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Holidays

Icefjords and Remote Villages of East Greenland

Greenland, Arctic
3 reviews

13 days from

US$5,630

without flights
Walk & Trek
Guided Group
MODERATE MODERATE

An Arctic wilderness walking holiday in East Greenland, one of the most remote locations on earth

Trip Code: IRV
Holiday Grades

Our Holiday Grades Explained

To show the relative difficulty of our holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 12, with 12 being the most challenging. Although we have tried to make our grading system as clear as possible, it cannot take into account your personal interests, abilities or experience. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the 'Is this holiday for you?' section or contact us.

 1 - 3 LEISURELY
1 - 3 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

View leisurely holidays
4 - 6 MODERATE
4 - 6 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as weekend walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

View moderate holidays
7 - 9 CHALLENGING
7 - 9 CHALLENGING

Physically challenging holidays, where you need to be prepared before you go.

View challenging holidays
10 - 12 TOUGH
10 - 12 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involving many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness and mountain experience is essential.

View Tough holidays

Icefjords and Remote Villages of East Greenland

Highlights
  • Circumnavigate Ammassalik Island on a series of treks and thrilling boat transfers
  • Visit the colourful and isolated inuit villages of Kuummiut, Tiniteqilaaq and Tasiilaq
  • Explore Greenland's untouched wilderness of icy fjords, dramatic peaks and glaciers
  • Look out for humpback whales in the Iceberg strewn waters of Sermiliik fjord
  • Includes two nights in the Icelandic capital of Reykjavik

At a Glance
  • Group Size 5 to 14
  • 7 days walking
  • Max. altitude - 1050 metres
  • Join In Reykjavik

Accommodation & Meals
  • 11 Breakfasts
  • 9 Lunches
  • 9 Dinners
  • 7 nights Local House/Hostel
  • 4 nights Guesthouse
  • 11 Breakfasts
  • 9 Lunches
  • 9 Dinners
  • 7 nights Local House/Hostel
  • 4 nights Guesthouse
  • 12 Breakfasts
  • 10 Lunches
  • 10 Dinners
  • 8 nights Local House/Hostel
  • 4 nights Guesthouse
Overview

With towering granite peaks, unspoilt nature, shimmering glaciers, and fjord-cut coastline, East Greenland is one of the most spectacular locations on Earth. On this walking holiday we will explore this boundless wilderness from several different bases: first Kulusuk Island; then Kuummiut, an isolated community on a peninsula deep in the fjords; Camp Quaato, a mountain refuge right at the heart of this raw, glacial landscape; and finally, Tasiilaq, the tiny “capital” of eastern Greenland, on the island of Ammassalik. Here, we have a day to explore amongst the colourful houses, fishing boats and howling sled dogs; this is a local community with a true pioneering spirit. Highlights will include the ascent of Kuummiut Mountain (1050m), offering views that extend to the Greenland Icecap, and following the Sermilik Way, a route used by the Inuit for generations. We connect the dots with a series of exciting boat transfers; as we whisk past the icebergs we should look out for seals and fin whales also making their way through they fjords. This is the perfect holiday for those seeking a real wilderness adventure.

Is this holiday for you?

This holiday is perfect for regular hikers, with a reasonable level of fitness and a spirit of adventure. In good weather this a moderate walking holiday at low elevation. However, if the weather is not cooperative (conditions can be wintry in Greenland, even in the summer) it becomes much more of an adventure and you should be prepared for this. As you would expect from an unspoilt wilderness, th …

This holiday is perfect for regular hikers, with a reasonable level of fitness and a spirit of adventure. In good weather this a moderate walking holiday at low elevation. However, if the weather is not cooperative (conditions can be wintry in Greenland, even in the summer) it becomes much more of an adventure and you should be prepared for this. As you would expect from an unspoilt wilderness, the terrain is rugged, involving scree, moraine and trackless moorland and there are days with as much as 8 hours walking. We have taken all this, and the remote location, into account in giving this holiday its grade. Whilst in Greenland we will be sleeping in simple but comfortable hostel/mountain refuge and guest house accommodation,  preparing meals as a group using the facilities provided and under the instruction of our tour leader.

Why KE?

Make the most of the wilderness that is East Greenland on this unique trekking holiday. With the help of 4 boat transfers, we make a circuit of Ammassalik Island, including 6 day-walks and ovenighting in hostel and simple village house accommodation. No-one else is offering anything remotely like this adventurous itinerary.

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Itinerary

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Download Trip Notes

Arriving into Keflavik Airport you will need to take the Flybus to the BSI bus terminal, which is within walking distance of the guesthouse. The cost of this transfer is included in the holiday price. The group will meet tomorrow in the early afternoon when you must make your way back to Keflavik Airport for your flight to Greenland, so tonight is free for you to go out and explore Reykjavik. Reykjavik is an exciting city and its centre is compact and easy to explore.

