Overview
With icebergs spilling out of its fjords, humpback whales spouting in its waters, and a fascinating Inuit culture, Greenland is a magnificent land for adventure. We boat deep into the stunning Western Fjords, walk on the massive Greenland Ice Sheet (the blue of the meltwater against the ice is absolutely surreal), enjoy an Inuit barbecue, and hike the tundra in search of musk ox. In Ilulissat, north of the Arctic Circle, we hike right alongside massive icebergs on the shores of Kangia Icefjord, discover an ancient Inuit settlement, and during our midnight cruise, watch the play of light and color of the Arctic twilight reflected on towering icebergs. If you’ve ever wanted to experience one of the planet’s most jaw-droppingly beautiful settings, Greenland is the place.
A perfect itinerary allowing one to experience the varied and multi-faceted beauty of Greenland. It's so much more than you expect! The fjords are breathtaking, the ice is intoxicating, spotting wildlife—thrilling! I cannot believe I was kayaking around icebergs…at midnight! Greenland is sheer delight for your eyes! AND, gloriously under-crowded.
— Kathie D., Belle Isle, FL
Days 1-2
Nuuk / Western Fjords / Qooqqut Nuan
In Nuuk, the capital, we hike up Ukkusissat Mountain and savor an Inuit-style barbecue by the sea. On our boat cruise along the granite cliffs of the Western Nuuk Fjords, we’ll fish along the way, hike to a Viking ruin, and enjoy our fresh catch for lunch at a boat-in lodge.
Days 3-4
Kangerlussuaq / Musk Ox Safari / Hike the Ice Sheet
We set out with our guides in search of iconic musk ox, or “umimmak” in Greenlandic, meaning “long-bearded one,” and the next day we hike on the Greenland Ice Sheet, with two miles of ice beneath our feet!
Day 5
Ilulissat / Midnight Cruise
North of the Arctic Circle, we explore Ilulissat, home to more sled dogs than people. We’ll see the colossal bergs of Kangia Icefjord on a midnight cruise at the mouth of the Sermeq Glacier, said to have spawned the iceberg that sank the Titanic.
Days 6-8
Disko Bay / Oqaatsut / Sermermiut
Boating through Disko Bay on the lookout for humpback whales, we hike from Oqaatsut along the coast with a panorama of floating icebergs and the dramatic profile of Disko Island. Our trails bring us past giant icebergs along the wild shores of Kangia Icefjord to the ancient Inuit settlement of Sermermiut. Depart Ilulissat on Day 8.
Highlights
Highlights
Details
A mix of moderate walks and hikes over varying terrain, 1-6 hours a day, cultural exploration, travel by small boat, access to the Ice Sheet by rough dirt road