Have questions about the Arctic or about going on a tour with us?
Here are some of the more common questions we get asked:
General Questions:
About Arctic Kingdom
To ensure our tours economically benefit the local communities we hire local guides and drivers, purchase food supplies in community (whenever possible), eat local food, and use local services. By continually reassessing our trips, we ensure that they are socially, economically and environmentally sound.
Arctic Kingdom strictly adheres and supports the Wildlife Policy for the Territory of Nunavut.
Visiting the Arctic
trips:
- Spring Polar Bears and Icebergs of Baffin Photo Safari in Qikiqtarjuaq, Nunavut in March and April
- Polar Bear Mother and Newborn Cubs in Wapusk National Park, Manitoba in March
- Narwhal and Polar Bear Safari in Pond Inlet, Nunavut in May and June
- Great Migrations of the Northwest Passage in Arctic Bay, Nunavut in June
- Kings of the Arctic in Igloolik, Nunavut in July
- Polar Bears and Glaciers of Baffin Island in Qikiqtarjuaq, Nunavut in August
- Polar Bear Migration Fly-In Photo Safari just south of Arviat, Nunavut in October and November
- Narwhal and Polar Bear Safari in Pond Inlet, Nunavut in May and June
- Great Migrations of the Northwest Passage in Arctic Bay, Nunavut in June
- The Canadian Arctic boasts some of the most dramatic and incredible land and icescapes in the world. Icebergs and glaciers can be seen by land, sea ice and boat throughout Baffin Island and other regions in Nunavut. Get the opportunity to see icebergs and glaciers on these tours:
What forms of banking services/ payment are accepted in Churchill, Manitoba? Churchill, Manitoba operates on Canadian currency and has several ATMs available. Many shops and restaurants also accept credit cards and/or debit cards.
Travelling with Arctic Kingdom
I have a special event that I’d like to celebrate on an arctic tour. Is it possible to arrange something?
Arctic Kingdom does not carry health, life or injury insurance for tour participants. It is your responsibility to ensure your medical coverage covers you for life and health care risks while on our trips, and in addition should provide transport to your home country or province (for Canadians traveling on our Canadian arctic tours).
All participants will be required to provide proof of travel medical insurance that includes sufficient emergency evacuation coverage. Please note, this is due 120 days prior to departure date.
In the event of a medical emergency where a patient must receive care of a doctor as soon as possible, almost all of our ours will require a private charter aircraft to complete the evacuation. Depending on the location and where the closest hospital is located, the expense could be very costly. It is imperative that you check with your insurance provider to ensure you are covered for the location you are visiting. Arctic Kingdom is not responsible for any expenses incurred for medical reasons.
If you do not have your own sufficient evacuation insurance, we recommend Global Rescue (www.globalrescue.com), which offers superior service in remote locations. See their website for specific plans, prices and details.
For emergency evacuation insurance, what dollar amount do you recommend clients cover themselves for?
Our preferred partner for emergency evacuation insurance is Global Rescue. Click here for more information about Global Rescue or to enroll.
Private and Custom Arctic Tours
The dates I am available to travel are outside of any of your Safari departure dates. Can I still book an Arctic tour?
For travellers: Whether you want to have dinner at the North Pole, float above icebergs in a hot air balloon, or tour glaciers by helicopter, if you can imagine it, we can make it happen. From Iqaluit, NU to Ilulissat, Greenland and beyond, if you can see it on our Destinations Map, we can take you there. Please contact us to start planning your dream arctic tour!
For professionals: Where ever you need to go, we can safely take you there! We have supported numerous large-productions in the Arctic, including BBC, Discovery, National Geographic, Red Bull and more!
Photography & Drone
Current wildlife regulations state that all drones must remain 100m away from all animals. In addition, our guides may restrict drone use at any time if deemed to be disturbing to wildlife. Drone use can be particularly disruptive to polar bears and other terrestrial animals, and on some trips, they are not permitted to be used when wildlife viewing.
