Summer Adventure in Greenland

The trip begins with a beautiful flight from Copenhagen to Kangerlussuaq, where Greenland’s stunning white landscapes slowly fade through the plane’s windows. The trip takes approximately 4½ hours, but time flies by in anticipation of the experiences that await.

Upon arrival in Kangerlussuaq, you’ll immediately sense Greenland’s unique summer atmosphere: the clear air, the open expanses of the tundra landscape, and the special calm pace that characterizes this place. A local guide will meet you at the airport, warmly welcome you, and introduce you to the area and the exciting program.

You will be accommodated at Hotel Kangerlussuaq, conveniently located in the same building complex as the airport terminal.

If you have purchased the excursion, it’s time for your first adventure.

Tundra Tour (add-on)

A tundra tour by bus in Kangerlussuaq offers you a unique opportunity to experience the Arctic landscape up close—without the need for strenuous hiking. The tour follows gravel roads into the backcountry, giving you a true sense of Greenland’s raw and majestic nature.

Along the way, you’ll cross rivers and pass through open plains, barren mountains, and lush valleys where reindeer and musk oxen often graze in the distance. Your guide will share insights into the landscape, wildlife, and local history, providing a deeper understanding of how both people and animals have adapted to this harsh environment.

Stops are made along the route to enjoy the views and take photos—especially from lookout points with panoramic vistas over the tundra and the ice sheet on the horizon. You’ll experience silence and vast open spaces that inspire reflection and awe.

This tundra tour is a peaceful and comfortable way to get an authentic taste of Greenland’s wild heart.

In the evening, we offer a welcome dinner at the Musk Ox restaurant at the hotel (drinks excluded).

Standing on the ice sheet is a unique experience, but embarking on a mini-expedition is an even greater adventure.

Day adventure on the Ice Sheet (add-on)

This excursion follows the program of the Inland Ice Point 660 tour but includes approximately 4 hours to explore the ice sheet in depth.

Most people only reach a few hundred meters into the ice sheet, but it’s worth going further. A breathtaking landscape of icy valleys, ridges, crystal blue streams, rivers, waterfalls, and lakes formed by meltwater reveals itself the deeper you go.

With crampons and trekking poles, everyone can participate. It’s no more demanding than walking in hilly terrain at home. We’ll find a scenic spot on the ice where we’ll have lunch – and drink water directly from a meltwater lake!

The journey to and from the ice sheet offers beautiful landscapes that we pass by bus, with the opportunity to see reindeer, musk oxen, and Arctic birds and plants.

Remember to bring a warm jacket and good hiking boots.

PLEASE NOTE: Children must be 10 to go on this excursion.

In the evening, we recommend dinner at the iconic Restaurant Roklubben, located on the shores of Lake Ferguson. Greenlandic delicacies such as musk ox, reindeer, or fish are served here. As you dine, the calm descends – outside, the evening sun reflects off the lake’s still waters, painting the landscape in warm hues.

There are many things to do in Kangerlussuaq, like hiking and biking. You can also come with us on this exciting trip.

8-hour hike to Garnet Mountain (add-on)

Today, we set out on a beautiful hike through the magnificent backcountry of Kangerlussuaq, where fragrant Arctic plants, colorful landscapes, and untouched wilderness capture the essence of a Greenlandic summer.

We begin with a drive to the top of Tacan, a mountain shaped by the last Ice Age, where spectacular views await. From here, we follow the trail around Great Salt Lake. The route is mostly downhill, although there are a few uphill sections along the way.

After approximately 2.5–3 hours, we reach Garnet Mountain, where we search for the beautiful semi-precious garnets with hammer and chisel in hand. Along the way, we enjoy a packed lunch and keep an eye out for peregrine falcons and musk oxen roaming the area.

Our hike continues along the shores of Lake Ferguson, where we hope to spot the majestic red-throated loon and hear its distinctive call. The tour ends at the far end of the lake, where we are picked up and driven back to Kangerlussuaq.

The day starts with a beautiful flight from Kangerlussuaq to Ilulissat, where you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Greenland’s dramatic landscapes from the plane. The trip takes less than an hour, and upon arrival in Ilulissat, a bus will welcome you and ensure a smooth start to the day’s adventure.

At Hotel Arctic, we are available in the lobby, where you can ask our guide for advice about the area and available excursions. If you’re interested, you can also book local excursions at the Arctic Excursions booking stand, operated by our subsidiary company.

Sailing among icebergs (add-on)

The day can end with an unforgettable evening boat tour on the Ilulissat Icefjord. Aboard a comfortable boat, we sail out among the majestic icebergs created by the huge Sermeq Kujalleq glacier. The evening sun casts golden and blue hues on the ice, making the atmosphere magical. The guide tells us about the fjord and its significance while we enjoy a hot drink and take in this unique sight.

In the evening, a welcome dinner is served at the hotel (beverages not included).

Ilulissat offers plenty of experiences.

Town walk (add-on)

Today, we’ll take an exciting city tour of Ilulissat, a town with a rich history and a strong connection to the impressive icebergs that dominate the area. The guide will show you the main sights, including the charming Old Town, the Zion Church, and the museum that tells the story of life in the Arctic. You’ll also have time to explore the cozy shops and cafes where local products can be enjoyed.

