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7 DAY YUKON AND NWT - SELF DRIVE TO THE ARCTIC SEA
YUKON AND NORTHWEST TERRITORIES TOUR
On this 7 Day Yukon and Northwest Territories - Self Drive to the Arctic Sea, experience the famous Dempster Highway as it is one of the world's great road trips! Spend time in Whitehorse, a city that blends First Nation Culture, gold rush history, interesting museums and an energetic, creative vibe all with a stunning wilderness backdrop. We will then visit Dawson City, an eclectic and vibrant northern community on the banks of the Yukon River with many interesting cultural spots. On the last days of the journey, uncover the beauty of Inuvik, known as the Land of the Midnight Sun. Whether you are looking for northern arts and culture, remote rivers and wilderness, a chance to see arctic wildlife or a place to just relax and enjoy the Midnight Sun, Inuvik is the place!
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Start Location: Whitehorse
End Location: Inuvik
TOP HIGHLIGHTS
- Spend time in Whitehorse and Dawson City for a real flavour of the Yukon
- Time in Inuvik and Tuktoyuktuk to explore the Canadian Arctic and tundra
- Experience the lifestyle and culture of the Inuit people from the Canadian Arctic
SAMPLE ITINERARY (CUSTOMIZABLE)
Day 1: Arrive in Whitehorse, Yukon
Welcome to Whitehorse nestled on the banks of the famous Yukon River surrounded by mountains and pristine lakes. Whitehorse makes the perfect base for exploring Canada's Great North. It is a city that blends First Nations culture, gold rush history, interesting museums and an energetic, creative vibe all with a stunning wilderness backdrop.
Overnight: Whitehorse
Day 2: Whitehorse, Yukon
The capital of the Yukon, Whitehorse, offers a charming inside to the history of the North. We visit the Visitor Centre to learn about the different regions of the Yukon, the SS Klondike, a paddle wheeler ship and the Old Log Church, both restored relicts used in the Goldrush and not to forget the world's longest wooden fish ladder and a Log Skyscraper. To finish with an inspiration from the North we will have a guided tour through the MacBride Museum.
The afternoon is set aside to explore the capital of the Yukon on foot. We suggest a trip to the Visitor Centre to learn about the different regions of the Yukon and pick up some maps. We suggest a walk to the riverfront Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre. This award-winning building celebrates the heritage, culture and contemporary way of life of Yukon's Kwanlin Dün First Nations people. Whitehorse has great shops, galleries and museums that are open all year. Take a stroll down Main Street or spend time with the locals in the lively cafés. Keep an eye out for locally sourced food and drink products, you will be surprised at the culinary scene in this northern town.
Overnight: Whitehorse
Day 3: Fly from Whitehorse to Dawson City, Yukon
Transfer to Whitehorse airport for an hour-long flight over Yukon's vast boreal forest to Dawson City, an eclectic and vibrant northern community on the banks of the Yukon River, possibly soon to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site (in review currently). Dawson City is a mix of First Nations heritage and Gold Rush history blended with an active gold mining industry as well as a thriving arts scene. Dawson City today is a colourful community that still has the look and feel of a wild-west town, with personalities to boot. Miners, artists, wanderers, and First Nations people, all call this place home.
Start with a visit to the Information Centre and grab a map to plan your route. Then join one of the many Parks Canada Walking Tours and be guided around town by a historic Dawson resident. Take photographs of the picturesque buildings and then jump on the George Black Ferry to cross the Yukon River and explore the shipwrecks at the Paddlewheel Graveyard.
Dawson City's crowning glory is the spectacular panorama that can only be seen atop the Midnight Dome. Once you have recovered from the breathtaking view, make your way to Canada's first (and friendliest) gambling hall, the Diamond Tooth Gerties to be entertained by Gertie's powerhouse vocals and her high-kicking "Gold Rush Girls."
Overnight: Dawson City
Day 4: Fly from Dawson City to Inuvik, Northwest Territories
A scenic flight over the Richardson Mountains and Tombstone Park take you to the town of Inuvik located within the Arctic Circle. This is the Land of the Midnight Sun and the gateway to the Beaufort Sea, a part of the Arctic Ocean. Located 2 degrees above the Arctic Circle on the scenic Mackenzie River Delta, Inuvik offers a wide range of experiences. Inuvik (place of people) is the homeland of the Inuvialuit and Gwich'in peoples as well as home to a variety of people from other cultures. A place of rich diversity, Inuvik is located on the Mackenzie Delta, Canada's largest freshwater delta, with a spectacular view of the Richardson Mountains. Nestled between the treeless tundra and the northern boreal forest, the town overlooks the incredible maze of lakes and streams. Whether you are looking for northern arts and culture, remote rivers and wilderness, a chance to see arctic wildlife or a place to just relax and enjoy the Midnight Sun, Inuvik is your town.
