Arctic Travel Guide (Other destinations)

Introduction to Arctic

The Arctic is the northernmost region of the world. It’s a vast, ice-covered wilderness that’s home to a unique collection of flora and fauna, as well as diverse indigenous cultures. It’s an otherworldly destination where visitors can experience winter’s icy aura and summer’s midnight sun.

This travel guide will take you on a journey through the Arctic, covering everything from cultural and natural attractions to food, accommodations, and safety tips. Let’s begin!

List of Places to Visit in Arctic

There’s no shortage of fascinating places in the Arctic to visit. Here are a few must-see spots:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Arctic is rich in cultural heritage, and there are many museums and historical sites to explore. Some of the most popular include:

The Inuit Heritage Centre in Iqaluit, Nunavut.
The Royal Greenland Museum and Archives in Nuuk, Greenland.
The Arctic and Antarctic Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
The Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre in Whitehorse, Yukon.

Natural Attractions of Arctic: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The Arctic’s natural beauty is truly breathtaking. Here are a few highlights:

The Northern Lights, a.k.a. Aurora Borealis, can be seen from various locations in the Arctic during winter months.
The Midnight Sun, which occurs during summer, is a phenomenon where the sun never sets.
The Arctic Tundra, which is home to various flora and fauna such as reindeer, caribou, and arctic foxes.
The Arctic Ocean, which is the smallest and shallowest of the world’s five oceans, is home to a variety of marine life, including whales, seals, and walruses.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Arctic

The Arctic is a wilderness paradise, and there are many hiking and biking routes to explore. Some popular trails include:

The Arctic Circle Trail in Greenland, a 100-mile route that takes hikers through remote wilderness areas.
The Dempster Highway in Canada’s Yukon Territory, which is the only highway in North America to cross the Arctic Circle.
The Finnmark Plateau in Norway, where visitors can explore the tundra and enjoy stunning panoramic views.

Best Things to Do in Arctic: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in the Arctic, whether you prefer a leisurely excursion or a more adventurous activity. Here are a few popular options:

Dog sledding, where visitors can experience the thrill of being pulled by a team of huskies.
Snowmobiling tours, which are a great way to explore remote areas of the Arctic.
Whale watching, which is a popular activity in the Arctic during summer months.
Cultural tours with indigenous communities, where visitors can learn about and experience traditional Arctic culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Arctic

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to the Arctic:

Day	Activity
1	Arrive in Reykjavik, Iceland.
2	Take ferry from Iceland to Greenland.
3	Explore Nuuk, Greenland’s capital.
4	Hike the Arctic Circle Trail.
5	Visit traditional Inuit communities.
6	Take a dog sled tour.
7	Depart Greenland and return to Reykjavik.

Food and Drink Scene of Arctic

The Arctic’s food scene is influenced by both traditional indigenous cuisine and international influences. Here are a few must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

Reindeer and caribou dishes, such as grilled reindeer and caribou stew.
Arctic char, a fish found in Arctic waters, served in various preparations.
Crowberries, a local berry frequently used in desserts and jams.

Local Beverages

Akvavit, a Scandinavian spirit flavored with herbs and spices.
Cloudberry liqueur, a sweet, fruity liqueur made from the cloudberry.

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

The Arctic offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are a few options:

Arctic Treehouse Hotel in Rovaniemi, Finland, which features cozy treehouse-style accommodations.
Icehotel in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, which is made entirely of ice and snow.
Kangerlussuaq Hotel in Greenland, which is located in a remote area and offers stunning views.

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

Here are a few souvenirs and local products to bring home from the Arctic:

Handcrafted souvenirs made from local materials, such as bone or antlers.
Seal skin or fur clothing items, such as gloves or hats.
Local specialty foods, such as smoked salmon or reindeer jerky.

Local Culture and Customs of Arctic

The Arctic’s indigenous cultures have a rich heritage and unique customs. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Visitors should be respectful of indigenous customs, such as avoiding walking on burial sites or disturbing wildlife.
It’s common for locals to greet each other with a handshake and a gentle touch on the upper arm.
Many indigenous communities have traditional dress codes, which visitors should be mindful of when visiting.

Best Time to Visit Arctic

The best time to visit the Arctic depends on what activities you’re interested in. Generally, summer months (June-August) are best for outdoor activities, while winter months (December-February) are best for winter sports and witnessing the Northern Lights.

Do’s and Don’ts of Arctic

Here are a few things to keep in mind while visiting the Arctic:

Do:

Dress warmly and in layers.
Respect indigenous cultures and customs.
Be mindful of the fragile Arctic ecosystem.

Don’t:

Disturb wildlife or natural habitats.
Litter or leave garbage behind.
Stray off designated paths or trails.

Safety and Health

Keeping safe and healthy in the Arctic requires some preparation and knowledge. Here are some tips:

Safety in Arctic

Be prepared for weather-related conditions.
Travel with a knowledgeable guide or local.
Follow equipment guidelines for winter sports.

Health in Arctic

Protect yourself from the sun’s rays, which can be strong even in winter.
Stay hydrated and monitor your water intake.
Consult a physician before traveling to the Arctic if you have any pre-existing health conditions.

Getting to Arctic: Transportation Options and Logistics

The Arctic is a remote area, and reaching it can require some planning. Here are a few transportation options:

Airports Near Arctic

Kangerlussuaq Airport in Greenland.
Iqaluit Airport in Nunavut, Canada.
Longyearbyen Airport in Svalbard, Norway.

Bus Stations Near Arctic

Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Canada.
Alta, Norway.
Tromsø, Norway.

Other Options

Ferries from Iceland to Greenland.
Arctic adventurer cruises.

How to Get Around in Arctic

Getting around in the Arctic can be challenging, as road systems are not as developed as in other regions of the world. Here are a few options:

Snowmobiles, which are popular for exploring remote regions of the Arctic.
Dogsleds, which are a traditional mode of transportation in some indigenous communities.
Boats or kayaks, which can be used to explore coastal areas.

Where to Go Next from Arctic: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to extend your Arctic adventure, here are a few nearby destinations to consider:

Helsinki, Finland, which offers a perfect mix of urban attractions and natural beauty.
The Faroe Islands, an archipelago located in the North Atlantic Ocean.
Iceland, which has a variety of natural attractions, including hot springs and glaciers.

Conclusion

The Arctic is a region of stunning beauty and unique culture. From its natural attractions to its indigenous communities, the Arctic offers a one-of-a-kind travel experience. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re ready to plan your Arctic trip with confidence.