Summer Escape to Ilulissat

DAY 1 | PARIS / COPENHAGEN

Flight to Copenhagen on SAS regular flights. Free transfer to your hotel.
Overnight at the Imperial Hotel or similar in Copenhagen.

DAY 2 | COPENHAGEN / KANGERLUSSUAQ – WELCOME AND OPTIONAL ACTIVITY

Free transfer to the airport.

Air Greenland flight to Kangerlussuaq, giving you 4 and a half hours to prepare for your encounter with a truly unique world. During the flight, you can enjoy a meal, a movie, and a first glimpse of the nunataks and the ice cap. Upon arrival, a guide from our local partner will greet you and assist with check-in. You’ll stay at the Kangerlussuaq Hotel, centrally located yet on the doorstep of fascinating Arctic nature. During the briefing, the guide will explain the area and available excursions. Kangerlussuaq is beautifully situated between gentle hills and close to the ice cap, making it the perfect place to see and walk on the legendary ice cap, which covers more than 80% of Greenland. If you have purchased one of our excursion packages, this afternoon’s journey is included.

Ice Cap, Point 660 (optional)

Powerful 4×4 vehicles will take us through an incredibly beautiful landscape, between mountains, plains, and semi-desert valleys. Near the ice cap, we traverse a fantastic landscape of moraines. At the end of the road, we walk to the ice cap and onto the massive glacier. We spend some time exploring the world of ice before returning to our vehicles. There are good chances of spotting reindeer, musk oxen, and, depending on the season, numerous species of birds and flowers. In the evening, you will enjoy a delicious welcome dinner in the hotel’s amazing restaurant (drinks not included).

DAY 3 | FLIGHT KANGERLUSSUAQ / ILULISSAT – ARRIVAL OPTIONAL GUIDED WALK OF THE TOWN

The tour continues by plane to Ilulissat. Ilulissat means icebergs, which is quite explicit once you see the magnificent ice fjord and the numerous icebergs floating majestically in the fjord illuminated by an almost magical light caused by the sun’s reflections.

Upon arrival, you will head to the Arctic Hotel, beautifully located overlooking Disko Bay. Even the most experienced traveler is awestruck by this unique sight. At the next briefing, a guide will tell you about Ilulissat and the wide range of excursions available. You are now ready for the next few days filled with adventures.

Excursions and Activities with a Guide or Solo

There are many excursion options organized by our partners or some you can do on your own. If you enjoy hiking, there are plenty of opportunities. However, we recommend participating in some of the guided boat excursions where you can see Disko Bay and discover the immense icebergs and the beautiful surroundings of the bay. We offer 3 comprehensive excursion packages for this stay which include ideal tours for this trip. If you have purchased one of the excursion packages, it’s time for your first outing in Ilulissat.

Cultural and Historical Guided Tour (optional)

Some might think, “We can just wander around the town by ourselves.” Well, yes, you could probably do that, but with this guided cultural and historical tour, you’ll gain a better understanding of Greenlandic culture and history, giving all your other experiences in Greenland a broader perspective. Ilulissat was founded in 1741 and is now the third-largest city in Greenland with over 4,500 inhabitants and 2,500 sled dogs. The guide will tell you about the city’s history, Greenlandic culture, and contemporary life 300 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle. We’ll visit the fishermen at the harbor and the hunters at their trading post. We’ll also see the church and the birthplace of the famous polar explorer Knud Rasmussen. In the evening, you will enjoy a delicious welcome dinner at the hotel’s amazing restaurant (drinks not included).

DAY 4 | ILULISSAT AT YOUR LEISURE OR OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Ilulissat is located at the mouth of the Ilulissat Icefjord, 50 kilometers long and world-renowned, which in 2004 was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. The ice is thrilling and can be experienced on the sea, on land, and in the air.