Accommodation

Guesthouse

In the early afternoon you will be met by a KE representative at your hotel to answer any questions you may have about the plans for today. You will then walk back to the BSI Bus Terminal to board the Flybus back to Keflavik Airport. The flight to Kulusuk is scheduled to depart at 17.30hrs and the flight to the south-east coast of Greenland takes around an hour and a half. Kulusuk is actually a small island with a village of the same name, which clings to the rugged coast above a small bay, littered with icebergs and surrounded by rocky peaks. On arrival we will be met by our tour leader and our baggage will be collected at the airstrip and transported to our hostel accommodation, whilst the group go by foot. After checking in at the hostel, there will be some time to explore. There is a picturesque harbour, racks of drying fish, and lots of sled-dogs and their pups awaiting the winter season when they are put to work.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Time

2 hrs walking

Today is dedicated to discovering Kulusuk Island on foot. We'll gain an insight into the local history, whilst also enjoying the amazing scenery. We begin with a coastal hike with spectacular views and lots of icebergs. We will be able to pick out the signs left by the first Nordic settlers along the way. Heading back towards Kulusuk, we pass a number of small lakes in the centre of the island. These lakes are home to the great northern diver, a rare and largely solitary bird (and expert fisherman) that usually pays little attention to passers-by. Keep a look out, too, for the peregrine falcon that is often seen on the crags above the lakes. Following the stream flowing from the lakes, we reach the coast and return to our comfortable hostel home.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

650 M

Descent

650 M

Time

6 - 7 hrs trekking

Distance

14 KM

After a leisurely breakfast, we head to the harbour and take a small boat northwards to the head of the Ammassalik Fjord, which extends more than 50km, twisting and turning between cliffs, islands and floating chunks of ice. Our 30km journey takes around 2 hours. We will be on the look-out for whales as we head north. On reaching the Inuit village of Kuummiut, which is situated at the end of a rocky peninsula, we have to carry our bags and the group's communal gear, food etc. from the harbour up to our simple village house accommodation. After lunch, we can go out to look around and perhaps hike along the coast to a viewpoint from which we can whale spot. Dinner and overnight in Kuummiut.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

230 M

Descent

230 M

Time

4 hrs walking

Distance

6 KM

Today we set out to climb Kuummiut Mountain (Quwwit Qaggartivaat), the rocky prominence that dominates the village. The altitude is modest, but we start from sea level making this a good day's hike. We walk past the village school and skirt around onto an open ridge heading directly up to the skyline. Hunters come up here from time to time, but there is little in the way of a track. There are great views back to Ammassalik Fjord and if we are lucky we might see whales making their way up the channel. Higher up, there may be one or two snow patches to cross. As we reach the ridge-line, an extraordinary view is waiting for us! In all directions we can see fjords, islands, mountains and glaciers - a perfect demonstration of this world of rock, ice and water. Descending, we return to spend a second night at our accommodation in Kuummiut.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

1050 M

Descent

1050 M

Time

6 - 7 hrs trekking

Distance

12 KM

After breakfast, we return to the boat landing and board our transport for the journey to Tiniteqilaaq, which should take around 3hrs. This is another fantastic boat trip through the fjords. Starting out in Ammassalik Fjord, we turn into the narrower channel (or 'sund') of Ikasartivaq, which takes us in a north-westerly direction to a junction with Sermilik (Ice) Fjord, near Tiniteqilaaq. Now in Sermilik Fjord, there are likely to be far more icebergs to negotiate. These break off from several glaciers and flow down into Sermilik from the main Greenland Icecap. It takes a couple of hours to reach Tiniteqilaaq, or 'Tinit'. We will spend two nights here, in a comfortable village house, to allow us to experience this isolated Inuit settlement. After some refreshment we will go for an afternoon walk to explore the surroundings.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

200 M

Descent

200 M

Time

2 hrs trekking

Distance

3 KM

Today we set out to explore this remote area on a loop walk, hiking along streams, past small lakes and over barren, rocky headlands, with fantastic views over the iceberg-filled Sermilik Fjord. In good weather we can look across to the Greenland Icecap, which covers approximately 80% of this vast island. There are several places along this coastline where, generations ago, Inuit hunters had set up temporary stone shelters and one of these may provide a good place for us to eat our packed lunches and sit and enjoy the sheer remoteness of the terrain.

We will return to our accommodation by mid-afternoon.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

420 M

Descent

420 M

Time

6 hrs trekking

Distance

9 KM

We start the day with a short boat transfer to reach the start of our hike. Today's route will take us across the southern part of Ammassalik Island. We start out following a stream before reaching a small tarn and a river, which needs to be forded. We ascend again, passing a couple of beautiful mountain lakes and reach our high point where we can look eastwards to another lake. Beyond yet another lake, we arrive in an area known as Qaqqartivakajik 'the valley of flowers', lush with green plants, alpine flowers and fluttering butterflies (Jul and Aug). In the late afternoon, we cross another river and reach an inlet beside which is Tasiilaq, the biggest town in East Greenland with around 2000 inhabitants. We check in at our simple guesthouse accommodation where our luggage will be waiting for us.

Accommodation

Guesthouse

Meals

B L D

Ascent

650 M

Descent

650 M

Time

7 - 8hrs trekking

Distance

18 KM

Today's walk starts from just behind Tasiilaq, where we begin the climb of the 679m high Somandsfjeldet (Sailor's Peak). We follow a steep ridge until we get to the lower summit of the mountain and what a view! We continue to the higher summit from where we will enjoy even further reaching views across the surrounding mountains, glaciers and icebergs, before descending into a valley on the north side. Our route back to Tasiilaq takes us beside a lake and back through the Valley of Flowers. We spend a second night at our guesthouse accommodation.

