Greenlandic Tale of Icebergs and Inuit Legacy

Once you arrive in the tiny airport of Ilulissat we will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. On they way enjoy the amazing view of the Ilulissat Icefiord with towering icebergs as you will see from the windows of the car as soon as you leave the airport.

Self-Guided Discovery: A Stroll through UNESCO's Arctic Gem
Embark on a peaceful, self-guided exploration of Ilulissat, beginning with a relaxed walk along a well-defined wooden boardwalk that reveals the splendor of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The path seamlessly transitions into marked trails, guiding you through the picturesque Sermermiut and Seqinniarfik areas, where the breathtaking views of the icefjord accompany your journey. After your stroll, enhance your Arctic experience by visiting the renowned Ilulissat Icefjord Museum. This combination of serene hiking and an engaging museum tour provides a comprehensive glimpse into Ilulissat's natural and historical richness, ensuring your first day is a harmonious blend of scenic beauty and enlightening adventures.

On the border of the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord lies Kangiata Illorsua – Ilulissat Icefjord Centre. The Icefjord Centre is a visitor and dissemination centre which, through the exhibition “The Tale of Ice”, informs visitors about the history of ice, the culture in and around the ice fjord, and climate change. The Icefjord Centre’s exhibition is based on research and data. It explains the area’s unique natural and cultural history, as well as the climate changes that can be seen and felt.

Overnight in Ilulissat

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy some free time in town shopping or visiting Knud Rasmussen Museum, or the oldest church in Greenland. Feel the vibes of a small arctic city while strolling the streets and visiting some souvenir shops. Stop by the art craft workshop where local artists make their carvings in bone, tooth, and stone. Marvel the incredible  setting – on the cliffs high above the endless sea of icebergs floating in front of the Icefjord, into Disco Bay, on their way to the open ocean. 

After lunch (not included) your Nomad host will meet you at the hotel lobby and accompany you throughout your Greenland adventure. From start to finish, your host will coordinate the trip, remaining readily available to assist and support you throughout your stay.

Your host embodies hospitality, authenticity, and thoughtfulness, ensuring your experience is both protective and relaxing. Through shared stories and insights, your host invites you to fully immerse in the moment, unlocking the true beauty of this remote and captivating land.

A Journey of a Lifetime from Ilulissat to Saqqaq Camp
Transfer from Ilulissat to Saqqaq on an open air boat is a thrilling 110 km journey. The boat speeds over crystal-clear waters, with imposing icebergs sparling under the Arctic sun. This pristine backdrop evokes a profound sense of peace and solitude, as you travel through an untouched wonderland of ice and water, suspended in a timeless realm.  You find yourself in a pristine wilderness, where the Arctic breeze and the boat's powerful engines create a symphony of adventure. The harmony of ancient ice and raw nature create a tale of timeless beauty and formidable power.

Disembarking in Saqqaq, the essence of this voyage lingers - it's more than a mere transfer; it's an immersive adventure etched against nature's grand canvas. This experience transcends the ordinary, promising to be eternally cherished in your memories.

Historical Walk of Saqqaq
Upon arrival, explore the ancient history of Saqqaq and discover the secrets of one of the oldest civilizations in Greenland. The Saqqaq culture, dating back to 2500 BC, once thrived in the southern regions of the island, leaving behind a wealth of artefacts and clues to their way of life. Join us on a guided walk as we uncover the mystery of their existence and disappearance, possibly due to the harsh Arctic climate. See the remains of their houses and burial grounds, and imagine the everyday activities of these ancient people. Step back in time and gain a unique window into a different way of life as we explore the playgrounds where the children once honed their skills to survive in this rugged environment. It is an opportunity to indulge your curiosity and gain an intimate understanding of the people who once called this place home.

Dinner at the Camp
At Saqqaq, delicious, gourmet meals are inspired by local ingredients and crafted by some of the region's best chefs. Throughout your stay, you can expect to enjoy meals made from wild berries, mushrooms, and herbal teas that we forage ourselves, as well as fresh fish and seafood caught just off the camp in the fjord and meats supplied by local hunters. We also offer a selection of premium spirits, boutique wines from Denmark's premier winery, and craft beer from a small brewery. For those who can't live without something special, we also offer a list of international wines, champagnes, and spirits that can be pre-ordered before your stay.