- Turn off any image stabilization
- Turn off autofocus and dial the focus manually to infinity
- Depending on light, aim at about 15-20 seconds at ISO1600 and start working from there. More than about 30 seconds will result in the stars moving and blurring the image slightly.
- Make sure there’s something of interest in the foreground
Accommodations
Diving/Snorkelling in the Arctic
I wear glasses and have prescription goggles. Will “standard” goggles be okay, or does the cold temperature require something different?
Polar Bear Mother & Newborn Cubs
Kindly, ask the front desk for your clothing rental bags when you check in, as the rental equipment will not be sent to your room. The equipment will be provided in a large duffel bag, which can be used to transport the equipment to camp. Please try on and confirm all rental equipment at the hotel prior to flying to Churchill. Please advise your Expedition Leader in the event of a clothing issue.
Tipping is appreciated, although not compulsory. If you had a great experience and wish to express your thanks, a gratuity is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. The amount you tip is completely at your discretion, however, a general guideline of approximately 3 percent of your trip fare per guest is the average that previous guests have provided.
It is recommended to tip the Lodge staff and your Arctic Kingdom Expedition Leader separately. Your tip to the Lodge can be given to the Manager and they will distribute to their staff. Limited cash is available in the northern communities; therefore, we recommend obtaining Canadian currency before you depart or in your gateway city.
Alternatively, you may provide a cheque or wire transfer for tips if it is more convenient for you, but it may cause delays in-field staff receiving the tips from our head office.
Cheques should be payable to: Arctic Kingdom Polar Expeditions Inc
Wire transfer instructions:
Beneficiary: Arctic Kingdom Inc
Beneficiary Address: 5045 Orbitor Dr., Bldg. 10 Suite 400, Mississauga, ON L4W 4Y4 Canada
Bank: Royal Bank of Canada
Bank Address: Iqaluit Bldg #922. Iqaluit, NU, Canada, X0A 0H0
Institution #: 003
Transit # 09851
Account # 1017698
SWIFT (BIC) Code: ROYCCAT2
Sort Code (US ONLY): 000309851
IMPORTANT: Please include client name and trip name.
Canada does not use IBAN numbers.
Food: $15-$35 per person per meal
Spring Polar Bears & Icebergs of Baffin
Please pick up your clothing rental package at PARS2000 located in the Ottawa airport (open 24-hours a day). PARS2000 is located on the Arrivals level next to the Baggage Carousel 5 and beside the Lost and Found. A map and further details will be sent with your travel documents. Please try on and confirm all rental equipment prior to flying to the Arctic. Please refer to instructions of who to contact in your rental kit in the event of an issue.
Please drop off your entire clothing rental package in the duffle bag you received it in at PARS2000 in the Ottawa airport when you return. Please let the staff know that you are dropping this package off for Arctic Kingdom.
There are ATMs available in Ottawa. We recommend having Canadian currency on hand prior to travelling to Nunavut, as it mainly operates on cash and there are very few ATMs, Interac or credit card services.
Any meals after lunch on Day 9 are not included. You will also require cash for any incidentals, such as batteries, toiletries, gifts, tips, or any purchases made in the local Arctic communities.
Yes, you will be able to charge your electronics at the hotel and in camp. Power provided is 120VAC/60Hz using North American standard plug outlets. If your electronics do not have a North American standard plug, please make sure you bring the proper plug adapter.
Yes, each guest will be provided with a mid-sized quick-dry towel and face cloth. Hair dryers will not be available on this trip. It is recommended that you bring dry shampoo as there are no showers in camp. NOTE: soaps, shampoos, or toothpaste should be natural, biodegradable, and fragrance free.
Our team will be monitoring flight statuses and working with Canadian North airline and the hotel in Iqaluit and will handle any changes that are part of your Arctic Kingdom trip. Please be sure to carry full details pertaining to the flights you have booked for yourself to/from Ottawa in case required due to a delay. Your Expedition Leader and Arctic Kingdom will assist you with changes to your onward travel plans should that be necessary.
Arctic Kingdom Expedition Leaders and Inuit guides are highly trained and experienced in polar bear safety and de-escalation. Follow the instructions of your Expedition Team at all times.
