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The Dempster Highway is one of North America’s Top Ten Drives!

Our package tours start and end in Dawson City. Flights between Dawson City and Whitehorse can be added on to your package. You will most likely travel with Olav, an experienced guide, who has lived and worked in the Arctic, has driven the highway for the past 40 years and has a wealth of knowledge about the Dempster. On this trip you will travel by road on the Dempster Highway and on the Inuvik Tuktoyaktuk Highway all the way to the Arctic Ocean and then fly back to Dawson City.

Day 1: Dawson City to Eagle Plains

Your driver will meet you at your hotel, campground or at the airport this morning and then you will start your drive up the Dempster Highway. Today you will see the Tombstone, Ogilvie Mountains and continue on to Eagle Plains, the half-way point on the Dempster Highway where you will spend the night. There will be time to stop and take pictures at inspiring viewpoints periodically during the drive. A restaurant is available at Eagle Plains Hotel. The usual arrival time is 5-6 pm.

Day 2: Eagle Plains to Inuvik

Today you will travel on to the Arctic Circle Crossing where you will have the chance to walk around and take some pictures at the sign with a spectacular backdrop of the mountains. We will spend
most of our time in the beautiful Richardson Mountains looking for wildlife and taking in the spectacular scenery of this remote wilderness. We will cross the Peel River and the Mackenzie River by ferry boat. You will continue your drive on to Inuvik where you will spend the next 2 nights in a comfortable full-service cabin unit or in a hotel in town if we are booked up when you sign up.

Day 3: Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk and back to Inuvik

Today we will drive you on the Inuvik Tuktoyaktuk Highway all the way to the Arctic Ocean and back to Inuvik. You will receive a nice Arctic Ocean certificate. Upon arrival in Tuk you’ll get a tour of the Inuvialuit village and we’ll include a stop at the Arctic Ocean for a dip or a swim and show you the almost worlds largest pingo. If you would like to add on the 2-hr cultural home visit with elders in Tuk which includes a traditional lunch and a discussion about the Inuit lifestyle and wildlife, please let us know. The minimum requirement is 4 people at $200.

Day 4: Fly from Inuvik back to Dawson City

Today you will check out of your room and we will drive you to the airport for your flight back to Dawson City. Bon Voyage! It was a pleasure to share this Arctic experience with you.

Note:

  • Tour groups usually range from 2 to 6 people but we can also take larger groups.
  • The single traveler supplement is $500.
  • No meals or snacks are included in this package.
  • The package is also available with start in Inuvik if the dates align with the airline schedule.
  • We can customize this package to suit your interests (more nights at the Arctic Chalet, Summer dog mushing, drive both ways…)
  • Take a look at our website for more detailed information.

Dempster Highway Tour

Artic Chalet_western Arctic_Dempster Highway_2025_Pic 3

The Dempster Highway is one of North America’s Top Ten Drives!

Our package tours start and end in Dawson City. Flights between Dawson City and Whitehorse can be added on to your package. You will most likely travel with Olav, an experienced guide, who has lived and worked in the Arctic, has driven the highway for the past 40 years and has a wealth of knowledge about the Dempster. On this trip you will travel by road on the Dempster Highway and on the Inuvik Tuktoyaktuk Highway all the way to the Arctic Ocean and then fly back to Dawson City.

Day 1: Dawson City to Eagle Plains

Your driver will meet you at your hotel, campground or at the airport this morning and then you will start your drive up the Dempster Highway. Today you will see the Tombstone, Ogilvie Mountains and continue on to Eagle Plains, the half-way point on the Dempster Highway where you will spend the night. There will be time to stop and take pictures at inspiring viewpoints periodically during the drive. A restaurant is available at Eagle Plains Hotel. The usual arrival time is 5-6 pm.

Day 2: Eagle Plains to Inuvik

Today you will travel on to the Arctic Circle Crossing where you will have the chance to walk around and take some pictures at the sign with a spectacular backdrop of the mountains. We will spend
most of our time in the beautiful Richardson Mountains looking for wildlife and taking in the spectacular scenery of this remote wilderness. We will cross the Peel River and the Mackenzie River by ferry boat. You will continue your drive on to Inuvik where you will spend the next 2 nights in a comfortable full-service cabin unit or in a hotel in town if we are booked up when you sign up.

