.

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What a magical place this is!! Nunavut seems like a wonderful place to visit. Off the beaten path but with all the essentials. I love the sled dogs, too!

Yes, it’s a beautiful place for sure, Alexandra! The dogs sure are cute. Thanks for the comment!

This looks like such a peaceful destination! I would love to visit someday and try dog sledding. Kayaking looks beautiful as well! Thanks for the tips!

You’re welcome Jordan! Glad you liked it. Dog sledding was great because, well, dogs. But honestly I preferred snowmobiling! Either way, tons to do up north. Hope you can make the trip up!

Oh my God,what an incredible place ,I wish to visit Nunavut sometime .loved all your pics.thanks for inspiring

Thanks Madhu! I’m glad you liked it. Nunavut really is an incredible place.

How interesting to discover this destination with you Mikaela! I am in awe with the landscapes and all the activities you can do here! It looks so amazing! Impressive that you lived there for 4 months too 🙂

It was a crazy four months for sure, Ophelie. I’d love to do it again (though maybe not in the winter).

I was just talking to my boyfriend about how we should go travel through Nunavut today! Love this post and am definitely saving it for our trip!

Oh yay I’m so excited about that Bettina! I really hope you’re able to make the trip next year!

Nunavut looks like such a snowy and beautiful place! I would love to visit.

Thanks for commenting Francesca, it really is! I hope you’re able to visit!

How about visiting in December? The websites mentioned have lots of info but limited on dates. Some tour company sites do not work or respond.

Hi Elizabeth – check out this post for complete information: https://www.voyageurtripper.com/what-is-the-best-time-of-year-to-visit-nunavut/

But in general, I don’t think December would be the ideal month. There’s a lot of darkness and you can’t do many of the activities outlined in the guide.

We are two retired Australians travelling to Nunavut in March-April 2024. l have tried everywhere to see if we might require a permit in Nunavut. We are visiting Ilaquit, Rankin Inlet, Arctic Bay and Resolute. Also, it is confusing as to which settlements are “dry” and not allowing alcohol. Can you please give us any advice? Thank you very much! Wendy. February 2024.

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Discover The Best Things To Do In Nunavut

Discover Nunavut

Canada’s only entirely Indigenous-run territory, Nunavut stands out among the most sought-after travel experiences in Canada.

The near-legendary, status of travel in Nunavut isn’t just due to the fascinating culture, which is over 84% Inuit, or the fact that Nunavut is truly the home of unicorns, the near-mythical three-meter-long narwhal whales that make their home in the icy waters of the Arctic Ocean.

The draw of travel in Nunavut lies as much in the challenge to get there as it does in the incredible experiences that can be had once you arrive.

There are no roads that lead to Nunavut. Accessing the remote towns requires either hiking through the wilderness, flying into one of the small airports, or arriving by boat in places such as the capital of Iqaluit on Baffin Island. A capital with a population of less than 8,000 people.

Come Travel Nunavut With Us

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Indigenous women in Northern Canada creating sustainable livelihoods through tourism

Associate Professor, School of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Toronto Metropolitan University

Project Manager of the Northern WE in Tourism study

Disclosure statement

Sonya Graci consults to the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada. The Northern WE in Tourism study is funded by the Government of Canada under the Future Skills program in partnership with the Diversity Institute at Toronto Metropolitan University.

Yvette Rasmussen works for the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada. The Northern WE in Tourism study receives funding from the Future Skills program.

Toronto Metropolitan University provides funding as a founding partner of The Conversation CA.

Toronto Metropolitan University provides funding as a member of The Conversation CA-FR.

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In summer 2022, the Northern WE in Tourism study invited Indigenous women entrepreneurs from northern Newfoundland and Labrador, northern Québec, Nunavut, the Yukon and Northwest Territories to collaborate on an Indigenous-led and ally-supported research project.

In our conversations with Indigenous women entrepreneurs and the organizations that provide support to them, we learned that to create sustainable livelihoods, there should be “ nothing about us without us .”

Using Two-Eyed Seeing to guide our journey, we focused one eye on Indigenous knowledge and the other on Western perspectives to find common ground and pathways to sustainable livelihoods.

Developed by Mi'kmaw Elder Albert Marshall in 2004, Two-Eyed Seeing is a practice that provides a way of bringing Indigenous and Western worldviews together.

Over shared stories of lived experiences and examples of best practices, participants discussed the barriers faced by Indigenous women entrepreneurs in the North and their colonial origins.

History of colonization

The Indian Act devastated the human rights of Indigenous Peoples. Government programs normalized public views of Indigenous people as inferior, advancing assimilation efforts to resolve Canada’s so-called “ Indian Problem .”

With the government classifying Indigenous people as male persons with Indian blood, it further disenfranchised Indigenous women. If an Indigenous woman married outside her community, she lost her status . Her children were also denied their right to status, setting the foundation for intergenerational vulnerability and cultural alienation.

Today, Indigenous women are 3.5 times more likely to experience violence than their non-Indigenous counterparts.

Almost 1,200 missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls were identified by law enforcement between 1980 and 2012. The victim count grows to this day. Other compounding factors Indigenous women are faced with include racism, sexual identity, poverty and isolation.

The creation of Residential Schools attended by at least 150,000 Indigenous children , and the Sixties Scoop which saw tens of thousands of First Nations, Métis and Inuit children separated from their families, decimated Indigenous communities.

Read more: 'Every child matters': One year after the unmarked graves of 215 Indigenous children were found in Kamloops

What does this have to do with sustainable livelihoods or this study? Everything.

Indigenous tourism

Anything that sustainably connects people to the planet and their culture by providing sustenance through entrepreneurship is tourism. This includes more conventional things like tours and visitor accommodations. It also includes less conventional things like authentic crafts, music and dance, food and healing, ceremony and storytelling.

Inuvialuk fashion designer and social media influencer, Taalrumiq , explained:

“We lost so much of our culture, our language, and our identity due to colonization, so it’s important to create pieces that celebrate us, to remember where we come from, who we come from, and what we are capable of.”

Today, tourism training aligned with the Canadian education system and financial programs and the policies that govern them are predominantly developed by non-Indigenous people.

Non-Indigenous organizations determine who qualifies for training and financial support . These conventional systems are not designed to factor the lived realities of Indigenous women into their operations.

The complex challenges facing Indigenous women in Canada’s North cannot be resolved in isolation or at the discretion of the entities that created them.

