Baffin Island Hiking Expedition: The Akshayuk Pass Trek in Arctic Canada

Things to know

• What’s included?

  Included:

  • • Experienced hiking guides with extensive knowledge of the area
    • 12-day Baffin Island hiking expedition
    • Accommodation:
      • 2 nights in basic hotels or guesthouses in Qikiqtarjuaq and Pangnirtung (double occupancy)
      • 9 nights in 2-people expedition tents
    • All meals during the hiking days — breakfast, lunch, and dinner from Day 2 to Day 10, and a breakfast on Day 11
    • Dinner in Pangnirtung on Day 11
    • Trail snacks and cooking equipment (JetBoil + gas)
    • Technical gear
    • All Canadian National Park fees and permits
    • Boat transfer to the beginning of the trail and from the end of the trail
    • Twin Otter charter flight from Iqaluit to Qikiqtarjuaq and from Pangnirtung to Iqaluit

  Not included:

  • • International and domestic flights
    • Airport transfers
    • Accommodation in Iqaluit before the adventure 
    • Personal mountain and hiking gear
    • Expedition tents, sleeping pad, and sleeping bag
    • Anything not mentioned in the “Included” section above
    • Insurance with helicopter rescue coverage — mandatory, available to add at checkout
    • Guide gratuities — optional
• How fit do I need to be?

  This Baffin island hike is tailored for individuals who are in good physical condition and feel comfortable hiking on uneven terrain while carrying a backpack with all the personal equipment (approx. 20 to 30 kg (44–66 lb)) and overnighting in tents.

  Daily hikes cover approx. 15 km (9 mi), with 8-10 hours of hiking each day, so you should have the capability to hike distances exceeding 20 km (13 mi) for multiple consecutive days, and the endurance to tackle elevation gains of over 1,000 m (3,280 ft).

  • • Given the variable weather conditions, it is strongly advised to bring high-quality waterproof mountain gear.
    • You should be physically capable of carrying your own backpack throughout the entirety of the 11-day hiking trip. Luggage transportation & logistics support are not provided.
    • It is essential to maintain a positive mindset, stay motivated, and embrace the spirit of adventure.
• What do I need to bring?

  Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:

  • • Backpack large enough to carry all personal gear, clothing, food, tents & cooking gear (up to 18 kg (40 lbs))
    • Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
    • 3-season expedition tent
    • Sleeping bag
    • Sleeping pad 
    • Tent fixing kit
    • Hiking poles
    • Hiking boots or shoes
    • Comfortable hiking clothes 
    • Spare clothes for layering
    • Waterproof rain jacket
    • Sunhat
    • Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, tissues, etc.)
    • Headlamp or flashlight
    • Sunglasses
    • Camera — optional (but recommended)

  Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

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• What is the weather like in Baffin Island?

  In July, Baffin Island typically experiences relatively mild weather compared to other months of the year. The average temperature during this time ranges from about 5 to 15 degrees Celsius (41 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit). However, temperatures can vary widely depending on factors such as location, elevation, and proximity to the coast.

  July is considered one of the warmer months on Baffin Island, with longer daylight hours and milder conditions. It’s not uncommon to experience occasional rain showers or fog, especially along the coast. It’s essential to come prepared for variable weather conditions and to dress in layers to accommodate temperature fluctuations throughout the day.

• Are there river crossings during the trek?

  Yes. You will encounter glacial-fed rivers several days of the trip. Some rivers will be wider and very gentle, while others will be deep and/or have stronger currents, making them very challenging. Some days, you may need to cross multiple rivers along the whole day or during a small section of the whole day.

  Depending on the river’s size and the strength of its current, you’ll need to either navigate the crossing on your own or team up with your travel companions. It’s essential to follow your guide’s instructions closely to ensure a safe passage.

• Could polar bears pose a threat during the trek?

  Polar bears are an iconic symbol of the Arctic, and while they usually avoid humans, encounters can occur. As apex predators, they can pose a risk, but guides are trained to handle these situations safely under Polar Tourism Guides Association standards. They receive comprehensive training in polar bear behavior, risk assessment, non-lethal deterrents, and firearm handling. 

  Guides stay vigilant throughout the trip, identifying potential danger zones and signs of bear presence. In case of a sighting, they take immediate action such as adjusting the route and maintaining a safe distance. If needed, non-lethal deterrents are used to prevent the bear from approaching further.

• Group sizes and age requirements

  Group sizes and pricing

  • • For this Baffin Island hike, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 5:1. 
    • It takes a minimum of 7 persons for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 9 participants.

  A Baffin Island hike can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

  Min. age requirements

  • • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
• Is a single occupancy room available?

  A single occupancy room is not available on this Baffin Island hike, either due to limited availability or the type of accommodation (camping).

• Getting there and meeting location

  The starting point of your Baffin Island hike is Iqaluit. To get there, most people fly into Iqaluit International Airport (CYFB). From there, you can take a taxi to reach Iqaluit.

  You will meet your guide in the evening in Iqaluit on Day 1.

  It is strongly recommended to arrive in Iqaluit at least one or two days before the official start of the expedition. Here’s why:

  • • Weather in the Arctic can be unpredictable, and flight delays or cancellations are not uncommon. Arriving early provides a comfortable buffer in case of unexpected changes, helps ensure luggage arrives on time, and allows for rest before heading into the wilderness.
    • Extra days in Iqaluit are not just for logistics, but a chance to experience life in the North. You can visit the Nunatta Sunakkutaangit Museum, explore local galleries, walk through Sylvia Grinnell Territorial Park, or head to coastal trails near Apex and Frobisher Bay. There are also options like local-guided boat tours, wildlife excursions, or simply enjoying Arctic char at a local restaurant. 
    • Arriving early also gives you time to organize gear, adjust for weight limits, and start the expedition well-rested and prepared.
• Safety measures and insurance

  We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

  Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

• Deposit and cancellation policy

  A 30% deposit is required at the time of booking, with the remaining amount to be paid 5 months prior to departure. For bookings within four (4) months of the departure, full payment is required.

  Once the trip is confirmed by the guide, the cancellation policy stated below applies.

  • • If canceled within 48 hours of booking: 100% of the total tour price is refundable (including the deposit).
    • If canceled before confirmation of the group: 100% of the total tour price is refundable (including the deposit).
    • If canceled 150 days or more prior to the departure date: 50% of the total tour price is refundable.
    • If canceled 120-149 days prior to the departure date: 25% of the total tour price is refundable.
    • If canceled 0-29 days prior to the departure date: 0% of the total tour price is refundable.

  Please note that booking fees are non-refundable in all cases and will be deducted from the refund amount.

  After booking, client will need to sign the travel agreement. If the client declines to sign the travel agreement, we interpret this as the traveler not accepting the general and specific terms and conditions of the trip. As a result, the Guide will be entitled to cancel the reservation at the client’s own risk and expense.