Accommodation

Guesthouse

Meals

B L D

Ascent

650 M

Descent

650 M

Time

6 hrs trekking

Today is free for you to explore in and around Tasiilaq. You may want to visit the Tasiilaq Museum and the local handicraft shop. In the afternoon, we transfer by boat to Kulusuk. Where we check back into our hostel accommodation for one last night.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

The return Iceandair flight to Iceland now departs in the early evening, so there is plenty of time to do some independent exploration in and around the colourful settlement of Kulusuk. Mid afternoon, the group's baggage will be taken to the airport in one of Kulusuk's only pick-ups whilst we go there on foot. We check in for the return flight to Keflavik and on arrival say goodbye to our tour leader. Arriving at the airport in Keflavik quite late, it makes sense to spend the night at accommodation in Keflavik, especially for those with early flights tomorrow. Airport pick-up and drop-off is provided by the Keflavik accommodation.

Accommodation

Guesthouse

Meals

B

Your holiday ends after breakfast. The guesthouse provides a drop-off at the airport which is 4 minutes away.

Meals

B

Arriving into Keflavik Airport you will need to take the Flybus to the BSI bus terminal, which is within walking distance of the guesthouse. The cost of this transfer is included in the holiday price. The group will meet tomorrow morning when you must make your way back to Keflavik airport for your flight to Greenland, so tonight is free for you to go out and explore Reykjavik. Reykjavik is an exciting city and its centre is compact and easy to explore.

Accommodation

Guesthouse

After breakfast, you will be met by a KE representative at your hotel to answer any questions you may have about the plans for today and to help you return to the BSI Bus Terminal and board the Flybus back to Keflavik Airport. The flight to Kulusuk on the south-east coast of Greenland takes around 1.5hrs. Kulusuk is actually a small island with a village of the same name, which clings to the rugged coast above a small bay, littered with icebergs and surrounded by rocky peaks. On arrival we will be met by our Tour Leader and our baggage will be collected at the airstrip and transported to our hostel accommodation, whilst the group go by foot. After lunch, there will be time to explore. There is a picturesque harbour, racks of drying fish, and lots of sled-dogs and their pups awaiting the winter season when they are put to work.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Time

3 hrs walking

Today is dedicated to discovering Kulusuk Island on foot. We'll gain an insight into the local history, whilst also enjoying the amazing scenery. We begin with a coastal hike with spectacular views and lots of icebergs. We will be able to pick out the signs left by the first Nordic settlers along the way. Heading back towards Kulusuk, we pass a number of small lakes in the centre of the island. These lakes are home to the great northern diver, a rare and largely solitary bird (and expert fisherman) that usually pays little attention to passers-by. Keep a look out, too, for the peregrine falcon that is often seen on the crags above the lakes. Following the stream flowing from the lakes, we reach the coast and return to our comfortable hostel home.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

650 M

Descent

650 M

Time

6 - 7 hrs trekking

Distance

14 KM

After a leisurely breakfast, we head to the harbour and take a small boat northwards to the head of the Ammassalik Fjord, which extends more than 50km, twisting and turning between cliffs, islands and floating chunks of ice. Our 30km journey takes around 2 hours. We will be on the look-out for whales as we head north. On reaching the Inuit village of Kuummiut, which is situated at the end of a rocky peninsula, we have to carry our bags and the group's communal gear, food etc. from the harbour up to our simple village house accommodation. After lunch, we can go out to look around and perhaps hike along the coast to a viewpoint from which we can whale spot. Dinner and overnight in Kuummiut.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

230 M

Descent

230 M

Time

4 hrs walking

Distance

6 KM

Today we set out to climb Kuummiut Mountain (Quwwit Qaggartivaat), the rocky prominence that dominates the village. The altitude is modest, but we start from sea level making this a good day's hike. We walk past the village school and skirt around onto an open ridge heading directly up to the skyline. Hunters come up here from time to time, but there is little in the way of a track. There are great views back to Ammassalik Fjord and if we are lucky we might see whales making their way up the channel. Higher up, there may be one or two snow patches to cross. As we reach the ridge-line, an extraordinary view is waiting for us! In all directions we can see fjords, islands, mountains and glaciers - a perfect demonstration of this world of rock, ice and water. Descending, we return to spend a second night at our accommodation in Kuummiut.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

1050 M

Descent

1050 M

Time

6 - 7 hrs trekking

Distance

12 KM

After breakfast, we return to the boat landing and board our transport for the journey to Tiniteqilaaq, which should take around 3hrs. This is another fantastic boat trip through the fjords. Starting out in Ammassalik Fjord, we turn into the narrower channel (or 'sund') of Ikasartivaq, which takes us in a north-westerly direction to a junction with Sermilik (Ice) Fjord, near Tiniteqilaaq. Now in Sermilik Fjord, there are likely to be far more icebergs to negotiate. These break off from several glaciers and flow down into Sermilik from the main Greenland Icecap. It takes a couple of hours to reach Tiniteqilaaq, or 'Tinit'. We will spend two nights here, in a comfortable village house, to allow us to experience this isolated Inuit settlement. After some refreshment we will go for an afternoon walk to explore the surroundings.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

200 M

Descent

200 M

Time

2 hrs trekking

Distance

3 KM

Today we set out to explore this remote area on a loop walk, hiking along streams, past small lakes and over barren, rocky headlands, with fantastic views over the iceberg-filled Sermilik Fjord. In good weather we can look across to the Greenland Icecap, which covers approximately 80% of this vast island. There are several places along this coastline where, generations ago, Inuit hunters had set up temporary stone shelters and one of these may provide a good place for us to eat our packed lunches and sit and enjoy the sheer remoteness of the terrain.