Often lacking Western educational requirements, business experience or associated skill sets, Indigenous women experience significant bias in accessing support. Geographic location, infrastructure deficits and poverty compound barriers.

Taalrumiq was born in an Indian hospital and is part of the last generation of Residential School children from her community . The hardship of leaving home to attend a Western institution was too much for many of her peers who dropped out of school. Taalrumiq also said:

“The generations before us went through so much and worked so hard for us to have this space, make our voices heard, fight for justice — and we owe it to our children and future generations to continue this work. There is still much to be done.”

Effecting systemic change is the ultimate goal of reconciliation. And tourism provides a gateway to entrepreneurship for Indigenous women, serving as a catalyst capable of influencing societal behaviour on a broader scale.

Understanding success

It’s time to refocus our lens.

Success requires healing and understanding the impact of intergenerational trauma. Viewing success through this lens places value on equity, the concept of continuity of culture and Indigenous integration and stewardship of their lands.

As Indigenous business owner Joella Hogan put it:

“I really try to lead my business with the values and teachings that I have been taught. Our Elders give us these teachings so we can be strong Northern Tutchone people and live our lives in a good way. I try to uphold these values in my daily life and in my relationships with people and with the land. For my business, everything comes back to this.”

Connecting women to sustainable livelihoods strengthens the probability of achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals that prioritize equity and inclusion. The UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples provides a road map to advance the declaration and address injustices against Indigenous people.

As Murray Sinclair, former chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, said : “We have described for you a mountain. We have shown you the path to the top. We call upon you to do the climbing.”

It is time for Indigenous-led and ally-supported solutions to create pathways to well-being by dismantling the barriers that exclude Indigenous women from building sustainable livelihoods through tourism.

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In the Remote Northwest Territories of Canada, Indigenous Tourism Paves the Path Forward

By Sophy Roberts

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In the autumn of 1897, after gold was discovered in the Klondike, my English great-grandfather rode out from a cattle ranch near Edmonton, Alberta , to make his fortune. It was late in the season. He traveled with three Americans, eight pack ponies, a Winchester rifle, a tin billycan for tea, a Dutch oven for making bread, a goatskin coat, and a few light mining implements. But the snowfall was heavier than expected, which made the ground treacherous for the horses. When his companions decided to sit out the winter with some fur trapping, my great-grandfather sold his share of the ponies for sled dogs and hired an Indigenous tracker instead. His pace picked up, but the weather deteriorated. When supplies got dangerously low, he suggested to his tracker that they eat the dogs. Eventually, he was forced to return to England empty-handed. His diary, however, survived.

A Northwest Territories water system as seen on the flight from Yellowknife

Guide and travel entrepreneur Kylik Kisoun Taylor

My great-grandfather's account of his journey is one of the reasons the geography of northern Canada interests me: not just his descriptions of yelping huskies and crusted snow, but also the stories of Indigenous people who possessed the knowledge my great-grandfather lacked to survive. This idea jibes with Stories of Canada , a new national initiative that seeks to draw more attention to the country's Indigenous cultural traditions and tour operators, as well as to some of its lesser-known areas, including Manitoba and Nunavut . The project was spearheaded by Marc Telio, founder of the Canadian travel outfitter Entrée Destinations , in partnership with regional tourist boards, the federal government, and Indigenous community leaders. Among the 20 tours offered was a winter journey into the Northwest Territories. I wondered if I might see the boreal wilderness my great-grandfather had recounted.

Telio sent instructions to pack light. Winter weather gear would be supplied upon arrival in Yellowknife , the starting point for the trip and one of the world's best locations to see the northern lights. But this would be more than a bucket list experience of a winter wonderland under a celestial spill. The trip was born of the moral necessity to understand the injustices of colonial abuse. My great-grandfather may have acknowledged the Indigenous guide who saved his life, but left unsaid was the question of whose gold he was coming to get. As a modern Canadian with sway in the tourism industry, Telio saw an opportunity to confront such injustices. “I want to put the conversation into the room, which creates healing as well as a way to share the Indigenous culture,” he told me.

Telio was alluding to the enduring consequences of the Indian Act of 1876, the legal framework Canada used to systematize racism and facilitate the “assimilation” of its First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. The act encouraged policies that the official Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada acknowledged, in 2015, amounted to “cultural genocide”—a history contemporary Canadians are only just beginning to reckon with: the destruction of Indigenous forms of government, the expropriation of traditional lands, the creation of contained “reserves,” the erosion of Indigenous hunting rights, and the invention of residential schools for children forcibly taken from their families. The effects endure in the loss of languages and the residual trauma of generations of physical, psychological, and sexual abuse. Between the 1870s and the 1990s, an estimated 6,000 Indigenous children died or disappeared. For Canadians, the question of what really happened—and who gets to tell these stories—is acutely sensitive.

A boat waits out the winter, riverside

“It's going to be hard for you,” said Winfred Gatsi, the Zimbabwe -born tour operator and driver who picked me up at Yellowknife airport: “The Indigenous people say it's easy to talk to me, because they see similarities with the African story of colonization. There's an intergenerational distrust. It's been a history of exploitation.” But that mentality is changing, according to Keith Henry, president and chief executive officer of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada . “Tourism can be an incredibly powerful industry to help our communities reclaim their culture. It allows our people to tell the true history and story of this country, on our terms, rather than some museum curators who have decided to reposition history as some sort of glorious adventure.” Henry prefers the term “revitalization” to “reconciliation” because the latter implies that Indigenous people share responsibility for their own history of oppression. He spoke of how tourists need to know enough to be able to discern between cultural truth and superficial pastiche. “You'll never see a mass tourism effort by us,” he said, “because it's not what our communities want.”

My first night in Yellowknife I barely slept—a combination of jet lag and restless hope for a glimpse of the aurora borealis from my bedroom window at the city's Explorer Hotel . The next morning, our 20-minute ski-plane flight to Namushka Lodge swooped over forest dotted with inkblot pools and scrawled with tightly folded S bends of river. I wondered what lay within the expanding wilderness: the sacred sites, oral histories, and seams of gold that early prospectors like my great-grandfather came to excavate.