Day 3: Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk and back to Inuvik

Today we will drive you on the Inuvik Tuktoyaktuk Highway all the way to the Arctic Ocean and back to Inuvik. You will receive a nice Arctic Ocean certificate. Upon arrival in Tuk you’ll get a tour of the Inuvialuit village and we’ll include a stop at the Arctic Ocean for a dip or a swim and show you the almost worlds largest pingo. If you would like to add on the 2-hr cultural home visit with elders in Tuk which includes a traditional lunch and a discussion about the Inuit lifestyle and wildlife, please let us know. The minimum requirement is 4 people at $200.

Day 4: Fly from Inuvik back to Dawson City

Today you will check out of your room and we will drive you to the airport for your flight back to Dawson City. Bon Voyage! It was a pleasure to share this Arctic experience with you.

Note:

  • Tour groups usually range from 2 to 6 people but we can also take larger groups.
  • The single traveler supplement is $500.
  • No meals or snacks are included in this package.
  • The package is also available with start in Inuvik if the dates align with the airline schedule.
  • We can customize this package to suit your interests (more nights at the Arctic Chalet, Summer dog mushing, drive both ways…)
  • Take a look at our website for more detailed information.

5 Day Arctic Variety Package

Artic Chalet_western Arctic_2025_Pic 1

Discover the wonders of the Arctic Ocean, witness the mesmerizing aurora borealis far from city lights, and embark on thrilling adventures with dog sledding, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing along breathtaking scenic trails!

Sunday: We will meet you at the airport and shuttle you to the Arctic Chalet where you will check into your cozy cabin, followed by a tour of the town of Inuvik which will include a short drive on the Mackenzie River ice road. On this tour you get lots of
information from your guide about the people, the land, aboriginal land claim agreements, the climate, building methods, the water, heat and sewer systems that make such a town work in this extreme environment, and much more.

Monday: After breakfast in your room, we will take you on a fun dog sled tour out into the Mackenzie Delta. This tour takes you across lakes and through scenic forests and creeks. You will experience a delightful time with our beautiful huskies as you travel through the pristine countryside. At Picnic Lake we will serve a hot lunch around a campfire and spend an hour or more there while the huskies relax and pose for pictures. This is a good way to photograph the dogs up close and enjoy interacting with them individually after lunch.

Tuesday: Today you will drive a snowmobile to the Arctic Loon Cabin on a guided overnight tour to our secluded outpost cabin a little way out of town located in some beautiful hills above a lake. The drive out is only about one hour. This cabin is off the grid, but very comfortable with warm bedding and an indoor toilet! Dinner, breakfast and lunch are provided. Snacks and hot drinks are available at anytime. Tonight, you can look for the Aurora Borealis away from all artificial lights.

Wednesday: In the morning you can accompany Judi and Yannik, her trusty Husky boy, for some snowshoeing on a scenic trail or enjoy reading some northern books in front of the relaxing wood stove in the cabin. After lunch we will prepare for the trip back to
the Arctic Chalet by snowmobile.

Thursday: Today we will take you to the Arctic Ocean and explore the hamlet of Tuktoyaktuk. There is a lot of knowledge to be gained when you take a road tour with our guide explaining what you are seeing. Once you arrive in Tuk we will give you a village
tour and include a stop at the Arctic Ocean so you can walk on the frozen water. A beautiful Arctic Ocean Certificate is included. There might be the option to add on a cultural side tour that includes a visit of an Inuit home where the host will serve you a traditional lunch. You will get to see Inuit clothing and discuss the Inuit lifestyle and wildlife. The minimum requirement for the side tour is 4 people at $200.

Friday: Today you check out and we will take you to the airport to see you off. We enjoyed having you at the Arctic Chalet and showing you our home town.

Note:

  • Meals are not included at the Arctic Chalet or on the tour to Tuk,
    but your cabin will have a kitchen where you can prepare and
    cook your own food. We will take you to the grocery store
    whenever you like.
  • We do not include Saturdays in any of our tour packages.
    Otherwise, our dates are quite flexible and we can modify or
    customize a package to suit your interests (more dogsledding,
    longer ice road tour, short drive on the Dempster Highway, more
    nights at the Arctic Chalet, …)

Fly Fishing Lessons

Casting North Fly Fishing_Yellowknife_2025_2

If you have a couple hours to spare and are interested in fly fishing but wanted to try it out first, our guides offer 1hr or 2hr lessons on land to get you comfortable with the basics of fly fishing. If you have a larger group of 2 or more participants, please contact us and we’d be happy to discuss options that will suit you best.

