FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re taking part in various outdoor activities in Northern Quebec — such as snowmobiling, hiking, canoeing, fishing, or wildlife watching — your luggage should include clothing and gear that keep you warm, dry, safe, and comfortable in a remote northern environment. Here's a recommended packing list:


🧥 Clothing

  • Thermal base layers (top and bottom)

  • Warm mid-layers (fleece or wool)

  • Waterproof and windproof jacket and pants

  • Insulated pants or snowmobile suit (for winter)

  • Comfortable hiking boots or rubber boots (depending on the season)

  • Insulated winter boots (for cold temperatures)

  • Warm hat, gloves, and a scarf or neck gaiter

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing for warm days

  • Swimsuit and towel (if applicable)

  • Extra pairs of socks and underwear (some wool pairs recommended)

  • Sleepwear suitable for cabin or tent stays


🧰 Gear & Essentials

  • Daypack or backpack

  • Reusable water bottle or thermos

  • Energy snacks or granola bars

  • UV-protection sunglasses

  • Sunscreen and lip balm (even in winter)

  • Insect repellent (especially in summer)

  • Flashlight or headlamp with spare batteries

  • Dry bags or Ziploc bags (for electronics and dry clothing)

  • Personal toiletries (biodegradable soap, toothbrush, etc.)

  • Small towel and wet wipes

  • Any necessary personal medications


🛟 Safety & Navigation

  • Basic first aid kit

  • GPS, map, or compass

  • Mobile phone with waterproof case or satellite phone

  • Emergency whistle

  • Hand and foot warmers (for winter)

  • Multi-tool or pocket knife

  • Waterproof matches or lighter


❄️ Seasonal / Activity-Specific Items

  • Snowmobile helmet and goggles (if not provided)

  • Fishing rod and gear (if fishing is planned and not provided)

  • Lightweight camping gear or sleeping bag (if overnighting in a tent or remote shelter)

  • Waterproof boots or sandals (for canoeing or water crossings)

  • Binoculars or camera (for wildlife viewing)


Be sure to check with your trip organizers which equipment is provided and what you’ll need to bring yourself. Layering is key — weather in the North can shift quickly.

Temperatures in Northern Quebec vary greatly depending on the season and type of activity. Here's a general overview of what to expect during your Inuit Adventures trip:

❄️ Winter (December to April)
Average temperatures: -15°C to -30°C
Wind chill can make it feel colder than -40°C, especially during snowmobile excursions or in exposed areas.
Humidity is usually low, but strong winds can intensify the cold.

🌸 Spring (May to early June)
Temperatures range from 0°C to 10°C, though nights can still drop to -5°C or lower.
You may still encounter snow patches or frozen lakes.

🌞 Summer (mid-June to August)
Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C.
Cooler nights: 5°C to 10°C.
Expect a humid climate, with periods of intense mosquitoes and black flies.
Sudden storms or fog are possible near lakes and rivers.

🍂 Fall (September to November)
Temperatures range from 5°C to -10°C.
Weather can change rapidly, with the first snowfalls possible as early as September.
Expect cold conditions, especially at night, by late October.

🧳 What to bring:

  • Layered clothing to adapt to changing temperatures.

  • Windproof and waterproof outerwear — even in summer.

  • Warm and protective gear for extreme cold in winter.

At Inuit Adventures, your guides are members of the local community, primarily Inuit from Nunavik, who have deep knowledge of the land, traditions, and northern conditions. They combine traditional skills with certified training in safety and group leadership.

Most guides speak Inuktitut as their first language, but they can also communicate in French or English, depending on the guide and the group. We always aim to assign guides who can communicate in a language you understand.

If you have a language preference, please let us know when booking — we will do our best to accommodate it.

We strongly recommend adopting a layered clothing system to better regulate your body temperature, whether in winter or summer. Here are the typical layers to plan for:

  • A thin, snug-fitting base layer, worn directly against the skin, to wick away moisture.

  • An insulating mid-layer, such as fleece or wool, which can be easily removed or added depending on the temperature.

  • A windproof and waterproof outer layer to protect you from the elements.

  • A very warm insulating layer, such as a down jacket, for the coldest conditions.

In addition to clothing, it's essential to have boots with good ankle support, suitable for walking on sometimes uneven or unstable terrain. These boots will allow you to move comfortably and safely during your hikes or excursions.

There is no road directly connecting Nunavik to southern Quebec. To participate in Inuit Adventures activities, the only way to reach northern communities like Kuujjuaq is by plane, mainly departing from Montreal or Quebec City.

On the Hudson Bay side, the northernmost road ends at Radisson. On the Ungava Bay side, a train reaches Schefferville. It is also possible to drive to La Grande or Sept-Îles, but a flight will then be necessary to reach one of the communities served by Inuit Adventures.

In Nunavik villages, main streets are generally paved, but once you leave the communities, roads are unpaved and can be more difficult to access, especially depending on the season. Our guides take care of local transportation once you arrive.

During all-inclusive stays with Inuit Adventures, meals are taken care of by our team. When passing through communities, provisions are generally purchased at the local cooperative grocery store upon your arrival, and some meals may be prepared in community kitchens.