We landed in front of the lodge. Owned by Joseph and Elise Chorostkowski, it felt more like a homestay than a hotel. The lodge was on Harding Lake, pricked with islands dressed in showy hats of spruce, birch, and poplar, their leaves wrapped in folds of icy lace. The shoreline was littered with toppled trunks blackened from wildfire, each a scratch against the whiteness. (The summer after I visited, Yellowknife was evacuated when wildfires burned a swath across the territories the size of Denmark.) We went ice fishing , peering into a hole Joseph had cored through three feet of lake ice. Among the family's photo albums, I found a 1985 newspaper clipping about a houseguest who'd ventured out alone wearing two cameras and a blue jacket, never to be seen again.

Traditional teepees at Okpik Arctic Village

A scene en route to the airport in the village of Norman Wells

Yet as isolating as this place can be, life can blossom along the lakefronts, even in the cold of winter. We returned to Yellowknife on Sunday, and folks were out on the water barbecuing hotdogs with their kids, their cheeks glowing apple-red from inside fur-trimmed parkas. Others were ice fishing, taking cover from the biting wind in candy-colored shacks that can be rented for the day. In nearby Dettah, a four-mile ride from Yellowknife, we encountered a gathering of young people from the Yellowknives Dene First Nation. According to Donna Lee Demarcke, chief executive officer of Northwest Territories Tourism, members of the Dene First Nation live among the 33 Indigenous communities across the area. “When you use the word European, there are many different cultures within that collective noun,” she said. “It's the same here with the Indigenous people.”

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I entered a roomful of teenagers competing in Hand Games, an Indigenous form of gambling traditionally played for furs, dogs, and toboggans. Among the thick buzz of drums, flirting teenagers, and talkative parents, I chatted with councillor Bobby Drygeese, a descendant of multiple Dene First Nation chiefs, who is responsible for the governance and administration of Yellowknives Dene First Nation affairs. He is also the owner of B. Dene Adventures , a tourism and cultural awareness camp that teaches visitors about his people. “Tourism is a positive thing for the Northwest Territories, but we have to set limits,” he told me. “I have to seek permission to impart Indigenous knowledge from my parents. The sacred places remain very private. We don't want to bring people into our spiritual sites for them to pinpoint them on Instagram.”

That evening, we took a late-night trip to see the northern lights at Aurora Village , a slickly organized Indigenous-owned tourism operation at a lakeside location 20 minutes from Yellowknife. On a busy winter night, as many as 450 visitors are bussed in, warming up with hot chocolate and cookies in the camp's luxury teepees. The showing was undeniably magnificent, the midnight dome transformed by billowing smudges of light. But I wished I could connect more deeply with the mystery of the aurora . The Dene First Nation people traditionally believe the dance of light represents the spirits of their departed loved ones. The Inuit describe the aurora as a pathway to the heavens. But I was tired and wanted to escape the chatter of other visitors, their phones held up to the sky.

Gerry Kisoun wears traditional handmade gloves

A Swedish military vehicle from Hägglunds, used at Namushka Lodge

The next day, we flew for two hours to Inuvik, the largest town in the Northwest Territories above the Arctic Circle. I was reminded of the three years I spent in remote Siberia researching a book. The landscape and its issues felt similar: the effects of forest fires, the melting permafrost revealing itself in cracks that splice through forlorn buildings, and giant plugs of tundra that collapse like soufflés. Our guide was an Inuvialuit-Gwich'in hunter-gatherer and tourism entrepreneur named Kylik Kisoun Taylor. He told stories about his grandfather, who trapped all along the coast of the Arctic Ocean. Scientists used to tag the beluga whales by shooting pins through their fins. “My grandfather said, ‘Why do you do that?’” he recalled. “The scientists said, ‘To find out where the beluga go.’ My grandfather said, ‘Why not just ask me?’”

We spent an afternoon with Taylor at his cabin near the Mackenzie River in Okpik Arctic Village, a wooded camp of log cabins, teepees, and husky puppies. He told us he'd created it to teach tourists and schoolchildren the traditional bush arts of the Inuvialuit and Gwich'in. As Taylor talked, his cousin cut snow blocks for an igloo while Taylor's 14-year-old daughter showed us how to skin a beaver. Taylor's uncle, Gerry, couldn't speak Inuvialuktun, which the residential school had taken from him. But he acknowledged a shift: Although the government still put English and French first, the Canadian education system was now teaching his grandchildren Indigenous languages.

Taylor drove us from Inuvik along the blue vein of the Mackenzie River, which from December until early April becomes a 75-mile-long ice highway. Our destination was Aklavik, which Taylor loosely translated as “home of the barren-ground grizzly bear.” He showed us wooden cabins that had belonged to early fur trappers and the grave of the so-called Mad Trapper, who, after murdering a policeman in 1932, survived the bush in winter for weeks until he was finally shot. In town, local kids thundered around on snowmobiles, except for one: a quiet 16-year-old named Destiny. She sang me a song she'd composed; I could hear the soulful activism in her lyrics, sung in a beautiful birdlike voice. She'd written it as a warning to her peers about the dangers of using drugs.

Inuvialuit dog musher Bruce Noksana

In all these encounters I found extreme beauty as well as seriousness, which reached its crescendo in a helicopter under the pale orb of the arctic sun. This is the only easy way to reach the Richardson Mountains in winter. We hovered above the blue irises of glacial lakes before landing on a ridge blushed pink by the strange northern light, from which we could glimpse scattering moose. Then we arced up over the tree line and entered a flat white land. Below us, the settlement of Tuktoyaktuk looked like a pointed star, as if it had fallen from the sky and lodged at the edge of the frozen Arctic Ocean.

Our host was Bruce Noksana, an Inuvialuit competitive dog musher, and his friend Michele Tomasino. Noksana offered us boiled beluga whale, which we ate in blubbery, creamy chunks at his kitchen table. We talked about the Inuvialuit-Gwich'in traditional diet, and how Indigenous people kill animals such as caribou with purpose and butcher without waste.

Noksana took us out with his dog team and snowmobiles to see Tuktoyaktuk's pingos—strange geological peaks that reach as high as 160 feet, which scientists from Cornell were busy studying. “You find them on other planets,” Britney Schmidt, a climatologist, explained. “Inside, there's fresh ice water, which might be good for future astronauts to drink.” At some point, we traveled out onto the ocean itself, though I couldn't be sure when I passed the threshold between land and sea.

“Look at the snowdrift,” said Noksana. “The wind blows from west to east. Cross the drifts, and you can work out if you're going north or south.” I gripped his waist tightly, feeling, in all this vastness, a confusing mix of bewilderment and privilege. I was in awe of this place and Noksana's ease and resilience in the landscape.

