What to Do

The Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights in the NWT have been scientifically proven to be some of the best displays of these heavenly lights anywhere on the planet. The position of the NWT directly under the Auroral oval, clear nights, and wide-open spaces make this possible over 240 nights a year. Known as the Aurora capital of the world, the city of Yellowknife is the main hub for Aurora viewing activities and offers a variety of ways to experience nature's greatest light show. Viewing options include a visit to the iconic Aurora Village, an evening adventure to a cozy cabin, and Aurora hunting via dogsled, snowmobile, van or from the comforts of a wilderness lodge.

One of the best ways to get to know our spectacular destination and the local residents that call this amazing place home, is to take a city or community tour. Get to know the inside information from local guides who embody the spirit of the north and can share intimate details of the rich history and culture of their communities. From guided walking tours, exploring by fat bikes, or a scenic boat tour, there are plenty of options to fit the fitness level and interests of your delegates.

The Northwest Territories is home to a thriving Indigenous community representing a wide range of cultures and traditions of the Dene, Inuvialuit, Gwich'in and Métis. The territory boasts 11 official languages, nine of which are Indigenous. Here you can learn the wisdom of Indigenous storytelling handed down through generations. You can engage with the history and culture of the people who have called this place home since time immemorial. A number of Indigenous-owned and operated businesses offer a wide range of authentic experiences creating the perfect opportunity to see the Northwest Territories from the perspective of the people who know it best.

One of the best ways to explore the Northwest Territories is by driving our scenic highways and roads. These iconic routes take you through some spectacular wilderness and connect you with the quaint, friendly communities that are dotted throughout the region. The southern routes pass by a series of lakes, rivers and breathtaking waterfalls. They provide the perfect opportunity to spot wildlife including bison, moose, bears and foxes. The northern route features the legendary Dempster Highway that connects Dawson City, Yukon with Inuvik, NWT. The recently opened Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk highway officially connects Canada to the Arctic Ocean from coast-to-coast-to-coast. A series of well-maintained campgrounds and day-use areas are located along these scenic routes providing the perfect opportunity to explore and to rest up for the adventures that await you.

The Northwest Territories is an anglers' paradise. Our pristine lakes and rivers are teeming with fish - many trophy-sized! Whether you are planning a getaway to a wilderness lodge, heading out with a fishing guide or simply casting your line from a sun-baked shoreline, there are plenty of opportunities to catch the big one.

You can plan to fly fish for Arctic Grayling, lure a Northern Pike, troll for trout, tempt an Arctic Char, or experience ice fishing. There is an abundance of fish eager to take the bait. Be sure to add a traditional "shore lunch" to top off your amazing angling experience.

Our pristine waters provide some of the best paddling adventures in the world - from thundering rapids to peaceful lakes and streams. Whether you are on a lake in the middle of town or on a river in a remote location, adventure waits for every skill level. Opportunities are endless in the vastness of our territory. Adventurers come from around the globe to explore the waterways of the NWT. Canoeing, rafting, paddle boarding or kayaking all make for a fantastic team building experience.

For those lucky enough to visit between November and March, the Northwest Territories is a winter paradise with plenty of exciting Northern activities to choose from. Don't worry about the colder temperatures! A number of companies offer winter clothing rentals as part of their tour packages so your guests will stay warm and cozy when they are out frolicking in the snow. If you are lucky enough to be in Yellowknife in March, you can visit the amazing Ice Castle on Great Slave Lake and warm up with a hot chocolate. From awe-inspiring Aurora hunting, traditional dog sled rides, ice fishing and exhilarating snowmobile tours, there are plenty of options to get out and explore in all regions of the NWT.

Known for being one of the largest pristine wilderness areas in Canada, the Northwest Territories boasts two UNESCO World Heritage sites, six national parks and over 30 territorial parks, wilderness areas, and wildlife sanctuaries. The wide-open spaces and varied landscapes provide the perfect opportunity for wildlife viewing, bird watching, camping, hiking, golfing, photography, scenic plane rides and authentic Indigenous on-the-land experiences. All of them will bring you a little closer to Mother Nature.

Nothing defines a region of Canada like its culture and arts and the Northwest Territories is no exception. The rich heritage and traditions of the territory's Indigenous peoples and the influence of the explorers and fur traders is felt in every aspect of the arts scene. The NWT has an eclectic mix of artists from visual artists that create traditional and contemporary arts and fine crafts, to filmmakers, photographers, literary artists and award-winning performing artists. Music from the traditional Dene tea and drum dances to the energetic jigging along with local fiddlers, play a significant part in the NWT culture. Whether you are attending the Great Northern Arts Festival in Inuvik, Folk On the Rocks in Yellowknife, or exploring one of our impressive museums in the communities, take time to appreciate the talent of local artisans all with a story to share with you.

A visit to any community in the Northwest Territories provides the opportunity for a unique shopping experience. Visit local gift shops and artists studios featuring authentic arts and crafts. In addition to shopping for the standard t-shirts and keychains, you will find specialty products and handmade items made in the NWT. Each community has something a little different. These include iconic soapstone carvings, clothing and wallets made from Muskox or fox, caribou tufting, porcupine quill work, birch bark baskets, beaded moccasins, jewelry made from caribou antler and so much more. You can even make your own souvenir in a recycled glass shop. A visit to the NWT would not be complete if you did not at least look at the stunning array of Canadian diamonds mined right here in the NWT. You can be sure that whatever souvenir you bring home will be treasured for years to come.

The culinary scene in the Northwest Territories is unique and varied. It offers local delicacies, international themed restaurants, family dining, pub style grub and fine dining. The opportunity to sample a variety of tasty Northern treats wherever you go in the NWT is all part of the adventure.