From Ice Sheet to Icebergs

Guided Walking Tour of Historic Nuuk
Discover Greenland's vibrant capital on a guided walking tour through the historic heart of Nuuk. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, you'll gain fascinating insights into everyday life in Greenland, hear entertaining stories about Nuuk's remarkable transformation from a small colonial settlement into a modern Arctic capital, and learn about the country's history, culture, and traditions. Your walk begins near Greenland's Parliament, where you'll hear about the nation's path to self-government and the significance of the artwork and monuments displayed in the entrance hall. From there, continue to the Tuapannguit district and stroll along Nuuk's scenic waterfront boardwalk, which follows the coastline and offers beautiful views across the fjord toward Kangeq, the site where missionary Hans Egede established Greenland's first colonial settlement in 1728. The tour continues to the charming Colonial Harbor, home to colorful wooden buildings, historic landmarks, and one of the city's most picturesque neighborhoods. Finally, climb to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the old town, where you'll enjoy spectacular views of Nuuk's iconic red and yellow houses with Sermitsiaq Mountain rising majestically in the background—one of the city's most photographed scenes. Along the way, your guide will be happy to share recommendations for local restaurants, shopping, Greenlandic handicrafts, museums, and other attractions to help you make the most of your stay in Nuuk.

Puffin Watching Tour by Boat 
Join us on a scenic boat excursion to the beautiful islands south of Nuuk in search of one of Greenland's most beloved seabirds—the Atlantic puffin. During the summer months, thousands of puffins return from the open ocean to nest on small offshore islands, making this one of the best opportunities to observe these charming birds in their natural habitat. 
Recognizable by their colorful beaks and distinctive black-and-white plumage, puffins stand only about 12 inches (30 cm) tall. They spend most of the year far out at sea, coming ashore only during the breeding season to lay their eggs and raise their chicks. As you cruise through the scenic fjords surrounding Nuuk, your guide will share fascinating information about puffins, Greenland's coastal wildlife, and the area's spectacular natural landscapes. In addition to puffins, you may also spot other seabirds, seals, and, occasionally, whales. Because puffins are wild animals, sightings cannot be guaranteed. Weather conditions, natural behavior, and other environmental factors all influence where the birds may be found on any given day. Throughout the excursion, your captain follows strict guidelines for approaching the nesting colonies, ensuring the birds are observed responsibly while minimizing disturbance to their natural habitat. This relaxing boat trip offers wonderful opportunities for wildlife photography and unforgettable views of Greenland's rugged coastline.

• Breakfast
• Hotel Arctic 4* or similar

After breakfast, transfer to Nuuk Airport for your short domestic flight to Kangerlussuaq. Lasting approximately 45 minutes, this scenic journey offers spectacular aerial views of Greenland's dramatic landscapes. As the aircraft climbs above Nuuk, you'll enjoy sweeping vistas of rugged mountains, deep fjords, and countless lakes before crossing the vast, uninhabited interior of the island. As you approach Kangerlussuaq, the scenery changes dramatically. The towering peaks give way to broad glacial valleys, winding rivers, and the expansive Arctic tundra that surrounds the settlement. On clear days, you may even catch your first glimpse of the immense Greenland Ice Sheet stretching toward the horizon.

Located at the head of a 100-mile (160-km) fjord, Kangerlussuaq is known for its dry climate, stable weather, and exceptional wildlife. Originally established as an American air base during World War II, it remains one of Greenland's most important transportation hubs and serves as the primary gateway to the Greenland Ice Sheet. Upon arrival, your Arctic adventures begin immediately.

Tundra Safari by 4WD
Venture into the vast Arctic wilderness surrounding Kangerlussuaq on an exciting 4WD tundra safari. This two-hour excursion takes you beyond the town and into one of Greenland's richest wildlife habitats, where the open tundra, glacial rivers, and rolling hills create a stunning and ever-changing landscape. Accompanied by an experienced local guide, you'll travel along gravel roads and remote tracks while learning about the region's unique ecosystem, geology, and Arctic climate. Kangerlussuaq's dry weather and expansive tundra make it one of the best places in Greenland to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.

Keep your camera ready as you search for the iconic musk ox, whose ancestors have roamed Greenland for thousands of years. You may also encounter reindeer grazing on the tundra, Arctic hares, Arctic foxes, gyrfalcons, snowy owls, and a variety of migratory birds, depending on the season. Along the route, your guide will point out hardy Arctic plants and explain how wildlife has adapted to survive in this challenging environment.

Several scenic stops provide excellent opportunities to admire the sweeping views, photograph the rugged landscape, and experience the remarkable silence of the Arctic wilderness. On clear days, you'll enjoy spectacular vistas of distant mountains, glacial valleys, and meltwater lakes that stretch across the tundra.

This safari is an excellent introduction to Greenland's unique natural environment and a perfect complement to your visit to the Greenland Ice Sheet.

• Breakfast
• Hotel Kangerlussuaq 3* or similar

Greenland Ice Sheet Excursion – Point 660
Experience one of Greenland's most extraordinary natural wonders on a guided excursion to Point 660, one of the most accessible locations on the edge of the Greenland Ice Sheet. Traveling by specially equipped 4WD vehicle from Kangerlussuaq, you'll journey through a dramatic Arctic landscape of wide glacial valleys, rugged mountains, crystal-clear meltwater streams, and vast stretches of tundra. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating insights into Greenland's geology, wildlife, and the powerful forces that have shaped this remarkable landscape over thousands of years. Keep an eye out for musk oxen, reindeer, Arctic foxes, and a variety of birdlife that inhabit this unique environment.