Hiking to the Old Settlement near the Ice Fjord (optional)

Magnificent icebergs serve as the backdrop to the old settlement of Sermermiut, 1.5 kilometers south of Ilulissat. For 4,000 years, different Inuit cultures lived in the settlement, and today you can still see some of the remnants, indicating their presence. Listen to the story of Inuit life and their traditions before Europeans arrived in Greenland. Observe the ruins and touch the permafrost with your own hands. During this hike, we pass by “Kællingekløften” where you can enjoy the magnificent view of the ice fjord before heading back. During the hike, there will be time to talk about the flora, fauna, geology, and, not least, the history behind the ubiquitous ice.

Sailing Among the Icebergs (optional)

The midnight sun illuminates the icebergs in a unique play of colors that people come back to experience time and time again. The midnight sun in Ilulissat lasts from late May to late July. Sailing at night with the sun still shining is a fantastic and unusual experience. Almost every visitor to Ilulissat ends up joining this tranquil cruise among the icebergs at least once. Every day, more than 40 million tons of ice flow into the fjord. The floating icebergs are gigantic, sometimes measuring over 100 meters wide and long – and with a height of up to 100 meters above the water’s surface as well. These giants gather at the end of the fjord, offering you an excellent opportunity to sail among them. Icebergs are a wonderful sight in all weather conditions; in the sun, the contrasts are very sharp, the blues are strikingly beautiful when it’s cloudy, and the midnight sun casts a unique glow on the ice during the night. Taking a boat tour on a bright night is an extraordinary experience. You should not miss this exceptional experience during your visit to Ilulissat. Don’t forget to bring warm clothing – otherwise, seal skin clothing is available for rent.

DAY 5 | ILULISSAT AT YOUR LEISURE OR OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Whale Watching Safari (optional)

It’s an amazing experience to get close to large animals like whales. There are 15 species of whales in Greenland. During the summer, it’s typically the humpback whale, minke whale, and fin whale that are seen. Whales swim throughout Disko Bay during the summer; sometimes near the town, sometimes in the ice fjord, or north of Arveprinsens Ejland island. We are in constant radio contact with fishermen and hunters regarding whales and their whereabouts. The humpback whale, with its characteristic fin, is the one most commonly seen. Today, you also have the opportunity to try kayaking in the country that invented kayaks.

Kayaking Experience in Ilulissat (optional)

The Inuit have been kayaking in the waters of Greenland for over a thousand years, and you can too. As the kayak glides silently on the water, you see the enormous icebergs towering around you. The midnight sun gives the ice a unique hue. On cloudy days, the beautiful blue colors of the icebergs will be very clear. With a bit of luck, we might even encounter whales. All tours take place in stable double kayaks with a boat nearby. The excursion lasts approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, and we will be at sea for at least two of these hours. This excursion is not included in any of the excursion packages but can be booked separately.

DAY 6 | ADVENTURES AT YOUR LEISURE IN ILULISSAT OR OPTIONAL ACTIVITY

Today’s program varies depending on the excursion package you have purchased (if any). For those with the Standard or Deluxe 1 excursion package (or no package at all), the day is yours for beautiful experiences in Ilulissat. There are plenty of options. If you have purchased the Deluxe 2 excursion package, you will enjoy a tranquil cruise to the Eqi Glacier.

Day Trip to Eqi Glacier – The Calving Glacier (optional with Deluxe excursion package)

Only a few places in Greenland are as beautiful as the Eqi Glacier, which spills into the fjord 80 kilometers north of Ilulissat. It’s possible to get very close to the glacier by boat and see enormous chunks of ice breaking off. The sounds are thunderous, and the sight of the ice crashing into the water is astonishing. We navigate in modern and practical boats during the Eqi Glacier excursion. The route takes us north along the coast passing through Bredebugt, the settlement of Oqaatsut, and the large fjord system called Pakitsoq, where whales and seals are often spotted. Further along the route, we cross the Ataa Strait, which is surrounded by steep mountains with birds and waterfalls. Our boats, reinforced for navigating in icy waters, will stay in front of the glacier for about two hours and wait for the ice to calve. During this time, a delicious lunch will be served. This is a full-day excursion where you’ll have a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the experience and fully enjoy the boat ride in ice-filled waters.

