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International Education Newfoundland and Labrador (IENL) is industry association advancing international education in the Province. Since 2012, International Education Newfoundland and Labrador (IENL) has acted informally as the network for communication and activities on behalf of Newfoundland and Labrador’s international education and training sector.

Why Visit NL

A Land of Adventure and Natural Beauty

Newfoundland and Labrador offers some of Canada’s most spectacular scenery and unique cultural experiences. From towering icebergs and rugged coastlines to vibrant cities and centuries-old fishing villages, every corner of the province tells a story.

 

As an international student here, you have the perfect opportunity to explore this remarkable place. Whether you’re hiking along dramatic cliffs, watching whales breach the Atlantic, or experiencing the warmth of Newfoundland hospitality, you’ll discover why this province is unlike anywhere else in Canada.

Take advantage of your time here to explore—these experiences will become some of your most treasured memories.

Must-See Destinations

Top Attractions in Newfoundland & Labrador

From the vibrant capital of St. John’s to charming coastal communities, Newfoundland and Labrador offers diverse places to live, work, and study

Gros Morne National Park

Western Newfoundland

UNESCO World Heritage site featuring dramatic fjords, towering cliffs, and unique geological formations. Hike the Tablelands, boat through Western Brook Pond, and explore ancient landscapes.

UNESCO Site Hiking

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Signal Hill

St. John's

Historic site overlooking St. John's harbor where Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal. Stunning views of the city, ocean, and dramatic cliffs.

Historic Site Views

Cape Spear

Near St. John's

The easternmost point in North America. Watch sunrise over the Atlantic, spot whales and icebergs, and visit Canada's oldest surviving lighthouse.

Historic Site Views

L'Anse aux Meadows

Northern Peninsula

UNESCO World Heritage site and only known Viking settlement in North America. Explore recreated Norse buildings and learn about Viking history from 1,000 years ago.

UNESCO Site History

Iceberg Alley

Northeast Coast

Watch 10,000-year-old icebergs drift along the coast from May to June. Best viewing spots include Twillingate, St. Anthony, and the Bonavista Peninsula.

Seasonal Natural Wonder

The Rooms

St. John's

Provincial museum, art gallery, and archives showcasing Newfoundland and Labrador's culture, history, and art. Stunning architecture and harbor views.

Museum Culture

Fogo Island

Northeast Coast

Remote island community featuring unique architecture, artist studios, rugged coastline, and the world-renowned Fogo Island Inn. Authentic outport culture.

Island Art & Culture

George Street

St. John's

Famous entertainment district with the most bars and pubs per square foot in North America. Live music, local musicians, and vibrant nightlife.

Entertainment Nightlife

East Coast Trail

Avalon Peninsula

336 km of coastal hiking trails along dramatic cliffs, through fishing villages, and past historic sites. Whale watching, seabird colonies, and breathtaking views.

Hiking Coastal

Activities & Experiences

Things to Do in NL

Whale Watching
Spot humpback, minke, and fin whales along the coast from May to SeptemberTotal Area
Hiking & Trekking

Explore coastal trails, mountain peaks, and ancient geological wonders

Fishing

Experience world-class salmon and trout fishing in pristine rivers and lakes

Kayaking

Paddle along dramatic coastlines, explore sea caves, and get close to icebergs

Photography

Capture icebergs, puffins, colorful villages, and stunning landscapes

Cultural Sites

Visit museums, historic sites, and learn about Viking and Indigenous history

Live Music

Experience traditional folk music, kitchen parties, and local performersCapital City

Local Cuisine

Try fish and chips, Jiggs dinner, toutons, and fresh seafood

Explore By Region

Regions of Newfoundland & Labrador

Avalon Peninsula

St. John's & Surrounding Area


Home to the vibrant capital city, historic sites, dramatic coastlines, and the largest seabird colony in North America at Cape St. Mary's.


▸ Signal Hill & Cape Spear

▸ East Coast Trail hiking

▸ Witless Bay Ecological Reserve

▸ Colorful St. John's downtown

Read More

Western Newfoundland

Gros Morne & Corner Brook


UNESCO World Heritage landscapes, mountains, fjords, and outdoor adventure. Home to Gros Morne National Park and marble mountains


▸ Gros Morne National Park

▸ Marble Mountain ski resort

▸ Corner Brook city

▸ Bay of Islands

Read More

Central Newfoundland

Gander & Terra Nova


Rich aviation history, boreal forests, and Terra Nova National Park. Gateway to Fogo Island and Change Islands.


