The immense Northwest Territories were subdivided in 1999 to create Canada's newest territory, the eastern Arctic Inuit region of Nunavut. It's a wild and isolated place, stretching north above the tree line from Hudson Bay up to Ellesmere Island National Park, within spitting distance of the North Pole.

The provincial capital is Iqaluit, formerly called Frobisher Bay, on the east coast of Baffin Island. It's more a stopping-off and supply spot than an attraction in itself, though there are hiking trails in the vicinity. Most visitors pass through en route to Auyuittuq National Park, Canada's third largest national park, and one of only a few in the world north of the Arctic Circle. The pristine wilderness of mountains, valleys, fjords and meadows is a spectacular must for experienced hikers, and climbers flock to Mount Thor (1500m/4920ft), the tallest uninterrupted cliff face on earth.

In the Inuit language of Inuktitut, Nunavut means “Our Land”. It is the name given to the ancestral home of the Inuit of the central and eastern Arctic, and to the new Territory of Nunavut in Canada’s eastern Arctic.

Though the creation of the Territory of Nunavut on April 1, 1999 represents a new chapter in the story of Canada’s confederation, the story of Nunavut and the Inuit who make their lives there is an ancient one, going back over thousands of years of continuous habitation.

The creation of the Territory of Nunavut and the finalization of the historic land claim settlement between the Nunavut Inuit and the Government of Canada adds a new dimension to the evolving history of both Nunavut and Canada.

The sights and attractions of the Northwest Territories are all part of the natural splendor that is so apparent in this region. Here are some of the finest waterfalls in the world, and the renowned UNESCO designated Nahanni National Park. The wildlife is legendary and here you can watch polar bears at play and see seals and beluga whales. Observe the musk oxen lumbering across the tundra and hear wolves howl as they stalk the caribou herds.

Visit Yellowknife the capital and learn how this city was built on permafrost. Two of the biggest attractions here are the long summer days of the midnight sun and the aurora borealis or northern lights which can be seen in the night sky from late August until January.

For the adventure traveler that has done everything, Nunavut can still offer something unique. Here you can truly sense that relatively few have been before you, travel and exploration are synonymous. Travel by kayak along the rivers. See the incredible wildlife including polar bear, musk ox and walrus.

Take an escorted hiking trip to Ellesmere Island. Experience how life is in an Inuit community and take a dog-sleigh or a snowmobile ride. There are many tour operators and outfitters who can help you make a visit here an unforgettable travel adventure.