Drugs/Alcohol are not permitted. Qikiqtarjuaq is a dry community meaning that all drugs and alcohol are not permitted. We respect and follow these rules.
Hotel or B&B | $225-$280 per person per night
Food | $15-$50 per person per meal
Tipping is appreciated, although not compulsory. If you had a great experience and wish to express your thanks, a gratuity is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. The amount you tip Arctic Kingdom staff is completely at your discretion, however, a general guideline of approximately 3 percent of your trip fare per guest is the average that previous guests have provided.
As most of our field staff live in remote areas of the Arctic, it is preferable that tips are paid in cash at the camp in which you are staying. Limited cash is available in the northern communities; therefore, we recommend obtaining Canadian currency before you depart or in your gateway city. Our Expedition Leader will collect the tips and distribute it amongst the field staff.
Alternatively, you may provide a cheque or wire transfer for tips if it is more convenient for you, but it may cause delays in field staff receiving the tips from our head office.
Cheques should be payable to: Arctic Kingdom Polar Expeditions Inc.
Wire transfer instructions:
Beneficiary: Arctic Kingdom Polar Expeditions Inc.
Beneficiary Address: 5045 Orbitor Dr., Bldg. 10 Suite 400, Mississauga, ON L4W 4Y4 Canada
Bank: Royal Bank of Canada
Bank Address: Iqaluit Bldg #922. Iqaluit, NU, Canada, X0A 0H0
Institution #: 003
Transit #: 09851
Account #: 1017698
SWIFT (BIC) Code: ROYCCAT2
Sort Code (US ONLY): 000309851
IMPORTANT: Please include client name and trip name.
Canada does not use IBAN numbers.
Baffin Island Dive Safari
We do not rent drysuits for diving as it is imperative that your neck and wrist seals are fitted for your size. It is best practice to have previously dived using your drysuit to ensure familiarity and proper fit.
We provide all tanks, including pony bottles, weights and air fills. Tanks may be steel or aluminum. Weight belts are also available if required. In addition, we supply all ice diving tools, safety equipment and remote emergency oxygen.
Arctic Kingdom uses BARE drysuits, which is Canadian brand from the west coast and has served us well. You can find their products here:
( (https://www.baresports.com/)
Abyss are also good quality, have a range of options, and are a small shop that should be happy to do custom work, if needed:
( (https://www.abyssdivingsuits.com/)
The top drysuit manufacturer in Quebec, which is also a small company, is:
( (https://en.atlaninc.com/)
( (https://en.atlaninc.com/dry-combinaisons-tanches)
DUI (based in California) is one of the very best for diving drysuits, and will do a premium drysuit, as well as offer crushed neoprene and trilaminate. Both are better for diving but not as good for snorkeling. Trilaminate is good for snorkeling if the person has warm clothes underneath. DUI will likely cost twice as much as a Canadian made suit:
( (https://www.divedui.com/)
Yes, the average water temperature is between -2°C – 0°C (28.5°F – 32°F). The risk of a free-flowing regulator is high. Cold water regulators are specifically designed to reduce this risk. Your primary and back up regulators should be recommended for use in cold water
When booking your flights, be sure to book your arrival into Ottawa at least one day before Day 1 of your trip itinerary. If possible, we suggest that you plan to arrive in Ottawa no later than 6 PM on that day before Day 1. It is recommended that you book return flights from Ottawa on the day after Day 8 of your trip itinerary to ensure any delays do not interfere with your fight home.
Please pick up your clothing rental package at PARS2000 located in the Ottawa airport (open 24-hours a day). PARS2000 is located on the Arrivals level next to the Baggage Carousel 5 and beside the Lost and Found. A map and further details will be sent with your travel documents. Please try on and confirm all rental equipment prior to flying to the Arctic. Please refer to instructions of whom to contact in your rental kit in the event of an issue.
Please drop off your entire clothing rental package in the duffle bag you received it in at PARS2000 in the Ottawa airport when you return. Please let the staff know that you are dropping this package off for Arctic Kingdom.
