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Colourful houses in winter, Sisimiut

Greenland Winter Adventure

Example 9 Day Tour
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This 9-day Greenland Winter Adventure tour will immerse you in the pristine beauty of Greenland's icy wonders. Starting in Ilulissat, marvel at the Ilulissat Icefjord and experience thrilling dog-sledding adventures. Experience a night in a traditional igloo, explore stunning fjords by boat, visit top cultural and UNESCO sites, and glimpse the dazzling Northern Lights. Fly to Sisimiut for immersion in dog sledding culture, winter hiking, snowmobile safaris and local cultural activities. Conclude the adventure in Nuuk, Greenland’s vibrant capital. This adventure offers breathtaking landscapes, unique wildlife encounters, and rich cultural experiences, ensuring unforgettable moments in the Arctic wilderness.
The snowmobile bus on the trail towards Sisimiut in GreenlandView Point In The IcefjordOn the iconic viewpoint in NuukA snowmobile towing skiers on the glacierNorthern lights over IlulissatIcefjord center in the winter timeGreenlandic dogs and musher catching speed coming down a hill.Colourful houses in winter, Sisimiut
Highlights
  • Sail among giants in the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Witness the dazzling phenomenon of the Northern Lights while snowshoeing
  • Experience the thrill of a guided dog-sledding adventure
  • Explore Sisimiut's vibrant culture and rugged terrain on a winter safari
  • Engage with locals and gain insight into Greenlandic culture and practices
  • Spend a cozy and exciting night in a traditional igloo under the stars
  • Visit local artisan workshops to find Greenlandic handicrafts
Places Visited
Activity Level: Moderate
Activities that provide a reasonable level of physical challenge and elevate the heart rate. Focused on more active pursuits including multisport tours. Travelers may be active 5-7 hours total each day. Recommended for travelers with active lifestyles.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive in Ilulissat, Greenland

Welcome to Ilulissat, Greenland! Upon arrival at Ilulissat Airport, a private transfer to your hotel will greet you. Located directly on the banks of the stunning Ilulissat Icefjord, your lodging redefines what it means to be a natural lodging experience. Settle into your glass-walled Aurora Cabin at Hotel Arctic. From here, you will be able to enjoy views of the icefjord as well as the dancing northern lights. The icefjord was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2004 and is a stunning sight to behold. 

This evening, enjoy touring around the charming town of Ilulissat and learning about its history and how people live 300 kilometers north of the Polar Circle. The breathtaking views of the Ilulissat port and life in Disko Bay between two enormous icebergs provide a unique setting to explore. There may even be time to stop for a drink in one of the cozy cafes around town before dinner.

Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner at Brasserie Ulo, Hotel Arctic. If you are looking for somewhere to enjoy good food and good company, Brasserie Ulo is just the place to be. The atmosphere here is casual, and the gourmet chef is renowned for being one of the best in the country. The chefs are masters of their fields and only use the highest-quality Greenlandic and international ingredients. 

The seasons are taken into consideration when creating the menus. Therefore, the restaurant is in daily contact with local fishermen to serve guests meals made from local ingredients of the highest quality. The baker prepares delicious homemade bread for every meal, and the butcher ensures the guest receives the right cuts of meat and fish. Enjoy the hearty meal before heading back to your cabin for some well-deserved rest or to observe the northern lights from the comfort of your bed!
 

Day 2: Igloo Lodge | Sermeq Avannarleq Snowmobile

After breakfast, prepare for a combined snowmobile and snowshoe adventure. The journey starts at Igloo Lodge and travels by snowmobile to Aattartoq, where the community of local hunters and fishermen is open all winter. It is a beautiful drive, with numerous unique and spectacular views that greet you on each mountaintop. The dead glacier, Sermeq Avannarleq, and the massive ice sheet in the background have been seen several times.

