Iqaluit is situated on Baffin Island, the largest island in Nunavut.
It is the capital of the new teritory and has a population of almost 4500 people.
Iqaluit is situated on Baffin Island, the largest island in Nunavut.
It is the capital of the new teritory and has a population of almost 4500 people.
Brief History
The community was first established as a US air base to transport warplanes to Europe during World War II and to ferry wounded back to North America. It is still on the Arctic Circle route for transatlantic travel, and frequently gets unexpected visitors when an international flight touches down.
Iqaluit today
Modern Iqaluit blends ancient Inuit heritage and modern technology. The runway is a designated alternate landing site for the US space shuttle, and satellite dishes pop up on many buildings. There are five modern hotels, a handful of restaurants, numerous shops and other services operating out of Iqaluit.
But unlike southern centres, you often have to stop your vehicle to allow hunters with snowmobiles and sleds to cross the main street on their way out of town. Caribou routinely wander through town. The town is on the coast of Frobisher Bay, and the completely isolated Arctic wilderness is only a boat ride or dog-team trip away.
Here are some links leading to information about Iqaluit and what you might find there:
Listen to CBC North - Iqaluit, on Real Audio
Our local newspaper...Nunavut Tourism
Nunavut Research Institute (Kids on the Net is based out of here)