Destiny, a teenager in the village of Aklavik

A view from a helicopter ride over the Richardson Mountains, which border the Yukon

On my last night in here, I experienced the northern lights again, in absolute, grateful peace, the greens leaping above my head. A scene like this shouldn't be the only reason you visit. It's a serious place, culturally, politically, climatically, logistically. You will do good by coming here; your journey will inject dollars into the Indigenous economy. Most importantly, you will have a chance to listen to people from whom we all have so much to learn.

How to do it

As part of its Stories of Canada set of trips, Entrée Destinations offers eight-night Winter in the Northwest Territories tours, starting and ending in Yellowknife, from February through April. Travelers will meet with local communities and engage in activities including snowmobiling, skiing, and northern lights excursions. Trip costs include internal flights, accommodations, guides, and most meals.

Ethical travel

Keith Henry , president and CEO of Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada and president of the BC Métis Federation , share how to respectfully interact with Indigenous communities.

Do: Ask about a community's true history and the impact of colonization and be prepared to listen. However, be sensitive if individuals choose not to engage.

Don't: Arrive with preconceived notions. Indigenous people aren't homogeneous and their lifestyles are often misrepresented in TV and film.

Do: Inform communities of any previous interactions with other Indigenous people. This will show that you're invested and engaged.

Don't: Be afraid to ask if it's okay to participate in ceremonies, meals, and other rituals the community may share with you.

Do: Support the communities by purchasing food, crafts, and other items from local entrepreneurs.

Don't: Take photos without spending some time among the community beforehand. Demonstrate a desire to be meaningfully engaged and then ask if photos are okay.

This article appeared in the March 2024 issue of  Condé Nast Traveler.  Subscribe to the magazine   here .

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Iqaluit, Nunavut: 7 WAYS TO EXPERIENCE Canada’s ARCTIC CULTURE

Ready for an obscure adventure from the depth of Arctic land? Nynavut is Canada’s sprawling northerly land where humans lived since 4500 years! Mikaela from Voyageur Tripper writes about this enthralling snow-land, its culture, way of life and other tourist attractions!

Few Canadians, let alone international travelers, could pinpoint Iqaluit, Nunavut on the map. As the capital city of Canada’s largest territory, Iqaluit is a gateway into the Eastern Arctic – a land of sprawling tundra, abundant wildlife and icebergs calving off ancient glaciers and floating by in the arctic ocean. For thousands of years this harsh environment has been home to Inuit, and their predecessors, the Thule and Dorset.

While a trip to the far reaches of the north tends to be prohibitively expensive, the adventurous soul will find plenty of cultural things to do in Iqaluit  – without breaking the bank. I spent a season leading hiking trips and supporting town tours in Iqaluit, and have guided travelers on all the activities listed below. I’ve since returned as a tourist myself. Once you’re ready to plan your trip, head over to my Ultimate Nunavut Travel Guide for tips on landing cheap flights, where to stay, additional things to do and more.

Also read: Planning a trip to Alaska

Experienced Untouched Cultural Gems of Iqaluit

Unikkaarvik visitor centre.

Start your trip at the Unikkaarvik Visitor Centre for a self-guided orientation of Nunavut. Here you’ll find information on the geography, the wildlife, and the people of Nunavut. The employees at the visitor centre are always incredibly friendly, so don’t hesitate to ask them questions.

Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum

Located right next to the Visitor Centre lies Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum , the only museum in Nunavut. The museum features exhibits promoting local culture, history and artists. In the room on the right, there are beautiful photos on the walls depicting Inuit life on the land. In the room on the left, you can see traditional hunting gear and winter clothing, and watch videos made by students from the smaller and remote communities.

Distant Early Warning Line

Following WWII, Iqaluit served as a site for a US military base. The Distant Early Warning Line (also known as the DEW Line) was constructed in the 1950s during the cold war. This radar system stretched north across the Canadian Arctic intended to detect a Russian air attack. While the system is no longer in use, you can still drive up to the radar structure and look around. On the drive up and at the top, you’ll also get a great view of Frobisher Bay and the town.

Hudson Bay Company Post buildings

In Apex, the town just 10 minutes outside of Iqaluit, you will find buildings from the Hudson Bay Company Post. Between 1914 and 1943, the post would move several times before settling in Apex. Although boarded up and privately owned now, you can visit the buildings and see them for yourself.

Legislative Assembly of Nunavut

Prior to 1999, Nunavut was part of The Northwest Territories. However, the people of what is now Nunavut desired their own territory – to govern themselves in a way more closely tied to their culture, including the use of Inuktitut as an official government language. After three decades of work Nunavut became a territory, and Iqaluit its capital city. You’ll learn all this and more on a free tour of the Legislative Assembly ( call ahead to schedule a tour ).

Take a Town Tour

The easiest way to see all of the above is to take a town tour with Inukpak Outfitters . Not only will this provide easy transportation, but your guide will be able to provide you with rich context behind what it is you’re seeing.

Cultural Events

Throughout the year there are a few cultural events you may be interested in. National Indigenous Peoples Day is June 21 and there is a celebration open to everyone. Alianait is a music festival in June each year with artists coming to perform from across the north. Toonik Tyme occurs in April and is an annual 10-day celebration of Inuit culture and the welcoming of spring.

Also read: The story of Bodo tribesmen who brought back the population of one-horned rhino from the brink of extinction.

Activities Out on the Land in Iqaluit, Nunavut

The land in Iqaluit, Nunavut itself has a story to tell.

No trip to Nunavut is complete without time spent on the tundra or on the arctic ocean . For the three activities listed below, you’ll want to contact an outfitter ahead of time to schedule.

Snowmobiling  

Perhaps my favourite activity in Iqaluit, a snowmobile ride on the frozen arctic ocean is unlike any other experience. Iqaluit lies on the coast of Frobisher Bay, which is home to the second highest tides in the world. When the tide comes out, all of the ice lowers (like an exhaling chest). Ice in contact with the land, however, remains in place causing ice cliffs to form along the shoreline.

Dog Sledding  

Inuit traditionally traveled by dog sled. Although very few still use dogs as their primary means of travel, there are outfitters who can take you out on the land with a dog sled team. Although slower than a snowmobile, this mode of transportation howls and likes its ears pet.