What we supply:

  • All necessary equipment including rods and reels for the dry-land lesson.

What you supply:

  • Sunglasses (if you prefer vs our safety glasses)
  • Weather appropriate clothing
  • Water/water bottle

Season: June – Sept

  • 1hr Lesson: $90 – For 1-2 participants   

  • 2hr Lesson: $150 – For 1-2 participants

Customized Group Lessons: Flexible pricing based on the number of participants and duration.

 

Guided Float Tube Excursion with Fly Fishing

Casting North Fly Fishing_Yellowknife_2025_Package 1

Imagine floating along on a peaceful lake and casting a fly from the comfort of an inflatable float tube.  You and your guides will head out on the water in our fleet of Outcast Float Tubes for an experience you won’t soon forget.

Half-day: $450 for up to 4 guests

What we provide:

  • Outcast Fish Cat Deluxe Float Tubes
  • All gear including waders, boots, fins rods, reels, flies, dip net etc.
  • Life jackets
  • Snacks and non-alcohol drinks

What you provide:

  • NWT fishing license
  • Bag lunch (if preferred)
  • Personal essentials (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, suitable clothing for the weather etc.)

Full-day: $900 for up to 4 guests

What we provide:

  • Outcast Fish Cat Deluxe Float Tubes
  • All gear including waders, boots, fins rods, reels, flies, dip net etc.
  • Life jackets
  • Snacks and non-alcohol drinks
  • Shore lunch
  • Snacks and non-alcohol drinks
  • 115 liter backpacks for hike in trips.

What you provide:

  • NWT fishing license
  • Personal essentials (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, suitable clothing for the weather, etc.)

Boat Excursion Guided Fly Fishing, Full-Day or Half-Day

Casting North Fly Fishing_Yellowknife_2025_Package 4

We are just a short drive to many of the lakes or rivers along the Ingraham Trail, making our half day trips the perfect fit if you’re just looking for a shorter trip or an evening outing. For folks who prefer a longer day on the water, our full day trips include a shore lunch and allow us to explore more areas and multiple species of fish.

Half-day: $400 per boat for 1- 2 guests

What we provide:

  • Guided fishing in a well suited 19ft boat for larger lakes or 17ft jet drive for smaller lakes and rivers
  • All gear including rods, reels, flies etc.
  • Life jackets
  • Snacks and non-alcohol drinks

What you provide:

  • NWT fishing license
  • Bag lunch (if preferred)
  • Personal essentials (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, suitable clothing for the weather etc.)

Full-day: $800 per boat for 1- 2 guests

What we provide:

  • Guided fishing in a well suited 19ft boat for larger lakes or 17ft jet drive for smaller lakes and rivers.
  • All gear including rods, reels, flies etc.
  • Life jackets
  • Shore lunch
  • Snacks and non-alcohol drinks

What you provide:

  • NWT fishing license
  • Personal essentials (sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, suitable clothing for the weather, etc.)

 

Signature City Tour

My Backyard Tours_City Tour_2025_Yellowknife_2025_3

Come away with us on an adventure through Yellowknife that goes beyond your typical city tour.

Led by guides who are deeply rooted and connected to the city, the land and culture and the people who have and do reside here. You’ll learn the stories passed down through multiple generations, the lore and the unbelievable tales of how Yellowknife began and those that have paved the way, all while Yellowknife is still within its infancy.

Gain insights into the multiple layers of Yellowknife – those of the old and new, from legends to the vibrant spirit of today!

Please block off 2.5 hours for this adventure- your tour includes the following:

  • Pick up/drop off from 1 of 4 hotels- (Explorer Hotel, Chateau Nova Hotel, Quality Inn Hotel and Nova Inn)
  • Photo opportunities
  • Stops within the city to explore and connect with the land

Tours run Monday to Friday 9:30am -12pm or 1pm to 3:30pm

Per Person $125.00 +GST*

*Minimum booking is for two people. For groups over 6 guests, additional charges may apply.

