Chibougamau Travel Guide

Plan your adventure in Chibougamau, Quebec with our comprehensive travel guide featuring the best places to visit, eat, stay and more!


Introduction to Chibougamau

Nestled in the heart of Baie-James, in Northern Quebec, Chibougamau is a hidden gem that offers diverse culture and captivating natural beauty. From towering trees and lakes to rich history, there is something for everyone in Chibougamau.

List of Places to Visit in Chibougamau

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Cree Cultural Interpretation Center

Learn about the unique language, culture, and history of the Cree people at the Cree Cultural Interpretation Center. The center has a rich collection of art and artifacts highlighting the culture and traditions of the Cree People.

La Grand-Place

Instilled with the essence of the town’s founding, La Grand-Place is one of the best spots to explore Chibougamau’s rich history. This beautiful square has been the center point of the town for generations and is now home to modern cafes, restaurants, and shops.

Natural Attractions of Chibougamau: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Chibougamau Lake

Chibougamau Lake is the largest and most breathtaking lake in Northern Quebec. Rent a boat and float across the crystal-clear water during the summer months. During the winter, take the opportunity to experience the thrill of ice-fishing.

Nordic Walk and Snowshoe Trail

Take a scenic walk along the Nordic Walk and Snowshoe Trail, which wanders through the beautiful forest and wetlands. This trail is perfect for nature-lovers, bird-watchers and allows for a glimpse into Quebec’s wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Chibougamau

Mont Chalco

Mont Chalco is a fantastic hiking spot offering amazing panoramic views of the landscapes. During the summers, take a break and pack a picnic and enjoy the soft breeze.

Best Things to Do in Chibougamau: Activities and Tours

Cree Dog Sledding Experience

Nothing is more iconic than dog sledding in Northern Quebec. Experience the authentic mode of transportation used by the Cree people for generations.

Aerial Tours

The aerial tours offer a unique way to explore the wild, natural beauty of Chibougamau. The airplane tours traverse over the vast landscapes and provide a bird’s eye view of the town and surrounding forest.

Week-Long Itinerary for Chibougamau

Day Activity
Monday Cree Cultural Interpretation Centre and Backpacking Trail
Tuesday Nordic Walk and Snowshoe Trail and Chibougamau Lake
Wednesday Mont Chalco Hiking Trail
Thursday Snowmobiling and Snowshoeing Adventure
Friday Traditional Cree Dog Sledding Experience
Saturday Aerial Tour of Chibougamau and Lunch at La Grand-Place
Sunday Depart Chibougamau

Food and Drink Scene of Chibougamau

Must-Try Dishes

Poutine

Poutine is one of the most popular and traditional dishes of Quebec. A bed of crisp fries topped with gravied curds and topped with a drizzle of rich sauce - a true Quebecois treat.

Boudin Noir

Boudin Noir is a staple dish of the Quebecois cuisine. It is made from the blood of pigs or other animals and has a savory taste.

Local Beverages

Quebec Maple Syrup

Maple Syrup is the iconic beverage of Quebec. Take a visit to a sugar-shack, a traditional maple farm, and enjoy the fresh maple syrup on ice, in coffee, or in any drink.

Labatt Blue

Labatt Blue beer is an iconic beer of Canada and can be found in every bar and restaurant of Chibougamau. Enjoy a cold pint of the Labatt Blue on a sunny patio in Chibougamau.

Where to Stay in Chibougamau: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Chibougamau offers a wide range of accommodation options ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Here is a list of the best accommodation options in Chibougamau

Hotel Chibougamau

Hotel Chibougamau is the perfect choice for a luxurious stay in Chibougamau. The hotel offers spacious and comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and world-class services.

Motel du Lac St-Jean

The Motel du Lac St-Jean offers affordable and comfortable accommodation options for budget travelers. The motel is located at a few paces from Chibougamau Lake, offering breathtaking views.

What to Buy in Chibougamau: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Arts and Crafts of the Cree People

The Cree people are famous for their unique art and handmade items such as jewelry, clothing, and handcrafts. Buy souvenirs made by the Cree people and bring home a piece of their culture and history.

Quebec Maple Syrup

Maple syrup is Quebec’s iconic product, and you can buy it across local markets and specialty shops in Chibougamau.

Local Culture and Customs of Chibougamau

Chibougamau is a town that is rich in history and has a profound love for its nature, people, and culture. The Cree people migrated and settled in the area and have held a unique relationship with the land and animals surrounding them. Be respectful of the Cree people and learn about their culture and custom.

Best Time to Visit Chibougamau

The best time to visit Chibougamau is between May to October as these months offer a warm and pleasant climate perfect for exploring the town’s outdoors and natural beauty. During the winters, the town becomes a winter wonderland and offers many winter sports and activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Chibougamau

Do:

  • Take a guided tour of the Cree Cultural Interpretation Center to learn about the culture and history of the Cree people.
  • Enjoy the traditional Quebecois dishes like Poutine and Boudin Noir on your culinary tour of Chibougamau.
  • Respect the culture of people living in this town.
  • Dress appropriately to handle different weather conditions.

Don’t:

  • Bring your pets with you without proper permission.
  • Litter around the natural spaces, maintain cleanliness.
  • Photograph or film the Cree people without their consent.

Safety and Health

Safety in Chibougamau

Chibougamau is a safe town, but like any town, visitors should take the usual safety precautions. Be cautious of wild animals when trekking through national parks, and keep valuables in a safe place.

Health in Chibougamau

Visitors to Chibougamau need not worry about their health, but it is advisable to bring medication to address minor ailments and any prescription medication one requires. Moreover, visitors should take vaccination precautions before visiting Chibougamau.

Getting to Chibougamau: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Chibougamau

The nearest airport is the Chibougamau-Chapais Airport, which is 8 km southeast of Chibougamau.

Bus Stations Near Chibougamau

Bus services to Chibougamau are provided by Intercar and Orléans Express bus services. The bus station of Orléans Express is tucked in downtown Chibougamau.

Other Options

Visitors could choose to rent a car and enjoy the scenic drive to Chibougamau while visiting other attractions and towns on the way.

How to Get Around in Chibougamau

Chibougamau is a small town, so walking or cycling is the easiest way to get around. Visitors who intend to visit more extended stretches could rent a car or use taxi services.

Where to Go Next from Chibougamau: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Val-d’Or

Val-d’Or is a warm and inviting town that explains the history of Quebec through its museums. It is located just 4 hours from Chibougamau and is a great next stop on your tour.

Amos

Located 3.5 hours drive from Chibougamau, Amos is a charming town punctuated with natural beauty with picturesque landscapes and outdoor experiences.

Conclusion

Chibougamau’s natural beauty and rich culture offer a unique experience to any visitors. From hiking ancient mountains, exploring the Cree Cultural Interpretation Center to dining on traditional foods, Chibougamau has something to offer everyone. Plan now and add Chibougamau to your bucket list.

Lake Gilman, near 3rd Street Lake Gilman, near 3rd Street