Calgary is the natural base for those exploring Western Canada and the Canadian Rockies. But beyond the region's famed western flair and spectacular natural beauty, Calgary is emerging as a popular urban destination for its own sake – thanks in part to a young, educated population of over one million. The eco-friendly city is home to world-class attractions and festivals, and a culture of hospitality that welcomes visitors from all backgrounds. The Calgary Stampede, which draws a million visitors a year, is just one of many outstanding attractions. The region offers a striking variety of natural landscapes within easy day-tripping distance: Banff and Kananaskis are less than 90 minutes by bus, while the famed badlands and dinosaur beds of Drumheller are less than two hours away.
At the northern tip of Baffin Island, Arctic Bay lies embraced by majestic hills. Its sheltered shores and steep cliffs create an ideal nesting habitat for unique species of High Arctic birds, while its sea waters provide a home to narwhals and bowhead whales. This vibrant Inuit community, also known as 'Ikpiarjuk' in Inuktitut, meaning 'The Pocket,' hosts an annual dog sledding race that attracts the best teams from across Nunavut. Positioned at the entrance to Sirmilik National Park, Arctic Bay offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing in the nearby park. Residents and visitors alike revel in snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and dog sledding tours, adding to the town's charm as a true Arctic gem.
belonging to the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, Devon Island is the largest, inhabited island in the world. The island is a barren area, dominated b frost-shattered rocks and nearly no sign of any plants or animal life as the ground remains frozen for almost the entire year, particularly the eastern third of the island which is permanently covered by an ice cap some 500 to 700 meters thick. For only a brief period of just over a month during the height of summer, some of the ground is snow-free but even summer temperatures barely rise above 8°C. The island harsh climate and interesting conditions make it an extremely interesting setting for scientists and researchers.
Nunavut is Canada’s largest and most sparsely populated region, comprising a major part of Northern Canada and most of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago. So, if you’re an ‘into the wild’ kind of adventurer, this is for you. Expect an ice-encrusted wilderness, however, and extreme cold, but the plunge is worth it. Diverse and unique animal species, welcoming Inuit communities, a variety of accommodation (from hotels in the larger centres to B&Bs and camping), and plenty of excellent guided-tour options (snowmobile and dogsled excursions, and small-aircraft and boat tours) await. All you have to do is step out of your comfort zone…
Located in the Canadian Arctic Archipelago, Beechey Island holds historical significance as a site of great exploration. It became renowned due to the tragic Franklin Expedition of 1845. The island's desolate landscape features rugged cliffs and icy shores, creating an eerie and haunting atmosphere. Franklin's crew members, who perished during their attempt to find the Northwest Passage, are buried here. Their graves, marked by poignant memorials, stand as solemn reminders of the perils faced by early Arctic explorers. Today, wildlife enthusiasts can spot Arctic species, and historians can immerse themselves in the narratives of exploration that still echo across this frozen frontier.
As previously described
As previously described
