The rivière aux Feuilles migratory caribou is an iconic species of the vast northern wilderness. Every year, it undertakes a spectacular migration, traveling hundreds of kilometers between its breeding grounds. This migration follows a very specific route, connecting the lush valleys of the Leaf River to the drier plains of the interior. As it crosses rivers and dense forests, this herd plays a vital role in the region’s ecological balance by fertilizing the soil and maintaining a cycle of plant regeneration.
The black bear is a discreet yet fascinating inhabitant of Nunavik. Although it is less commonly associated with Arctic regions than its cousin, the polar bear, the black bear finds an ideal habitat in the forests of Nunavik, especially during the warmer months. An omnivore, it feeds on fruits, berries, insects, and occasionally small mammals. Its presence is often seen as a symbol of the resilience of boreal wildlife. Encounters with this animal, though rare and fleeting, serve as a reminder of the importance of coexistence between humans and nature in these vast wilderness areas.
In the tundra, an austere and cold ecosystem, nature reserves a treasure trove of small berries and edible plants which, although discreet, play an essential role in the diet of the animals and humans who live there. Among these plants, the arctic bilberries and the cranberries are distinguished by their sweet, tangy flavor. The cloudberries and the wild raspberries complete the picture, with juicy fruit growing on low bushes adapted to the extreme conditions of the tundra. In addition to fruit, several wild herbs likenettle and meadowsweet are also edible.
In Nunavik, watching the Northern Lights is a magical and unforgettable spectacle. Every winter, as soon as night falls, the skies are transformed into a veritable tableau of dancing lights. These luminous phenomena, created by solar particles interacting with the earth's atmosphere, can take the form of green veils, colored waves or sparkling rays. The region's remoteness from large conurbations and protection from light pollution provide ideal conditions for observing this natural phenomenon.
Jean-Simon Bégin is a wildlife painter and photographer from Quebec City, renowned for his 18-year career and numerous accolades, including the title of Canadian Wildlife Photographer of the Year in 2022. After working as a resident artist for prestigious galleries, he went independent in 2019 and founded his own publishing house, releasing several photography books on Quebec’s wildlife. His works have been highly successful, with thousands of copies sold. Jean-Simon is also an influential content creator, reaching millions of followers each year. Through his work and his posts, he seeks to raise public awareness about the fragility of biodiversity and the need to preserve it.
I’ve always been passionate about photography and videography. In 2014, I had the opportunity to turn my passion into a career, which has also allowed me to travel around the world. What fascinates me about photography is the way it can make the invisible visible. It’s a way to change someone’s perspective by showing them an animal, a person, or an object from a different angle. For me, videography is full of complexity and offers millions of possibilities. Every project is an opportunity to push my limits and tell a story from a captivating and creative angle.
Given the wide variations in temperature, we recommend a layered approach and several layers of clothing. Waterproof boots or waders are required for fishing.
No special skills are required to take part in this trip. Schedules and activities are adapted to participants' interests and abilities.
Because of the variety of subjects that can be photographed during a trip, a lot of lenses are suitable for this journey, but here are two types to prioritize.
1. A 16-35mm wide-angle lens for photos of the northern lights or landscapes;
2. A 70-200mm, 100-400mm or 100-500mm telephoto lens for close-up wildlife photography.
Don't forget to bring spare batteries, extra memory cards and a tripod.
Black bears, migratory caribou, otters, bald eagles, ptarmigan, mink and, more rarely, gray wolves, muskoxen and arctic foxes can all be seen.
Bear in mind, however, that nothing is ever guaranteed with wildlife. It's possible to see everything in a week, just as it's possible to see nothing at all. That's the reality of the North and of wildlife exploration.
Nunavik is an ideal place to observe the northern lights. Travelling at the end of September puts you in a favorable period when the nights are already long. The region offers low light pollution, which maximizes your chances of seeing the aurora in all its splendor. Just bear in mind that you need a combination of favorable conditions to observe the northern lights, including clear skies and, above all, solar activity.
Flies aren't as common in the North as you might think. There aren't enough of them to require equipment or insect repellents.
Yes, the lodge is served by the StarLink satellite network in the main building. Internet access is available in the dining room. For full details of our facilities, please visit here.
Yes! the lodge is fully equipped to be comfortable for travelers, you can see all that is included in our facilities here.