There are ATMs available in Ottawa. We recommend having Canadian currency on hand prior to travelling to Nunavut, as it mainly operates on cash and there are very few ATMs, Interac or credit card services.
You will require cash for any incidentals, such as batteries, toiletries, gifts, tips, or any purchases made in the local Arctic communities.
Yes, you will be able to charge your electronics at the hotel and in camp. Power provided is 120VAC/60Hz using North American standard plug outlets. If your electronics do not have a North American standard plug, please make sure you bring the proper plug adapter.
Yes, each guest will be provided with a mid-sized quick-dry towel and face cloth. Hairdryers will not be available on this trip. NOTE: soaps, shampoos, or toothpaste should be natural, biodegradable, and fragrance-free.
Drugs/Alcohol are not permitted. Pond Inlet is a dry community meaning that all drugs and alcohol are not permitted. We respect and follow these rules.
Our team will be monitoring flight statuses and working with Canadian North airline and northern hotels and will handle any changes that are part of your Arctic Kingdom trip. Please be sure to carry full details pertaining to the flights you have booked for yourself to/from Ottawa in case required due to a delay. Your Expedition Leader and Arctic Kingdom will assist you with changes to your onward travel plans should that be necessary.
Arctic Kingdom Expedition Leaders and Inuit guides are highly trained and experienced in polar bear safety and de-escalation. Follow the instructions of your Expedition Team at all times.
Tipping is appreciated, although not compulsory. If you had a great experience and wish to express your thanks, a gratuity is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. The amount you tip Arctic Kingdom staff is completely at your discretion, however, a general guideline of approximately 3 percent of your trip fare per guest is the average that previous guests have provided. For more details, please see the Tipping on page 16.
Hotel or B&B… $245-$280 per person per night
Food…………….. $25-$50 per person per meal
Narwhal & Polar Bear, Floe Edge Safari
When booking your flights, be sure to book your arrival into Ottawa at least one day before Day 1 of your trip itinerary. If possible, we suggest that you plan to arrive in Ottawa no later than 6 PM on that day before Day 1. It is recommended that you book return flights from Ottawa on the day after Day 8 of your trip itinerary to ensure any delays do not interfere with your fight home.
Please pick up your clothing rental package at PARS2000 located in the Ottawa airport (open 24-hours a day). PARS2000 is located on the Arrivals level next to the Baggage Carousel 5 and beside the Lost and Found. A map and further details will be sent with your travel documents. Please try on and confirm all rental equipment prior to flying to the Arctic. Please refer to instructions on whom to contact in your rental kit in the event of an issue.
Please drop off your entire clothing rental package in the duffle bag you received it in at PARS2000 in the Ottawa airport when you return. Please let the staff know that you are dropping this package off for Arctic Kingdom.
There are ATMs available in Ottawa. We recommend having Canadian currency on hand prior to travelling to Nunavut, as it mainly operates on cash and there are very few ATMs, Interac or credit card services.
You will require cash for any incidentals, such as batteries, toiletries, gifts, tips, or any purchases made in the local Arctic communities.
Yes, you will be able to charge your electronics at the hotel and in camp. Power provided is 120VAC/60Hz using North American standard plug outlets. If your electronics do not have a North American standard plug, please make sure you bring the proper plug adapter.
Yes, each guest will be provided with a mid-sized quick-dry towel and face cloth. Hairdryers will not be available on this trip. NOTE: soaps, shampoos, or toothpaste should be natural, biodegradable, and fragrance-free.
Drugs/Alcohol are not permitted. Pond Inlet is a dry community meaning that all drugs and alcohol are not permitted. We respect and follow these rules.
Our team will be monitoring flight statuses and working with Canadian North airline and northern hotels and will handle any changes that are part of your Arctic Kingdom trip. Please be sure to carry full details pertaining to the flights you have booked for yourself to/from Ottawa in case required due to a delay. Your Expedition Leader and Arctic Kingdom will assist you with changes to your onward travel plans should that be necessary.