Overnight at Saqqaq Camp (B, D)

Enjoy our hearty breakfast buffet, available whenever and wherever you desire. Savor the taste of fresh bread, pancakes, homemade jams, cheese board, locally smoked fish, sausages, fresh fruit, yogurt, cereal, and eggs. Our tea infusions are made from handpicked local herbs, and our coffee is brewed to perfection.

Qullissat - life clinging to the edge
Discover the hidden history of Qullissat, a secluded town in Greenland that was once one of the largest cities on the island of Qeqertarsuaq. The city was established in 1924 when the Danish state decided to open a coal mine that would supply the island with its own coal. However, after the Second World War, the mine was deemed unprofitable and in 1968 it was closed, along with all public services such as schools, hospitals and telegraph stations. This forced relocation of the inhabitants had serious social consequences for many families. The city has been left as a ghost town ever since. On 21 November 2000, Qullissat was hit by a tsunami caused by a large landslide at Paatuut on the Nuussuaq peninsula. The tsunami reached over 100 meters inland and would probably have caused many deaths if the city had still been inhabited. This serves as a reminder of the power of nature and how life can change in an instant. 

On a journey of curiosity and discovery, learn about the forced relocation that happened in many places around Greenland during the 60s and 70s and its impact on the displaced families. Reflect on the human fragility and the struggles faced by those who were forced to leave their homes and adapt to new surroundings. This trip offers a glimpse into the life clinging to the edge of survival in a remote and harsh environment. The trip goes by boat from Saqqaq to Qullissat, crossing the David Strait to the Disko Island.

Arctic Fox Encounter: Boat Ride to Secluded Beach
Arriving at the secluded beach, you'll find yourself in a remote corner of Greenland, far from the trappings of civilization. Here, you can observe and interact with the curious Arctic foxes that roam this rugged shoreline. Adapted to the Arctic's extreme conditions, their thick winter fur changes color with the seasons, offering camouflage against their surroundings. With their keen sense of hearing, they locate prey even beneath the snow. These resilient creatures, enduring some of the harshest environments on Earth, may approach you with a mix of curiosity and caution, offering a unique and heartwarming connection with the wild. 

If the spirit of adventure beckons, you can also hike up into the cliffs to marvel at the striking basalt landscape, which imbues the soil with a vivid red hue, a testament to the area's rich geological history. After your exploration, return to relax on the pristine beach, bask in the serenity of the surroundings, and cherish the solitude of this unparalleled location.

Free Time Before Dinner
Following a journey to Qullissat, you will have some personal time to unwind and savor the solitude of this remarkable environment. At the camp, you'll find a range of options to tailor your free moments according to your desires. For those yearning for an intimate connection with the Arctic wilderness, a short self-guided walk awaits. Venture into the surrounding terrain, armed with one of our safety transmitters (Garmin), and explore the untamed beauty of the area. Let the pristine landscape be your guide as you immerse yourself in the raw and unspoiled natural world. Alternatively, if relaxation is your preference, retreat to the cozy confines of your tent. Here, you can escape into the pages of a book, allowing the written words to transport you to distant realms while being enveloped by the tranquil ambiance of your Arctic sanctuary. For a more communal experience, join fellow adventurers at the campfire. Sit by the crackling flames and watch in awe as icebergs gracefully drift by.

Dinner at the Camp
In the evening, a delectable dinner followed by a nice bonfire either outside the dining tent or at the beach and end the day with drinks - or maybe the famous Greenlandic coffee.

Overnight at the Camp Saqqaq (B, L, D)

Rise and Shine: Breakfast at the camp
Enjoy our hearty breakfast buffet, available whenever and wherever you desire. Savor the taste of fresh bread, pancakes, homemade jams, cheese board, locally smoked fish, sausages, fresh fruit, yogurt, cereal, and eggs. Our tea infusions are made from handpicked local herbs, and our coffee is brewed to perfection.