Once on the land (during expeditions, at camp, or on hikes), meals may include freeze-dried foods to reduce the weight of gear to transport. Whenever possible, we use fresh products depending on local availability. However, weight limitations related to transport (by plane or on foot) can restrict quantities.

During your stay, you will also have the opportunity to taste traditional Inuit foods, coming from hunting, fishing, or gathering: dried, smoked, raw, cooked, or stewed. It’s a wonderful way to discover northern culinary culture.

We recommend bringing your favorite snacks to keep your energy up throughout your adventure.

Finally, if you have allergies or dietary restrictions, please inform us in advance so we can see if we can accommodate your needs. If you prefer, you can also prepare your own menu for added peace of mind.

 
 

Yes, fishing is an activity possible with Inuit Adventures, depending on the locations visited and local regulations. Some areas allow sport or traditional fishing, while others may have restrictions based on the season or territorial rules.

Participants must bring their own fishing gear, as it is not provided by Inuit Adventures.

A fishing permit is generally required, unless otherwise specified depending on the location and situation. We will inform you in advance if a permit is necessary for your stay and can guide you through the process of obtaining one.

Our guides will ensure that the activity is conducted in compliance with local laws and Inuit traditional practices.

If you have any specific questions, please feel free to contact us directly.

With Inuit Adventures, you will have the opportunity to stay in different types of accommodations depending on the package you choose and the location of the activities.

Before or after excursions, you can stay in a local hotel, usually operated by the Federation of Cooperatives of Northern Quebec (Coop Hotels), or in community housing managed by Landholding organizations in some communities.

During stays on the territory, you can enjoy a more immersive experience with accommodations such as:

  • Classic tent camping,

  • Traditional Inuit accommodations, like the tupik (canvas tent) or igloo in winter,

  • Rustic camps located in the wilderness, sometimes accessible only by plane or boat.

These accommodations offer you direct contact with the land in an authentic, comfortable, and safe setting.

 
 

The activities offered by Inuit Adventures do not require you to be an athlete, but good physical condition is essential to fully enjoy the northern outdoor experience.

The territory is often accessible only by plane, boat, snowmobile, or all-terrain vehicle, and the conditions on site can be demanding: uneven trails, rugged terrain, exposure to the elements, long days outdoors without immediate shelter.

A "good physical condition" means you should be able to:

  • Spend several hours outside, sometimes in variable weather conditions,

  • Walk briskly and energetically without excessive fatigue,

  • Have enough energy to fully enjoy your stay and handle an emergency situation if it arises.

To prepare well, it is strongly recommended to train beforehand by practicing activities similar to those planned during your stay: hiking, snowshoeing, canoeing, cross-country skiing, etc. Try to cover distances equal to or slightly shorter than those you will encounter to get your body used to the effort.

You can also perform your daily tasks (walking, cleaning, errands, etc.) with a loaded backpack similar to the one you will carry in the field:

  • 5 to 10 kg for a daypack,

  • 20 to 23 kg for a full trekking pack.

This preparation will help you fully enjoy your adventure, comfortably and safely.

 
 
 

At Inuit Adventures, we are committed to providing immersive experiences while deeply respecting the northern territory and the communities who live there. We encourage all participants to follow the 7 principles of the “Leave No Trace” movement to minimize our impact on the environment and Inuit culture.

  1. Plan and prepare your trip
    Learn about local conditions, regulations, and cultural sensitivities.
    Prepare for extreme conditions: weather, isolation, wildlife.
    Avoid busy periods and favor small groups (4 to 6 people).
    Repackage your food to reduce waste.

  2. Travel and camp on durable surfaces
    Stay on existing trails and campsites.
    Camp at least 70 meters from rivers and lakes.
    Do not alter the terrain to set up your camp.
    In fragile environments, avoid creating new trails or campsites.

  3. Dispose of waste properly
    What you bring in, bring out. No waste should be left behind.
    Dig catholes for human waste (15 to 20 cm deep) away from water and cover them.
    Pack out toilet paper and hygiene products.
    Wash yourself and dishes away from water sources, using biodegradable soap.

  4. Leave what you find
    Do not disturb natural objects, plants, or cultural artifacts.
    Do not pick, build, or move natural elements.
    Avoid introducing non-native species (even unintentionally).

  5. Minimize fire impacts
    Use a camping stove instead of a fire when possible.
    If a fire is allowed, use established fire rings.
    Only collect small dead branches from the ground.
    Completely extinguish fires and scatter cooled ashes.

  6. Respect wildlife
    Observe animals from a distance; do not feed or approach them.
    Keep your food and waste securely stored to avoid attracting animals.
    Avoid disturbance during sensitive periods (nesting, birthing, winter).
    Dogs are not recommended unless specially authorized.

  7. Respect other visitors and locals
    Be courteous to other groups and community members.
    Avoid excessive noise. Let nature speak.
    Keep your resting and camping areas away from main trails and other visitors.

These principles preserve the integrity of the land and Inuit way of life while ensuring everyone has a rich and respectful experience. If you have questions about best practices, our local guides are here to assist and advise you.

