Exploring the Arctic Wonders of Iqaluit with Friends

Arrival in Iqaluit: A Land Unlike Any Other

After what felt like an eternity in transit, we finally touched down in Iqaluit! The journey from Berlin, with a layover in Ottawa, was long but the excitement of setting foot in Canada's Arctic was palpable. Mei always says I overpack, and this time I think she might be right. Hauling my overstuffed bag through the Iqaluit airport, I couldn't help but feel a thrill of adventure as I stepped outside and breathed in the crisp, clean air. It's a far cry from the bustling streets of Berlin, but I'm ready to embrace the tranquility and unique beauty of this northern capital.

My friends and I decided to kick things off with a hearty breakfast at Caribrew Cafe. I was eager to try some local fare, and the cafe didn't disappoint. After fueling up, we were ready to dive into the day's itinerary. First stop: the Unikkaarvik Visitor Centre.

Unikkaarvik Visitor Centre: A Warm Welcome to the Arctic

The Unikkaarvik Visitor Centre was the perfect introduction to Iqaluit. The staff were incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable, especially a gentleman named Lawrence, who was full of recommendations. He gave us a brief overview of the town, pointing out key landmarks and suggesting local restaurants to try. The centre itself is small but packed with informative displays about the history, culture, and wildlife of Nunavut.


Experience the heart of Nunavut at the Unikkaarvik Visitor Centre, where culture, art, and adventure meet in Iqaluit.
I was particularly fascinated by the exhibits on Inuit traditions and the impact of climate change on the Arctic. There was also a striking sculpture of a polar bear, which, of course, became an instant photo opportunity. It’s a great place to get your bearings and learn a bit about the area before venturing out further. The center also had information on local tours, which was helpful, even though we hadn't planned on booking one.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and in Iqaluit, that step is into a world unlike any other.

Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum: Delving into Inuit Heritage

Next on our list was the Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum, just a short walk from the visitor center. Housed in a former Hudson’s Bay Company building, the museum offered a deeper dive into Inuit culture and history. The exhibits showcased traditional clothing, tools, hunting equipment, and artwork. It was fascinating to see how the Inuit people have adapted to and thrived in the harsh Arctic environment.


Discover the vibrant culture and history of the Inuit at Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum in Iqaluit, Nunavut, a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts.
One of the highlights was an exhibit featuring contemporary Inuit artists, bridging the gap between the past and present. I was particularly moved by the intricate carvings and the stories they told. The museum also had a display about the history of Iqaluit during World War II, which was a surprising but interesting addition.

Lunch at The Snack: A Quick Bite

By this point, we were starting to feel peckish, so we grabbed a quick lunch at The Snack. It was a no-frills kind of place, but the food was tasty and satisfying. We needed something quick as we were eager to see more of the town.


Experience local cuisine at The Snack in Iqaluit - where fast food meets traditional flavors in a cozy setting.

Shopping for Souvenirs at NORTHERNCOLLECTABLES

After lunch, we strolled through town and popped into NORTHERNCOLLECTABLES. I wanted to find a unique souvenir to bring back to Mei and Lina. The shop had a wide array of Inuit crafts, from carvings to jewelry to textiles. I ended up buying a small carving of a walrus for Lina and a beautiful handcrafted scarf for Mei. I always try to find something that reflects the local culture when I travel, and these seemed like perfect choices.


Explore NORTHERNCOLLECTABLES in Iqaluit for unique collectibles and local art that captures the essence of Nunavut's rich culture.

Dinner at The Frob Kitchen & Eatery: A Taste of the Arctic

For dinner, we decided to try The Frob Kitchen & Eatery. I was excited to sample some more local cuisine. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and the menu featured a variety of Arctic-inspired dishes. I opted for the Arctic char, which was cooked to perfection. My friends tried the muskox burger and the caribou stew, and everyone was happy with their choices. It was a delicious end to a long but rewarding day.


Experience the rich culinary heritage of Iqaluit at The Frob Kitchen & Eatery—where Asian meets Western cuisine in a cozy setting.

Evening Reflections

As the day wound down, I couldn't help but reflect on our first impressions of Iqaluit. The town is small and remote, but it's full of character and charm. The people are friendly and welcoming, and the culture is rich and fascinating. I'm excited to explore more of what Iqaluit has to offer in the coming days. Tomorrow, we're planning a trip to the Sylvia Grinnell River. I've heard it's a beautiful spot for hiking and taking in the natural scenery. I'm also hoping to check out The Storehouse Bar & Grill in the evening for a taste of the local nightlife.

Iqaluit is definitely a place that challenges your preconceptions and opens your eyes to a different way of life. I’m so glad I decided to come here with my friends, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings. As I settle into my guesthouse, I can't help but feel grateful for this opportunity to experience the Arctic wonders of Iqaluit. It's a far cry from my usual haunts in Berlin, but that's exactly why I'm here – to step outside my comfort zone and discover something new. The lack of a portable charger is already a pain, but I'll survive. Time to recharge myself for another day of adventure!