A Serene Adventure Paddling Among Icebergs
Join us on an exhilarating adventure as we set off from camp and head straight to the beach for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to paddle among icebergs in the icy waters of the fjord. Donned in warm drysuits, life jackets, and communication gear, you'll be safe and comfortable as you take in the fresh air and the surreal beauty of the surroundings. As we paddle, keep an eye out for the whales that call the fjord home - you might even be lucky enough to spot some! If you fall off the board, don't fret - it's easy to get back on and the drysuit will keep you cozy in the cold water. Take in the silence and the sound of melting ice as you're surrounded by white and possibly crystal-clear blue icebergs. Rest assured, our boat crew will be close by for added safety.

Traditional Greenlandic BBQ
At traditional Inuit camps flat rocks were often used instead of frying pans to cook over fire. Greased with a little seal or whale blubber, they made an excellent alternative. After a morning of adventures, Greenlandic barbecue is the best way to savor pure Arctic flavors. Today the meal will consist of various grilled local meat and some salad prepared by our private chef. 

Meet Greenland's Ancient Dogs
A short one-hour trip will give you the chance to learn more about the sledge dogs in Greenland and help feed a team of up to 20 howling, hungry dogs. In North and East Greenland, there is only one type of sled dog, the Greenlandic Canis Lupus Familiaris - one of the purest and most isolated dog breeds in the world. We will do our very best to find some puppies as well, so you can cuddle with them and take some adorable photos.

In the Disko Bay region, for the six to seven months of winter every year, it is “sledge time”, when long-line fishers use the dogs to transport Greenland halibut from the places where they go ice-fishing. Even today, the modern snow scooter can’t compete with the 2000 years old Greenlandic way of transportation, and there remain about 15,000 working sled dogs in Greenland.

However, once a Greenlandic dog goes south of the Arctic Circle, it is not allowed ever to return. This is part of a national strategy to keep the breed as pure as possible. So, don't miss this opportunity to meet the oldest dog breed in the world and some of the cutest puppies around!

Dinner at the Camp
Throughout your stay, you can expect to enjoy meals made from wild berries, mushrooms, and herbal teas that we forage ourselves, as well as fresh fish and seafood caught just off the camp in the fjord and meats supplied by local hunters. We also offer a selection of premium spirits, boutique wines from Denmark's premier winery, and craft beer from a small brewery. For those who can't live without something special, we also offer a list of international wines, champagnes, and spirits that can be pre-ordered before your stay.

Aurora's Dance: Embracing the Night Sky
From late August until the season concludes, the Kiattua and Saqqaq camps offer a prime location for a potential sighting of the Northern Lights, a natural spectacle that is highly dependent on clear skies and favorable weather conditions. Positioned in Greenland’s remote wilderness, both camps provide an unobstructed view of the night sky, allowing guests the convenience of witnessing the aurora borealis right outside their tents.

The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, are the result of charged particles from the sun interacting with the Earth’s atmosphere, creating vibrant displays of color across the polar skies. These lights typically appear as waves or curtains of light, showcasing hues of green, pink, and purple.

While we cannot guarantee a sighting due to natural variables, our camps are situated within the auroral zone, offering a higher probability of experiencing this celestial phenomenon.

Overnight at the Saqqaq Camp (B, L, D)

Rise and Shine: Breakfast at the camp
Enjoy our hearty breakfast buffet, available whenever and wherever you desire. Savor the taste of fresh bread, pancakes, homemade jams, cheese board, locally smoked fish, sausages, fresh fruit, yogurt, cereal, and eggs. Our tea infusions are made from handpicked local herbs, and our coffee is brewed to perfection.

Transfer to Ilulissat passing Torssukátak and Eqi Glaciers
Few places in the world can match the scale and solitude of this remote destination, where the ancient ice cap meets the sea. Journeying into the Ata Strait you will come upon the Eqi glacier, a sight of unparalleled purity and grandeur, to see the awe-inspiring spectacle of huge pieces of ice breaking off and crashing into the water. The sounds are enormous, the drama breathtaking. We’ll spend approximately 2-hours in front of the glacier waiting for the ice to calve, while serving lunch onboard. This is a true journey of discovery, a full sensory experience where ancient natural forces have shaped a unique, never to be forgotten landscape.

Next is a 2 hours cruise to Ilulissat for a little taste of civilization.

Overnight in Ilullisat (B)