Yellowknife Northern Lights

Join us on a journey north to Yellowknife to view the Aurora Borealis – one of the Earth’s greatest natural wonders. The capital city of the Northwest Territories is a place where traditional indigenous culture blends together with modern amenities. Far from city lights, we will spend 3-nights watching the night sky light up with snacks and warm drinks. A mix of local and indigenous guides will join us this week to teach us about the history and culture of the area’s past and present.

We will stay at The Chateau Nova in Yellowknife and in addition to 3-nights of Aurora Borealis viewing, some highlights will include a Yellowknife city tour, a dog sledding excursion, and a guided snowmobiling tour! We will also be in town during the Annual SnowKing’s Winter Festival where we will have a free day to take in the festivities and even visit the world famous Snow Castle! This tour includes all flights, a winter clothing package, airport transfers, accommodations, breakfast daily & 4 dinners, all activities listed in the itinerary, and the services of a Cardinal/Lakeshore Tours escort! You won’t want to miss out on this Bucket List Canadian winter experience! Please note that this is an active tour and would not be suitable for those who have mobility restrictions.

What to Expect:

Please note that due to the nature when the Northern Lights are most active, we will be out late on viewing nights usually not returning to the hotel until well after midnight. We will also spend a lot of time outside on this tour and it can be quite cold at this time of the year. We have included a winter clothing package but it is important to pack your own hat, mitts, and warm base layers to ensure you are comfortable spending time outdoors! Please note that this is an active tour and would not be suitable for those who have mobility restrictions. This tour is built with a senior clientele in mind and is accessible for most, however snow and ice may make it difficult to navigate for those who require mobility aids! If you are concerned about your ability to enjoy this tour – please contact our office with any questions you might have!

Day 1 – Sunday March 16, 2025 | Arrive Yellowknife (D)

Today you’ll be met by our coach at your pre-determined pickup point to head to Pearson Airport to board our flight to Northern Canada! We’ll spend our week in Yellowknife – the capital of Northwest Territories and city famous for its rustic beauty outdoors. On arrival we will check into the Chateau Nova Hotel which will serve as our base for the week! Once in Yellowknife, we will pick up our included winter clothing packages before an included welcome dinner. The rest of the evening will be at leisure to rest up for the days ahead.

Day 2 – Monday March 17, 2025 | Yellowknife Sightseeing (B, D)

Following breakfast at the hotel, we’ll head out on a city tour to learn about Yellowknife’s rich history. Learn about its history, geography, and culture as you visit the Ice Road, Old Town, Downtown, Pilot’s Monument, Great Slave Lake, and much more. After our tour grab some lunch on your own and enjoy some leisure time this afternoon. Following an included dinner, we will have time to relax and rest up before heading out for our first night of Aurora Viewing. We will travel away from the city lights to witness the amazing Aurora Borealis. Hot drinks and light snacks will be provided. We’ll view the lights from our camp by campfire light or from one of the cozy cabins. The Northern Lights are most active late in the night and early morning, so expect to be out late. Return to the hotel after our viewing.

Day 3 – Tuesday March 18, 2025 | Snowmobiling Adventure (B, D)

Today we’ll have the morning free to explore Yellowknife at our leisure. We have not included any activities in the early morning since we were out late the night before. In the late morning, we’ll head out for a snowmobile adventure in Great Slave Lake’s unspoiled wilderness and discover places not easily accessible by foot, snowshoe, or dog team. Learn the basics and safety rules before heading out on your guided trip. All sleds run with two people so be prepared to share. Following an included dinner, we will depart for our second night of incredible Aurora Borealis Viewing. Our guides will provide photography tips to help us get the best possible photos of this incredible natural phenomenon.

Day 4 – Wednesday March 19, 2025 | Free Day & Snowkings Winter Festival (B)

After an included breakfast at the hotel, we will have the day at leisure. Each year in March – Yellowknife holds the annual SnowKings Winter Festival centred around the world-famous Ice Castle. Use your free day to take in the festivities, visit the many shops in the downtown or just relax! Perhaps opt to visit the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Center or the NWT Legislature (both walking distance of the hotel) to learn more about life in the Northwest Territories. Tonight’s dinner will be on your own account before departing on our last night of Aurora Borealis Viewing.

Day 5 – Thursday March 20, 2025 | Dog Sledding (B, D)

After an included breakfast at the hotel, take some time to relax before our dog sledding excursion. After gearing up and instruction, you’ll be ready to lead your experienced dogs through the snowy trails around Grace Lake! The sled is designed for 2-3 people: One sits in the front, and the others stand at the back to control the sled. Take turns being the dog musher. Meet the dogs, take pictures, and most importantly, have fun! Tonight, we will gather for a farewell dinner, where we have the opportunity to share our favourite moments of our time spent in Yellowknife!

Day 6 – Friday March 21, 2025 | Depart Yellowknife (B)

Following breakfast, we depart the hotel at our leisure to begin our onward journey. Upon arrival to Pearson Airport, we’ll be met by our coach which will return us to our original pickup points and bid farewell to new and old friends.

A deposit of $500.00 is due at the time of booking. Final payment will be due January 3, 2025. All payments are non- refundable if you cancel on your own terms. The listed itinerary is only a guideline and is subject to change. Cancellation insurance is highly recommended. Please visit our website for our full terms and conditions: www.cardinalcoachtours.ca/our-policy/