We will return to our accommodation by mid-afternoon.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

420 M

Descent

420 M

Time

6 hrs trekking

Distance

9 KM

We start the day with a short boat transfer to reach the start of our hike. Today's route will take us across the southern part of Ammassalik Island. We start out following a stream before reaching a small tarn and a river, which needs to be forded. We ascend again, passing a couple of beautiful mountain lakes and reach our high point where we can look eastwards to another lake. Beyond yet another lake, we arrive in an area known as Qaqqartivakajik 'the valley of flowers', lush with green plants, alpine flowers and fluttering butterflies (Jul and Aug). In the late afternoon, we cross another river and reach an inlet beside which is Tasiilaq, the biggest town in East Greenland with around 2000 inhabitants. We check in at our simple guesthouse accommodation where our luggage will be waiting for us.

Accommodation

Guesthouse

Meals

B L D

Ascent

650 M

Descent

650 M

Time

7 - 8hrs trekking

Distance

18 KM

Today's walk starts from just behind Tasiilaq, where we begin the climb of the 679m high Somandsfjeldet (Sailor's Peak). We follow a steep ridge until we get to the lower summit of the mountain and what a view! We continue to the higher summit from where we will enjoy even further reaching views across the surrounding mountains, glaciers and icebergs, before descending into a valley on the north side. Our route back to Tasiilaq takes us beside a lake and back through the Valley of Flowers. We spend a second night at our guesthouse accommodation.

Accommodation

Guesthouse

Meals

B L D

Ascent

650 M

Descent

650 M

Time

6 hrs trekking

Today is free for you to explore in and around Tasiilaq. You may want to visit the Tasiilaq Museum and the local handicraft shop. In the afternoon, we transfer by boat to Kulusuk. Where we check back into our hostel accommodation for one last night.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Here, while our baggage is taken to the airport in one of Kulusuk's only pick-ups, we walk to the airport to check in for the return flight to Keflavik. Here we will say goodbye to our Tour Leader. Arriving in Keflavik we take the airport bus back to the BSI Bus Terminal and walk to our guesthouse accommodation. The rest of the evening is free.

Accommodation

Guesthouse

Meals

B

The holiday ends after breakfast. You will need to walk with your luggage back to the BSI Bus Terminal and take the Flybus back to Keflavik Airport in time to check in for you international flight. The cost of this transfer is included in the price of your holiday.

Meals

B

Arriving into Keflavik Airport you will need to take the Flybus to the BSI bus terminal, which is within walking distance of the guesthouse. The cost of this transfer is included in the holiday price. The group will meet tomorrow morning when you must make your way back to Keflavik airport for your flight to Greenland, so tonight is free for you to go out and explore Reykjavik. Reykjavik is an exciting city and its centre is compact and easy to explore.

Accommodation

Guesthouse

After breakfast, you will be met by a KE representative at your hotel to answer any questions you may have about the plans for today and to help you return to the BSI Bus Terminal and board the Flybus back to Keflavik Airport. The flight to Kulusuk on the south-east coast of Greenland takes around 1.5hrs. Kulusuk is actually a small island with a village of the same name, which clings to the rugged coast above a small bay, littered with icebergs and surrounded by rocky peaks. On arrival we will be met by our Tour Leader and our baggage will be collected at the airstrip and transported to our hostel accommodation, whilst the group go by foot. After lunch, there will be time to explore. There is a picturesque harbour, racks of drying fish, and lots of sled-dogs and their pups awaiting the winter season when they are put to work.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Time

3 hrs walking

Today is dedicated to discovering Kulusuk Island on foot. We'll gain an insight into the local history, whilst also enjoying the amazing scenery. We begin with a coastal hike with spectacular views and lots of icebergs. We will be able to pick out the signs left by the first Nordic settlers along the way. Heading back towards Kulusuk, we pass a number of small lakes in the centre of the island. These lakes are home to the great northern diver, a rare and largely solitary bird (and expert fisherman) that usually pays little attention to passers-by. Keep a look out, too, for the peregrine falcon that is often seen on the crags above the lakes. Following the stream flowing from the lakes, we reach the coast and return to our comfortable hostel home.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

650 M

Descent

650 M

Time

6 - 7 hrs trekking

Distance

14 KM

After a leisurely breakfast, we head to the harbour and take a small boat northwards to the head of the Ammassalik Fjord, which extends more than 50km, twisting and turning between cliffs, islands and floating chunks of ice. Our 30km journey takes around 2 hours. We will be on the look-out for whales as we head north. On reaching the Inuit village of Kuummiut, which is situated at the end of a rocky peninsula, we have to carry our bags and the group's communal gear, food etc. from the harbour up to our simple village house accommodation. After lunch, we can go out to look around and perhaps hike along the coast to a viewpoint from which we can whale spot. Dinner and overnight in Kuummiut.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

230 M

Descent

230 M

Time

4 hrs walking

Distance

6 KM

Today we set out to climb Kuummiut Mountain (Quwwit Qaggartivaat), the rocky prominence that dominates the village. The altitude is modest, but we start from sea level making this a good day's hike. We walk past the village school and skirt around onto an open ridge heading directly up to the skyline. Hunters come up here from time to time, but there is little in the way of a track. There are great views back to Ammassalik Fjord and if we are lucky we might see whales making their way up the channel. Higher up, there may be one or two snow patches to cross. As we reach the ridge-line, an extraordinary view is waiting for us! In all directions we can see fjords, islands, mountains and glaciers - a perfect demonstration of this world of rock, ice and water. Descending, we return to spend a second night at our accommodation in Kuummiut.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