Arctic Kingdom Expedition Leaders and Inuit guides are highly trained and experienced in polar bear safety and de-escalation. Follow the instructions of your Expedition Team at all times.
Tipping is appreciated, although not compulsory. If you had a great experience and wish to express your thanks, a gratuity is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. The amount you tip Arctic Kingdom staff is completely at your discretion, however, a general guideline of approximately 3 percent of your trip fare per guest is the average that previous guests have provided.
As most of our field staff live in remote areas of the Arctic, it is preferable that tips are paid in cash at the camp in which you are staying. Limited cash is available in the northern communities; therefore, we recommend obtaining Canadian currency before you depart or in your gateway city. Our Expedition Leader will collect the tips and distribute them amongst the field staff.
Alternatively, you may provide a cheque or wire transfer for tips if it is more convenient for you, but it may cause delays in-field staff receiving the tips from our head office.
Cheques should be payable to: Arctic Kingdom Polar Expeditions Inc.
Wire transfer instructions:
Beneficiary: Arctic Kingdom IncBeneficiary
Address: 5045 Orbitor Dr., Bldg. 10 Suite 400, Mississauga, ON L4W 4Y4 Canada
Bank: Royal Bank of Canada
BankAddress: Iqaluit Bldg #922. Iqaluit, NU, Canada, X0A 0H0
Institution#:003
Transit#09851
Account #1017698
SWIFT (BIC) Code: ROYCCAT2
Sort Code (US ONLY):000309851
IMPORTANT: Please include client name and trip name. Canada does not use IBAN numbers.
Hotel or B&B …. $245-$280 per person per night
Food ………… $25-$50 per person per meal
Polar Bears & Glaciers of Baffin Island
Please pick up your clothing rental package at the front desk of your Ottawa-area hotel. Kindly, ask the front desk for your clothing rental bags when you check in, as the rental equipment will not be sent to your room. Please try on and confirm all rental equipment at the hotel prior to flying to Iqaluit. Please refer to instructions of who to contact in your rental kit in the event of an issue.
Please drop off your entire clothing rental package in the duffle bag you received it in at PARS 2000, located on the Arrivals floor next to Baggage Carousel 5 at the Ottawa airport (open 24-hours a day). Please inform the staff that you are dropping off a bag for Arctic Kingdom.
There are ATMs available in Ottawa. We recommend having Canadian currency on hand prior to travelling to Nunavut, as it mainly operates on cash and there are very few ATMs, Interact or credit card services.
Any meals on Day 9 are not included. You will also require cash for any incidentals, such as batteries, toiletries, gifts, tips, local art, etc. You will also require cash for any incidentals, such as batteries, toiletries, gifts, tips, or any purchases made in the local Arctic communities.
Yes, you will be able to charge your electronics at the hotel and in camp. Power provided is 120VAC/60Hz using North American standard plug outlets. If your electronics do not have a North American standard plug, please make sure you bring the proper plug adapter.
Yes, each guest will be provided with a mid-sized quick-dry towel and face cloth. Hair dryers will not be available on this trip. It is recommended that you bring dry shampoo as there are no showers in camp. NOTE: soaps, shampoos, or toothpaste should be natural, biodegradable, and fragrance free.
When under the care of Arctic Kingdom, your Expedition Leader will assist with changes to your travel plans due to weather delays.
Arctic Kingdom Expedition Leaders and Inuit guides are highly trained and experienced in polar bear safety and de-escalation. Follow the instructions of your Expedition Team at all times.
Tipping is an appreciated, although not compulsory. If you had a great experience and wish to express your thanks, a gratuity is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. The amount you tip Arctic Kingdom staff is completely at your discretion, however, a general guideline of 4 to 5 per cent of your trip fare (excluding airfare) per guest is the average that previous guests have provided.
As most of our field staff live in remote areas of the Arctic, it is preferable that tips are paid in cash at the camp that you are staying. Our Expedition Leader will collect the tips and distribute it amongst the field staff.
