Baffin Island Travel Guide

Discover the natural beauty, culture, and unique experiences of Baffin Island with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Baffin Island

Baffin Island is the largest island in Canada and the fifth-largest in the world. Nestled in the Arctic region of Canada, it is a unique destination with breathtaking landscapes and a thriving Inuit culture. Baffin Island is surrounded by water on three sides and features stunning fjords, mountains, glaciers, and wildlife. Visitors to Baffin Island can expect to have an unforgettable experience exploring its pristine beauty, vibrant culture, and outdoor experiences.

List of Places to Visit in Baffin Island

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Baffin Island is rich in Inuit culture and history. Visitors can immerse themselves in the culture and learn about the history of the Inuit people at the following museums and historical places:

  • Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum: This museum showcases Inuit art and artifacts, and provides insights into the Inuit’s traditional lifestyle and modern-day societal contributions.

  • Auyuittuq National Park: Located on Cumberland Sound in the Qikiqtaaluk Region of Nunavut, this park is home to traditional campsites, hiking trails, and ancient Inuit hunting grounds.

  • Inuksuk High School: This is one of the few high schools in Nunavut, and it provides many cultural programs to its students, including drumming, throat singing, and traditional dance.

Natural Attractions of Baffin Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Baffin Island is a nature lover’s haven with countless breathtaking natural attractions that offer visitors the opportunity to explore and experience the region’s unique beauty.

  • Sirmilik National Park: Located off of Baffin Island’s eastern coast, Sirmilik National Park is home to fjords, high peaks, and glaciers. Visitors can partake in a variety of activities including kayaking, hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing.

  • Quttinirpaaq National Park: This park sits in the northernmost point of Baffin Island and is home to a breathtaking polar desert, mountains, and rare arctic flora and fauna.

  • Auyuittuq National Park: Visitors can take in stunning views of Baffin Island’s jagged granite peaks, glacial valleys, and narrow fjords on hiking tours or by hiring a local guide.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Baffin Island

Baffin Island offers visitors endless hiking and biking opportunities. Some of the most popular stretches of land to experience this pristine wilderness include:

  • Akshayuk Pass: This is a challenging 97 km trail that runs through Auyuittuq National Park and offers stunning views of glaciers and icefields.

  • Pond Inlet Trail: This 10 km trail is an easy hike that takes visitors through the town of Pond Inlet and showcases the beautiful scenery of the region.

Best Things to Do in Baffin Island: Activities and Tours

Visitors to Baffin Island can immerse themselves in a variety of memorable cultural experiences. Here are some of the top things to enjoy during a visit:

  • Dog Sledding: This traditional and sustainable method of transportation is a must-try experience for visitors to Baffin Island. Local guides can offer tourist-friendly dog sledding tours across the tundra.

  • Arctic Fishing: Baffin Island is home to various fish species, including lake trout, arctic char, and northern pike. Visitors can experience fishing expeditions with a local guide.

Week-Long Itinerary for Baffin Island

Spend a week exploring the rugged beauty of Baffin Island by following our recommended itinerary:

Day 1: Fly into Iqaluit, the capital of the Nunavut territory.

Day 2: Visit Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum and explore the town of Iqaluit on foot.

Day 3: Head to Auyuittuq National Park, and start the thrilling Akshayuk Pass trail.

Day 4: Spend an additional day exploring Auyuittuq National Park and do some camping.

Day 5: Take a boat to Pond Inlet and admire the scenic road views.

Day 6: Spend the day dog sledding and Arctic Fishing alonside some Inuit guides.

Day 7: End the week by relaxing and enjoying the stunning scenery.

Food and Drink Scene of Baffin Island

Must-Try Dishes

Baffin Island has a distinct food culture. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Arctic Char: This fish is commonly found in Baffin Island’s water bodies, and the local communities prepare it in several ways, including grilled, fried, or smoked with herbs.

  • Muktuk: This traditional meal is made with sliced raw whale skin and blubber, and it is a staple food for the Inuit people.