Hiking on the Tundra

Walk along the rocks of the Precambrian Shield , some of the oldest rocks in the world. In fact, the oldest fossil scientists have uncovered (a species of red algae) was found on Baffin Island (the land upon which Iqaluit rests). Lace up your hiking boots and walk along the Apex trail, which traces the coastline from Iqaluit to the nearby town of Apex, or head to Sylvia Grinnell Territorial Park and walk beside the bright blue, glacially-fed, river.

Also read: My intense journey through the Amazon forest!

Where to buy Indigenous Art in Nunavut?

Indigenous art is world renowned and there is no better place to buy some than in Nunavut itself. Here are a few places you can go to buy Indigenous art in Iqaluit.

The art museum has some beautiful pieces for sale. You’ll find wildlife carvings, jewelry, wall hangings and more. I purchased this felt polar bear wall hanging from the museum. The arctic ocean, tundra and an Innunguat stitched onto the belly.

Rannva Designs

Here is where you’ll find the most beautiful clothing and accessories, like coats and mittens made of sealskin, mittens from beaver fur, and fabric designs hand sewn. I purchased the mittens below from here; they’re made of beaver fur and incredibly warm.

The Storehouse Bar & Grill

Sometimes artists will come through with their art for sale. You’ll often get a better price with the artist directly than if you buy from a store or museum. Northern Collectables

The art store downtown has a wide selection of art created by artists across the territory. The pieces are absolutely beautiful, but I’ve never purchased art from here myself because it is so much more expensive than buying from an artist directly

Also read: The Terracotta Horses of Bankura, a unique souvenir to buy when in India!

Great Food & Drink in Iqaluit, Nunavut

Experience the liveliness of Iqaluit’s community by visiting some of its newest food joints. Residents in Iqaluit are friendly and community-oriented, so don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with the person next to you!

Black Heart Cafe

This fun cafe has the best breakfast sandwiches and the prettiest lattes. Come here for a coffee before starting your day or stop by for lunch in between activities.

Who knew you could have a brewery in the middle of the arctic? The most northerly brewery in Canada, NuBrew features several of its own beers and offers live music / events. Check out their Facebook page for what’s going on!

I hope this has inspired you to consider Iqaluit, Nunavut as your next travel destination. If you have any questions, please reach out to me!

Meet Mikaela, Author of this blogpost

Mikaela is the voice behind Voyageur Tripper , an outdoor adventure blog dedicated to canoeing, camping and arctic travel. She spent a season working in Iqaluit, Nunavut as a wilderness guide and completely fell in love with the arctic. On her blog you’ll find dozens of resources for planning a trip to Nunavut. Feel free to reach out to her on Instagram if you have any questions about planning a trip to the north.

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Meet the Indigenous People of Nunavut: One of the Youngest Ancient Civilizations

The largest and newest territory of Canada, Nunavut officially separated from the Northwest Territories in 1999. Not to be confused with Nunavik, a region in northern Quebec, Nunavut is the least populated territory in Canada and one of the most sparsely settled regions in the world, despite it’s size. So who lives there? The Intuits.

The northernmost permanently inhabited place in the world, Alert, a military base is just over 500 miles from the North Pole. With a population estimate around 33,000 people, nearly three quarters of those less than 40 years old. Despite the youthfulness population now, archaeologists and geneticists cite that the region has been home to the civilization for over 4,000 years. The ancestors originally migrated to the area from the Bering Strait (which separates Asia from North America) due to climate change.

Intuit Culture

“Inuit” means “human beings” or “the people,” referring to the indigenous people of Nunavut, as well as those living in the Northwest Territories, Greenland and Alaska.

Their culture has adapted to survive living in the extreme arctic conditions and centers around trapping, hunting and fishing with a traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle. The earliest forms of transportation were seal-skin covered kayaks called qajaq, whereas sled dogs were used on land. Walrus ivory was essential to make knives and tools, along with animal hides, driftwood, and bones.

Today, you can get a taste of Intuit culture at the Qimatuligvik Heritage Organization to learn about marble carving and other crafts or visit the Iqaluit’s Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum on Arctic life. For a more immersive experience, try camping in a traditional igloo or do a homestay with an Intuit family.

And just as a note on political correctness, don’t call them Eskimos. “Eskimo” is a generic term that includes multiple indigenous groups such as the Inuit, Aleut, Iñupiat, and Yupik people.

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Pull up a seat at one of the many Indigenous owned eateries from sea to sea to sea. All across the country, authentic Indigenous chefs and culinary experts are cooking up delicacies that infuse modern recipes with traditional techniques and flair. Here, you’ll find everything from cozy bistros and premade spice mixes to large catering operations and upscale restaurants.

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Home › News › ITAC and Travel Nunavut are working together to support Indigenous tourism development in Canada’s North.

ITAC and Travel Nunavut are working together to support Indigenous tourism development in Canada’s North.

  October 29, 2019, Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), Vancouver, BC – The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is working closely with Travel Nunavut to support Indigenous tourism development, including offering free ITAC memberships to all Travel Nunavut’s Indigenous members.

Travel Nunavut has been in operation since 1998 and of their 140 members, 60 are Inuit-owned and operated tourism businesses.

“With demand for Indigenous tourism experiences growing across Canada, we are also fielding numerous requests from international tour operators for more experiences in Canada’s north. We welcome this opportunity to work more closely with Travel Nunavut by engaging their Inuit members with our team, and supporting training and product development,” says Keith Henry, President and CEO of ITAC. “We do see this as a win-win, as it allows our team to learn more about the needs of our most northern Indigenous members.”

Travel Nunavut’s principal mandate is to build and serve its membership, provide workshops, increase benefits and advocate on behalf of members. Additionally, Travel Nunavut will have a strategic framework in place to increase industry standards in the areas of training and product development in collaboration with the Economic, Development and Transportation of Nunavut.

“Working with ITAC will not only expand our capacity to support our Indigenous tourism operators, it will help broaden our ability to market to our target traveller the range and quality of experiences available to visitors coming to Nunavut looking for Indigenous tourism,” says Kevin Kelly, CEO of Travel Nunavut.

Examples of Inuit owned tourism business in Nunavut include:

Arctic Bay Adventures , a locally run adventure company that is part of the Inuit owned and operated community of Arctic Bay. Arctic Bay offers a variety of packages that showcase the Inuit culture, wildlife and dramatic landscapes of the far north including “Life on the Floe Edge”, “Igloo City in Arctic Bay” and “Arctic in Bloom”.