Alternatively, you may provide a cheque or wire transfer for tips if it is more convenient for you, but it may cause delays in field staff receiving the tips from head office.
Cheques should be payable to: Arctic Kingdom Polar Expeditions Inc.
Wire transfer instructions:
Beneficiary: Arctic Kingdom Polar Expeditions Inc.
Bank: Royal Bank of Canada Institution # 003
Transit #: 07212
Account #: 1010784
Bank Address: 1635 Avenue Road, Toronto, ON M5M 3X8 Canada
SWIFT Number: ROYCCAT2
IMPORTANT: Please include client name and trip name.
Hotel or B&B … $245-$280 per person per night
Food …………….. $25-$50 per person per meal
Polar Bear Migration Fly-In Safari
- Grand Winnipeg Airport Hotel which is conveniently at the James Armstrong Richardson International Airport.
- There is not an Arctic Kingdom Representative in Winnipeg. You will first be met in Churchill by the Arctic Kingdom Representative both at the start and the finish of your trip.
- The hotel is a very short 5 minute walk from the terminals. Feel free to transport your gear from the airport to your hotel room with a luggage cart, you do not need to return it to the airport yourself.
- Breakfast is not included on Day 1 in Winnipeg as the hotel restaurant and room service may not be open early enough before you will need to head to the airport. So, you may wish to plan to have breakfast at the airport.
- There are many restaurants that will be open at the airport. There is no food served on Calm Air so you will want to have breakfast before boarding the plane.
Please note that Baggage allowance is based on the charter plane, not Calm Air allowances.
- You will only be allowed a TOTAL baggage weight of 22.7 kg (50 lbs) per person, including your carry‐on on the charter plane from Churchill to camp. Further details will be provided.
- Each passenger is permitted two (2) pieces of carry-on baggage
- Combined weight of these pieces is not to exceed 20 lbs (9 kg)
- Combined dimensions (LxWxH) is not to exceed 10 in x 16 in x 12 in (25 cm x 40 cm x 30 cm)
- It is recommended that camera equipment is transported in a pelican case, not a soft-sided camera bag. If your equipment exceeds the carry-on restrictions in size or weight, which is less than other airlines operating with larger aircraft, your carry-on will have to go as checked baggage. Be prepared to be separated with your carry-on if it exceeds Calm Air carry-on restrictions. It is recommended that you pack your camera film in your carry-on baggage as screening equipment used by CATSA may damage photographic film packed in checked baggage. It does not affect digital disks. https://www.calmair.com/carryonbaggage/
- Calm Air does not offer pre-reserved seat selection. All seat assignments are on a first-come, first-served basis at time of boarding.
- There is no maximum number of pieces for the charter plane, the criteria are total baggage weight of 22.7 kg (50 lbs) per person including your carry-on.
- You MUST wear your parka and appropriate footwear on the charter to and from camp.
- Upon arrival in Churchill, you will be met by an Arctic Kingdom representative who will assist with your clothing exchange (if needed) and transfer to the charter plane.Note: please plan to keep your Polar Clothing accessible as you will be required to change into it in Churchill once you retrieve your baggage before boarding the charter flight.
What happens if I have too much luggage weight when I arrive in Churchill? Can I leave things somewhere?
- Yes, you may leave some items with the Arctic Kingdom Churchill Coordinator for pickup when you return to Churchill if need be. Alternatively, you may also leave some items with the Bell Desk at the Grand Winnipeg Airport Hotel for when you return.
- The weight of one complete Polar Clothing Rental equipment package is 18 lbs.
- The times of flights will be advised at least 120 days prior to departure as they are subject to change. You may check with us before that if you wish.
- Yes, you are permitted to bring alcohol. Arctic Kingdom does provide complimentary red and white wine with dinner, but not beer or liquor. If you choose to bring some alcohol the amount you are permitted to bring will be restricted to the baggage weight limitations for your charter flight. In addition, by the nature of our program, we reserve the right to limit consumption to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment.