Pick up your rental car and explore the town. We will have planned a cultural evening with local Inuit elders this day for you to experience and learn about the Arctic way of life here in the far North.
Overnight: Inuvik
Day 5: Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk and return
Today you drive on the recently built Mackenzie Valley Highway all the way to the Arctic Ocean. Be amongst the early visitors to travel on this road from Inuvik to the community of Tuktoyaktuk on the Arctic Ocean. The all-season highway opened on November 15, 2017, after four years of construction. Prior to the road, Tuktoyaktuk was only accessible by air during summer and by ice road in the winter. This unique experience is very special as you drive on Canada's only road to the Arctic Ocean. The locals refer to Tuktoyaktuk as 'Tuk', and here, hosted by the local Inuit, we will experience and learn the ways of life of the people who also call it 'home'.
Your local Inuit guide will share stories and history of the area, and point out local landmarks and other points of interest including the Lady of Lourdes Schooner, Traditional sod house, local churches, Distant Early Warning Site and the Trans Canada Trailhead site. You will visit a pingo, also a national landmark where your guide will explain how these amazing natural formations are formed. Spend time on the seaside to dip our toes in the Arctic Ocean and experience the vastness of the Beaufort Sea.
Overnight: Inuvik
Day 6: The famous Dempster Highway
The Dempster Highway is Canada's road at the top of the world. It crosses the Arctic Circle and winds through some of the most beautiful and remote wilderness scenery in North America. Starting outside Dawson City, Yukon, and stretching 740 km to Inuvik in the Northwest Territories, the Dempster is an all-weather gravel road with two ferry crossings. The best time for reliable driving weather is June through September when the days are long and warm. There are two river crossings, with free ferry service in the summer and fall, and winter ice bridges. Tsiigehtchic, at the confluence of two rivers, is your destination for today offering a magnificent panoramic view of the Mackenzie and the Arctic Red Rivers. Stop en route at Gwich'in Territorial Park on your way back to Inuvik.
Overnight: Inuvik
Day 7: Fly from Inuvik to Whitehorse.
Have some time this morning free to explore this northern community before you return you a rental car in Inuvik and board our mid-day flight back to Whitehorse before connecting onwards to home.
DATES & PRICES
Availability:
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
ACCOMMODATION
START PLACE
END PLACE
PRICE FROM
All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.
The itinerary below is an independent tour package and it can be adjusted to suit your travel interests, time frame and budget. Please do not hesitate to call one of our travel specialists for a customized package.
The itinerary below is an independent tour package and it can be adjusted to suit your travel interests, time frame and budget. Please do not hesitate to call one of our travel specialists for a customized package.
Applicable taxes vary depending on travel destination and are not included. Please ask your sales agent what extra taxes will be payable for your tour.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- 6 nights comfortable hotel accommodation
- Time for walking tours in Whitehorse and in Dawson City
- Sightseeing tour in Whitehorse
- 3 days car rental in Inuvik for Top of the World exploration
- Guided cultural touring in the Arctic
- Domestic flights as mentioned in the itinerary
EXCLUSIONS
- Meals unless specifically mentioned in the itinerary
- Applicable government taxes
- Tips and gratuities
Why Take A Custom Tour?
Private & Customizable
You can see what you want, when you want, how you want. A trip that's perfectly timed and well organized.
Unique Experience
Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way. Can combine your trip with our group tours. Advice to help you get the most out of your trip.
Freedom to Explore
Time to enjoy and take in each place. Add days in places you want to explore. Do only the activities you want to do.
Can't find what you're looking for?
Our specialists can take away the stress and create a custom trip tailored to your exact interests and budget.
Get A Custom Quote
OR CALL
1.866.814.7378
Custom Trip Plans
You can see what you want, when you want, how you want.
Unique Experiences
Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way.
Freedom To Explore
Time to take in each place with only the tours you want to do.
Booking & Flight Questions
Do you arrange airport transfers?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking airport transfers for you! Some tours have airport transfers included already. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Can you assist with booking additional accommodation?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking additional nights of accommodation for you before and/or after your fully escorted tour! Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Can you assist with booking flights?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking your flights for you! We do not recommend you book any flights until you receive your booking confirmation directly from Anderson Vacations Tours, as some tours are not pre-guaranteed. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Is it possible to book a triple share accommodation?
Yes, it is possible to book triple share accommodations on select trips. Please inquire about this option, as pricing may also vary and it will be subject to availability.
Can we book this tour with our exclusive group?