1050 M

Descent

1050 M

Time

6 - 7 hrs trekking

Distance

12 KM

After breakfast, we return to the boat landing and board our transport for the journey to Tiniteqilaaq, which should take around 3hrs. This is another fantastic boat trip through the fjords. Starting out in Ammassalik Fjord, we turn into the narrower channel (or 'sund') of Ikasartivaq, which takes us in a north-westerly direction to a junction with Sermilik (Ice) Fjord, near Tiniteqilaaq. Now in Sermilik Fjord, there are likely to be far more icebergs to negotiate. These break off from several glaciers and flow down into Sermilik from the main Greenland Icecap. It takes a couple of hours to reach Tiniteqilaaq, or 'Tinit'. We will spend two nights here, in a comfortable village house, to allow us to experience this isolated Inuit settlement. After some refreshment we will go for an afternoon walk to explore the surroundings.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

200 M

Descent

200 M

Time

2 hrs trekking

Distance

3 KM

Today we set out to explore this remote area on a loop walk, hiking along streams, past small lakes and over barren, rocky headlands, with fantastic views over the iceberg-filled Sermilik Fjord. In good weather we can look across to the Greenland Icecap, which covers approximately 80% of this vast island. There are several places along this coastline where, generations ago, Inuit hunters had set up temporary stone shelters and one of these may provide a good place for us to eat our packed lunches and sit and enjoy the sheer remoteness of the terrain.

We will return to our accommodation by mid-afternoon.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Ascent

420 M

Descent

420 M

Time

6 hrs trekking

Distance

9 KM

We start the day with a short boat transfer to reach the start of our hike. Today's route will take us across the southern part of Ammassalik Island. We start out following a stream before reaching a small tarn and a river, which needs to be forded. We ascend again, passing a couple of beautiful mountain lakes and reach our high point where we can look eastwards to another lake. Beyond yet another lake, we arrive in an area known as Qaqqartivakajik 'the valley of flowers', lush with green plants, alpine flowers and fluttering butterflies (Jul and Aug). In the late afternoon, we cross another river and reach an inlet beside which is Tasiilaq, the biggest town in East Greenland with around 2000 inhabitants. We check in at our simple guesthouse accommodation where our luggage will be waiting for us.

Accommodation

Guesthouse

Meals

B L D

Ascent

650 M

Descent

650 M

Time

7 - 8hrs trekking

Distance

18 KM

Today's walk starts from just behind Tasiilaq, where we begin the climb of the 679m high Somandsfjeldet (Sailor's Peak). We follow a steep ridge until we get to the lower summit of the mountain and what a view! We continue to the higher summit from where we will enjoy even further reaching views across the surrounding mountains, glaciers and icebergs, before descending into a valley on the north side. Our route back to Tasiilaq takes us beside a lake and back through the Valley of Flowers. We spend a second night at our guesthouse accommodation.

Accommodation

Guesthouse

Meals

B L D

Ascent

650 M

Descent

650 M

Time

6 hrs trekking

Today is free for you to explore in and around Tasiilaq. You may want to visit the Tasiilaq Museum and the local handicraft shop. In the afternoon, we transfer by boat to Kulusuk. Where we check back into our hostel accommodation for one last night.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

A free day to explore around Kulusuk or Tasilaq.

Accommodation

Local House/Hostel

Meals

B L D

Here, while our baggage is taken to the airport in one of Kulusuk's only pick-ups, we walk to the airport to check in for the return flight to Keflavik. Here we will say goodbye to our Tour Leader. Arriving in Keflavik we take the airport bus back to the BSI Bus Terminal and walk to our guesthouse accommodation. The rest of the evening is free.

Accommodation

Guesthouse

Meals

B

The holiday ends after breakfast. You will need to walk with your luggage back to the BSI Bus Terminal and take the Flybus back to Keflavik Airport in time to check in for you international flight. The cost of this transfer is included in the price of your holiday.

Meals

B
Download Trip Notes
The Route
Point Point
Peaks Peaks
Airport Airport
Direction Direction
Trek
Boat

Essential Information

We've compiled some of our Frequently Asked Questions to help you learn more about this amazing trip.

  • A professional and qualified tour leader
  • Return flights from Reykjavik to Kulusuk Greenland
  • All land and boat transport required by the itinerary
  • Accommodation as described
  • Meals as detailed in the Meal Plan

  • Travel insurance
  • Some meals as detailed in the Meal Plan
  • Miscellaneous personal expenditure - drinks and souvenirs etc...


TRAVEL TO YOUR DESTINATION

If flying from the UK there are low cost airlines available to the start and from the end of your holiday.

To benefit from full financial protection, ease your holiday planning, and avoid dealing with airlines, we can book scheduled flights from the UK as part of a flight inclusive package. Scheduled flights are usually more expensive that low cost alternatives, however potentially less stressful if your flight is cancelled or delayed. If you book flights through KE Adventure Travel we will offset the carbon of your flight.

The group will meet at the guesthouse in Reykjavik in the early afternoon of Day 2 of the itinerary.

Shared transfers on the Flybus service on Day 1 and 2 are included in the holiday price.

Hotel information and an emergency contact number will be provided with your booking confirmation.

All meals from breakfast on Day 2 to breakfast on Day 11, plus breakfast on Day 12, are included in the holiday price.

