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Two guests enjoying the sunset at the Blue Ice hut accommodation in Igaliku in South Greenland

South Greenland Highlights

Example 6 Day Tour
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Discover South Greenland on this 6-day adventure and immerse yourself in its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, vastly different than the North. Begin by traveling to Qassiarsuk by boat to delve into Norse heritage, including the statue of Leif Ericsson and the historic Thodhilde’s Christian church. Witness local farmers in action and learn about their traditional practices. Kayak among floating icebergs in Tasiusaq and explore the well-preserved Hvalsey Church Ruins, a remarkable relic from the Norse era. Conclude your journey in Qaqortoq, where you can admire colorful Nordic-inspired architecture, ancient churches, and engaging museums. Experience the spectacular helicopter tour of Uunartoq, passing through towering icebergs, green valleys, and farm fields, and enjoy the natural hot springs.
 
Two kayakers passing icebergs in the fjord Sermilik near Tasiusaq sheep farm in South GreenlandQaqortoq houses in evening sun.Guests at Hvalsey church ruin in South GreenlandQaqortoq houses in evening sun.An overview of Tasiusaq sheep farm and Sermilik Hostel in South GreenlandRuins of old entrance in igalikuA group of travelers at the norse ruins in Igaliku in South GreenlandA guided tour at the reconstructed norse church of Tjodhilde in QassiarsukQassiarsuk Leif lucky statue.Two guests enjoying the sunset at the Blue Ice hut accommodation in Igaliku in South Greenland
Highlights
  • Travel to Qassiarsuk by boat and discover the Norse culture and history
  • Witness local farmers cultivating South Greenland and learn their culture
  • See the statue of Leif Ericsson, the famed Viking explorer
  • Take a Heli-flightseeing trip to Uunartoq Hot Spring
  • Experience kayaking among small icebergs in Tasiusaq
  • Learn about Hvalsey Church Ruins, known for best-preserved building from the Norse period
  • Explore Qaqortoq's colorful Nordic-inspired architecture, ancient churches, and museums
Places Visited
  • Arctic
  • Greenland
  • Hvalsey
  • Igaliku
  • Itilleq (South Greenland)
  • Narsarsuaq
  • Qaqortoq
  • Qassiarsuk
  • Tasiusaq
  • Uunartoq
Activity Level: Easy Active
Moderately active but not overly strenuous. This level includes activities like casual cycling, yoga, or excursions/activities that typically last 3-5 hours total each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Boat Transfer to Itilleq | Hike to Igaliku

Your adventure begins with a scenic boat transfer from the airport, in Narsarsuaq, to Itilleq in the afternoon. After reaching Itilleq, hike for 4-5 kilometers to reach Igaliku, your final destination for the day. Leave your luggage in the transfer vehicle and experience the beautiful hike along "The King's Road." This dirt road meanders through lush green fields, grazing sheep, and horses, offering a picturesque journey. The hike is mostly uphill, but the reward is breathtaking as Igaliku reveals itself with charming small houses set against the stunning backdrop of the fjord and mountains. It is also possible to ride in the transfer vehicle if hiking is not a possibility.

Once you arrive in Igaliku, settle into the cozy and comfortable accommodations at Igaliku Hotel & Lodges. Enjoy delicious meals made from local products served in the inviting restaurant. The serene and welcoming atmosphere is perfect for unwinding after your hike. The hiking opportunities in Igaliku are some of the best in the area, with at least two full-day hikes available through stunning landscapes. The village is an ideal place to relax and soak up the tranquility. Spend time resting with a book outside your cabin, fishing at Lake 90, or exploring the ancient Norse ruins of the former Episcopal residence.

Late in the afternoon, take a trip back in time with a visit to the Gardar Cathedral Ruins. Approximately 700 years ago, this spot was Gardar, the Bishop's seat for Norse Greenlanders for three centuries. The ruins are scattered throughout Igaliku, nestled between houses and on the outskirts of town. With such significant ties to the Viking farming culture and present-day Inuit tradition, it's no surprise that Igaliku is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site as Area 2.