Note: The boat journey to and from the glacier can last between 2 and 5 hours each way. This depends on the boat used on the given day.

DAY 7 | ILULISSAT AT YOUR LEISURE OR OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Full-day excursion to Eqip Sermia – the calving glacier (standard package) If you’ve purchased the standard excursion package, get ready for an excellent full-day excursion to the Eqi Glacier. You’ll find a detailed description of the visit on day 5.

One night at the Eqi Glacier Lodge (included in deluxe excursion package 1)

You have the opportunity for glamping for one night at the Eqi Glacier Lodge by purchasing deluxe excursion package 1. Please note that we cannot check for available tents until you have placed your order. If you wish to stay overnight, feel free to contact us in advance to inquire about available dates. The Eqi Glacier Lodge is very popular and sells out quickly. The earlier you book, the better your chances of getting a tent. Also note that you do not have to check out of your hotel room in Ilulissat, even if you choose to stay overnight at the Eqi Glacier Lodge.

Around 2:00 PM, the boat will arrive at Port Victor. Port Victor is the “port” of the Eqi Glacier Lodge. Only those staying at the Eqi Glacier Lodge will disembark from the boat; the others will remain on board. On land, the camp guides will welcome you and show you to your tent. Coffee and cake will be served, and practical information about the area will be provided. The rest of the day can be spent either joining the “hike to the lagoon, moraine, and glacier” excursion or simply enjoying the view from the cabins. The price includes one night in a luxury tent, breakfast, lunch, and dinner at Café Victor. The café also offers drinks such as non-alcoholic beverages, beer, and wine, as well as sweets.

One night at Ilimanaq Lodge (optional – deluxe excursion package 2)

If you’ve purchased deluxe excursion package 2, today you’ll sail to Ilimanaq and spend the night in the stunning cabins of the Ilimanaq Lodge. We’ll depart by boat in the morning, cruising along the mouth of the Ice Fjord before arriving at the port of Ilimanaq 45 minutes later.

The cabins at Ilimanaq Lodge are incredible. They offer two stories with beds upstairs. When you wake up in the morning, you descend to the living room, sit on the couch, and watch the small fishing boats breaking the crystal-clear water. You can enjoy a cup of coffee on the terrace and greet a whale blowing water into the air as if to say hello. Ilimanaq Lodge combines magnificent nature experiences with luxurious comfort.

In 2023, the Ilimanaq Lodge Experience will offer you 27 hours focused on gastronomy, nature, and life in a small village. You’ll dine in a historic building from 1751 at the world’s remotest Michelin-starred restaurant – and it’s not just any isolated restaurant but a 2 Michelin-starred restaurant!

Once you’re checked into your cabin, you’ll learn more about the village. Ilimanaq is located 15 kilometers south of Ilulissat and has around 50 inhabitants. The houses in Ilimanaq are painted in many bright colors contrasting with the surrounding landscape. Ilimanaq is a traditional Greenlandic village, where the main industries are still hunting and fishing.

Then, you have the opportunity to completely relax and enjoy life in a quiet village, perhaps lounging on your terrace.

In the evening, you can experience the exquisite tasting menu at the KOKS restaurant (you can purchase the wine or juice list separately on-site). With two Michelin stars, we guarantee something you’ve never tried before. In fact, in 2022, the Danish equivalent of the Financial Times, Børsen, named it “the best culinary experience in the Danish realm”.

DAY 8 | ILULISSAT AT YOUR LEISURE OR OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Free day in Ilulissat for those with the standard excursion package (or without any excursion package). You can stroll around the town and feel the atmosphere – or you can sit and admire the ice fjord; a view you won’t forget! If you’ve purchased one of the deluxe excursion packages, you’ll still be at Eqi or Ilimanaq and will return to Ilulissat later in the afternoon.