Igloo Tourism and Outfitting is an Inuit owned and operated company that offers a wide variety of packages including fishing, scenic boat tours and customized wildlife viewing excursions, showcasing the traditional skills needed to hunt and survive in the Canadian north.

Inns North is a collection of 17 hotels owned and operated by community members across Nunavut.

About Travel Nunavut Travel Nunavut is a not-for-profit membership association that encourages tourism development by providing specialized knowledge and expertise in four key areas: marketing, research and communication, market readiness, and advocacy. We exist to support and promote our members’ products and services to the world. Travel Nunavut seeks partnerships with governments, Inuit Associations, communities, and tourism operators to promote tourism opportunities that encourage sustainable economic growth, cultural preservation and sustainable social benefits for Nunavummiut.

About the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada The Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) is the lead organization tasked with growing the Indigenous tourism industry across the country. Inspired by a vision for a thriving Indigenous tourism economy sharing authentic, memorable and enriching experiences, ITAC develops relationships with other groups and regions with similar mandates. By uniting the Indigenous tourism industry in Canada, ITAC works to enable collective support, product development, promotion and marketing of authentic Indigenous cultural tourism businesses in a respectful protocol. With Indigenous tourism outpacing Canadian tourism activity overall, and international demand for Indigenous experiences at an all-time high, ITAC recently updated its  five-year plan . To view packages and experiences available visit  IndigenousCanada.Travel . For more information on ITAC visit  IndigenousTourism.ca

Media contacts: Deirdre Campbell, Beattie Tartan 250-592-3838, 250-882-9199 (cell) [email protected]

Keith Henry, Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada 604-639-4408, 778-388-5013(cell) [email protected]

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Growing up alongside a territory: Youth reflect on 25 years of Nunavut

After a quarter century on the map, nunavut youth are left with feelings of hope, disappointment.

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Nunavut redesigned Canada's map when it officially became a territory on April 1, 1999. 

Covering 2 million square kilometres and a fifth of the country, the creation of Nunavut ultimately gave the territory's Inuit control of their future. 

But 25 years of Nunavut has since left some with feelings of both hope and disappointment, especially for the new generation that has emerged since the territory was created. 

Born shortly after the spring solstice in 1999, Eva Muckpah is part of a group of Nunavummiut who have grown up alongside the territory itself. 

Muckpah is studying to be a social worker at Nunavut Arctic College — a job desperately needed in a territory with a severe shortage of Inuit social workers. 

"Hopefully in the future, there'll be more Inuit in the services so that they know and understand what the families are going through," Muckpah said. 

For Premier P.J. Akeeagok, the younger generation in Nunavut is one of the territory's greatest strengths. 

"I see so much optimism and so much hope when I see the youth that are pursuing their dreams," Akeeagok said. 

A territory in its prime 

Not only is Nunavut the youngest member of Canada's Confederation, it's also the youngest demographically speaking. Around one in two people living in the territory are under the age of 25, according to the most recent census data. 

Akeeagok embodies this reality himself, having been chosen as premier at the age of 37, making him the youngest in the role in Canada at the time. 

Twenty years earlier, Nunavut's first premier Paul Okalik had broken a similar record when he was elected at the age of 34. 

Today, Akeeagok says the time of Nunavut being looked upon as a young territory is slowly fading. 

"I believe we've gone through that initial stage of the growth," he said, comparing the territory to "an igloo being built." 

"You need to have a solid foundation, to ensure that, by the time you get to the top, it will withstand the different pressures, whether they're positive, or the challenges that we face as a territory."

Broken promises

Akeeagok's sense of optimism about the territory isn't exactly shared by the younger generation. Many young Nunavummiut say they have lost confidence in public institutions because of Nunavut's persistent challenges. 

"I feel that our people have been failed by the government multiple times," said Julia Angoo, also a social work student at Nunavut Arctic College. 

"I feel that our people have taken too many broken promises from the government."

Angoo notes, among other things, the territory's housing crisis, food insecurity and addiction issues fuelled by intergenerational trauma. 

Overcrowded housing, which continues to affect one in two Inuit, is a challenge with rippling effects. It damages mental and physical health, according to the federal housing advocate in a November 2023 report . 

As of Sept. 30, the wait list for public housing was 3,305 people long, according to the Nunavut Housing Corp. 

"How is anybody expected to thrive if they don't have proper housing and if they don't have food security?" said Derek Irwin, an environmental technology student. 

"You can't focus on education," Irwin said. "You're only focused on survival."

"I think Nunavut's biggest step is to get housing secured and food security," he added. 

The territory's long-standing dependence on Ottawa also complicates its future, since approximately 80 per cent of Nunavut's revenues come from federal transfers. 

Akeeagok said his government is well-aware of these issues and he has made them his priority. 

"There's really so many challenges that are there, but I always see things very optimistically and from a positive viewpoint," he said. 

Projects in progress

Despite its challenges, Akeeagok believes Nunavut is headed in the right direction. 

In October 2022, his government launched Nunavut 3,000, which aims to build 3,000 new homes in the territory by 2030. 

In an email to Radio-Canada, the Nunavut Housing Corp. said 151 housing projects were completed in 2022, and 119 in 2023. From now until the end of 2024, another 152 new builds are expected. 

Nunavut's future recovery centre, Aqqusariaq, is also supposed to respond to the territory's pressing needs in terms of addiction and trauma treatment. 

Once built, the facility will provide treatment based on Inuit values and culture, including healing programs on the land in Iqaluit and in other communities. 

"I believe good outcomes will come from this," Angoo said. 

Full control 

In January, Nunavut and Canada  signed a long-awaited devolution agreement to return control of lands and resources from the federal government to the territory. 

The transfer, which will officially take place in three years, is the culmination of years of negotiation between Ottawa and Nunavut. 

• 'It's high time': Nunavut officially takes over land, resource responsibilities from feds
• Audio Nunavut premier wants Ottawa to match its investment in housing

Jeffrey Maurice, the senior advisor for Nunavut's Devolution Secretariat, said devolution was "a big piece in terms of coming to fruition as a territory." He also noted the job opportunities it will create for the younger generation. 

"Nunavut will now have more autonomy in terms of its making decisions and natural resources within the territory," Maurice said. 

Irwin is also confident when he visualizes the future of the territory. 

The 25-year-old student, the same age as the territory, believes Nunavut rests in the hands of his generation. He also said his territory will always be considered the country's youngest.  

"I don't know if it will stop being labelled as a young territory. A lot of the population is very young and I think it'll continue to be young for a long time," Irwin said. 

