A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Qikiqtarjuaq: The Arctic Jewel of Nunavut, Canada

Located in the Qikiqtaaluk region of Nunavut, Canada, Qikiqtarjuaq is a small town situated on Broughton Island. Known as Nunavut's "Ice Capital", this picturesque town is famous for its stunning Arctic landscape, rich Inuit culture, and incredible wildlife.

The Arctic Landscape

Qikiqtarjuaq is on the edge of Auyuittuq National Park, home to some of Canada's most breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can explore rugged fjords, majestic glaciers, and snow-covered mountains, including Mount Thor, which has the world's highest cliff face. Popular activities include hiking, cross-country skiing, and ice climbing.

Inuit Culture

Qikiqtarjuaq is home to a thriving Inuit community. Visitors can learn about the rich history and traditions of the Inuit through a variety of cultural experiences. This includes the opportunity to try traditional Inuit food, learn stone carving, and participate in local festivals that celebrate Inuit music, dance, and games.

Wildlife

Qikiqtarjuaq's remote location makes it a prime spot for wildlife viewing. Visitors may have the chance to see polar bears, walruses, seals, and a variety of Arctic birds. Additionally, Qikiqtarjuaq is one of the best places in the world to see narwhals, often called "unicorns of the sea" due to their distinctive long, twisted tusk.

Accommodation and Services

Despite its small size, Qikiqtarjuaq offers a variety of services for visitors. There is a hotel, an inn, and several guest houses that provide accommodation. There is also a restaurant, a grocery store, and a visitor center that provides information about the area and organizes excursions.

How to Get There

Qikiqtarjuaq is accessible by plane from Iqaluit, the capital of Nunavut. It is also possible to arrive by boat during the summer months when the sea ice has melted. Although remote, the journey to Qikiqtarjuaq is an adventure in itself, offering stunning views of the Canadian Arctic.

Gastronomic Products from Qikiqtarjuaq

• Seal Meat

  Qikiqtarjuaq, like many communities in Nunavut, relies heavily on subsistence hunting. Seal meat is a staple in the local diet and is consumed in various ways, including raw, cooked, and dried. It is an important source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

• Arctic Char

  The Arctic Char is a fish found in the cold waters of the Arctic. It is similar to salmon in taste and texture, but has a darker color and a richer flavor. It can be eaten raw, smoked, roasted, or pickled. It is an important source of protein and vitamin D.

• Arctic Berries

  During the short Arctic summers, wild berries such as blueberries, bog cranberries, and Arctic blackberries ripen and are collected for use in jams, syrups, and desserts. These berries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C.

• Muktuk

  Muktuk is the skin and subcutaneous fat layer of the beluga or narwhal whale. It is a traditional Inuit food that is eaten raw or pickled. It is rich in vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids.

Sporting Activities in Qikiqtarjuaq (Nunavut)

Cross-Country Skiing

With its cold and snowy climate, Qikiqtarjuaq is an ideal place for cross-country skiing. Visitors can explore the beauty of the Arctic landscape as they glide along the ski trails.

Ice Fishing

Ice fishing is a popular activity in Qikiqtarjuaq. Tourists can rent the necessary equipment and spend a day fishing on the region's frozen lakes.

Wildlife Watching

Qikiqtarjuaq is home to a variety of Arctic wildlife, including polar bears, walruses, and various species of birds. Visitors can participate in wildlife watching tours to see these animals in their natural habitat.

Dog Sledding Excursions

For a truly unique experience, visitors can participate in a dog sledding excursion. These tours allow tourists to explore the Arctic landscape in a traditional way.

Nearby Places to Qikiqtarjuaq

If you're in Qikiqtarjuaq and wish to explore a bit more, here we present some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Iqaluit, the capital of Nunavut, Canada, is a unique tourist destination with stunning Arctic views, rich Inuit culture, and local cuisine that includes delights such as Arctic fish, caribou, and seal, offering an authentically northern culinary experience.

Enjoy ice fishing, try the local cuisine of seal meat, and admire the impressive narwhal ivory sculptures.