Many places on this holiday have drinkable water from the tap to fill your personal water bottles. Please check with the leader at the various locations. Please take purification tablets or a filter bottle (such as a Water-To-Go bottle) for days when drinking water out of the tap is not available. We do not encourage the purchasing of single use plastic bottles.

We make a special effort to source our food on Greenland itself and the guide will buy much of what we eat at the small local stores. The variety of foodstuffs available in Greenland is necessarily limited, however, and some fresh fruit and vegetables will travel with the group from Iceland. The emphasis is on easily-prepared meals. The local guide will prepare the group’s evening meals at the overnight lodging and he or she will appreciate the help of group members in the kitchen - preparing vegetables, serving the food and washing up, for example. Evening meals will consist of 3 courses, usually a soup to start, a simple main and some cake for dessert. Breakfasts will consist of porridge, muesli, bread, jam and other preserves, plus tea and coffee. At breakfast, snack items and sandwich materials will be made available so that group members can make up their own packed lunches. You may want to bring some of your own favourite snacks from home to supplement this.

Whilst we can cater for vegetarians, albeit sometimes with a more limited choice, we cannot always provide special diets.  Due to the nature of some of the trips that we operate and the countries in which we operate them, it can be very hard (and sometimes impossible) to cater for a wide range of dietary choices and you may have to supplement your diet with food/snacks from home.  If you have specific dietary requirements please do speak to our sales team and they will be able to advise you whether or not we will be able to offer your specific choice.  Please note that we are unable to provide separate menus and cannot accept liability for any problems arising from special dietary requirements or intolerances.

We will spend the first night of the holiday at a simple guesthouse in Reykjavik within walking distance of the BSI bus terminal. Rooms are twin sharing with shared bathrooms. If you are travelling by yourself, you will be paired up with another single client of the same sex. Single rooms are available at supplementary cost. At the end of the holiday, arriving from Greenland quite late at Keflavik Airport, we will spend the last night of the holiday at guesthouse accommodation in Keflavik.

If you are planning to extend your holiday additional nights at the guesthouse in Reykjavik are available on request.

In Kulusuk, Kuummiut and Tinitequilaaq, we will stay in hut style accommodation in a traditional local house with shared bathroom facilities; showers will be available nearby for a small local charge (17DKK per shower). In Tasiilaq (Days 9) we stay in a simple guesthouse, generally in twin rooms, with shared bathroom facilities.

The group will be led by a professional and qualified tour leader.

This holiday does not involve any significant ascent to altitude and we would not expect any altitude issues with this trip.

Approximately £200 (in local currency) should be allowed for miscellaneous expenses, including your meals in Reykjavik. You can withdraw cash from ATMs in most towns in Iceland using a credit or debit card. If you wish to bring your travel money in cash this can be changed into Icelandic Krona at the airport. Meals whilst in Greenland are included so you will only need to pay directly for meals other than breakfast whilst staying in Reykjavik. In Reykjavik there is a wide range of dining options and you can expect to pay from around 2500ISK for lunch and 4000ISK for an evening meal in a restaurant in Reykjavik. The currency in Greenland is the Danish Kronur and we suggest that you take £50 worth of Danish Kronur with you from home. You won't need to spend much in Greenland, there is a small cost for hot showers at some of the accommodations and there are stores at each of the villages that sell chocolate and other treats. Additionally, you might choose to buy a souvenir or two in Tasiilaq. 

Tipping is the accepted way of saying ‘thank you’ to your leader and any other local staff. Tipping is entirely voluntary and should be dependent on good service.

For this holiday you should take one piece of luggage, which should be a soft duffle bag, and a daypack.  The check-in allowance on the Reykjavik to Kulusuk flight is 15kg for hold baggage and 6kg for cabin baggage. 

For each holiday there is a minimum number of participants required to enable it to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from 'Available' to 'Guaranteed to run'. You can check the trip status for each departure in ‘Dates and Prices’ table. Other than in exceptional circumstances, we will not cancel a trip once it has achieved this guaranteed to run status and so you are free to proceed with your international flight booking and other travel arrangements.

The information that we provide is for UK passport holders. A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required, and you should have at least 2 blank pages for each country that you visit.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Please ensure that you check for the latest advice before travel. For the most up to date information on entry requirements, please visit the UK Government website.

Visa Iceland

UK and USA passport holders do not require a visa for short stays.

If you have a severe allergy please inform the KE office before you travel. We will do all we can to help, but we cannot guarantee an allergy free environment on KE trips. You will need to carry your own treatment for the allergy with you, as 'adrenaline auto-injectors' are not carried as standard by KE leaders and staff. You should inform your leader on arrival of your allergy, and let them know where you keep your adrenaline pen.

Vaccinations

You should contact your doctor or travel clinic to check whether you require any specific vaccinations.

GHIC / Medical cover

UK residents should carry a free Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). This entitles you to state provided medical treatment when you're visiting an EU country or Switzerland. This is not a substitute for medical travel insurance which is vital when travelling overseas.

THe unit of currency in Greenland is the Danish Krone.

Getting some additional exercise before coming on an active holiday makes a lot of sense. The fitter you are, after all, the more enjoyable you will find the experience.

You should be aerobically fit and comfortable with walking 3 to 6 hours for consecutive days. Hill walking, with a good amount of ascent and descent, is the best training. Running, cycling and swimming are also good for developing cardiovascular fitness and stamina.