 
 

Participating in an expedition with Inuit Adventures means experiencing an authentic immersion in northern Quebec, often in remote and wild territories. This exceptional adventure comes with certain natural risks that it is important to know about in order to prepare properly.

Our experienced Inuit guides, trained in safety and first aid in remote environments, will ensure your supervision. However, each participant is responsible for their personal equipment, physical condition, and mental preparation before the trip.

Here are the main risks to consider:

  1. Extreme weather conditions
    The northern climate can be unpredictable and harsh: intense cold, strong winds, fluctuating temperatures, blizzards, or coastal fog.
    → You must wear multilayer clothing adapted to conditions to avoid hypothermia or frostbite.
    → In bad weather, it may be necessary to change the itinerary or wait for a break.

  2. Landslides and avalanches
    Steep areas may present risks of falling rocks or landslides, especially after heavy rain. In winter, some slopes are exposed to avalanches.
    → Stay alert to the terrain and follow your guide’s instructions.

  3. Difficult navigation
    With few visual landmarks, repetitive terrain, fog, or snow, it is easy to become disoriented.
    → If you move without a guide (free activity), make sure to have a compass, map, GPS, or satellite phone, and know how to use them.

  4. Presence of wild animals
    Wildlife is usually discreet, but polar bears or black bears may be present in some areas.
    Wolves or foxes that are too familiar can carry rabies.
    → Avoid all contact, never feed animals, and follow your guide’s safety instructions.
    → Learn about bear safety before your stay.

  5. Biting insects
    In summer (June to August), mosquitoes and black flies are very common and can cause significant discomfort, especially for allergic individuals.
    → Bring a mosquito net, effective insect repellent, and medications if you have allergies.

  6. Hydration
    Although water is generally abundant, it is recommended to boil or filter it before drinking. Dehydration can happen quickly, even in cold weather.
    → Bring a water bottle and drink regularly during activities.

Good equipment, basic physical preparation, and an attentive attitude are the best ways to enjoy your stay safely. Our guides are there to watch over you, but a successful adventure always begins with good preparation.

 
 

The black bear, called atsak in Inuktitut, is quite common in the territories where Inuit Adventures operates. These bears are opportunistic and unpredictable animals. Generally, they prefer to avoid humans, but they can be attracted by the smell of food. Although rare, they may behave aggressively if surprised, feel cornered, or are protecting their young or food caches.

To ensure your safety, our guides will provide you with specific instructions, and a black bear safety guide is available to help you better understand their behavior and the best practices to follow.

The polar bear, called nanuk in Inuktitut, is much rarer to encounter, but it is not impossible to come across one in certain more northern areas.

Inuit Adventures will also inform you of the measures to take in case of a nanuk encounter through a dedicated polar bear safety guide.

Our experienced Inuit guides always know how to prevent risky situations and will accompany you to ensure your adventure remains safe and respectful of the wildlife.

 
 

Yes, there is a significant presence of mosquitoes and black flies in Nunavik, especially during the summer. However, they won’t ruin your experience if you wear appropriate clothing and use an effective insect repellent.

The number and nuisance of these insects vary greatly depending on the weather conditions and the time of year. Fortunately, the frequent winds in the region help disperse mosquitoes and black flies, which reduces their presence.

On warm, calm, sunny days, their activity can be more intense and quite bothersome.

To fully enjoy your stay, Inuit Adventures recommends bringing a mosquito net, good repellent, and long, lightweight clothing that protects your skin.

 

Practical tips for managing mosquitoes and black flies during your stay with Inuit Adventures:

  • Wear long, lightweight clothing
    Prefer light-colored, breathable fabrics. Long-sleeve shirts, long pants, and wide-brimmed hats are recommended.

  • Use an effective insect repellent
    Apply regularly on exposed skin, especially in the morning and late afternoon. Choose a product containing DEET, picaridin, or another proven ingredient.

  • Bring a mosquito net
    To protect your face during outdoor activities, especially in heavily infested areas. Also useful during camping or near water bodies.

  • Avoid stagnant water areas when possible
    Mosquitoes lay eggs in stagnant water, so limit time spent nearby.

  • Plan your activities according to the weather
    Strong winds reduce insect presence, so take advantage of windy days. Be prepared for increased activity on warm, calm, sunny days.

  • Bring complementary accessories
    Clothes treated with insect repellent (permethrin). Soothing cream for bites.

  • Stay hydrated and protected
    Insect bites can be irritating, so keep your skin well hydrated. Avoid scratching to prevent infections.

 
 

To guarantee your reservation, a deposit of 30% of the total amount is required within 10 days of booking.

The balance must be paid no later than 60 days before departure.

Bookings made less than 60 days before the departure date must be paid in full at the time of booking.

In case of cancellation, the 30% deposit is non-refundable.

Any cancellation made less than 60 days before departure results in the loss of the entire amount paid.

Inuit Adventures strongly recommends purchasing cancellation insurance as well as medical and emergency evacuation insurance.

The trip may be canceled by Inuit Adventures if the minimum number of participants is not reached 45 days before departure, in which case the deposit will be fully refunded.

For more information, you can consult the following link: https://aventuresinuit.ca/en/modalite-reservation/