ARCTIC HIGHLIGHTS
Towering snow-capped mountains and forbidding glaciers
Flower studded tundra
Avian treats such as the elegant Ivory Gull, the immaculate King Eider and the lovely Red Phalarope
Quality time with the iconic Polar Bear super-predator
Chances for some excellent cetaceans including Beluga Whales
Breathtaking scenery
ARCTIC GALLERY
FEATURED LODGES OF THE ARCTIC
Seal River Heritage Lodge
Seal River is located near an estuary where Belugas arrive in the thousands in the summer months. Open from July until November, the lodge emphasizes walking safaris, migration viewing, and, in summer, outings by boat on the bay.
Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge
Nanuk is located near Polar Bear denning areas on the southern side of the bay and, from August to November, guests can encounter abundant wildlife on walks or on excursions in a low-impact open-air safari vehicle.
When to visit The Arctic
Lodges are open in the summer and fall from July or August to November. In the summer months, average temperatures range from a high of 62˚F (17˚C) to a low of 42˚F (6˚C). September sees temperatures that vary wildly: a week can begin balmy and end with temperatures well below freezing. In October and November, highs range from 34˚ to 12˚F (1˚ to -11˚C) and the lows can drop down to 1˚F (-17˚C). As the tundra and the bay begin to freeze, polar bears gather on the coast, making for great viewing opportunities. It is possible, given the right conditions, to see the northern lights in any month of the year. Maximum darkness is preferred, so generally long, cold, clear winter nights are best, but excellent viewing possibilities do present themselves from July through May. Though the optimal viewing season is generally from January to March, it’s a lot more fun working with cameras in the warmer months at 10°C instead of -40°C, and the northern lights can be equally spectacular on a good night.