The weather in Greenland in  July and August is generally fairly good. It is not unusual for high pressure to settle over the island for long periods, giving good weather. We can expect daytime temperatures anywhere from 10°C to 15°C, dropping to just above freezing in the evenings. Even in the Greenland summer, there is a chance of poor weather, with rain and wind. But, equally, we should also encounter good days that are clear and sunny. In short, you need to be prepared for English Lake District walking. Bring your waterproofs!

As a reputable tour operator, KE supports the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's ‘Travel Aware campaign to enable British citizens to prepare for their journeys overseas. The 'Travel Aware' website provides a single, authoritative source of advice for all kinds of travellers and we recommend that prior to travel, all KE clients visit the official UK Government website at travelaware.campaign.gov.uk and read the FCDO Travel Advice for their chosen destination. North Americans can also check out the U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov for essential travel advice and tips.

KE treat the safety and security of all clients as the most important aspect of any trip we organise. We would not run any trip that we did not consider reasonably safe.  Should the FCDO advise against travel for any reason, we will contact everyone booked to travel to discuss the situation.  We receive regular updates direct from the FCDO and are in constant touch with our contacts on the ground.  If you have any questions about government travel advice, please call our office.

KE do not encourage the use of single use plastic items. We are ensuring that our agents all over the world are working together to reduce the problem and educate those around them. We are leading by example in our KE office by reducing our plastic use.

  • Lonely Planet. Iceland, Greenland and the Faroe Islands
  • The Rough Guide to Iceland
  • Visitor's Guide Iceland and Greenland (World Traveller) Don Philpott

It is an essential condition of joining a holiday with KE Adventure Travel that you have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the cost of medical treatment and to protect the value of your holiday in the event of cancellation.  When taking out insurance please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary.

For appropriate insurance cover we recommend Campbell Irvine Direct.  Please go to our Travel Insurance page for further information and to get a quote.

Please try to keep the weight of your baggage to a minimum. See the ‘baggage allowance’ section for further details.

The itinerary includes several boat transfers and you should be able to comfortably step into the boat while carrying your luggage.

You should bring the following items:

  • Sturdy and waterproof hiking boots
  • Daypack of approximately 30 to 40 litres capacity*
  • 4 season sleeping bag (rated down to 0ºC)
  • Trainers / sneakers
  • Sandals (for river crossing)
  • Socks and underwear
  • Trekking trousers / pants
  • Waterproof overtrousers / rain-pants
  • Baselayer shirts (1 short sleeve, 1 long sleeve)
  • T-shirts and/or casual shirts
  • Fleece jacket or jumper
  • Warm jacket (down or synthetic)
  • Windproof/waterproof jacket
  • Warm hat
  • Eyewear - sunglasses
  • Light thermal gloves and waterproof overgloves or mittens
  • Survival bag (simple plastic type or lighter and more sophisticated)
  • Drybags (to keep the contents of you luggage dry)
  • Sun protection (including for lips)
  • Water bottle (1 Litre) (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single use plastic)
  • Water purification tablets
  • Washbag and toiletries
  • Small trek towel
  • Antibacterial handwash
  • Insect repellant
  • Mosquito net for your head**
  • Penknife
  • Headtorch
  • Basic First Aid Kit. Including: antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, diarrhoea treatment (Imodium), painkillers, plasters and blister treatment, Insect repellent, and re-hydration salts (Dioralite).

The following items are optional:

  • Sleeping bag liner
  • Trekking poles
  • Gaiters
  • Shorts
  • Swimwear 
  • Thermal sitmat (for lunch stops)
  • Spare laces
  • Earplugs (particularly if you are not the one snoring!)
  • Eye cover to assist sleeping in the 24-hour daylight
  • Travel clothes
  • Repair kit – (eg. needle, thread, duct tape)
  • Camera, memory cards, batteries
  • Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)

Notes

** In the lowest, wind protected valleys, mosquitoes can be annoying. You should bring a mesh net which covers the head completely and can be tucked into a shirt or jacket collar.

Cotswold Outdoor Red PantonMany of the Equipment items listed above are available from Cotswold Outdoor - our 'Official Recommended Outdoor Retailer'. When you book a holiday with KE you will receive 12.5% discount voucher from Cotswold Outdoor and other retailers.
>> Find out more

Reviews

5 out of 5 from 3 reviews

Amazing Greenland ★★★★★

I went on this trip in August 2023. I'd give it 6 stars if I could. It was pretty much the best trip I have ever been on with KE. The whole atmosphere of Greenland was utterly brilliant, stunning scenery and cultural insight. The trip was made even better by the suburb guide Einar Finnsson who has a commanding knowledge of Greenland and the Inuit. He was also a people's person, very sociable and managed a somewhat eclectic group very well. If creature comforts are your thing then this is not th e trip for you. I shall return to the Arctic soon.
By Richard from Aboyne | 06 January 2024

An excellent trip. Spectacular scenery, good food, well organised. ★★★★★

I had been to Iceland a number of times and always wanted to take that extra step to visit Greenland. I was not disappointed! The trip was organised by an Icelandic company, with expert guides and many years experience. The accommodation might be fairly basic but it was very much in keeping with everyday life for the local population. There might at times be no running water, or no showers, or limited electricity, but then we could appreciate these things all the more when we arrived at the last hostel that had all of them! The scenery was generally spectacular, including mountains, fjords, icebergs and views across to the ice cap. A few of the walking days were quite tough, but these were interspersed with easier days. And the boat trips between the various villages were always exciting. The food was good and plentiful, although of necessity it was restricted to what was available to the locals in the village stores. Our guide, Arnaud, was also an excellent cook. We were an international group that got on well together and made it a memorable trip.
By Richard from Tarporley | 04 November 2019

