Nunavut Vacation Rentals: Arctic Adventures

Discover Nunavut Vacation Rentals: Perfect for Arctic Adventures

Nunavut, Canada’s northernmost territory, offers families a rare chance to explore pristine Arctic landscapes and vibrant Inuit culture.

Stay in a cozy vacation rental near Iqaluit, the capital, to visit landmarks like Sylvia Grinnell Territorial Park, known for its scenic trails and wildlife sightings. Venture to Auyuittuq National Park or Quttinirpaaq National Park on Ellesmere Island, where families can hike the Akshayuk Pass and marvel at iconic peaks like Mount Thor and Mount Asgard. Explore the breathtaking Pangnirtung Fjord, or take a guided tour to spot narwhals, beluga whales, and polar bears.

Nunavut vacation homes provide a comfortable base to experience the Arctic’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Plan your trip today and book accommodations on Lake.com!

START PLANNING YOUR TRIP

Best time to visit

Best places to visit

Interesting Facts about Nunavut

Newest Canadian Territory

Nunavut is Canada’s newest and largest territory, officially separating from the Northwest Territories on April 1, 1999. Its name means “our land” in Inuktitut, the Inuit language.

Arctic Circle Location

Nunavut is the only Canadian province or territory located entirely north of the Arctic Circle. This means it experiences polar days (24 hours of daylight) during the summer and polar nights (24 hours of darkness) during the winter.

Inuit Majority

Most of Nunavut’s population is comprised of Inuit, who have a rich cultural heritage that is deeply tied to the Arctic environment. Inuit make up around 85% of the territory’s population.

Must See Attractions

See all

Auyuittuq National Park

Nature & Parks

The park mesmerizes visitors with its dramatic Arctic landscapes, featuring rugged mountains like Mount Thor and expansive glaciers. These features epitomize the stark beauty of the Canadian Arctic wilderness.

Sirmilik National Park

Nature & Parks

The park, situated on the northern tip of Baffin Island in Nunavut, showcases a pristine Arctic environment with towering mountains, glaciers, and fjords.

Quttinirpaaq National Park

Nature & Parks

Quttinirpaaq National Park, situated on Ellesmere Island in Nunavut, is Canada’s second-largest national park. It is renowned for its vast polar desert landscapes, towering mountain ranges, and unique Arctic wildlife.

Lakes to Explore

See all

1. Amadjuak Lake

Located on Baffin Island, Amadjak Lake is known for its vast size and is an important habitat for various migratory birds.

2. Lake Hazen

Located on Ellesmere Island, Lake Hazen is the largest lake in the High Arctic, surrounded by rugged mountains and glaciers.

3. Lady Newey Lake

On Ellesmere Island, Lady Newey Lake offers breathtaking scenery with crystal-clear waters and surrounding Arctic landscapes.

4. Nettilling Lake

Situated on Baffin Island, this lake is the largest within the Arctic Circle and is a habitat for waterfowl and marine life.

5. North Lake

Situated near the community of Pond Inlet, North Lake is known for its stunning views and provides a habitat for Arctic char.

6. Sillem Island Lake

Situated on the beautiful Sillem Island, this lake is surrounded by Arctic tundra and offers a tranquil and remote setting.

7. South Fiord Lake

Nestled on Baffin Island, South Fiord Lake is surrounded by towering mountains, glaciers, and stunning Arctic landscapes.

8. Twin Otter Lake

Twin Otter Lake is surrounded by wilderness in the heart of Nunavut, offering a peaceful and remote destination.

Annual Events and Festivals

July 1, 2025

Polar Bear Swim

The Polar Bear Swim in Iqaluit is an exhilarating, albeit chilly, event that is part of the Canada Day celebrations on July 1st. Held in the frigid waters of Frobisher Bay, this daring swim sees locals and adventurous visitors alike plunge into the icy Arctic waters, often in costumes or traditional dress, as a test of endurance and a fun way to mark the national holiday. Often cheered on by onlookers, participants experience the thrill and shock of the cold, followed by a sense of achievement and camaraderie.

TBA 2025

Northern Lights Festival

The Northern Lights Festival in Iqaluit, Nunavut, is a captivating celebration that embraces the mesmerizing beauty of the aurora borealis. This event, held to coincide with the optimal viewing times for the Northern Lights, typically occurs during the winter when the Arctic nights are the longest. The festival offers a unique blend of cultural activities, educational events, and artistic performances that revolve around the ethereal dance of the Northern Lights.

July 9, 2025

Nunavut Day

Nunavut Day is a significant and joyous occasion in Canada’s northernmost territory. It commemorates the establishment of Nunavut in 1999 when it officially separated from the Northwest Territories. Across Nunavut, communities come alive with various festivities, including traditional music and drum dancing, community feasts featuring local delicacies, art exhibits, sports events, and parades. It’s a day for Inuit and other residents to display their pride in their heritage and culture, with activities that reflect the region’s rich history and vibrant contemporary life.

Top Hiking Trails

Apex Trail

Apex Trail, 285 Nipisa St, Iqaluit, Nunavut

Apex Trail, situated near Iqaluit, Nunavut, offers a stunning outdoor experience combining breathtaking scenery and a taste of the Arctic wilderness. This 5.1-kilometer hiking trail winds through the rugged landscape, providing hikers with panoramic views of Frobisher Bay, the surrounding mountains, and the vast tundra. The trail is known for its accessibility, making it a popular choice for locals and visitors seeking a relatively short but rewarding hike.