As the day winds down, return to Igaliku Hotel & Lodges for a relaxing evening. Enjoy a delicious dinner made from fresh local ingredients and reflect on the day's adventures. The peaceful ambiance and stunning surroundings ensure a restful night's sleep, preparing you for more explorations in the days to come.

Day 2: Qassiarsuk | Tasiusaq Kayak

After a hearty breakfast, transfer from Itilleq to Qassiarsuk by small boat. This picturesque journey sets the stage for a day steeped in culture and discovering Norse roots in Qassiarsuk. A group of Norsemen under the leadership of Eric the Red sailed into the bay where Qassiarsuk now stands a millennium ago. Legend has it that Eric named the place Brattahlíð, meaning “steep hill,” and established a settlement in the fjord due to his emotional ties to a similar landscape in Norway.

Farming remains the main occupation in Qassiarsuk, with local sheep farmers cultivating the same fields and grazing their animals in the same valleys and hillsides used by the Norsemen in the 9th century. Witness firsthand the strong sense of community and cooperation among the families in the settlement and the surrounding farms. It was the stronghold of the Norsemen and the site of the first Christian church on the North American continent. It was from here that their farming culture spread throughout South Greenland. As you explore, see the statue of Leif Ericsson, Eric the Red’s son, who was the first man to sail west and arrive in North America, a place he called Vinland. The most significant Norse landmark in South Greenland has ruins that remain integral to the present-day landscape. Visit reconstructions of Thodhilde’s Christian church and the adjacent longhouse, bringing to life the history and culture of the Norse settlers in a uniquely immersive way.

Travel to Tasiusaq in the afternoon and immerse yourself in the daily life of this charming settlement. Upon arrival, enjoy a hearty lunch prepared by a local farmer, Klaus K. Frederiksen, and his wife, Aviâja. As third-generation farmers, they continue the tradition of sheep farming, tending to approximately 620 sheep. Aviâja and Klaus also run Sermilikfjord Hostels offering stunning views of the bay, dotted with ice floes. It's an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the serene Arctic landscape. Set out on a 2-3-hour walk to enjoy a breathtaking view of the ice sheet and the surrounding beautiful area. In addition to offering stunning views, the hike offers a window into the past through Norse ruins that encircle Tasiusaq.

Tasiusaq means "lake-like" and is a sheltered bay and the perfect place for kayaking among the small icebergs and pieces of ice that find their way there from a nearby glacier. After lunch, head out on the smooth waters for an afternoon kayak before returning to Igaliku for the evening.

Day 3: Hvalsey Fjord | Qaqortoq

After breakfast, set out on a fascinating journey to Hvalsey. A short 30-minute boat ride from Qaqortoq will bring you to the lush green meadows of Hvalsey Fjord, where the historic Hvalsey Church ruins await. According to ancient sagas, Eric the Red’s cousin, Thorkell Farserk, first settled this land in 985. Although Thorkell likely remained a heathen until his death, Christianity reached Greenland around 1000. As a result, numerous churches were built, including the 14th-century Hvalsey Church. As one of the best-preserved medieval ruins in South Greenland, the Hvalsey Church features impressive walls up to 6 meters high, providing a tangible connection to the Norse era.

After exploring Hvalsey, continue your journey to Qaqortoq and find a blend of history and modern Greenlandic life. Your destination is Hotel Qaqortoq, a cozy retreat perched on a hill overlooking the bustling harbor. This hotel offers comfortable accommodations with an authentic Greenlandic atmosphere. Settle into your room and take a moment to relax and soak in the serene views of the harbor. Hotel Qaqortoq is known for its warm and inviting ambiance, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. Take in the beauty and culture of South Greenland while spending a tranquil evening in this quaint town.

