Pond Inlet Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Pond Inlet, or Mittimatalik, is widely considered one of the most picturesque communities in the Canadian Arctic. Located on the northern tip of Baffin Island, it serves as the gateway to the breathtaking Sirmilik National Park. Here, the landscape is dominated by the mesmerizing views of Bylot Island, whose jagged peaks and glaciers rise dramatically across Eclipse Sound, creating a panorama that feels otherworldly.

Life here moves to the rhythm of the seasons, from the dark, aurora-filled winters to the endless daylight of summer. It is a place where Inuit culture is vibrant and deeply connected to the land. Whether you are watching narwhals, the unicorns of the sea, breach at the floe edge or listening to the haunting beauty of throat singing, a visit to Pond Inlet is an immersion into a resilient and welcoming world at the top of the globe.

The Cultural Heart of the North

Mittimatalik is not just a scenic wonder; it is a cultural stronghold of the Tununirmiut people. The community has a rich history of adaptation and survival, which is proudly displayed at the Nattinnak Visitor Centre. Visitors are often struck by the blend of modern life and traditional skills, where hunters still use qamutiks (sleds) and sewing traditional clothing remains a vital daily activity.

The hamlet is also a hub for Inuit art, particularly soapstone carving and printmaking. Walking through the sandy streets, you may be invited to watch a carver revealing a polar bear or seal from a rough stone block. This connection to art and storytelling transforms a simple sightseeing trip into a profound educational experience about life in the High Arctic.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Bylot Island Migratory Bird Sanctuary - Visible from town, this island is a haven for millions of birds. Accessible by boat in summer or snowmobile in spring; boat charters start around $300 CAD per person.

Sirmilik National Park - One of Canada’s most remote parks, featuring hoodoos and glaciers. Access is primarily by guided outfitter, with day trips costing between $400 and $800 CAD depending on transport method.

The Floe Edge - The biological hotspot where ice meets open water. Located 50-70 km from town, guided expeditions are required for safety and typically cost $500+ CAD per day as part of multi-day packages.

Salmon Creek - A serene spot located about 10 km west of the community. It is a free natural attraction perfect for hiking, berry picking, or fishing for char (fishing license approx. $30 CAD).

Planning Your Visit

Getting to Pond Inlet requires travel via Canadian North airlines, usually connecting through Iqaluit or Ottawa. Flights are expensive and weather-dependent, so travel insurance is absolutely essential. Pack for conditions significantly colder than you expect; even in summer, temperatures can hover near freezing, and the wind off the glaciers is sharp. Layering is the key to comfort.

Once in town, everything is within walking distance, but there are local taxis (trucks) available for a flat rate, usually around $8 to $10 CAD per person. Accommodation is limited to two main hotels, so booking months in advance is critical, especially during the spring floe edge season. Be aware that grocery prices are very high due to freight costs, so bringing some of your own snacks is a wise budget tip.

Pond Inlet offers a travel experience that changes drastically depending on when you arrive. For the iconic Arctic safari experience with narwhals and icebergs, May and June are unbeatable. However, for those who prefer hiking and seeing the tundra in bloom without the extreme cold, August provides a gentler introduction to the North. No matter the season, the warmth of the community and the grandeur of the landscape remain constant.