4-night Winter Package in a Spacious Cottage

Castaway Cottages_Hay River_2025_4

Experience the Magic of the Aurora Borealis

Imagine spending your evenings watching the breathtaking Aurora Borealis from the comfort of your own cottage. At Castaways Cottages & Campground in Hay River, Northwest Territories, this dream can become a reality. Located along the south shores of the Great Slave Lake, this is the perfect destination for a serene and picturesque getaway.

Castaways Cottages & Campground is pleased to offer our Aurora Viewing Cottage packages for guests from near and far! This package includes a 4 night stay in a three bedroom fully equipped cottage, airport pickup and drop off, shuttle transportation to restaurants and shopping, full access to the wilderness lodge & sliding hill, snow tubes, kick sleds, stops at the visitor center & gift shop, and more!

We are conveniently located 10 minutes from the historic town of Hay River in the Northwest Territories. Our area is renowned for the breathtaking northern lights, and Castaways is the perfect location to witness their captivating displays almost every night from the comfort of your own cottage!

Book the 4 night – 3-bedroom – Aurora Package for 2 and add a max of 4 more guests. Each cottage has 3 queen beds, a full bathroom, fully equipped kitchen, washer and dryer, and the cottage’s outdoor deck is the perfect place to watch for northern lights. Enjoy hunting the aurora from the cottage windows and sharing the view with just your select party.

Let Castaways Cottages & Campground be your home north of the 60th parallel! Welcome to your new favorite vacation spot!  All cottages are also available on a nightly or weekly basis, year round.

*When booking please ensure to select the correct package for your group size*

Cottage Features:

  • Bedrooms: Each bedroom cottage is equipped with 3 queen beds, providing ample space for families or groups.
  • Kitchen: Enjoy the convenience of a full kitchen with cooking & dining utensils provided. 
  • Laundry: A washer and dryer is included to meet your laundry needs during your stay. 
  • Entertainment: Relax with a TV featuring a full satellite package. Starlink WIFI is available throughout the property. 
  • Comfort: Bedding and towels are provided to ensure a comfortable stay.

Additional Amenities:

  • Large Driveway: Ample parking space is available for your vehicles.
  • Viewing Spaces: Enjoy the northern views from the cottage windows, deck, or even the wilderness lodge nearby.
  • Wilderness Lodge: Enjoy hunting the Aurora from the lakeside lodge. Stay toasty with the warmth of a wood burning stove and enjoy hot chocolate and tea while you watch the sky. A fire pit is located outside for those with a sweet tooth for marshmallows. Games and cards are also available in the lodge. 

Nailicho Extended Flight Seeing Tour

Simpson Air_Flight Seeing Adventure_2025_3
Embarking on a day of adventure with your floatplane, exploring some of the most stunning sights in the Northwest Territories, promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Starting with a flight to Nailicho (Virginia Falls), you’ll have the opportunity to join a guided day hike to the top of the falls with Parks Canada interpreters. The hike offers breathtaking views and insights into the natural and cultural significance of this majestic waterfall. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also venture to the bottom of the falls on your own, ensuring you return within the allotted time to continue the journey.

Continuing north of the falls, you’ll soar over Gahnihthah Mie (Rabbitkettle Lake), home to one of Canada’s largest and oldest tufa formations. The aerial perspective will provide a unique view of this geological wonder, showcasing its intricate formations and natural beauty.

​Passing the tufa mound, the journey takes you into the Ragged Range, where you’ll marvel at the famous Cirque of the Unclimbables from the air. This iconic landmark is a sight to behold, with its sheer granite walls and rugged terrain captivating adventurers from around the world. A stop at Glacier Lake, with its aqua-colored waters contrasting against the surrounding landscape, offers a moment of tranquility and awe.

​Before returning to Fort Simpson, a stop at Nahanni Mountain Lodge on Little Doctor Lake provides a chance to relax on the sandy beach, perhaps even taking a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters or simply soaking up the sun’s warmth. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration before heading back to civilization.

​Overall, this day trip promises to be filled with adventure, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences, showcasing the best that the Northwest Territories have to offer.

Cessna 1853 pax max850 lbs. payload
1 passenger$3,654.00All prices include GST
2 passengers$1,827.00(each pax)
3 passengers$1,218.00 (each pax)
DHC-2 Beaver6 pax max1100 lbs. payload
1 passenger$7,308.00All prices include GST
2 passengers$3,654.00 (each pax.)
3 passengers$2,436.00 (each pax)

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