"Youth are at the forefront of this change and evolution."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Matisse Harvey is a reporter with Radio-Canada in Iqaluit.

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Tourism Research

Nunavut visitor exit survey.

In 2015, Travel Nunavut partnered with the Department of Economic Development and Transportation (EDT) to gather information about visitors to Nunavut through a Visitor Exit Survey. The survey provided insight on the number of visitors to Nunavut, spending patterns, demographic information, regional data and much more.

For a quick snapshot of key findings from the exit survey report, click on the infographics below.

Destination Canada

Destination Canada conducts extensive tourism research providing insight on tourism in Canada, with a focus on 11 key international markets: the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Mexico, Australia, China, India, Japan and South Korea.

Visit Destination Canada’s corporate website to browse through their library of reports.

Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC)

As Canada’s national tourism industry association, TIAC conducts a significant amount of research on tourism in Canada including visitor spending trends, sector-specific studies and much more.

Visit TIAC’s Resources page to view the full list of downloadable reports.

Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC)

ITAC and Destination Canada partnered on a research study in 2017 to gain an understanding of what the USA traveller thinks about Indigenous tourism experiences in Canada. They created a report to help Indigenous tourism entrepreneurs and communities involved in tourism make the most of the research findings and maximize your marketing plans.

Read the USA Market Research Perceptions & Recommendations report here .

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Statement by the Honourable Dan Vandal on the 25th anniversary of the creation of Nunavut

From: Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada

Twenty-five years ago today, Nunavut was established, fulfilling a long-standing goal of Inuit for greater control over their lands and determination about their future.

Ottawa, Ontario (April 1, 2024) — The Honourable Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs, issued the following statement today:

“Twenty-five years ago today, Nunavut was established, fulfilling a long-standing goal of Inuit for greater control over their lands and determination about their future.

Today, we join communities across Nunavut to mark this important milestone, celebrate the unique history and heritage of the people who call Nunavut their home and reflect on the significant cultural, social, and economic contributions they make to Canada and the world.

Since its creation on April 1, 1999, Nunavut has made significant strides in governance, education, and economic development while retaining and enhancing its unique languages, cultures, and ways of life. Nunavut serves as a model for Indigenous leadership, empowerment, and collaboration, demonstrating the importance and benefits of recognizing and respecting Indigenous rights, sovereignty, and self-determination.

Another milestone in self-determination was celebrated this past January in Nunavut, where the Government of Nunavut, Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated, and the Government of Canada, having worked tirelessly for many years as partners to further realize the goal of self-determination for Nunavummiut, signed the Nunavut Lands and Resources Devolution Agreement.

No one knows every fjord, every glacier, every migration route better than Nunavummiut. Devolution is the recognition of the values and outcomes of Inuit stewardship of Nunavut since time immemorial. Through this historic agreement, Nunavut and Nunavummiut will benefit from the ability to make decisions about lands administration and resource development.

Today, as we celebrate the accomplishments of the past 25 years and reflect on the efforts of many past generations, we also look forward to the next 25 years and beyond. Let us build on these successes, continue our collaborative work to advance reconciliation, and build on our shared priorities in support of the self-determination of Nunavummiut.”

For more information, media may contact:

Carson Debert Press Secretary Office of the Honourable Dan Vandal Minister of Northern Affairs [email protected]

Media Relations Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada 819-934-2302 [email protected]

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Indigenous Tourism Experiences In North America Everyone Should Try

Posted: March 1, 2024 | Last updated: March 1, 2024

Supporting First Nations

Indigenous tourism experiences offer exciting insights into the culture, history, beliefs and lifestyle of ancient peoples who have lived in North America for thousands of years. From the frozen Canadian Arctic to the dusty plains of the southwestern United States, across endless plains and awe-inspiring national parks, hundreds of Indigenous-owned travel experiences let visitors truly connect to the land and the proud people who call it home.

Click through the gallery to discover the best Indigenous tourism experiences in the USA and Canada...

Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Center, Whistler, British Columbia, Canada

The Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Center relates the Squamish people's unique culture, history and customs, which have been passed down through the centuries, from generation to generation, solely by oral traditions. The main museum and galleries showcase the distinctive art and craft which have defined them, from beautiful weaving and intricate regalia to carved house posts and canoes made from cedar. One building reflects a traditional Squamish longhouse, where guides share traditional songs on drums.

Wanuskewin Heritage Park, Saskatchewan, Canada

Set on the flat plains on the outskirts of Saskatoon, the largest city in Canada’s vast Saskatchewan province, Wanuskewin is a multi-award-winning immersion into the remarkable history and culture of the Northern Plains Indigenous peoples. Wanuskewin has been a gathering place and sacred site for more than 6,400 years, making it around 1,900 years older than the Pyramids of Giza. Visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to experiences and activities, all of which reveal much about ancient ways of life.

An interactive visitor center lets you discover the secrets of hunting bison and includes Indigenous art displays and traditional dance exhibitions. Sleepovers in tipis are even an option for those who want to fully immerse themselves. Traditional games let kids of all ages understand how children were taught skills to survive the incredibly challenging natural environment. Remarkable exhibits explain how Canada’s longest running archaeological dig within the park has produced hundreds of thousands of artifacts, including 1,000-year-old petroglyphs. Then, more than 3.5 miles of walking trails reveal the remarkable landscape where mighty bison roam to this day.

Huron Village, Quebec, Canada

The storied history of the proud Huron-Wendat Nation is told at Huron Village, an easily accessible and urban Indigenous tourism experience in Canada's Quebec province. Located around 15 minutes from Quebec City, visitors discover how the Iroquoian-speaking nation was established in the 17th century. Storytelling guides take guests on tours which present their beliefs, customs and lifestyles through age-old tales and legends, including the creation of the world. 

Klahoose Wilderness Resort, British Columbia, Canada

The remote and stunning Klahoose Wilderness Resort sits on the lands of the Klahoose people who have lived in the region ‘since time before memory.’ Living on territories rich in land and water resources, their ancestors carefully managed fish and wildlife for future generations. In the 19th century, however, government surveyors restricted them to 10 reserves, greatly limiting their ability to survive or grow and even banning their cultural ceremonies.

