Nunavik, a legendary and disproportionate part of the country, even for Quebecers who are familiar with the concept of wide open spaces. Its territory begins where the imaginary line of the 55th parallel north crosses. The northernmost region of Quebec, it covers more than 500,000 km² of wilderness, bordering Hudson Bay and the Strait of Hudson Bay, as well as Ungava Bay and part of Labrador. About 12,000 inhabitants, almost exclusively Inuit, live in about 15 villages along the coast. The region is breathtakingly authentic and beautiful. Both mythical and exhilarating, it also contains some of Quebec's most impressive natural jewels, which are preserved and enhanced in Nunavik's national parks. For different holidays, this is the place to go!
The turnkey North
First of all, it must be admitted that this type of trip is not within everyone's reach. And the region is certainly remote, right up there on the map of Quebec. That being said, it's really worth it. Not only do we discover magnificent landscapes like nowhere else, but we also dive head first into the heart of Inuit culture and traditions. Passed down through generations, they have made the Inuit the guardians of this raw and still unspoilt nature. Who better than them to guide us in this immensity they call "land of wide open spaces" or "great land to live in" (Nunavik in Inuktitut)? In collaboration with Nunavik Parks, a division of the Kativik Regional Government, a range of all-inclusive packages is now at your fingertips, taking care of everything to make your life easier, including a round-trip flight from Montreal. Even if you are provided with very cold clothing by the national parks - check in advance - don't neglect accessories and the base layer. With its extreme winter conditions, the Quebec Arctic is not to be underestimated.
Once the logistical aspect has been settled, we then open ourselves to the purpose of the trip: unique outdoor experiences combined with the opportunity to meet and share with the local communities, the Nunavimmiut. Regardless of the national park visited, it becomes a showcase where regional practices are revealed, reflecting a rich ancestral heritage. During the stay, we can accompany our guides on the hunt for rock ptarmigan or seal, help them set fishing nets on a frozen lake, take a short dog sleigh ride with the young mushers of the village, or simply share tea with an elder by listening to the story of ancient times.
Kuururjuaq and its great airs
It is the closest park to Kuujjuaq, with Ungava Bay and the community of Kangiqsualujjuaq on one side and Labrador on the other. Here are the highest peaks in eastern North America, the famous Torngat Mountains that make many adventurers dream. This breathtaking and breathtaking territory is at the heart of the Inuit way of life, which they have been travelling through for thousands of years. To follow in their footsteps, a 9-day guided package allows you to put on snowshoes and nordic skis and set off to attack this mountainous region. You will first be warmly welcomed in the village of Kangiqsualujjuaq, your base camp outside the park and a unique cultural experience. Then it's time to discover the park by snowmobile, ski, snowshoe, with very comfortable nights in heated and fully equipped huts, but also in a traditional Inuit tent heated by a wood stove, all that is most authentic. Here, we fill his lungs with fresh air and his eyes with spectacular landscapes. It seems that the Northern Lights are not stopping here..
Pingualuit and its crater
It is to him that the national park owes its fame, this immense impact crater of 3.4 kilometres in diameter created 1.4 million years ago. With the "Winter off the beaten track" package, you can go and admire it from close up. Even when covered with snow, its perfectly circular crater is impressive and its lake - although frozen on the surface - contains some of the purest water in the world. You should also not miss the spectacular canyon of the Puvirnituq River (possible snow slide) and the almost lunar landscapes of the Ungava Plateau. During your guided stay in the park, you can explore these high plateaus of the Arctic tundra with snowshoes, cross-country skiing and even paraskiing. Some will prefer to practice ice fishing, test their talent instead of carving on snow or simply enjoy the present moment. Inuit culture is not to be outdone, as you will be invited to stay in the community of Kangiqsujuaq. On the program: dog sledding, building an igloo, visiting a hunting camp, traditional cuisine and tasting local specialities such as caribou meat, alpine logopedics or beluga dermis..
Tursujuq, the king of parks
Near Umiujaq and Hudson Bay is the largest park in Quebec, Tursujuq National Park. Totally disproportionate (26,107 km²), it has accumulated superlatives by hosting the province's second largest lake, Lake Tasiujaq (or Lac Guillaume-Delisle). It is also known for its Hudsonian cuestas (a form of asymmetric relief), its double meteorite crater at Lake Wiyâshâkimî, its 3,000-year-old remains of human occupation and its former trading posts, not to mention its extremely rare population of freshwater seals. Two all-inclusive guided packages are available: the "Winter Nomadic Tour to Tursujuq" combining adventure, winter sports and traditional Inuit activities, and "Off-piste Skiing on the Hudson Coast" for athletes who want to get off the beaten track. The choice is yours!
Getting there:
Find your flight at the best price - Compare
Rent your car at the best price - Compare
Useful :
Book your accommodation at the best conditions - Compare
Get a quote from a local agency for a custom trip - Request a quote
Find a cultural or sporting activity - Find
