Things To Do
in Iqaluit
Iqaluit is the capital of Nunavut, located at the head of Frobisher Bay on Baffin Island. The town serves as a cultural gateway to the Inuit homeland, blending traditional crafts, modern services, and a stark Arctic landscape. It’s compact and walkable, with colorful houses lining the bay and a growing but small-scale culinary scene.
Winters are long and intensely cold, while summers offer the midnight sun and a chance to glimpse wildlife and ice-encrusted shores.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Iqaluit and get settled into your accommodations. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront to get a sense of the Arctic beauty that surrounds the town. Enjoy breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Inuit dishes.
Visit the Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum to explore Inuit culture and history through exhibits and local art. Engage with friendly locals and perhaps partake in a guided walk through the community. This is a great opportunity to learn about the land and its significance to its people.
Enjoy a cozy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling fresh Arctic char or caribou stew. As night falls, consider a guided Northern Lights tour if the conditions are favorable. Appreciate the clear, starry sky and the breathtaking auroras painting the night horizon.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a walking tour of Iqaluit’s vibrant art scene. Visit local galleries and stores to pick up authentic Inuit carvings and crafts. The colorful buildings and street art will delight your senses.
Take part in an outdoor adventure such as kayaking on Baffin Bay or exploring nearby hiking trails. Enjoy lunch in the great outdoors, surrounded by sweeping views of the landscape. It's a wonderful time to connect with nature and appreciate the unique geography of the area.
As the sun sets, return to town for a communal dinner featuring traditional meals. Spend the evening at a local community center where you might catch a cultural performance showcasing traditional Inuit music and dancing. This vibrant atmosphere is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $60-100 |
| 🏨Hotel per night | $150-260 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-6 |
| 🚕Taxi within town | $10-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique Arctic culture and scenery
- Compact and walkable town with easy access to nature
- Strong safety and community feel
- High travel costs and limited flight schedules
- Limited nightlife and shopping options
- Weather can disrupt travel year-round
Places to Visit in Iqaluit
Visit one of these nice places.
Dramatic ice formations and sea views, especially striking at sunrise or sunset.
Coastal cliffs, tundra, and wildlife—great for expansive landscape shots.
A hilltop vantage point over the bay with sweeping views of the town and ice in winter.
Architectural shots with subtle lighting and a sense of Arctic governance.
Food in Iqaluit
Iqaluit Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh char caught in Frobisher Bay, commonly prepared grilled, baked, or lightly smoked.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked meat with root vegetables and hearty, comforting flavors.
Traditionally eaten raw or lightly cooked; availability varies and is a niche, seasonal offering.
Tender meat used in stews or roasts, reflecting time-honored Arctic provisioning.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal markets and pop-up stalls offering seafood, bannock, and Inuit crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Ask before photographing people, respect personal space, and be mindful of sacred sites and community norms.
Safety
Tipping in Iqaluit
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary in restaurants (about 15-20%); taxis are tipped similarly.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; Interac and cash are common; some small venues may prefer cash for very small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, mild temperatures, and opportunities for boating and hiking. Mosquitoes can be plentiful, so insect protection is advised.
Very cold with shorter daylight; dress in layers, protect extremities, and plan for wind chill and icy surfaces.
Iqaluit at Night
Hiking in Iqaluit
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trails offering panoramic Arctic views, seabird colonies, and rolling tundra.
Airports
How to reach Iqaluit by plane.
Main gateway to Nunavut with seasonal and year-round flights to Ottawa, Montreal, and connections to other communities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The core cultural group, with strong traditional practices and language presence.
Public service workers, educators, and families from across Canada and beyond.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport with local leagues and school teams.
Common in winter with nearby trails.
A traditional Arctic activity enjoyed by visitors and residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Iqaluit.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many vegetarian options exist in cafes and stores; look for vegetable-based soups, salads, and plates; ask about meat-free stocks and broths.