Klahoose Resort, British Columbia, Canada

In recent years, their remarkable traditions have been revived; many of which are shared with visitors to this luxurious and sustainable eco-resort, set amidst a pristine wilderness. Guests can view grizzly bears through spring, summer and autumn, spot pods of orcas or join tours of salmon runs led by Indigenous guides. A boat or seaplane is the only option to get there, ensuring utter peace and tranquillity. It's the perfect setting to embrace the land’s natural and supernatural spirits and gifts, with the traditional Klahoose greeting song ringing in your ears.

Arctic Bay Adventures, Nunavut, Canada

Unimaginably vast, Baffin Island is the world’s fifth largest island and home to the Inuit-owned Indigenous tourism business, Arctic Bay Adventures. Sitting amidst jaw-dropping mountains high above the Arctic Circle, Arctic Bay ranks among the top 10 most northerly communities on the planet. The Inuktitut name for Arctic Bay is Ikpiarjuk and today the settlement is home to around 800 people.

Arcitc Bay's packages are designed and led by local Inuit guides, who have unmatched knowledge and experience of the breathtaking landscape. Dog sledding guarantees a remarkable adrenaline rush, while ocean tours include the majestic beauty of icebergs, polar bears and magnificent orca whales. Slightly less active pursuits include learning how to build an igloo or witnessing the Northern Lights dance across the sky. 

Oglala Lakota Living History Village, South Dakota, USA

The Oglala are one of seven tribes of the Lakota people, the majority of whom live on the US’ eighth largest Native American reservation, Pine Ridge. Famed for their fierceness and bravery as legendary warriors, the Lakota tribe today have taken that reputation to become modern warriors, meaning entrepreneurs, activists, scholars and role models. Sitting by the famed landscapes of South Dakota’s Badlands National Park, The Oglala Lakota Living History Village allows them to tell their remarkable history and current day story through expressive song and dance.

Mohawk Cultural Tours, New York, USA

The Haudenosaunee people in upstate New York have a proud, dynamic culture. Their name, which means “people who build a house," refers to a peaceful confederation between six Native American nations, also known as the Iroquois Confederacy, each with their own distinct identity and language, including the Mohawks.

Key elements of Mohawk life are featured across three in-person experiences led by Mohawk Cultural Tours by Akwesasne Travel. Mohawk people who live the culture and know it best are the hosts, sharing their fascinating knowledge, expertise and stories with visitors. Experiences include a traditional basket weaving tour with an award-winning artist, before participants create their own bookmark using ancient artisanal techniques. Crafting lacrosse sticks reflects the sport’s ancient Indigenous origins, while stunning baskets are handwoven and carry great cultural significance.  

Abegweit Mi’kmaq, Prince Edward Island, Canada

Canada’s Prince Edward Island may be the country’s smallest province, but it is rich in landscapes and culture, particularly in the Abegweit Mi’Kmaq Nation who have lived in the region for more than 10,000 years. 'Abegweit' is an Anglicised version of 'Epekwitk' in the Mi’kmaq language, which is the Mi'kmaq's name for Prince Edward Island. Community elders and knowledge-keepers offer tours and events showcasing elements of the Mi’kmaq language, culture and traditions.

Warrior Women, Alberta, Canada

The Sturgeon Lake First Nation is a vibrant community located in the wild and beautiful forests of Canada’s Saskatchewan province. As Sturgeon Lake Cree First Nations Warrior Women, Matricia Bauer and her daughter Mackenzie aim to reconnect members of their community with their culture and embrace their heritage through authentic relationships with tourists. 

Canyon de Chelly Tours, Arizona, USA

The lands around the popular tourist destination of Canyon de Chelly have been home to the Diné people, part of the Navajo Nation, for more than 5,000 years. Indeed, no one has lived longer uninterrupted on the vast Colorado Plateau centered on the Four Corners of the southwestern US – Arizona, Utah, Colorado and New Mexico. In the canyon – which they call 'tsegi,' meaning rock canyon – the Navajo Nation people raise livestock, farm the land and manage its resources. You can't miss Spider Rock, the sandstone spire that rises from the foot of the canyon (pictured), so named after Spider Woman, a woman from Navajo legend who taught her people how to weave.

Navajo Nation Bike Tour, Arizona, USA

Until recently, bike tours weren't even legally recognized on land in the Navajo Nation, which has a land base that occupies parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. But now, serious cyclists have embraced the chance to discover the unique ways, sights and culture of the Navajo people and their land with adventures led by Native American guides at Dzil Ta’ah Adventures. The company was granted a permit in 2020 for overnight bike trips and now not only celebrates Navajo creation stories and history, but all revenue from the tours goes back as investments into Navajo communities.

Haida Gwaii, British Columbia, Canada

Cabin-based packages through Haida House Lodge in Haida Gwaii, remote British Columbia, explain why this land at the edge of the world is known as the 'Galapagos of the North.' The Haida people are an Indigenous group who have inhabited the Haida Gwaii archipelago for at least 12,500 years, so remarkable encounters and cultural insights are guaranteed in this ancient and mystical land, surrounded by lush rainforests with rare flora and fauna at every turn.

Treasured heritage sites guided by Haida experts unveil remnants from the past, and unique local cuisine wows and surprises. Haida Gwaii’s Graham and Moresby Islands are one focus, while Haida House lodge and oceanside cabins make for the perfect retreat at the end of the day. Nestled seamlessly in the wild landscape, they feature thoughtful touches by local artists and even a private deck-top hot tub to soothe weary limbs.

Sun Tours on Blackfeet Reservation, Glacier National Park, Montana, USA

Sun Tours is an authorized partner of the National Park Service and a local Blackfeet Tribal business based on the Blackfeet Reservation, which borders the entire eastern side of Montana’s vast Glacier National Park. As residents of the reservation since at least the 17th century, no one is better placed to educate and inspire visitors on all elements of the land and tribal life.

Ute Mountain Tribal Park, Colorado, USA

Ute Mountain Tribal Park sits within the Ute Reservation in southwest Colorado and focuses on the preservation of cultural history through tours across 125,000 acres of undisturbed ancestral Pueblo ruins. Fascinating tours by local Ute guides are the only way to see them and the extraordinary collection of dwellings and petroglyphs which dot the geological formations, canyons and trails. 

A selection of tours include the remarkable Casa Colorado and Casa Blanca cliff dwellings. Pottery shards scatter the land, untouched for centuries in line with sacred beliefs to not disturb what is found. The Ute Mountain Tribal Park also offers a chance to escape the crowds of the much more popular Mesa Verde, with visitors frequently enjoying parts of the park and canyon entirely to themselves.

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