Trans-Canada Trail: Sylvia Grinnell Territorial Park

Sylvia Grinnell Territorial Park, Iqaluit, Nunavut

The Trans-Canada Trail within Sylvia Grinnell Territorial Park, located near Iqaluit in Nunavut, is a remarkable journey through the Arctic wilderness. This segment of the trail allows outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the pristine beauty of the northern landscape, surrounded by Arctic flora and fauna. As hikers traverse the trail, they encounter expansive tundra, pristine lakes, and stunning views of the Sylvia Grinnell River.

Ovayok Trail

Kitikmeot Region, Nunavut

The Ovayok Trail, located near the community of Cambridge Bay in Nunavut, is a trail that encapsulates the Arctic’s stark beauty and cultural significance. This trail leads adventurers through a landscape characterized by rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and sweeping vistas of the surrounding tundra. Named after the prominent Ovayok Mountain, the trail offers a unique blend of outdoor exploration and cultural immersion. Hikers may encounter remnants of ancient Thule sites, providing a tangible connection to the rich history of the Inuit people who have inhabited these lands for centuries.

Water Sports

Fishing in Nunavut

Fishing

Fishing in Nunavut offers an unparalleled experience set against the breathtaking backdrop of Canada’s Arctic wilderness. The region’s vast and pristine waters are home to a rich variety of fish, including Arctic char, lake trout, and northern pike. These waters, often untouched by industrial fishing, promise an authentic and bountiful fishing adventure. Amidst the rugged landscape dotted with glaciers and icebergs, fishing in Nunavut is as much about the catch as it is about connecting with the raw, unspoiled nature.

Nunavut Kayaking

Kayaking

Kayaking in Nunavut offers a remarkable adventure, allowing paddlers to navigate through some of the world’s most remote and pristine waters. This experience immerses kayakers in the breathtaking Arctic landscape, surrounded by dramatic ice formations, rugged coastlines, and the possibility of encountering unique wildlife such as seals, whales, and seabirds.

Artic Boating

Boating

Boating in Nunavut presents an extraordinary adventure, navigating the pristine waters of the Arctic through a landscape adorned with glaciers, icebergs, and rugged coastlines. With many lakes, rivers, and coastal areas, boating enthusiasts can explore remote and untouched locations, immersing themselves in the raw beauty of Canada’s northernmost territory. Whether on a traditional Inuit umiaq, a motorized boat, or a sailboat, boaters in Nunavut can witness the breathtaking Arctic scenery and encounter unique wildlife, including seals, whales, and a variety of seabirds.

Lodgings to Explore

Stay By The Sea

Waterfront
2536 Paurngaq Cres, Iqaluit, Nunavut X0A 0H0

Auyuittuq Lodge

Waterfront
Pangnirtung, Nunvaut X0A 0R0

Nunamiut Lodge

Waterfront
4002 1st Ave, Baker Lake, Nunavut X0C 0A0

Tips on Vacationing in Nunavut

Be Weather Ready

Nunavut has a harsh Arctic climate with extreme temperatures. Pack accordingly with warm, layered clothing, including a good winter jacket, waterproof boots, gloves, and a hat. Even in the summer, temperatures can be cool.

Wildlife Awareness

Nunavut is home to a variety of wildlife, including polar bears. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in more remote areas. Consider hiring a local guide if you’re planning outdoor activities, such as hiking or wildlife watching.

Northern Lights Tour

Nunavut is an excellent location for witnessing the mesmerizing Northern Lights. For optimal viewing opportunities, consider taking a guided tour during the winter months.

Learn Basic Inuktitut Phrases

While English is widely spoken, learning a few basic Inuktitut phrases can be a respectful way to engage with locals and show appreciation for their culture.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nunavut

Nunavut vacation rentals can offer a variety of amenities to make your stay more enjoyable. Some standard amenities in vacation rentals include air conditioning, designated smoking areas, full kitchens, laundry facilities, and Wi-Fi. Be sure to check the property listing for details on the amenities offered, and feel free to contact the property owner if you have any specific requirements or preferences.

Yes, long-term vacation rentals are available in Nunavut. Some property owners may offer extended stay options for travelers who wish to spend more time exploring the vast region. When searching for a vacation rental, it’s important to communicate your desired rental period with the property owner to ensure they can accommodate your needs.

Nunavut offers lakefront vacation rentals for those who desire picturesque views and direct access to peaceful waters. For example, lakefront cottages can be found around Copper Shore Lake and Springfield. Look for properties that specifically advertise lakeside locations and stunning views.

Yes, you can find pet-friendly vacation rentals in Nunavut. While not all properties will accept pets, options that cater to those traveling with furry friends are available, when searching for a vacation rental, filter by pet-friendly options or inquire directly with the property owner to discuss their pet policy.

When looking for the perfect vacation rental in Nunavut, you may consider popular destinations such as Baffin Island. Baffin Island is known for its amazing natural attractions and beautiful landscapes. Additionally, you can find rental options in areas closer to the Legislative Assembly of Nunavut, which offers proximity to local attractions and amenities.

The best time to visit Nunavut is during the summer months, from June to September. During this period, the weather is more temperate, and the long days provide ample opportunity for exploring. This is also the best time for wildlife viewing, including whales and migratory birds.