Yellowknife Explorer: Culture by Day, Aurora by Night

Below is a sample itinerary. The actual itinerary may vary based on weather conditions and availability.

DAY 1: WELCOME TO YELLOWKNIFE: GATEWAY TO THE NORTH

Arrive in Yellowknife and settle into your city-centre accommodation. Yellowknife invites you to wander its walkable downtown core, discovering unique boutiques and an incredible array of restaurants serving global cuisine. For those who prefer not to walk, taxi services are readily available. As the day winds down, anticipate the adventures ahead in this welcoming and vibrant northern community.

Accommodation: Explorer Hotel (or similar)

DAY 2: CITY IMMERSION & AURORA WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE

Today, a local guide will lead a captivating city tour, offering an authentic taste of life in the North. Explore the Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly and the Yellowknife Historical Museum, delving into the area's rich history. Capture photos at iconic landmarks like the welcome sign and Max Ward’s Bristol Freighter. You’ll also visit the Buffalo Hangar from Ice Pilots and Nature’s North Gallery. From January to March, an exciting drive on the ice road and a visit to the ice castle may be possible, subject to weather conditions. The tour concludes in historic Old Town, leaving you with the option to continue exploring or return to your hotel.

In the evening, you’ll head out with your guide to a cozy cabin in the wilderness for a dedicated night of Aurora viewing. Set away from city lights, the cabin offers a warm and comfortable spot to watch the Northern Lights, with a midnight snack of fresh bannock and fish chowder, plus hot drinks throughout the night. After enjoying this peaceful northern setting and watching for the aurora, you'll return to your hotel for the night.

Accommodation: Explorer Hotel (or similar)

DAY 3-4: LEISURE & LIGHTS: YELLOWKNIFE'S CULINARY DELIGHTS

These days are yours to delve deeper into Yellowknife's unique charm at your leisure. Be sure to sample some of the city's renowned local food options. Share a pint with locals at the Woodyard Brewhouse, indulge in arctic char sashimi, or experience the vibrant Bullocks Bistro. As evening arrives, prepare for another enchanting night of Aurora viewing at the cozy cabin. With Yellowknife offering around 240 aurora nights each year, your chances of seeing the lights are high. Relax with a warm drink, enjoy a late-night snack, and soak in the beauty of the northern sky from this peaceful retreat, before returning to your hotel.

Accommodation: Explorer Hotel (or similar)

DAY 4-5: FAREWELL TO THE NORTH: CHERISHED MEMORIES

As your incredible journey concludes, bid farewell to the enchanting North and prepare for your homeward journey. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have a final opportunity to soak in a little more of Yellowknife’s unique atmosphere before heading to the airport. Depart with cherished memories of vibrant city explorations, authentic connections, and the potential to have witnessed the unforgettable dance of the Northern Lights.