GIN & TONIC TRAVEL PRESENTS
Polar Bears & Icebergs: An Arctic Cultural Safari
April 8–19, 2026 | Baffin Island, Nunavut
For those who thirst for rare experiences, revel in the raw beauty of nature, and cultural immersion in the world’s most remote corners.
Overview
Venture into Canada’s High Arctic for a once-in-a-lifetime polar expedition that blends refined comfort with wild, elemental nature. Designed for modern explorers who appreciate the finer things—but aren’t afraid to rough it for a front-row seat to nature’s majesty—this bespoke journey grants privileged access to one of the last great wildernesses on Earth.
Track polar bears and their cubs across the sea ice, photograph towering icebergs glowing in the Arctic sun, and witness the haunting Northern Lights in complete isolation. All from the safety and comfort of our private wilderness base camp.
Every detail has been curated—from pre-expedition stay in Ottawa to culturally immersive moments with Inuit hosts in Iqaluit. This is Arctic travel, redefined.
Your Journey
April 8, 2026 — Arrival in Ottawa
Welcome to Canada’s capital. A private driver greets you at the airport and whisks you to the iconic Fairmont Château Laurier, your home for the next two nights.
Inclusions:
- VIP airport transfer
- Personal welcome by Gin & Tonic Travel at the hotel
- Overnight in a double room at Fairmont Château Laurier - dinner on your own at your leisure. Enjoy the pool and spa or simply relax from your flight.
April 9 — Ottawa: Culture & Cocktails
Ease into your adventure with a curated day exploring Canada’s natural heritage. Begin with a private guided visit to the Canadian Museum of Nature, followed by a bespoke gin tasting experience, tailored exclusively for our group.
Inclusions:
- Breakfast & dinner
- Private guided museum tour
- Chauffeured transport in 14-passenger Mercedes Sprinter
- Arctic Kingdom host throughout
Exclusive private gin tasting featuring Northern botanicals
Ottawa Locks
April 10 — Journey to the Arctic
Your polar journey begins with a Canadian North flight to Qikiqtarjuaq (QIK), gateway to the sea ice (Via Iqaluit). Total travel time is about 6.5 hours. Settle into the Tulugak Hotel—a warm welcome to the North—where you'll enjoy a hearty welcome dinner and a full expedition briefing.
Inclusions:
- Flights from Ottawa to QIK
- Full expedition briefing
- All meals included
- Overnight at Tulugak Hotel
April 11–16 — Arctic Base Camp Immersion
Where Ice Meets Awe
Travel across the frozen expanse by snowmobile sled to our private Arctic Kingdom Base Camp, built atop eight feet of solid sea ice, framed by jagged peaks and ancient bergs. This is one of the most breathtaking regions of Nunavut. Base Camp is fully outfitted for comfort and safety with heated tents and dining in a shared lounge tent.
Daily Highlights Include:
- Guided polar bear viewing (from safe distances up to 100m)
- Possible sightings of mothers with cubs, ringed seals, Arctic foxes
- Towering icebergs and ice-edge excursions
- Northern Lights (conditions permitting)
- Cultural presentations by Inuit elders and polar experts
- Fireside storytelling and (non-alcoholic) virgin gin & tonics
- Low-impact hikes and wildlife photography outings (photo tips will be offered by Gin & Tonic Travel's Co Founder - a pro photographer)
Camp Features:
- Heated, raised tents (single or double occupancy)
- Chef-prepared meals
- Enclosed electronic perimeter and 24/7 bear watch
- On-ice toilet facilities
- Field-tested Arctic gear (included rental)
April 17 — Return to QIK & Iqaluit
Bid farewell to the ice and return to civilization—your heart and memory full. Travel back by air to Iqaluit, where modern life meets ancient Inuit culture. Overnight at a premium hotel
April 18 — Cultural Day in Iqaluit
A powerful and moving day steeped in Inuit tradition.
Highlights:
- Premium accommodations in Iqaluit
- Traditional Inuit dinner and locally sourced breakfast
- Cultural performance of throat singing and drum dancing
- Participate in the Qulliq Lighting Ceremony, symbolizing warmth and unity
- Hosted by a local Inuit guide
- Private transport throughout
April 19 — Return to Ottawa
Your scheduled flight with Canadian North returns you to Ottawa with a heart full of wonder and a mind forever expanded.
Investment
Includes:
- All accommodations (Ottawa, Qikiqtarjuaq, Base Camp, Iqaluit)
- All meals and curated dining experiences (except 1st night in Ottawa)
- Scheduled flights to Nunavut and back
- Arctic Kingdom expedition team and local Inuit hosts
- Cold-weather gear rental
- All guided activities, cultural performances, and transfers
Not Included:
- (International) flights to/from Ottawa
- Travel insurance (required)
- Alcoholic beverages (Note: Due to Nunavut regulations, alcohol is not permitted on the ice. Virgin cocktails will be served instead.)
Price is available upon request.
Spaces are extremely limited.
To preserve the intimacy and integrity of the experience, this journey is limited to just 10 guests. There will be a standby list. This trip will be available to adults only and due to the nature and location of the expedition this trip may not be suitable for mobility-limited individuals. Please contact us if in doubt.
For reservations and further details:
✉️ arctic@ginandtonictravel.com
📞 +1 (782) 414 5435
🌍 www.ginandtonictravel.com
We understand that this trip may not be for you or you may be disappointed if this trip sells out. You may want to consider these other wonderful options offered by Arctic Kingdom.
Aurora Packages at Blachford Lodge
Fishing and Beyond at Blachford Lodge
Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.