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Northwest Territories

Northwest Territories, Canada

Nestled in the heart of Canada, the Northwest Territories is a vast and stunning destination that offers a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and adventure opportunities. The territory is known for it…

#Northern Canada#Arctic region#Remote wilderness#Indigenous culture#Aurora Borealis

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Northwest Territories.

Top Hotels in Northwest Territories

Top Flights to Northwest Territories

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Northwest Territories.

Tours

Aurora Borealis Viewing

Experience the mesmerizing Northern Lights in the pristine skies of the Northwest Territories.

Bush Pilot's Monument

A monument dedicated to bush pilots who contributed to Northern Canada's development.

Inuvik Tuktoyaktuk Highway

Drive the scenic highway from Inuvik to the Arctic Ocean.

Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre

A museum and archives facility that shares the stories of the people and history of the Northwest Territories.

Shopping

Old Town Glassworks

A unique place where recycled glass is transformed into beautiful artwork.

Yellowknife Farmers Market

A seasonal market offering local produce, arts, and crafts.

Outdoor

Nahanni National Park Reserve

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its breathtaking canyons, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Great Slave Lake

The deepest lake in North America, ideal for fishing, boating, and winter sports.

Wood Buffalo National Park

Home to the world's largest herd of free-roaming wild bison and the striking salt plains.

Folk On The Rocks Festival

An annual outdoor music festival featuring diverse artists and genres.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Northwest Territories.

Currency

$ | CAD | Canadian Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Northwest Territories, Canada is '45,000'.

Languages

English, Chipewyan, Cree, English, French, Gwichʼin, Inuinnaqtun, Inuktitut, North Slavey, South Slavey, Tłı̨chǫ

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Northwest Territories.

What people love

Northwest Territories, located in northern Canada, offers a unique and adventurous travel experience with its stunning natural beauty and rich indigenous culture. Here are some pros of traveling to Northwest Territories:

Spectacular Scenery: Northwest Territories is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Canada, including vast boreal forests, pristine lakes, and majestic mountain ranges. Visitors can explore the rugged beauty of places like Nahanni National Park Reserve, Great Slave Lake, and the Mackenzie River.
Outdoor Activities: The region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities such as hiking, canoeing, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can also experience thrilling adventures like dog sledding, snowmobiling, and aurora viewing in the winter months.
Cultural Immersion: Northwest Territories has a rich indigenous heritage, with several First Nations communities preserving their traditions and way of life. Travelers have the opportunity to learn about indigenous culture through cultural events, art galleries, and traditional ceremonies.
Northern Lights: The Northwest Territories is one of the best places in the world to witness the mesmerizing aurora borealis, or northern lights. Visitors can enjoy the magical light displays in clear, dark skies away from light pollution.
Remote Wilderness: For those seeking a true escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, Northwest Territories offers vast expanses of untouched wilderness where you can disconnect and reconnect with nature.

Overall, traveling to Northwest Territories provides a unique opportunity to explore the untamed beauty of Canada's northern wilderness and immerse yourself in indigenous culture and traditions.

What to know

Traveling to Northwest Territories in Canada has its challenges and cons, which are important to consider before planning a trip to this remote and unique destination. Some of the cons of traveling to Northwest Territories include:

Remote Location: Northwest Territories is located in the far north of Canada and is very remote. This means that getting there can be difficult and time-consuming, with limited transportation options available. It also means that access to services and amenities may be limited in some areas.
Harsh Climate: Northwest Territories has a subarctic climate, with long, cold winters and short, cool summers. The weather can be extreme, with temperatures dropping well below freezing in the winter months. Travelers need to be prepared for these conditions and dress appropriately to stay safe and comfortable.
Limited Infrastructure: Due to its remote location, Northwest Territories has limited infrastructure compared to more populated areas. This can impact the availability of services such as healthcare, accommodations, and dining options. Travelers may need to plan ahead and be self-sufficient during their trip.
Wildlife Encounters: Northwest Territories is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, wolves, and moose. While encountering wildlife can be a memorable experience, it also comes with risks. Travelers need to be cautious and follow safety guidelines to avoid dangerous encounters with animals.
Limited Tourist Facilities: Northwest Territories is not as developed for tourism as other regions of Canada, which means that tourist facilities such as hotels, restaurants, and attractions may be limited in some areas. Travelers should be prepared for a more rustic and adventurous travel experience.

Overall, while Northwest Territories offers stunning natural beauty and unique experiences, travelers should be aware of the challenges and cons associated with traveling to this remote destination. It is important to plan ahead, be prepared for the conditions, and have realistic expectations for the trip.

The Northwest Territories (NWT) is a vast region in northern Canada, characterized by a rich history and diverse cultures. Below is a detailed history, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks.

Early History and Indigenous Peoples

Indigenous Inhabitants: The Northwest Territories have been home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, including the Dene, Inuit, Métis, Gwich'in, and Inuvialuit. These groups have distinct cultures, languages, and histories and have traditionally lived off the land through hunting, fishing, and gathering.

European Exploration and Fur Trade

17th-18th Centuries: European exploration began in the 17th century with explorers looking for the Northwest Passage. The fur trade was a significant economic activity, with companies like the Hudson's Bay Company and the North West Company establishing trading posts.
Alexander Mackenzie: In 1789, Alexander Mackenzie, a Scottish explorer, completed the first recorded journey across North America to the Arctic Ocean via the Mackenzie River, which is named after him.

19th Century Developments

Treaty 8 and Treaty 11: As part of Canada's expansion, treaties were negotiated with Indigenous groups. Treaty 8 (1899) and Treaty 11 (1921) were agreements between the Crown and Indigenous peoples, allowing for resource development while promising ongoing governmental support and rights to traditional lands.
Creation of NWT: The Northwest Territories were officially formed in 1870 when the Hudson's Bay Company transferred control of Rupert's Land and the North-Western Territory to Canada. The boundaries and governance of the NWT changed over time, with parts being carved out to form other provinces and territories.

20th Century to Present

Gold Rush and Resource Development: The Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1890s and subsequent mineral discoveries brought increased interest and settlement to the region. The discovery of oil at Norman Wells and later, diamonds in the 1990s, further spurred economic development.
Division of the Territories: In 1999, the eastern portion of the Northwest Territories was separated to form the new territory of Nunavut, a result of the largest Indigenous land claim agreement between the Canadian government and the Inuit.
Modern Governance: The Government of the Northwest Territories has a consensus-style government, unique among Canadian provinces and territories, where leaders are elected as independents and select a premier from among themselves.

Historical Figures

Alexander Mackenzie: Noted for his exploration of the Mackenzie River.
Cuthbert Grant: A Métis leader involved in the fur trade and significant in the early history of the region.
Peter Pond: An early fur trader and explorer who mapped parts of the territory.

Important Landmarks

Nahanni National Park Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its waterfalls, canyons, and rich biodiversity.
Mackenzie River: The longest river in Canada, crucial for transportation and cultural history.
Wood Buffalo National Park: Straddles the Alberta border and is one of the largest parks in the world, home to free-roaming bison and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Northwest Territories remain a region of significant cultural heritage, natural beauty, and economic resources, with ongoing development and conservation efforts.