- Yes, there is always a possibility to see aurora on this trip. The likelihood and quality will depend on solar activity at the time. Additionally, the quality may be affected by the lunar cycle (amount of darkness) however there is always a reasonable possibility to see the northern lights.
- There will be time to relax and there will be a variety of activities such as: presentations about the Arctic and the wildlife; Inuit games; nature related videos; a possibility to take pictures within the compound with staff guidance.
- You may wish to bring your own tripod as for the aurora it would be essential. There is not an extra tripod available at the Cabins.
- The generator is on until 10 or 11 PM and will be extended if there are aurora to view.
- Yes, each Cabin has its own individual thermostat that allows you to regulate the temperature yourself.
- There will be an opportunity to go outside of the compound/fence daily, weather dependent. This is only if you are escorted by an Arctic Kingdom Staff person and with permission for safety reasons.
- No, only as a group and only with Arctic Kingdom Staff with permission for safety reasons.
- Yes, we will notify you if you indicated you would like to be notified and similarly this is only with AK Staff for safety reasons.
- If we see polar bears, we will notify you if you indicated you would like to be notified and similarly this is only with AK Staff for safety reasons.
- The times when we go to the Cabins are the best times to see bears up close and in the wild, these dates are chosen because the polar bears are moving north in anticipation of getting on the ice.
- The bears are on migration and the Cabins are on their path where they migrate north.
- Walks are geared to ability of the guests but are typically not strenuous or very long. They are an opportunity to get out and enjoy the fresh air and walk.
- Our team will be monitoring flight statuses and working with Calm Air if there are any changes.
- There will be various guided activities such as a Churchill heritage town tour and other seasonal local activities. There will also be an opportunity to shop and some leisure time.
- The day after you return to Winnipeg on ‘Day 9’.
- Let us know if you would like a list of recommendations, we will be pleased to provide you with our suggestions.
- When booking your flights, be sure to book your arrival into Winnipeg on or before Day 1 of your trip itinerary. It is recommended that you book return flights from Winnipeg on or after Day 8 of your trip itinerary to ensure any delays do not interfere with your flight home.
- Please pick up your clothing rental package at the front desk of your Winnipeg airport hotel. Kindly, ask the front desk for your clothing rental bags when you check-in, as the rental equipment will not be sent to your room. Please try on and confirm all rental equipment at the hotel prior to flying to Churchill. Please refer to instructions of who to contact in your rental kit in the event of an issue.
- Please drop off your clothing rental package at the front desk of your Winnipeg airport hotel. Let the hotel staff know that you are dropping this package off for Arctic Kingdom.
- There are ATMs available in Winnipeg. We recommend having Canadian currency on hand when travelling to Nunavut, as it mainly operates on cash and there are very few ATMs, Interact or credit card services.
- Any meals after breakfast on Day 7 are not included. You will also require cash for any incidentals, such as batteries, toiletries, gifts, tips, or any purchases made in the local Arctic communities.
- Yes, you will be able to charge your electronics at the hotel and in camp. Power provided is 120VAC/60Hz using North American standard plug outlets. If your electronics do not have a North American standard plug, please make sure you bring the proper plug adapter.
- Yes, each guest will be provided with a mid-sized quick-dry towel and face cloth. Hairdryers are not provided on this trip in which case you might want to consider bringing dry shampoo. NOTE: if you choose to bring your own soap or shampoo it should be natural, biodegradable, and fragrance-free.
- When under the care of Arctic Kingdom, your Expedition Leader will assist with changes to your travel plans due to weather delays.
- Arctic Kingdom Expedition Leaders and Inuit guides are highly trained and experienced in polar bear safety and de-escalation. Follow the instructions of your Expedition Team at all times.
