Qikiqtarjuaq, Arctic coastal hamlet in Nunavut, Canada
Qikiqtarjuaq is a small settlement located on Broughton Island near the Davis Strait coast. The community offers schooling through grade twelve, nursing care at the health center, and two stores that provide groceries to residents.
The settlement was originally called Broughton Island until residents chose to adopt the traditional Inuit name Qikiqtarjuaq in 1998. This change reflected a broader effort to reclaim and honor indigenous language and heritage.
The community's daily life reflects a strong bond with Inuit traditions, visible in how people spend their time and work together. Hunting remains central to local living, and winter gatherings bring everyone together in celebration.
Daylight varies dramatically with the seasons here, with winter darkness and summer light, so visitors should plan activities accordingly. Warm clothing is essential year-round, as temperatures are significantly colder than in southern regions.
The region offers rare chances to spot seals, narwhals, and bowhead whales that regularly inhabit these northern waters. Visitors often report unforgettable wildlife sightings while spending time in this remote location.
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