Discover the majesty of rare Arctic animals and the beauty of polar landscapes while boating through Foxe Basin around the island of Igloolik on this 7-day journey. Foxe Basin makes for a perfect home for huge pods of walrus, endangered bowhead whales, and polar bears. When not in boats observing marine mammals, enjoy hikes around the island, admiring and learning about the local flora as well as the many bird species that visit the area. Enjoy excursions to ancient Dorset and Thule archaeological sites to discover the fascinating history and culture of the Inuit.
Highlights
Encounter northward migrating bowhead whales and walrus in Foxe Basin
Look out for hunting polar bears on the floating pans of ice
Experience the Arctic spring & watch frozen tundra turn into melting rivers
Listen to the chirps and whistles of whale song while snorkeling underwater
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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.
Day 7: Return to Igloolik | Iqaluit | Ottawa
1 Breakfast
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.
This itinerary is no longer available. For other trip ideas, please visit Arctic Cruises & Tours.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
Notes
Please add 5% sales tax from Igloolik.
Please Note: 2018 Fares are based off of current exchange rates from the Canadian Dollar. Contact us for current rates.
Initial deposit is $2200, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by Bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
6 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 6 Dinners
6 Nights Accommodations
7 Days Locally Hosted Guide Service
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Gear Rental: Snorkeling Gear
Services of Inuit guides and expedition staff
All day trips by land or boat
Round-trip Igloolik airport transportation
Return transfers to airport in Igloolik
Excluded
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
All participants will be required to provide proof of medical insurance while traveling in Canada. Each participant is responsible for any medical expenses and must be covered by their own sickness, accident, and evacuation insurance.
Gratuities at your discretion. A typical gratuity is $100 per Inuit/guide/chef and expedition leader per week.
Gratuities
International Flights
Accommodation in Ottawa
Travel, medical and evacuation insurance coverage
Additional costs associated with weather and/or layovers in Igloolik, Iqaluit or Ottawa
Polar Clothing Rental Package encouraged
Flight Taxes - USD 345.95 for 2017 / CAD 359.45 for 2018
Map
When to Go
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.
Typically not offered during this period because of weather conditions.
Everything was amazing! The planning with Adventure Life went smoothly. The actual trip was fantastic! One of the best trips I have experienced. The cruise staff members were knowledgeable and attentive. I will be writing more about this on the blog!
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