This safari starts in Igloolik, Nunavut. If you purchase the optional flight package, depart Ottawa for Iqaluit and then connect with your flight to Igloolik, the oldest Inuit settlement in Canada. Upon arrival in Igloolik, meet your expedition leader and group members and transfer to camp. After a brief orientation talk and equipment check, set off on a 30- to 60-minute trip to camp via snowmobiles and qamutik, a traditional Inuit wooden freight sled. After unloading your equipment, settle into your tent and meet for a hot meal followed by an itinerary briefing by your expedition leader.

The next few days vary depending on weather and the movements of Arctic animals. Your first visit to the floe edge allows you to familiarize yourself with this fascinating environment. Enjoy daily boat rides on the Arctic Ocean in search of bowheads and walrus that can be found in this area in countless numbers. You may see the enormous walrus in piles on ice or bowheads spy-hopping as you cruise past. Sit back, relax, and breathe in the fresh air while admiring the awe-inspiring sights or take advantage of excellent photographic opportunities.

As you make your way further into the Foxe Basin across tranquil waters, come upon large floating islands of ice platforms for sunning walrus and a variety of seals – harp, bearded and ring. Be on the lookout for polar bears swimming in the waters or hunting for seals. You may even catch them lounging on ice pans. The bright sun reflecting off the crystal-clear, flat water is an enthralling part of a perfect Arctic summer day.

Enjoy picnics on floating ice pans and potential excursions to ancient Thule and modern-day Inuit settlements. Also have a chance to admire the vibrant arctic wildflowers and the wide variety of birds that migrate to the islands during the summer months.

Pack up your gear and return to Igloolik, where the safari ends. If you purchased the optional flight package, transfer to the afternoon flight to Iqaluit and on to Ottawa. Expect to arrive in Ottawa in the early evening.