The next best thing... ★★★★★

I wish I had the where-with-all to go on expeditions... however this holiday brought me close. The landscape is amazing, the geology and flora intriguing, the vast emptiness awesome and the proximity to the changing lives of the Inuit, educational. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone with a sense of adventure. I particularly valued the opportunity to sit and stare up the Sermilik Fjord, the water mirror calm, the air sharp, the sun warming and silence... apart from the occasional crack of splitting ice or boom of calving from the glaciers. Be prepared for bucket toilets and a lack of showers for a few days... however there is plenty of pure icy water if you want to get clean! Drank the water straight from the streams. The hostel at Kuummiit is a tight fit for a full group.
By Joanne from London | 22 September 2019

Traveller Reviews
5 out of 5 from 3 reviews

Amazing Greenland
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I went on this trip in August 2023. I'd give it 6 stars if I could. It was pretty much the best trip I have ever been on with KE. The whole atmosphere of Greenland was utterly brilliant, stunning scenery and cultural insight. The trip was made even better by the suburb guide Einar Finnsson who has a commanding knowledge of Greenland and the Inuit. He was also a people's person, very sociable and managed a somewhat eclectic group very well. If creature comforts are your thing then this is not th e trip for you. I shall return to the Arctic soon.
By Richard from Aboyne | 06 January 2024

An excellent trip. Spectacular scenery, good food, well organised.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I had been to Iceland a number of times and always wanted to take that extra step to visit Greenland. I was not disappointed! The trip was organised by an Icelandic company, with expert guides and many years experience. The accommodation might be fairly basic but it was very much in keeping with everyday life for the local population. There might at times be no running water, or no showers, or limited electricity, but then we could appreciate these things all the more when we arrived at the last hostel that had all of them! The scenery was generally spectacular, including mountains, fjords, icebergs and views across to the ice cap. A few of the walking days were quite tough, but these were interspersed with easier days. And the boat trips between the various villages were always exciting. The food was good and plentiful, although of necessity it was restricted to what was available to the locals in the village stores. Our guide, Arnaud, was also an excellent cook. We were an international group that got on well together and made it a memorable trip.
By Richard from Tarporley | 04 November 2019

The next best thing...
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I wish I had the where-with-all to go on expeditions... however this holiday brought me close. The landscape is amazing, the geology and flora intriguing, the vast emptiness awesome and the proximity to the changing lives of the Inuit, educational. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone with a sense of adventure. I particularly valued the opportunity to sit and stare up the Sermilik Fjord, the water mirror calm, the air sharp, the sun warming and silence... apart from the occasional crack of splitting ice or boom of calving from the glaciers. Be prepared for bucket toilets and a lack of showers for a few days... however there is plenty of pure icy water if you want to get clean! Drank the water straight from the streams. The hostel at Kuummiit is a tight fit for a full group.
By Joanne from London | 22 September 2019

DATES & PRICES

Private Departure?

Gather a few friends, family or club and take over your own departure.

2024

Dates

Adults from

Deposit

Status

More Information

  • Icefjords and Remote Villages of East Greenland
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: IRV /02/24/
  • This trip begins on Fri 5 Jul and ends on Tue 16 Jul
  • This departure is guaranteed. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$750
  • Single Supplement Price: US$230 - 2 nights in Reykjavik only.
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • Icefjords and Remote Villages of East Greenland
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: IRV /03/24/
  • This trip begins on Fri 19 Jul and ends on Tue 30 Jul
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$750
  • Single Supplement Price: US$230 - 2 nights in Reykjavik only.
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • Icefjords and Remote Villages of East Greenland
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: IRV /04/24/
  • This trip begins on Fri 2 Aug and ends on Tue 13 Aug
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$750
  • Single Supplement Price: US$230 - 2 nights in Reykjavik only.
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • Icefjords and Remote Villages of East Greenland
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: IRV /05/24/
  • This trip begins on Fri 16 Aug and ends on Tue 27 Aug
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$750
  • Single Supplement Price: US$230 - 2 nights in Reykjavik only.
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • Icefjords and Remote Villages of East Greenland
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: IRV /06/24/
  • This trip begins on Sun 1 Sep and ends on Thu 12 Sep
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$750
  • Single Supplement Price: US$230 - 2 nights in Reykjavik only.
  • Download Trip Notes

Land Only Information

We sell this holiday on a Land Only basis allowing you the flexibility to choose the travel method that best suits you. The holiday starts at the guesthouse in Reykjavik. Shared airport bus transfers from Keflavik Ariport are included.

ZEN_HOLIDAY_DATES_PRICES_LAND_ONLY_USD_NOTICE


Changes to flights

Please be aware that the flight industry is experiencing a high level of service fluctuation and changes to your flights may occur. This may also require amends to the transfers and joining arrangements. Thank you all for continuing your patience and understanding.

BOOK WITH KE CONFIDENCE - No surcharge guarantee

The price of our holidays can change depending on a variety of factors but unlike some other tour operators, KE have undertaken to guarantee the Land Only price of your holiday will not change after you have booked. The price when you book is the price you will pay, whether you are booking for this year or the next. Book early to avoid any tour price increases, get the best flight prices and take advantage of our 'No Surcharge Guarantee'.

KE Adventure is a fully bonded tour operator. We hold an ATOL license (No: 2808) and are bonded with ABTA (Membership No: W4341)


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