Sikuiuitsoq, the frozen fjord, will welcome you to Attartoq after a roughly 40-minute drive. From the meter-thick sea ice, icebergs emerge in distinctive formations with shades of blue and shining white. But the area offers more than ice; in the cabins by the fishing grounds, local fishermen and hunters find shelter from the darkness and the cold. Close by, the sled dogs rest on the sea ice. When you arrive, snowshoes will be given to you to help you walk along the frozen fjord. Give yourself plenty of time to move among the icebergs—known as the Giants of Greenland. Enjoy the time in this small community to get to know some locals and learn how they experience life as hunters and fishermen in present-day Greenland before returning to the Igloo Lodge for the evening.

Day 3: Dog Sledding | Sail Ilulissat Icefjord

Before heading back to Ilulissat this morning, enjoy a traditional Greenlandic activity, dog sledding. Without a doubt, this is one of the most traditional ways to enjoy the beauty of the Arctic, but what the unwary traveler may not realize is that dog sledding in Greenland is special because it incorporates a significant amount of Inuit culture. Dog sledding contributes to the narrative of the Greenlanders' adaptation to their harsh surroundings. In Greenland, dog sledding is a way of life, if not a necessity, unlike other Arctic locations. Living in and off of nature is central to Greenlandic identity; therefore, when you are close to nature, you are also close to Greenlandic culture.

In the afternoon, join a cruise on the ice fjord in the classic red wooden boats to explore the icy giants. Feel the Arctic nature up close as you enjoy the sun reflecting on the huge icebergs outside town, where the UNESCO area begins. A must-have experience for any photographer, professional or amateur!

After the day's activities, return to Ilulissat, settle in, and relax in your room at Hotel Arctic. What could be more indulgent than sitting in a hot sauna and, at the same time, enjoying the view over Disko Bay after a day full of adventure? Take advantage of the new cold and hot saunas at the property and relax this evening.

Day 4: Visit Sermermiut & Ilulissat Icefjord Center

Today, depending on the weather conditions, explore in-depth the old settlement of Sermermiut. The settlement has a 4,000-year history and has been home to many different Inuit cultures and traditions. Visit the settlement's historic cemetery first thing in the morning, where people remain buried to this day. Then, take the walkway to Sermermiut and Nakkaavik, "the place to fall" (Old Ladies Gorge). Your guide will explain the significance of Nakkaavik to the Inuit cultures as well as traditional practices around aging and survival. Continue your journey along the track to Seqinniarfik, where every year, on the 13th of January, the people of Ilulissat hike to welcome the sun after the long, dark polar winter.

Along the hike, the guide will point out the historical sites, which can be hard to find, especially the old Inuit graves, which lie hidden a little off track. Beautiful icebergs are the setting for the old settlement of Sermermiut, located one and a half kilometers south of Ilulissat. Hear the guide tell stories about the Inuit people’s lives and traditions before the Europeans came to Greenland. See the turf hut ruins and touch the permafrost with your own hands.

After hiking to Sermermiut, visit the beautiful Icefjord Center. Situated in the southern region of Ilulissat, the world-class architecture is a captivating sight in and of itself, with its design developed in harmony with the concepts that the Center promotes. The walking paths that wind through the UNESCO World Heritage Site continue into the Icefjord Center. Learn about the ice, how scientists study the ice cores, and much more in the center.

This evening, you will have a unique chance to experience local culture by visiting a local house and family. Greenlanders hold "kaffemik" to celebrate special events of all kinds, from births and birthdays to the first days of school, but the real enjoyment comes from being in a room filled with people. Enjoy this time to connect with the locals and ask questions about life in the polar regions.

End your day by watching the dancing lights in the sky. The enchanted northern lights frequently appear over Ilulissat on clear, dark evenings. Take a walk in snowshoes where the darkness is closest and get away from the bright lights of the city. Your guide will tell you far and wide about the Northern Lights and serve a much-needed cup of hot drink under the starry sky.

Day 5: Fly to Sisimiut | City Tour & Arctic Spa

Wake up to the serene sights of Ilulissat, reflecting on the majestic icebergs surrounding the town. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel, savoring the last flavors of Ilulissat. Head to the Ilulissat Airport for your flight to Sisimiut. As you ascend, enjoy aerial views of Greenland's rugged landscape, an endless expanse of ice and mountains.