Hike to the Eqi Glacier and Navigation to Ilulissat (deluxe excursion package 1)

From the Eqi Glacier Lodge, we embark on a hike around the small lagoon at the southern end of the glacier. There are often large flocks of geese in the lagoon during the breeding season. The journey ascends further into the moraine where we can gaze upon the enormous cracks of the glacier just meters away from us. From there, we’ll also get a glimpse of the glacier’s front and witness the impressive glacier calving.

Departure from Port Victor around 2:15 PM. You’ll return to Ilulissat via the same route. Coffee/tea and cake will be served in the late afternoon. Seals and whales are often spotted during the trip.

Return from Ilimanaq Lodge (deluxe excursion package 2)

This morning, you’ll get more heavenly treats for your taste buds. There’s an extended breakfast from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. Check-out from your cabin is at 10:00 AM, and you can leave your luggage at the reception. Excursions start at 11:30 AM. We’ll return to Ilulissat by boat at 4:30 PM, but your Ilimanaq experience is far from over, and the next few hours will be well spent. You can choose from a guided walk around the settlement and learn more about Ilimanaq. Alternatively, you can hike in the area or participate in a cultural workshop. You can also book the excursion mentioned below since you’re already in Ilimanaq.

There’s also the option for an exciting additional excursion if you haven’t purchased one of the deluxe excursion packages.

Ilimanaq Glacier Adventure

During this thrilling trip, you’ll sail on a speedboat, drive off-road with ATVs, and hike on a glacier! We depart by boat from Ilulissat to Ilimanaq. We then sail from Ilimanaq southward to Itilliup Ilua. Here, we disembark onto a very wide sandy beach, and from there, we drive off-road on all-terrain ATVs to the Tasiusaq Fjord. We now sail deeper into the fjord until we reach a spot with two glaciers, and the Greenland ice cap can be seen.

We disembark and enjoy a packed lunch and the magnificent view. Afterward, we take a walk and finally ascend onto the vast ice cap.

This excursion is not recommended for those with serious neck or back issues, and participants must be at least 12 years old.

DAY 9 | ILULISSAT / KANGERLUSSUAQ / COPENHAGEN

Offering one last view of the ice fjord and the captivating icebergs, the flight will take you back to Kangerlussuaq and then to Copenhagen, where you’ll arrive in the evening. We guarantee you’ll return home with a luggage full of memories that will stay with you longer than any other trip you’ve taken – at least that’s what other travelers tell us. Free transfer to your hotel. Overnight at the Imperial Hotel or similar in Copenhagen.

DAY 10 | COPENHAGEN / PARIS

Breakfast. Free transfer to the airport. Departure for Paris on SAS regular flights.

End of our services

Departure dates:

June 04, 11, 18, 25, 2023
July 02, 06, 09, 16, 20, 30, 2023
August 03, 06, 13, 20, 28, 2023
September 04, 2023

HOTEL KANGERLUSSUAQ

The Kangerlussuaq Hotel is situated as centrally as possible, within the airport building itself, so you’ll need to retrieve your luggage and take it to the reception to check-in. All rooms are spacious and offer a view of the so-called Kitchen Mountain or a view of the city and surroundings. The hotel boasts a highly regarded restaurant and cafeteria, which is the meeting place for all locals in the area and the 220,000 passengers who transit through Kangerlussuaq each year.

 HOTEL ARCTIC ILULISSAT

The most famous hotel in Greenland is the Arctic Hotel in Ilulissat. It is situated with a fantastic view over the town of Ilulissat, the Ilulissat Icefjord, and Disko Bay. The Arctic Hotel is the world’s northernmost 4-star hotel and, additionally, the hotel features a 5-star conference center. The hotel is located just outside the town, approximately a 15-minute walk from the city center (about 1.5 km from the central intersection of the town). The hotel boasts two excellent restaurants, and the large terrace outside the restaurant is the perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine while the midnight sun shines its golden glow on the icebergs of the Ilulissat Icefjord.

NOTE: The hotel offers airport transfers, but there are no transfers related to excursions or other activities.