Anderson Vacations Tours can work with private groups to customize a tour to your needs. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Tour Questions
What is the average age of passengers for this tour?
Our tours are suitable for all age demographics. The average age of travelers is typically 45+
I am a solo traveler. Is there a single surcharge?
There are options for single travelers to join most tours. Solo Travelers can choose to pay the single supplement and have their own room throughout the tour. For those willing to share, we also have a Twin Share option that is offered for the majority of our tours. This means you will be sharing the hotel rooms with another single, same gender traveller who also books the Twin Share option. If this is the case, there will be no single supplement charged to either of you. If we are unable to match you with another Twin Share traveler, there may be a single surcharge applied to cover the full cost of the rooms on some of our longer tours. Please enquire before finalizing your booking for full details.
How physically demanding is this tour? Are you able to accommodate people with mobility restrictions/limitations?
This tour has a low level of physical demand, although there may be some activities or sightseeing tours that require walking short distances. Please inquire if you have any mobility restrictions before completing your booking to ensure this tour is right for you.
How much luggage should I bring?
Each passenger may bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag. The weight limit for this suitcase is 32 kilograms/60 pounds. Baggage handling is provided at the hotels in our tour packages. Please advise our reservations staff if you will be bringing additional items such as a cane, walker or wheelchair. You may also bring one small soft-sided carry-on bag, which should easily fit into the overhead shelf of the coach. Each person is responsible for his/her own carryon luggage. Remember to check your airline baggage restrictions if you are flying, as they may differ from Anderson Vacations Tours guidelines.
What is your recommended spending amount for non-included meals?
The suggested allowance for non-included meals is $40.00 — $60.00 CAD per day (includes tipping).
Can you accommodate passengers with dietary restrictions (food allergies, vegan, vegetarian etc.)?
Yes! There are many meals included on our fully escorted tours. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so we can ensure there are alternative meal choices and arrangements made for you.
Are gratuities included in the tour cost?
For your convenience, gratuities for local guides and meals stated on the itinerary are included in the price of the tour. For meals not included in your tour package please remember that it is customary to tip your server 15-20% in North America. Gratuities for your Motorcoach Driver and Tour Director are left to your discretion. We recommend $4.00 - $5.00 CAD per person, per day for your Motorcoach Driver and $6.00 - $7.00 CAD per person, per day for your Tour Director. if you can't find your
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Tour Code
7YNWT
7 Day Yukon and NWT - Self Drive to the Arctic Sea
7 days
Created On: 09 Jun 2023
Highlights
- Spend time in Whitehorse and Dawson City for a real flavour of the Yukon
- Time in Inuvik and Tuktoyuktuk to explore the Canadian Arctic and tundra
- Experience the lifestyle and culture of the Inuit people from the Canadian Arctic
Inclusions
- 6 nights comfortable hotel accommodation
- Time for walking tours in Whitehorse and in Dawson City
- Sightseeing tour in Whitehorse
- 3 days car rental in Inuvik for Top of the World exploration
- Guided cultural touring in the Arctic
- Domestic flights as mentioned in the itinerary
Exclusions
- Meals unless specifically mentioned in the itinerary
- Applicable government taxes
- Tips and gratuities
Dates & Prices
ACCOMODATION
START PLACE
END PLACE
PRICE FROM
Whitehorse
Inuvik
$2,170 USD
All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.
* The itinerary below is an independent tour package and it can be adjusted to suit your travel interests, time frame and budget. Please do not hesitate to call one of our travel specialists for a customized package.
* The itinerary below is an independent tour package and it can be adjusted to suit your travel interests, time frame and budget. Please do not hesitate to call one of our travel specialists for a customized package.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Whitehorse, Yukon
Welcome to Whitehorse nestled on the banks of the famous Yukon River surrounded by mountains and pristine lakes. Whitehorse makes the perfect base for exploring Canada's Great North. It is a city that blends First Nations culture, gold rush history, interesting museums and an energetic, creative vibe all with a stunning wilderness backdrop.
Overnight: Whitehorse
Day 2: Whitehorse, Yukon
The capital of the Yukon, Whitehorse, offers a charming inside to the history of the North. We visit the Visitor Centre to learn about the different regions of the Yukon, the SS Klondike, a paddle wheeler ship and the Old Log Church, both restored relicts used in the Goldrush and not to forget the world's longest wooden fish ladder and a Log Skyscraper. To finish with an inspiration from the North we will have a guided tour through the MacBride Museum.
