Phê Vé
May 2, 2026 • 3 min read
Join us on an adventure to Baffin Island, where we seek the elusive narwhal and majestic polar bears amidst stunning natural beauty and captivating legends.
The Quest for Narwhals
Every spring, the ice and snow around Baffin Island's bays begin to melt, creating gentle waterways that attract seals, polar bears, and the mysterious narwhal. My journey commenced from Pond Inlet after a three-hour flight from Iqaluit, the capital of Nunavut, Canada.
Twelve of us were introduced to our guide, Jaime Sharp, a New Zealander who had just returned from a polar bear expedition. Our Inuit team was led by a craftsman and elder, Billy Merkosak. Upon arrival, we were divided into groups and hopped onto qamutik, sleds pulled by snowmobiles.
Exploration at Eclipse Sound
As the sleds glided over the icy terrain, the sky gradually transformed into a brighter blue. After two hours of travel, we arrived at our base camp in Eclipse Sound, featuring yellow tents (our accommodations) and white tents (the kitchen and dining area).
Billy shared with us that due to climate change, summers here are becoming increasingly shorter. “We can no longer camp in the areas we used to because the ice melts too quickly,” he said. This insight deepened my understanding of humanity's impact on the natural world.
The Legend of Taluliyuk
During our search for narwhals, Billy recounted the legend of Taluliyuk, the sea goddess in Inuit culture. According to the tale, Taluliyuk was cast from her father’s boat, and her hands transformed into the marine animals we see today. If humans do not respect the environment, she will make these creatures harder to find.
That night, as we returned to camp without having spotted a narwhal, a dinner of roasted caribou and vegetables lifted our spirits. Before bed, Billy told us about narwhals, a species said to have originated from a woman who hunted whales.
✈️ Tìm chuyến bay giá tốt
Đặt vé ngay với giá ưu đãi từ các hãng hàng không
Characteristics of the Narwhal
The name 'narwhal' comes from the Norse word ‘nár’, meaning ‘corpse’, likely due to the distinctive color of this species. Although its long tusk is considered unique, scientists have yet to fully explain its purpose. Some believe it is used for hunting fish, while others think it serves as a sensory tool.
However, in Inuit culture, narwhals play an essential role in daily life. “We use narwhal tusks to make tent poles, their blubber is rich in protein and vitamin C, and the fried skin can be made into clothing,” Billy explained about the value of narwhals to the Inuit community.
Exploring Wildlife
The next morning, we ventured back to the ice in search of narwhals. The 24-hour sunlight of Arctic summers created a favorable environment for marine life to thrive. While we waited, we observed flocks of birds and a curious Arctic fox.
One day, we spotted the tracks of a polar bear and her two cubs, an exhilarating moment. As we explored the frozen landscape, I reflected on the profound connection between humans and nature, feeling the vibrancy and significance of everything around us.
Helpful Information for Vietnamese Travelers
For those considering exploring the wild beauty of Baffin Island, securing a visa is essential. Vietnamese travelers can apply for a tourist visa to Canada. Flight costs from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Iqaluit range from 20 million to 30 million VND, depending on the booking time.
Baffin Island is an ideal destination for experiencing untamed nature and wildlife observation, with the best time to visit being from May to September when the weather is warmer. Be sure to prepare warm clothing and a quality camera to capture precious moments on your journey.
Article referenced and edited from: Wanderlust Magazine
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