- Tipping is appreciated, although not compulsory. If you had a great experience and wish to express your thanks, a gratuity is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. The amount you tip Arctic Kingdom staff is completely at your discretion, however, a general guideline of 4 to 5 percent of your trip fare (excluding airfare) per guest is the average that previous guests have provided.As most of our field staff live in remote areas of the Arctic, it is preferable that tips are paid in cash at the camp that you are staying. Limited cash is available in the northern communities; therefore we recommend obtaining Canadian currency before you depart or in your gateway city. Our Expedition Leader will collect the tips and distribute them amongst the field staff.Alternatively, you may provide a cheque or wire transfer for tips if it is more convenient for you, but it may cause delays in-field staff receiving the tips from our head office.Cheques should be payable to: Arctic Kingdom Polar Expeditions Inc.Wire transfer instructions:Beneficiary: Arctic Kingdom IncBeneficiary Address: 5045 Orbitor Dr., Bldg. 10 Suite 400, Mississauga, ON L4W 4Y4 CanadaBank: Royal Bank of CanadaBank Address: Iqaluit Bldg #922. Iqaluit, NU, Canada, X0A 0H0Institution #: 003Transit # 09851Account # 1017698SWIFT (BIC) Code: ROYCCAT2Sort Code (US ONLY): 000309851IMPORTANT: Please include client name and trip name.
Canada does not use IBAN numbers.
Taste of the Arctic Summer Getaway/Guided Northern Lights Getaway
When booking your flights, be sure to book your arrival into Ottawa at least one day before Day 1 of your trip itinerary. If possible, we suggest that you plan to arrive in Ottawa no later than 6 PM on that day before Day 1. It is recommended that you book return flights from Ottawa on the day after Day 4 of your trip itinerary to ensure any delays do not interfere with your fight home.
Please pick up your clothing rental package at PARS2000 located in the Ottawa airport (open 24-hours a day). PARS2000 is located on the Arrivals level next to the Baggage Carousel 5 and beside the Lost and Found. A map and further details will be sent with your travel documents. Please try on and confirm all rental equipment prior to flying to the Arctic. Please refer to instructions on whom to contact in your rental kit in the event of an issue.
Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted in Iqaluit, and there are ATM’s throughout the city – one is in the hotel lobby. It is recommended to bring some cash, in Canadian currency, for tips, purchasing artwork, etc. in case an ATM is out of order.
Any meals other than lunch on Day 2 and 3 are not included. You may also require cash for any incidentals, such as batteries, toiletries, gifts, tips, local art, or any other purchases made in Iqaluit.
Our team will be monitoring flight statuses and working with Canadian North airline and the hotel in Iqaluit and will handle any changes that are part of your Arctic Kingdom trip. Please be sure to carry full details pertaining to the flights you have booked for yourself to/from Ottawa in case required due to a delay. Your Expedition Leader and Arctic Kingdom will assist you with changes to your onward travel plans should that be necessary.
Iqaluit is an unrestricted community. There are a few licensed establishments where one can purchase beer, wine or liquor as well as a beer and wine store. People can bring alcohol in their luggage, and it is permitted to bring, personally, quantities no greater than three litres of spirits or nine litres of wine or 26 litres of beer.
Hotel or B&B …. $230-$400 per room NOT per person – dependant on availability & hotel preference
Food …………….. $15-$50 per person per meal
Tipping is an appreciated, although not compulsory. If you had a great experience and wish to express your thanks, a gratuity is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. The amount you tip Arctic Kingdom staff is completely at your discretion, however, a general guideline of 4 to 5 per cent of your trip fare (excluding airfare) per guest is the average that previous guests have provided.
As most of our field staff live in remote areas of the Arctic, it is preferable that tips are paid in cash at the camp that you are staying. Our Expedition Leader will collect the tips and distribute it amongst the field staff.
Alternatively, you may provide a cheque or wire transfer for tips if it is more convenient for you, but it may cause delays in field staff receiving the tips from head office.
Cheques should be payable to: Arctic Kingdom Polar Expeditions Inc.
Wire transfer instructions:
Beneficiary: Arctic Kingdom Polar Expeditions Inc.
Bank: Royal Bank of Canada Institution # 003
Transit #: 07212
Account #: 1010784
Bank Address: 1635 Avenue Road, Toronto, ON M5M 3X8 Canada
SWIFT Number: ROYCCAT2
IMPORTANT: Please include client name and trip name.