Day 4: Qaqortoq Town Walk | A Taste of Greenland

Start your day early with a captivating private walking tour of Qaqortoq, South Greenland’s educational hub. Founded in 1774 by Anders Olsen for the Royal Greenland Trading Company, Qaqortoq boasts a rich history and vibrant culture. The tour begins in the charming colonial quarter, exploring the old houses before heading to the fish and meat market. Here, learn about the challenges faced by today’s fishermen and hunters and discover Greenlandic culinary traditions. Next, visit the 1832 “Annaasisitta Oqaluffia” (The Church of Our Savior) and delve into the history of Christianity in Greenland. Continue to the city’s administrative buildings, where your guide will provide insights into the island’s political system. Enjoy the tour while marveling at the renowned "Stone & Man" exhibition, which includes over 30 breathtaking stone sculptures made by Nordic and local artists, including painter and sculptor Aka Høegh. Enjoy the blend of history, art, and culture that makes Qaqortoq unique.

In the afternoon, embark on a culinary adventure where you can taste a variety of traditional Greenlandic foods. Enjoy the special invitation into a local family's home and the opportunity to sample dishes like fish, seal meat, whale meat, lamb, or reindeer, using cherished recipes passed down through generations. Feel free to ask about anything you see; while there may be language barriers, patience ensures an enjoyable and memorable visit. Your hosts will go out of their way to make you feel at home. Remember to take off your shoes when entering, and while tips are allowed, they may make your hosts feel a bit embarrassed. Enjoy this authentic and heartwarming cultural exchange.

Day 5: Uunartoq Hot Springs | Heli-sightseeing Tour

Today, set out on a spectacular helicopter tour to Uunartoq Hot Springs. Experience Greenlandic spa luxury in style! Fly past towering icebergs, lush green valleys, and picturesque farms on your way to secluded natural hot springs, about a kilometer's walk from the sea's edge. Once you get there, change into basic dressing rooms and enjoy the warm natural spa. Relax, swim, and enjoy the health benefits of the silica mud from the springs. The area has two pools, both at a comfortable 38 degrees Celsius. The island itself is uninhabited, offering a serene and untouched environment. To reach the hot springs, walk for ten minutes through shrubbery and yellow wildflowers along a trodden path, hinting at its historical use. The Vikings and Greenlandic elders once used this secluded spot as a health spa, believing in its healing properties. Although civilization is a short sail away in Alluitsup Paa, a settlement of 70 people, the island's natural beauty and tranquility make this a unique and refreshing experience.

After your rejuvenating dip, the adventure continues as the helicopter takes you to land on a glacier, offering breathtaking contrasts. On your return, fly over scenic valleys, farms, and the historic Hvalsey UNESCO site, rounding out an unforgettable afternoon.

Day 6: Return Home

  • 1 Breakfast
After a week of adventure in South Greenland, return home with unforgettable memories. Reflect on the stunning landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and unique wildlife encounters that made your journey extraordinary. From exploring ancient ruins to relaxing in natural hot springs, cherish the stories of Greenland's history and the warmth of its people as you look forward to your next adventure.

Accommodations

Igaliku Hotel & Lodges

Igaliku hotel and cabins Blue Ice Explorer
Sunrise over the Blue Ice hut accommodation in Igaliku in South Greenland
Sunrise over the Blue Ice hut accommodation in Igaliku in South Greenland

Hotel Qaqortoq

Receptionist at Hotel Qaqortoq
Hotel Qaqortoq Brasserie logo in restaurant
Interior of the Cafe & Brasserie Nanoq

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$7,654 2-3 travelers

Notes

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Rates may vary based on current exchange rate.

Included
  • 5 Breakfasts, 1 Box Lunch
  • 5 Nights Accommodations
  • 5 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
  • Lunch pack from local farmers
  • Visit Uunartoq Hot Springs and glacier by helicopter
  • Boat transfer from Narsarsuaq to Itilleq (Igaliku)
  • Visit to Gardar Cathedral Ruins
  • Transfer from Itilleq to/from Qassiarsuk
  • Kayaking in Tasiusaq
  • Visit to Hvalsey Church Ruin (Private Tour)
  • Qaqortoq Town Walk (Private Tour)
  • Food tasting in Qaqortoq (Private Tour)
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.
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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