The afternoon is set aside to explore the capital of the Yukon on foot. We suggest a trip to the Visitor Centre to learn about the different regions of the Yukon and pick up some maps. We suggest a walk to the riverfront Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre. This award-winning building celebrates the heritage, culture and contemporary way of life of Yukon's Kwanlin Dün First Nations people. Whitehorse has great shops, galleries and museums that are open all year. Take a stroll down Main Street or spend time with the locals in the lively cafés. Keep an eye out for locally sourced food and drink products, you will be surprised at the culinary scene in this northern town.
Overnight: Whitehorse
Day 3: Fly from Whitehorse to Dawson City, Yukon
Transfer to Whitehorse airport for an hour-long flight over Yukon's vast boreal forest to Dawson City, an eclectic and vibrant northern community on the banks of the Yukon River, possibly soon to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site (in review currently). Dawson City is a mix of First Nations heritage and Gold Rush history blended with an active gold mining industry as well as a thriving arts scene. Dawson City today is a colourful community that still has the look and feel of a wild-west town, with personalities to boot. Miners, artists, wanderers, and First Nations people, all call this place home.
Start with a visit to the Information Centre and grab a map to plan your route. Then join one of the many Parks Canada Walking Tours and be guided around town by a historic Dawson resident. Take photographs of the picturesque buildings and then jump on the George Black Ferry to cross the Yukon River and explore the shipwrecks at the Paddlewheel Graveyard.
Dawson City's crowning glory is the spectacular panorama that can only be seen atop the Midnight Dome. Once you have recovered from the breathtaking view, make your way to Canada's first (and friendliest) gambling hall, the Diamond Tooth Gerties to be entertained by Gertie's powerhouse vocals and her high-kicking "Gold Rush Girls."
Overnight: Dawson City
Day 4: Fly from Dawson City to Inuvik, Northwest Territories
A scenic flight over the Richardson Mountains and Tombstone Park take you to the town of Inuvik located within the Arctic Circle. This is the Land of the Midnight Sun and the gateway to the Beaufort Sea, a part of the Arctic Ocean. Located 2 degrees above the Arctic Circle on the scenic Mackenzie River Delta, Inuvik offers a wide range of experiences. Inuvik (place of people) is the homeland of the Inuvialuit and Gwich'in peoples as well as home to a variety of people from other cultures. A place of rich diversity, Inuvik is located on the Mackenzie Delta, Canada's largest freshwater delta, with a spectacular view of the Richardson Mountains. Nestled between the treeless tundra and the northern boreal forest, the town overlooks the incredible maze of lakes and streams. Whether you are looking for northern arts and culture, remote rivers and wilderness, a chance to see arctic wildlife or a place to just relax and enjoy the Midnight Sun, Inuvik is your town.
Pick up your rental car and explore the town. We will have planned a cultural evening with local Inuit elders this day for you to experience and learn about the Arctic way of life here in the far North.
Overnight: Inuvik
Day 5: Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk and return
Today you drive on the recently built Mackenzie Valley Highway all the way to the Arctic Ocean. Be amongst the early visitors to travel on this road from Inuvik to the community of Tuktoyaktuk on the Arctic Ocean. The all-season highway opened on November 15, 2017, after four years of construction. Prior to the road, Tuktoyaktuk was only accessible by air during summer and by ice road in the winter. This unique experience is very special as you drive on Canada's only road to the Arctic Ocean. The locals refer to Tuktoyaktuk as 'Tuk', and here, hosted by the local Inuit, we will experience and learn the ways of life of the people who also call it 'home'.
Your local Inuit guide will share stories and history of the area, and point out local landmarks and other points of interest including the Lady of Lourdes Schooner, Traditional sod house, local churches, Distant Early Warning Site and the Trans Canada Trailhead site. You will visit a pingo, also a national landmark where your guide will explain how these amazing natural formations are formed. Spend time on the seaside to dip our toes in the Arctic Ocean and experience the vastness of the Beaufort Sea.
Overnight: Inuvik
Day 6: The famous Dempster Highway
The Dempster Highway is Canada's road at the top of the world. It crosses the Arctic Circle and winds through some of the most beautiful and remote wilderness scenery in North America. Starting outside Dawson City, Yukon, and stretching 740 km to Inuvik in the Northwest Territories, the Dempster is an all-weather gravel road with two ferry crossings. The best time for reliable driving weather is June through September when the days are long and warm. There are two river crossings, with free ferry service in the summer and fall, and winter ice bridges. Tsiigehtchic, at the confluence of two rivers, is your destination for today offering a magnificent panoramic view of the Mackenzie and the Arctic Red Rivers. Stop en route at Gwich'in Territorial Park on your way back to Inuvik.
Overnight: Inuvik
Day 7: Fly from Inuvik to Whitehorse.
Have some time this morning free to explore this northern community before you return you a rental car in Inuvik and board our mid-day flight back to Whitehorse before connecting onwards to home.
