DAY 01 

Location: Mashteuiatsh, Québec, Canada

The expedition begins in Mashteuiatsh, on the shores of Pekuakami. Everyone arrives by car or bus by 1:00 PM. 

Before heading out, we take the time to prepare thoroughly, get to know one another, and ensure everyone is ready for the days ahead.

We gather for a shared meal to connect as a team, discuss the expedition, and settle into the rhythm of life in the field. Throughout the afternoon, we cover the essential basics of polar travel: operating a camping stove safely in winter conditions, organizing personal equipment, and packing pulks efficiently. Together, we review all required gear and ensure everything is packed for the following morning. The night is spent in Innu accommodation, offering a chance to rest, prepare mentally, and begin the adventure as a team before stepping onto the ice.

What to expect:

• Team briefing: Meet the group and review the expedition plan.

• Shared meal: Get to know one another and build team spirit.

• Stove training: Learn the basics of operating a camping stove safely in cold conditions.

• Tent training: Master tent setup and management in polar conditions.

• Equipment check: Sort, organize, and verify essential gear.

• Pulk preparation: Pack and distribute equipment for efficient travel.

• Overnight stay: Rest in Innu accommodation before entering the field.

DAY 02

Into the winter wilderness

After a final equipment check, we put on our skis, step out of the lodge, and begin skiing across the winter landscape surrounding Lac Saint-Jean. We settle into the rhythm of pulling a sled, managing our pace, and moving efficiently through the snow. By the end of the day, after a 16 km leg, we establish our first camp near Chambord and put our training into practice, pitching tents and preparing for our first night in the cold.

DAY 03

Finding our rhythm

We continue across the frozen landscape for another 21 km, building confidence and settling into the rhythm of expedition life. The focus is on efficient movement,teamwork, and maintaining a steady pace while managing energy and gear. Along the way, we practice navigation, reading the terrain, and adapting to changing conditions.

By the end of the day, we aim to reach the Saint-Gédéon area to set up camp and practice our evening routines. There is also a bit of extra motivation: if the group is up for a well-deserved craft beer at Microbrasserie du Lac Saint-Jean, we'll put in the extra kilometres to get there!

DAY 04

We slowly become master 

Expedition life starts to feel familiar. We spend the day deepening our understanding of cold-weather systems; from moisture management and gear protection to meal preparation and establishing a comfortable sleeping space.

We advance toward our next camp at the 55 km mark (a 20 km skiing day), near Taillon Beach, applying what we have learned and refining our routines. Small details make a big difference when every task is performed outdoors.

DAY 05

Navigation and decision-making

Continuing our journey around Lac Saint-Jean, we focus on navigation skills and expedition decision-making. We discuss route choices, monitor weather conditions, and practice making group decisions. The objective is to learn not only how to move forward, but also when to adapt the plan. Expedition travel requires flexibility, sound judgment, and responsiveness. By evening, we reach the 75 km mark near the Péribonka River.

DAY 06

The final push

We set out for another full day on the ice, focusing on consistency, endurance,and teamwork. After several days in the field, we understand our equipment,individual needs, and camp routines intimately. We cover another 20 km on skis (weather permitting) toward our final campsite, combining all our training into a smooth, autonomous rhythm.

DAY 07

Back to civilisation

We complete the final leg of our 95 km journey, returning to our starting area with an optional visit to the Innu Museum. After packing down gear and debriefing the trip, we take time to reflect on key learnings: what worked well, what could be refined, and which skills require ongoing practice. Participants leave with practical field experience and a strong foundation for future polar expeditions.

Pekuakami is not about speed or performance. It is about experiential learning, understanding the demands of winter travel, and building the skills and confidence to take on bigger polar challenges.