Local Beverages

Visitors can enjoy a unique experience by trying some of the local beverages of Baffin Island. Some of the popular drinks include:

  • Nunavut Ice Tea: A stimulating blend of tea, sugar, berries, and lemon, this cold beverage is refreshing after a long day of exploring the wilderness.

  • Cloudberry Liqueur: This local drink is made by fermenting cloudberries. It is an acquired taste but is popular with local communities.

Where to Stay in Baffin Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Baffin Island has several accommodation options to cater to all types of visitors:

  • Nanook Lodge: This lodge is located in Sanikiluaq and offers visitors a comfortable base for exploring the region.

  • Hotel Arctic: Located in Pond Inlet, this hotel offers stunning views of the Lancaster Sound and is perfect for those who want luxury and comfort during their stay.

  • Arctic Bay Adventures: This lodge style accommodation is located in Arctic Bay in the heart of the arctic wilderness and is ideal for nature enthusiasts and those who want to stay in remote areas.

What to Buy in Baffin Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors can take a piece of Baffin Island’s vibrant culture back home by buying some of these souvenirs and local products:

  • Inuit Art: Visitors can find beautiful Inuit carvings, sculptures, and prints that are unique to the region.

  • Seal skin and fur: These materials are used to make traditional Inuit clothing and are sold throughout the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Baffin Island

Baffin Island is home to the Inuit, one of Canada’s indigenous peoples, who have a unique culture shaped by their environment. The Inuit people have customs that are an important part of their society, including drumming, throat singing, and traditional dance. The best way to learn more about the Inuit culture is to connect with local communities and participate in their cultural activities.

Best Time to Visit Baffin Island

The best time to visit Baffin Island is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is mild, wildlife is abundant, and the sun is up 24 hours a day. Winter months, (October to April), offer unique experiences of witnessing the aurora borealis or northern lights, but it is the coldest time of year, with temperatures dropping to -40°C.

Do’s and Don’ts of Baffin Island

Do:

  • Respect Inuit culture and customs.

  • Dress appropriately for weather changes, even in summer.

  • Bring along insect repellent.

Don’t:

  • Touch or feed the wildlife.

  • Take souvenirs from nature or artifacts.

  • Disrupt the environment by leaving litter behind.

Safety and Health

Safety in Baffin Island

Visitors should use caution when exploring Baffin Island’s wilderness and follow these safety tips:

  • Always carry a map, GPS, or compass.

  • Dress in layers and carry extra clothing.

  • Pay attention to weather alerts or warnings.

Health in Baffin Island

Certain health issues may arise when visiting Baffin Island, such as frostbite, hypothermia, dehydration, and sunburn. It is important to carry a first aid kit, drink water frequently, and prepare for medical emergencies.

Getting to Baffin Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Baffin Island is located in the northernmost region of Canada and is not easily accessible. The following transportation options are available:

Airports Near Baffin Island

The major airport serving Baffin Island is the Iqaluit Airport.

Bus Stations Near Baffin Island

Baffin Island does not have bus stations.

Other Options

Visitors can also choose to take an adventure cruise that offers the chance to explore the region’s breathtaking scenery and wildlife while sailing.

How to Get Around in Baffin Island

The best way to explore Baffin Island is by hiring a local guide or by car. Visitors can also join a unique dog sledding or snowmobiling experience to take in the stunning Arctic wilderness.

Where to Go Next from Baffin Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Baffin Island is a perfect starting point to explore the beautiful Canadian Arctic. Visitors can explore the nearby areas, such as the beautiful islands of Ellesmere and Devon. Alternatively, they can visit some of the cute Inuit communities in the region, such as Clyde River, Arctic Bay, or Pangnirtung.

Conclusion

Baffin Island is a destination that offers something for everyone, with its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant Inuit culture, and unique outdoor experiences. Plan a trip to this hidden gem of Northern Canada for an unforgettable experience that will create memories to last a lifetime.

Location Location Iceberg in the Baffin strait Iceberg in the Baffin strait Northeast coast of Baffin Island, showing a glacier Northeast coast of Baffin Island, showing a glacier


    Iqaluit
    Pangnirtung