Town walk and hike to Sermermiut (add-on)

Afterward, a trip to the Sermermiut Valley is just a short hike from the town. Here, you’ll experience Greenland’s cultural heritage up close and enjoy magnificent views of the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll learn about the area’s history as a settlement for different Inuit cultures and have time to take photos of the stunning landscape.

No matter where you are in Ilulissat, you can’t help but see and hear some of the many sled dogs that live here. Most dogs are in large dog parks outside the town if they’re not out on the trails.

Visit the sled dogs (add-on)

In Ilulissat, winter lasts six to seven months, and winter means “sledding time.” Around 2,500 sled dogs are used extensively for both leisure and work. Longline fishermen use dog sleds to transport fish between the Isfjord and Ilulissat, where modern motor power often has to give way to traditional Inuit transportation.

After breakfast, you’ll go on an exciting excursion where a local dog owner invites you to watch the feeding of a dog team. Here, you’ll experience the commotion of many dogs barking in unison and their enormous energy and eagerness. The dog owner will demonstrate the sled, harnesses, and whip and discuss the unique interaction between the dogs and their owner. Remember to wait for the owners’ permission before approaching the dogs. This visit is a great opportunity to gain insight into the traditional life of sled dogs in Greenland.

If you’ve purchased the excursion package, you’ll go on a longer and beautiful boat trip today.

Day trip to Eqi Glacier (add-on)

From Ilulissat, we sail north through the dramatic Arctic landscape, where icebergs of all shapes and sizes drift silently. On board the boat, there is plenty of opportunity to enjoy the views and listen to the guide talk about the nature of the area and the importance of glaciers.

After 2-5 hours of sailing (depending on the boat), the Eqi Glacier appears on the horizon, and the sight is overwhelming. The huge glacier wall rises majestically from the sea, and you can hear the sounds of the ice cracking and breaking. With a bit of luck, we can witness calving, where large chunks of ice detach from the glacier and crash into the water with a huge bang – an experience that fascinates and reminds us of the forces of nature.

We stop in front of the glacier in good time to take pictures, enjoy a packed lunch, and relax. Along the way, you may also be lucky to spot Arctic animals such as seals, whales, or seabirds roaming the area.

At 2:00 pm, we pick up passengers at Glacier Lodge Eqi and head back to Ilulissat.

A day trip to the Eqi Glacier combines the magnificent nature of Greenland with an experience of peace and reflection that can only be found in this part of the world. Bring warm clothes and a camera – this trip is special.

You’ll also have the chance to go kayaking!

Kayak Experience in Ilulissat (optional extra)

Inuit have been kayaking in Greenlandic waters for over a thousand years, and you can do the same. The kayak glides silently through the water, and you experience the huge icebergs rising around you. The sun gives the ice a unique play of colors. In cloudy weather, the beautiful blue colors of the icebergs will stand out. With a bit of luck, we’ll also encounter whales. The tours take place in stable double kayaks with a support boat. The excursion lasts 3½-4 hours, and you’ll be on the water for at least two hours.

There is also another option available.

Helicopter Tour Over Ilulissat Icefjord and Glacier (Optional Extra)

The Ilulissat Icefjord and the Kangia Glacier are the focus of this 1.5-hour helicopter tour, taking you straight into the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can’t get this close to the enormous glacier by boat or on foot—and from the air, the views are even more breathtaking.

The helicopter takes off from Ilulissat Airport and flies as low as safety and regulations allow over mountains, lakes, rivers, and the Icefjord. You’ll land on a mountain ridge right at the glacier’s edge, where you’ll have about 30 minutes to enjoy the spectacular scenery. Afterward, you fly over the glacier front and follow the Icefjord for 70 kilometers on the return journey.

Finally, a whale safari is also an option.

Whale watching in Ilulissat (add-on)

Whale watching in Ilulissat is one of the most memorable experiences Greenland offers. During the summer months, Disko Bay is home to several species of whales, including humpbacks, fin whales, and minke whales, which migrate to the area to enjoy the nutrient-rich waters. Aboard a comfortable boat, we sail out onto the bay, moving through a spectacular landscape of drifting icebergs and sparkling waters.

Along the way, the guide shares fascinating facts about whale behavior, migration, and life cycle. We hope to meet more whales on today’s tour. It’s always fascinating to hear the sound of the whale blowing before the majestic animals dive into the depths. Watching large mammals leap, swim, and dive in their natural environment is unique. Often, you can also see the impressive tails of humpback whales as they disappear below the surface, but not all whale species dive with their tails up, which surprises many.

There’s also a good chance of spotting other Arctic animals, such as seals and seabirds, making the experience richer. Whale watching in Ilulissat is a unique opportunity to get close to Greenland’s wildlife and a reminder of how vast and beautiful nature is. Be sure to bring warm clothes and a camera – this is an experience you’ll want to keep for life.

A wonderful trip has ended, and you’re returning to Copenhagen today. After eight memorable days in Greenland, you’ll fly directly from Ilulissat to Copenhagen.