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 3 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 flights
  • Domestic flights from Ottawa to Iqaluit, and Iqaluit to Ottawa
  • 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

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.

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

• • 60–80L backpack with rain cover (must fit all gear, food, and shared equipment)
  • Sleeping bag (-5ºC to 5ºC / 23ºF to 41ºF) & sleeping mat
  • Waterproof hiking boots
  • Merino base layers (1–2)
  • Fleece mid-layer (1–2)
  • Down or fiber jacket
  • Waterproof jacket & pants (GoreTex or similar)
  • Zip-off hiking pants
  • Short & long sleeve t-shirts
  • Underwear & hiking socks
  • Short gaiters
  • Warm beanie (2) & cap
  • Waterproof gloves/mittens
  • Buff / bandana / camp towel
  • Sturdy water shoes (river crossings & camp use)
  • Neoprene socks (1–2 pairs)
  • Personal toiletries & first-aid kit
  • Toilet paper & lighter
  • Sunscreen & sunglasses
  • Camera, phone, batteries & power bank
  • Hiking poles
  • Water bottle / bladder / thermos

Camping & expedition gear:

• • 3-season tent (per person)
  • Tent repair kit
  • Extra tent stakes (optional)
  • Accessory cord (3mm – 15m / 50 ft)

Meals & utensils:

• • Mug
  • Long spork or similar
  • Electrolytes & personal snacks

Optional gear:

• • Repair kit (zip ties, tape)
  • Sewing kit
  • Pocket knife / multi-tool
  • Bug repellent & head net
  • Personal medication

Important notes:

• • Everything must fit inside your backpack
  • Expect to carry ~6 kg (13 lb) of food
  • Backpack should not exceed 18 kg (40 lb)
  • No storage available, pack only what you need
  • Drones are not allowed

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August on Baffin Island brings cool and variable Arctic conditions. Average temperatures typically range from about 3 to 12°C (37 to 54°F), though it can feel colder with wind, rain, or near glaciers. While days are still relatively long, conditions can change quickly, with a mix of sun, cloud, rain, and occasional fog, especially along the coast. It’s important to come prepared for shifting weather and dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.

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.

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 pricing

• • For this Baffin Island hike, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 5:1. 
  • It takes a minimum of 8 persons for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 9 participants.

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

Min. age requirements

• • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.

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

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.

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.