▸Gander International Airport history

▸ Terra Nova National Park

▸ Twillingate icebergs

▸ Fogo Island

Read More

Labrador

Northern Wilderness


Vast wilderness, Indigenous culture, northern lights, and dramatic landscapes. Home to the Torngat Mountains and Mealy Mountains.


▸ Torngat Mountains National Park

▸ East Coast Trail hiking

▸ Northern lights viewing

▸ Indigenous cultural experiences

Read More
Weather & Climate

Four Distinct Seasons

Newfoundland and Labrador experiences all four seasons with varying temperatures throughout the year

Spring
  • ✓ Iceberg season begins (May-June)
  • ✓ Whale watching starts
  • ✓ Puffin nesting season
  • ✓ Spring hiking trails
  • ✓ Bird watching migration
Summer
  • ✓ Peak whale watching
  • ✓ Coastal hiking & camping
  • ✓ Kayaking & boat tours
  • ✓ Music festivals & events
  • ✓ Salmon fishing season
Fall
  • ✓ Fall foliage colors
  • ✓ Berry picking season
  • ✓ Photography opportunities
  • ✓ Quiet trails & parks
  • ✓ Cultural festivals
Winter
  • ✓ Skiing at Marble Mountain
  • ✓ Snowshoeing & snowmobiling
  • ✓ Winter festivals
  • ✓ Northern lights in Labrador
  • ✓ Cozy cultural experiences
Scenic Drives

Popular Road Trips

The Viking Trail

📏 ~500 km ⏱️ 3-5 days 📍 Deer Lake to L’Anse aux Meadows
Journey through Western Newfoundland along Route 430 to the Viking settlement. Experience Gros Morne National Park, coastal villages, and dramatic northern landscapes.

Key Stops:

  • Gros Morne National Park
  • Norris Point & Rocky Harbour
  • Arches Provincial Park
  • Port au Choix
  • St. Anthony
  • L’Anse aux Meadows

The Irish Loop

📏 ~300 km ⏱️ 1-2 days 📍 Circular route from St. John’s
Explore the southern Avalon Peninsula through charming Irish settlements, dramatic coastlines, and North America’s second-largest seabird colony.

Key Stops:

  • Cape Spear
  • Bay Bulls & Witless Bay
  • Ferryland lighthouse
  • Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve
  • Castle Hill National Historic Site
  • Salmonier Nature Park

Discovery Trail

📏 ~500 km ⏱️ 3-4 days 📍 Clarenville to Bonavista Peninsula
Follow the route of explorer John Cabot to charming fishing villages, historic sites, and some of the best iceberg viewing locations in the province.

Key Stops:

  • Terra Nova National Park
  • Elliston (puffin capital)
  • Bonavista lighthouse
  • Trinity historic town
  • Random Passage film site
  • Tickle Cove sea arch
Plan Your Trip

Travel Tips for International Students

Transportation

Most attractions require a car. Consider renting with friends to split costs or joining organized tours from St. John’s.

  • • Rental cars available at airports
  • • Book early for summer travel
  • • Winter driving requires experience
  • • Gas up in towns—stations sparse
Budget-Friendly Tips

Travel doesn’t have to be expensive. Many attractions are free or low-cost for students.

  • • Camping in provincial parks
  • • Pack picnic lunches
  • • Free hiking trails everywhere
  • • Student discounts at museums
What to Pack

Weather can change quickly. Layer your clothing and be prepared for all conditions.Travel doesn’t have to be expensive. Many attractions are free or low-cost for students.

  • • Rain jacket and waterproof boots
  • • Warm layers even in summer
  • • Sunscreen and hat
  • • Camera and extra batteries
Connectivity

Cell service can be limited outside cities. Download maps and information before leaving.

  • • Download offline Google Maps
  • • Save important phone numbers
  • • Bring a physical map as backup
  • • Let someone know your route
Best times to Visit

Different seasons offer unique experiences. Plan based on what you want to see.

  • • Icebergs: May-June
  • • Whales: June-August
  • • Puffins: May-September
  • • Fall colors: September-October
Safety Tips

Stay safe while exploring remote areas and coastal trails.

  • • Check weather forecasts
  • • Stay back from cliff edges
  • • Respect wildlife—keep distance
  • • Inform others of hiking plans