Arrive in Sisimiut, Greenland's second-largest town. Check into your hotel, where a cozy room awaits you. Take a moment to settle in and freshen up. Enjoy a light lunch at a local café, sampling traditional Greenlandic dishes. Perhaps try some freshly caught fish or local muskox delicacies.

Discover Sisimiut by taking a small van tour through the town. The van winds through the town, offering panoramic views and insights into the local lifestyle and culture. Your first stop is the historic old colony town. Step back in time, wandering through colorful colonial buildings and learning about Sisimiut's rich history. Next, visit the Qiviut workshop, a haven for lovers of fine wool. Qiviut, or muskox wool, is renowned for its softness and warmth. Watch skilled artisans at work, creating beautiful Greenlandic-designed knitwear. Take the opportunity to purchase some unique, handmade items to remember your trip.

After a day of exploration, head to an Arctic spa. Indulge in the ultimate relaxation experience amidst the serene Arctic environment. Enjoy the soothing warmth of hot tubs and saunas, contrasting with the crisp Arctic air. Let the tranquility of the spa rejuvenate your body and mind.

Day 6: Puppy Training & Dogsled Adventure Tour

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for an exciting day ahead. First stop: meeting the sled dogs! When you arrive at the dog kennel, the excited barks of the sled dogs will welcome you. Meet the kennel staff and get an introduction to the daily routine.

Begin your experience by helping to feed the dogs. Learn about their dietary needs and the care that goes into keeping them healthy and strong. Participate in cleaning around the kennel, ensuring a clean and safe environment for the dogs. Spend time with the younger sled dogs, engaging in training exercises. Learn techniques to help them develop their skills and discipline, which are important for their future roles in sled teams.

Prepare for your dog-sled adventure. Meet the dog owner and get an introduction to the sled and the gear you'll be using. Learn about the sled dog culture in Greenland, including the history and importance of sledding in the local way of life. Enjoy this 4-hour dog sled ride and the thrill of being pulled by a group of enthusiastic dogs and sleds under the direction of an experienced musher. Feel the rush of the cold wind and the thrill of the canines as you glide over the snow through the stunning Greenlandic nature.

The tour takes you to the viewpoint of Qiterlinnguaq, where you can admire the breathtaking snowy landscape. After some strenuous climbs, you'll reach this scenic spot that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Just below the top, discover a quirky hut shaped like a UFO. Take some time to explore and capture photos of this unique landmark.

Head back to your hotel to freshen up and relax. Reflect on the day's activities and the incredible bond between the sled dogs and their handlers. After a day of exploration, head to an Arctic spa. Indulge in the ultimate relaxation experience amidst the serene Arctic environment. Enjoy the soothing warmth of hot tubs and saunas, contrasting with the crisp Arctic air. Let the tranquility of the spa rejuvenate your body and mind. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Greenlandic cuisine.

Day 7: Sisimiut Mountain Hike & Winter Safari

Start your day with a warm breakfast at your hotel, preparing for the exciting winter activities. Dress in layers to stay warm and comfortable in the cold weather. Meet your guide in the hotel lobby. The guide will check your attire to ensure you are properly equipped for the winter hike. After an introduction to snowshoes, learn how they work and learn the basics of snowshoeing. Snowshoeing is similar to hiking but allows you to walk on deep snow without sinking. The guide will demonstrate how to use snowshoes and introduce simple techniques to help you navigate the terrain easily.

After the introduction, begin your snowshoeing adventure. This activity is suitable for everyone and requires no prior experience. Enjoy the freedom of exploring the landscape without the need for trails. Sisimiut is known for its vast and accessible backcountry, a playground for various activities year-round. Get up close and personal with the unique mountain surroundings, experiencing the serene beauty of the snow-covered landscape.

