Northwest Territories, Canada Travel Guide

The Northwest Territories (NWT) can be accessed by air, road, and sea. The main gateway is Yellowknife, the capital city, which is served by Yellowknife Airport (YZF). Regular flights operate from major Canadian cities such as Edmonton, Calgary, and Vancouver. For road travel, the Mackenzie Highway (Highway 1) connects the NWT to Alberta. In the summer, ferries and in the winter, ice roads provide additional access to more remote communities. Seasonal sea access is available through the Arctic Ocean for those traveling by boat.

Within the Northwest Territories, transportation options include rental cars, buses, taxis, and charter flights. Yellowknife has a public bus system for getting around the city. For exploring more remote areas, renting a car or 4x4 vehicle is recommended. Ferries operate during the summer months, and during winter, ice roads connect many communities. Charter flights are available for reaching isolated regions and offer a quick way to cover the vast distances.

The official currency in the Northwest Territories is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Yellowknife and other larger communities. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially when traveling to remote areas where ATMs may not be available. Most businesses accept major credit cards, but smaller establishments and remote communities might prefer cash.

The Northwest Territories is generally safe for tourists, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. Yellowknife and other major towns have low crime rates, but be cautious in unfamiliar areas, particularly at night. Avoid walking alone in secluded areas and keep your belongings secure. Wildlife encounters can be a risk, especially in remote areas, so follow local guidelines on wildlife safety. There are no specific high-crime neighborhoods targeting tourists.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Yellowknife has a hospital (Stanton Territorial Hospital) for medical emergencies, and smaller health centers are available in other communities. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation due to the remote nature of many areas in the NWT. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in Yellowknife and larger towns.

Fashion: Do dress in layers and be prepared for sudden weather changes. Don't wear overly casual clothing when dining out in nicer restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially in Indigenous communities. Public Transport: Do be punctual and respectful when using public transport. Don't be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly nod or handshake. Don't be overly familiar with strangers. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and respect local dining customs. Don't refuse food or drink offerings as it can be considered impolite.

To experience the Northwest Territories like a local, engage with the community and participate in local festivals such as the Snowking Winter Festival or the Great Northern Arts Festival. Visit local markets and shops to purchase Indigenous arts and crafts. Take advantage of outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and aurora viewing. Respect the natural environment and follow 'Leave No Trace' principles to preserve the pristine wilderness.

Long before European explorers set foot in the Northwest Territories, the region was home to diverse Indigenous peoples, including the Dene, Inuvialuit, and Métis. These groups have rich cultural traditions and histories that are deeply connected to the land, water, and wildlife of the area. Their traditional knowledge and practices continue to influence the culture and lifestyle of the region today.

In the late 18th century, European explorers began venturing into the Northwest Territories. Notable explorers such as Sir Alexander Mackenzie and John Franklin undertook arduous journeys through the region. Mackenzie was the first European to reach the Arctic Ocean overland, while Franklin's ill-fated expedition highlighted the harsh and unforgiving nature of the Arctic environment.

The fur trade played a pivotal role in the history of the Northwest Territories. The Hudson's Bay Company and the North West Company established trading posts throughout the region in the 18th and 19th centuries. These posts became hubs of commerce and cultural exchange between Indigenous peoples and European traders. Fort Simpson and Fort Smith are among the notable trading posts established during this period.

In 1920, oil was discovered at Norman Wells, marking a significant turning point in the economic development of the Northwest Territories. The discovery led to increased exploration and extraction activities, which brought new settlers and industries to the region. The Canol Project during World War II further expanded oil infrastructure, with pipelines and refineries being constructed to support the war effort.

The Northwest Territories were originally part of the vast Rupert's Land and North-Western Territory, which were acquired by Canada from the Hudson's Bay Company in 1870. The boundaries of the Northwest Territories have changed multiple times since then, with the most significant change occurring in 1999 when Nunavut was separated to become its own territory. This division was a result of a long-standing Inuit land claim settlement.

In the 1970s, the proposed Mackenzie Valley Pipeline Project sparked significant controversy and debate. The pipeline was intended to transport natural gas from the Beaufort Sea through the Mackenzie Valley to southern markets. The Berger Inquiry, led by Justice Thomas Berger, examined the environmental, social, and economic impacts of the project. The inquiry ultimately recommended a ten-year moratorium on pipeline construction to address Indigenous land claims and environmental concerns.

Wood Buffalo National Park, established in 1922, is one of the largest national parks in the world, spanning both Alberta and the Northwest Territories. It was created to protect the last remaining herds of free-roaming wood bison. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, including whooping cranes, and features unique landscapes such as salt plains and boreal forests. It has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Climate change is having profound effects on the Northwest Territories, with warming temperatures leading to melting permafrost, changing wildlife patterns, and impacting traditional ways of life. Indigenous communities in the region are at the forefront of observing and responding to these changes. Efforts are underway to adapt to and mitigate the impacts of climate change, while preserving the cultural heritage and natural environment of the area.