Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve of Canada

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit the islands ?

Most of the services offered in the archipelago are available from the mid-June until the end of August. It is always better to make reservations ahead of time for boat tours, even at the beginning and the end of the season. Some boatmen are operational a little earlier in the spring and go on a little longer in the fall. All you need to do is ask.

Is it cold in the Mingan region ?

The summer season has its large share of beautiful days; however, the weather in this region can change drastically without warning. You may depart for trip on a beautiful sunny morning only to return in the rain. It is therefore very important that you bring along warm, waterproof clothes. If you are well-dressed, it will be easy for you to adapt to the onshore winds and the nights that can be rather cool.

What do we need when visiting the islands ?

This may sound strange, but you must make transportation arrangements. There are no bridges that connect the Mingan Islands to the coast (check the Maritime Transport Services ).
A hat or cap, sun screen, binoculars, a camera and a wind-breaker are also things you should carry on you. Finally, a bottle of water and a light snack are strongly recommended. Now you're all set!

How long do boat tours last ?

Outings by boat can last for 3 to 4 hours. However, all boat tours have different lengths, routes and interpretation themes. Please consult the list of boat operators under Maritime Transport Services

Can I camp on the Mingan Islands ?

Six islands have camping facilities. There are 44 campsites in all. For more information, consult the camping section.

Can I get a map of the islands ?

You can buy a topographical map of the archipelago at The Minganie Research and Interpretation Centre in Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan, or at Park's Canada Information Kiosk in Havre-Saint-Pierre. Nautical charts of the region are also available.

What shoes should I bring ?

We strongly recommend flat, comfortable shoes that provide good support. Otherwise, hiking expeditions will prove long and tedious on the islands' rocky and uneven shoreline.

Where can I see puffins ?

Puffin colonies are not everywhere in the archipelago - most unfortunate! They are found in two (2) distinct areas of the park reserve: in the eastern section of the archipelago, puffins can be seen in the Betchouanes migratory bird sanctuary, and in the west, on Ile de la Maison and Ile aux Perroquets.

What is the CRIM ?

The CRIM is the Centre de recherche et d'interprétation de la Minganie (Mingan Research and Interpretation Centre) which is in Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan. The Centre, jointly run by Parks Canada and the MICS (Mingan Island Cetacean Study), has guided tour, interpretation activities and documentary films. It also contains a wealth of information on the activities and resources found in the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, as well as in the Mingan region as a whole.

Can I fish in the waters of the park ?

Fishing is prohibited in the Mingan Islands. However, many private companies in the region offer packages to fishing enthusiasts. All you need to do is ask!