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.
Nuuk / Western Fjords / Qooqqut Nuan - Days 1-2
Hotel Hans Egede
Days 1 to 2 (2 nights), Nuuk, GreenlandThe Hotel Hans Egede is well located in the center of the small city of Nuuk, within walking distance of all the sites. Guest rooms are modern and comfortable, with private bathrooms. There is a comfy rooftop bar in the hotel, along with two restaurants, and a completely delightful buffet breakfast is offered.
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!
Kangerlussuaq / Musk Ox Safari / Hike the Ice Sheet - Days 3-4
Hotel Kangerlussuaq
Days 3 to 4 (2 nights), Kangerlussuaq, GreenlandBasic yet accommodating, Hotel Kangerlussuaq makes a fine base camp with access to the massive Greenland Ice Sheet. The hotel is located in the same building as the airport’s terminal and offers standard rooms, a convenient restaurant, and a friendly staff. If you have time, be sure to enjoy some local Greenlandic beer at their bar.
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.
Ilulissat / Midnight Cruise - Day 5
Hotel Avannaa
Days 5 to 7 (3 nights), Ilulissat, GreenlandThis 22-room hotel is a 15-minute walk from the center of Ilulissat and offers views of the town and the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guestrooms are basic but clean and comfortable and feature modern Scandinavian simplicity.
Hotel Hvide Falk
Days 5 to 7 (3 nights), Ilulissat, GreenlandThis simple hotel offers 40 rooms plus an annex and offers great views of the fjord crowded with floating icebergs. It's conveniently located in the center of town, within walking distance of shops and cafes.
Hotel Arctic
Days 5 to 7 (3 nights), Ilulissat, GreenlandThis quiet hotel is set right on the edge of iceberg-dotted Disko Bay. Guestrooms can be on the small side, but are clean and comfortable with modern decor. There are two restaurants (try the air-dried musk ox or halibut sashimi), walking paths, and fantastic views from every angle.
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.
Disko Bay / Oqaatsut / Sermermiut - Days 6-8
Hotel Avannaa
Days 5 to 7 (3 nights), Ilulissat, GreenlandThis 22-room hotel is a 15-minute walk from the center of Ilulissat and offers views of the town and the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Guestrooms are basic but clean and comfortable and feature modern Scandinavian simplicity.
Hotel Hvide Falk
Days 5 to 7 (3 nights), Ilulissat, GreenlandThis simple hotel offers 40 rooms plus an annex and offers great views of the fjord crowded with floating icebergs. It's conveniently located in the center of town, within walking distance of shops and cafes.
Hotel Arctic
Days 5 to 7 (3 nights), Ilulissat, GreenlandThis quiet hotel is set right on the edge of iceberg-dotted Disko Bay. Guestrooms can be on the small side, but are clean and comfortable with modern decor. There are two restaurants (try the air-dried musk ox or halibut sashimi), walking paths, and fantastic views from every angle.
Expedition to Greenland
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
