Discover Northwest Territories

Connect with the Land

Explore Northwest Territories

The Northwest Territories (NWT) is an immense and magnificent land, a realm of epic natural wonders, ancient Indigenous cultures, and a true frontier spirit. Situated above the 60th parallel, it is a destination defined by its colossal lakes, the mighty Mackenzie River, vast tundra, towering mountains, and the world’s most reliable viewing of the Aurora Borealis. A journey to the NWT is an immersion into a landscape where the forces of nature are on spectacular display.

Geographically, the NWT is a land of extremes and majesty. It is home to Great Slave Lake, the deepest lake in North America, and Wood Buffalo National Park, Canada’s largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage site, which protects the world’s largest free-roaming bison herd. The territory is crossed by the Arctic Circle and features the legendary Mackenzie River system, the longest in Canada. From the jagged peaks of the Mackenzie Mountains in the west, home to the spectacular Virginia Falls in Nahanni National Park Reserve, to the geological wonders of the Pingos near the Arctic Ocean, the geography itself is an adventure.

Culturally, the Northwest Territories is a vibrant tapestry of Indigenous heritage. The land is the ancestral home of the Dene and the Inuvialuit peoples, whose traditions and languages are woven into the fabric of the territory. The NWT recognizes 11 official languages, a testament to its cultural diversity. Visitors have unique opportunities to engage with authentic Indigenous experiences, from sharing traditional foods like bannock and moose stew, to hearing ancient stories and legends, especially under the glow of the Northern Lights.

Seasonal experiences are unparalleled. In winter, the capital city of Yellowknife becomes the "Aurora Capital of North America," providing a front-row seat to the dazzling light show for up to 240 nights a year. Winter also brings dog sledding, snowmobiling, and driving the famous Ice Roads. Summer, however, is a world away, offering the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun, where the sun never sets, allowing for 24 hours of fishing, paddling, hiking, and exploring the wilderness.

Culinary experiences reflect the North's bounty, featuring fresh lake trout and whitefish from Great Slave Lake, northern game, and a growing local food scene in Yellowknife that blends traditional ingredients with modern flair.

Altogether, the Northwest Territories offers a journey far beyond the ordinary—an unforgettable adventure into the heart of the Canadian Arctic, where the scale of nature and the warmth of Northern hospitality are a true marvel.

Explore Northwest Territories

Travel Inspiration

Read our Travel Blog about The Northwest Territories

What You Will Receive

Explore our vision of travel and the adventures it can bring!

Benefit icon

Tailored Adventures

Enjoy the flexibility to design your own itinerary and make spontaneous changes as you go.

Benefit icon

Expert Planning

With their deep local expertise, our Destination Experts personalize every experience to fit your preferences, ensuring you make the most of your time

Benefit icon

Unmatched Support

Our renowned Client Experience team is available 24/7 to ensure every aspect of your trip goes smoothly and exceeds expectations.

Benefit icon

We love your travel style

Whether you want to explore a destination in a group or independently, dive into local culture, or discover a world-class city, We have the perfect Travel Style for you

Real Experience

Real Feedback

Authentic travel stories from our guests, sharing their unforgettable journeys with us.

Google feefo

ABOUT TRAVELLING TO THE NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The Aurora Borealis is visible from mid-August to early October (Fall Aurora) and from late-November to early April (Winter Aurora). Yellowknife is often considered the best place on Earth to view them due to its location under the Aurora oval.

The Midnight Sun (24 hours of daylight) occurs from approximately late May to mid-July in communities above the Arctic Circle, such as Inuvik and Tuktoyaktuk, allowing for round-the-clock activities.

Layering is key. Essential items include a parka, thermal base layers, waterproof outer layers, insulated boots, thick gloves/mitts, and a warm hat. Many tour operators provide extreme-weather gear for Aurora viewing.

Yellowknife is accessible by daily jet service from major Canadian cities. Within the territory, air travel is essential for reaching remote communities. For road trips, there is a highway network, but checking highway conditions (especially in winter) is crucial.

Yes, tap water in most communities, including Yellowknife, is safe to drink.

Yes, generally goods and products are significantly more expensive in the Northwest Territories (NWT) than in southern Canada, especially in smaller, remote communities. Perishable goods and alcohol tend to be particularly costly. For example, dining out can be significantly more expensive.

The Northwest Territories does not have a Territorial Sales Tax (PST).

The only sales tax collected is the Federal Goods and Services Tax (GST), which is 5% on most goods and services.

This makes the total sales tax rate lower than in many Canadian provinces that charge both GST and PST or a Harmonized Sales Tax (HST).

The NWT is famous for its wildlife, including bison, caribou, muskoxen, moose, wolves, polar bears (in the far north), and various species of seals and whales.
Icon of chat

Do you have more questions?

If you still have questions or need more information, feel free to ask! Simply fill out the form below, and our team will get back to you with the answers you need

ASK A QUESTION

or

YOU CAN CALL US AT
1-866-814-7378