Located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence along the coast of Côte-Nord, the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve is a true jewel of nature. Made up of about 20 islands and over a thousand islets and reefs, this wild paradise is one of Canada’s most spectacular sites. It’s no wonder it was named one of “52 Places to Go in 2024” by the New York Times!

The Mingan Archipelago is home to the largest concentration of erosion monoliths in Canada, formed over thousands of years by the wind and sea. But that’s not all: this protected territory is also a sanctuary for exceptional flora and fauna. Atlantic puffins, nicknamed “parrots of the sea,” live in the archipelago along with razorbills and curious seals, while arctic and boreal vegetation creates a unique natural environment.

Accessible only by boat, this natural paradise invites exploration. To ensure you have the best possible experience, book your crossing with a company recognized by Parks Canada such as Famille Loiselle. Want to discover what not to miss in the archipelago? Here are two sectors you’ll want to visit!

Western sector: Île aux Perroquets and Île Nue de Mingan

Your adventure begins at Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan where you’ll set off for Île aux Perroquets (Parrot Island). As you approach this small island, you’ll spot a historic light station perched on steep cliffs. But it’s the seabirds that will steal the show: hundreds of Atlantic puffins and razorbills can be spotted in the air, on the island and in the surrounding waters. A Parks Canada heritage presenter will be happy to recount the fascinating history of the island’s lightkeepers, who played a vital role in preventing shipwrecks in this area’s perilous waters starting in 1888.

Your guided tour will continue towards Île Nue de Mingan (literally, “Naked Island”), where seals will watch your boat with curiosity. As you approach the island, an almost lunar landscape will unfold before your eyes: impressive limestone monoliths sculpted by time dominate the windswept terrain. This barren environment, typical of northern regions, is home to vegetation adapted to extreme conditions, creating a striking contrast between rock and flora.

To continue your adventure, add a stop on Grande Île, the largest island in the archipelago. Here you can admire fascinating rock formations reminiscent of a zoo of stone animals or the ruins of an ancient castle, surrounded by crystal-clear waters. With a little luck, a whale will complete this enchanting picture!

Central sector: Quarry Island and Niapiskau Island

The second part of your adventure begins in Havre-Saint-Pierre where you’ll board a boat that will sail along the limestone cliffs on Île du Havre and Île du Fantôme before reaching iconic Quarry Island. Keep your eyes peeled along the way and you may spot porpoises or whales near the surface of the water, a magical sight!

Once on the island, a Parks Canada heritage presenter will take you on a journey through time and nature. You’ll discover fascinating vegetation that has adapted to this unique environment. After crossing through the boreal forest, barrens and peatbogs, you’ll arrive at Anse des Erosions, where you can admire amazing monoliths sculpted by the wind and sea. Your tour will then continue to Niapiskau Island, which has other surprises in store for you: at Anse des Bonnes Femmes, your guide will point out spectacular rock formations such as the Crocodile, the Owl and the majestic “Lady of Niapisca.”

If you’re a botany enthusiast, you’ll also want to visit Île du Fantôme (Ghost Island), where you’ll find a great variety of vascular plants. Some of these rare species are usually found only in the high mountains or beyond the 56th parallel! Go for a walk along the trails on this island to discover unique flora between sheer cliffs and monoliths sculpted by the elements.

Extend your stay

To fully experience the magic of the Mingan Archipelago, take the time to explore both of these sectors offering contrasting landscapes. And why not extend your visit by spending the night on one of the islands? Parks Canada offers a range of camping and overnight accommodations from oTENTik tents and Ôasis units to wilderness campsites and a 4-star inn.

Get ready for an unforgettable immersion at the heart of one of the most beautiful jewels of nature in Québec by the Sea!