Warm up and recharge before the afternoon winter safari adventure. This unique experience allows you to explore the stunning mountain landscape surrounding Sisimiut on Greenland’s only snowmobile sleigh. The sled, attached to a powerful snowmobile, provides a comfortable and thrilling ride through the snowy terrain. As you sit comfortably in the sleigh, marvel at the grandeur of the landscape. The journey will take you from valleys to mountain tops, offering panoramic views and a deep appreciation of the natural beauty of Greenland.

Day 8: Fly to Nuuk | Nuuk City Tour

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel in Sisimiut, travel to the Sisimiut Airport for a flight to Nuuk, the capital of Greenland. This short flight offers aerial views of Greenland's stunning landscape. Upon arrival in Nuuk, meet your guide with a 4x4 vehicle, ready to begin exploring the city.

The tour begins with a drive through modern and historical neighborhoods in Nuuk. The first stop is Colonial Harbor, the birthplace of Nuuk. See some of the town's oldest structures and discover more about its early history here. The tour continues through various neighborhoods, each representing different decades, showcasing architectural evolution from traditional homes to modern structures. To fully capture Nuuk's distinct charm and breathtaking scenery, the guide makes several stops at some of the city's photo locations.

The tour proceeds to "the end of the world," a dramatic viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Kook Islands and Mount Kingigtorsuaq. This spot provides an incredible perspective of the rugged coastline of Greenland. Another significant vantage point north of the city reveals parts of the world’s second-largest fjord system. From here, admire the iconic landmark, Sermitsiaq Mountain, which stands majestically against the skyline. Stopping by the biggest gift shop to buy distinctive Greenlandic goods is an optional activity for those interested in local handicrafts and souvenirs. The guide is flexible and attentive, accommodating any special requests or specific sites the travelers wish to visit, ensuring a personalized and comprehensive tour.

After the city tour, settle into accommodation at Hotel Hans Egede. After checking in, take some time to rest and recuperate. The evening culminates with a dinner at Restaurant Sarfalik, located within the hotel. Enjoy a delectable meal featuring local Greenlandic cuisine, reflecting on your experiences and the beauty of Nuuk.

Day 9: Return Home

  • 1 Breakfast
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, taking in the final views of the beautiful Greenlandic landscape. After breakfast, check out the hotel, expressing gratitude to the friendly staff for their hospitality.

Transfer to Nuuk Airport and reflect on the highlights of your adventures while you drive, such as the chilly scenery of the northern lights, the diverse cultures you have encountered, and the warm locals you have met.

Please Note: Traveling in Greenland requires an adventurous spirit and a certain amount of flexibility. Due to highly variable conditions and the remote nature of the locations visited, it is quite common to experience itinerary adjustments while in country. 

Accommodations

Hotel Arctic

Hotel Arctic
Hotel Arctic
View from Hotel Arctic's back deck

The Igloo Lodge

Igloo Lodge
Igloo camping view by the dark night
Northern lights at Ilulissat Igloo Lodge

Hotel Sisimiut

Trial biking with Petr Kraus by Hotel Sisimiut in Greenland
Hotel Sisimiut
Dining area

Hotel Hans Egede

Hotel Hans Egede Skybar, Nuuk.
Junior Suite room
Junior Suite room

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$19,769 2-3 travelers

Notes

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Rates may vary based on current exchange rate.

Included
  • 8 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 3 Dinners
  • 8 Nights Accommodations
  • 8 Days Locally Hosted Guide Service
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Visit to Ilulissat Icefjord Center
  • Kaffemik - Visit a local family (Private Experience)
  • Dog Sled Tour
  • Nuuk City Sightseeing by Car and City Walk (Private Tour)
  • Arctic Spa in Sisimiut
  • Welcome Dinner at Brasserie Ulo - Hotel Arctic
  • Dogsledding from Igloo Lodge (2 hours)
  • Boat Tour Among Icebergs - Winter
  • Private Wellness Sauna Deluxe
  • Northern Lights Tour on Snow Shoes
  • Puppy Training & Kennel Life Visit
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Greenland Internal Flights

Map

When to Go

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.
Chance for unpredictable weather but with fewer visitors.
Typically not offered during this period because of weather conditions.

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Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
Meyer Smolen
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