Upon reaching Point 660, step onto the Greenland Ice Sheet itself—the second-largest body of ice on Earth, covering nearly 80% of the island. Feel the crunch of ancient ice beneath your feet as you stand atop a frozen landscape that, in places, is more than two miles (3 km) thick. Surrounded by an endless expanse of shimmering white, you'll experience the immense scale and breathtaking silence of this UNESCO-recognized natural wonder. Take time to explore the ice, capture unforgettable photographs, and enjoy panoramic views stretching across the Arctic wilderness. Your guide will explain how the ice sheet influences Greenland's climate, glaciers, and fjords, and discuss the ongoing scientific research taking place in this rapidly changing environment.

This unforgettable five-hour adventure offers a rare opportunity to walk on one of the planet's greatest natural treasures and is a highlight of any visit to Greenland.

• Breakfast
• Hotel Kangerlussuaq 3* or similar

After breakfast, fly to Ilulissat, Greenland's most famous destination and home to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ilulissat Icefjord. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel. If your room is not ready, leave your luggage at the hotel and proceed on a guided city walk through this charming town.

Guided Walking Tour of Ilulissat
Discover the charm and history of Ilulissat on a guided walking tour through one of Greenland's most spectacular coastal towns. Located on the shores of Disko Bay and surrounded by thousands of enormous icebergs, Ilulissat is the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ilulissat Icefjord and one of the most fascinating destinations in the Arctic. Stroll through the colorful streets with a local guide who will introduce you to Greenlandic culture, traditions, and everyday life in this unique Arctic community. Learn how Ilulissat developed from a small fishing settlement into one of Greenland's most famous destinations while hearing stories about the people, history, and traditions that shaped the town. The walk includes the historic harbor area, where colorful houses, fishing boats, and traditional Greenlandic sled dogs reflect the close connection between the local community and the sea. Visit important landmarks, including the birthplace and museum dedicated to polar explorer Knud Rasmussen, one of Greenland's most celebrated explorers, and learn about the Inuit heritage that continues to influence life today.

Your guide will share fascinating insights into local customs, fishing and hunting traditions, Greenlandic cuisine, and modern life above the Arctic Circle. Along the way, you'll discover some of the best viewpoints for photographing Ilulissat's breathtaking scenery, including the surrounding mountains, Disko Bay, and the ever-changing landscape of floating icebergs.

In the evening, Experience one of Greenland's most breathtaking natural wonders on an unforgettable boat cruise through the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most spectacular places in the Arctic.

Ilulissat Icefjord Cruise
Depart from the harbor of Ilulissat and sail into Disko Bay, where you will encounter a magnificent world of towering icebergs in every shape and size. These enormous ice sculptures originate from the nearby Sermeq Kujalleq Glacier, one of the fastest-moving glaciers in the world, which produces thousands of tons of ice every day. Carried by ocean currents, the icebergs slowly drift through the fjord before reaching the open waters of Disko Bay.

As you cruise among these floating giants, your experienced captain will navigate close enough to appreciate their incredible size, colors, and formations while maintaining a safe distance. Some icebergs rise more than 300 feet above the water, while much of their mass remains hidden beneath the surface, creating a dramatic and ever-changing Arctic landscape.

The peaceful silence of the fjord, interrupted only by the sounds of cracking ice and the movement of the sea, creates an unforgettable atmosphere. Keep your camera ready for spectacular photographs, and watch for Arctic wildlife such as seabirds, seals, and occasionally whales that visit the rich waters of Disko Bay. A cruise through the Ilulissat Icefjord is a highlight of any Greenland journey—a rare opportunity to witness the power of nature and experience one of the planet's most extraordinary frozen landscapes.

• Breakfast
• Hotel Arctic 4* or similar
• Transfer

Embark on an unforgettable journey to Eqi Glacier, one of Greenland's most spectacular and accessible calving glaciers. Located approximately 50 miles (80 km) north of Ilulissat, this magnificent glacier flows from the Greenland Ice Sheet into the waters of the fjord, creating a dramatic Arctic landscape of towering ice walls, deep blue crevasses, and floating icebergs.

Travel by boat through the breathtaking coastal scenery of Disko Bay, passing colorful settlements, rugged mountains, and countless ice formations along the way. As you approach the glacier front, prepare for one of nature's most impressive displays—the thunderous sound of massive blocks of ice breaking away from the glacier and crashing into the sea.

Spend time near the glacier to admire its immense scale and beauty while your captain positions the boat at a safe distance for excellent views and photography. Your guide will share fascinating information about Greenland's glaciers, the forces that shape this frozen landscape, and the importance of the ice sheet in understanding our changing planet.

The journey to Eqi Glacier is as spectacular as the destination itself, offering panoramic views of Greenland's untouched wilderness and unforgettable opportunities to experience the power and beauty of the Arctic. Keep watch for wildlife along the way, including whales, seals, and seabirds that often inhabit the rich waters of Disko Bay.

A visit to Eqi Glacier is one of Greenland's most memorable experiences—a chance to witness a living glacier in motion and hear the incredible sounds of ice meeting the ocean.

• Breakfast
• Hotel Arctic 4* or similar

Experience two of Ilulissat's most unforgettable Arctic highlights in one remarkable day: the ancient Inuit settlement of Sermermiut and the wildlife-rich waters of Disko Bay.

Sermermiut Hike
Begin your day with a scenic guided hike to Sermermiut, an ancient settlement located on the shores of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ilulissat Icefjord. For more than 4,000 years, different Inuit cultures lived in this remarkable location, drawn by the abundant marine life and the protection offered by the surrounding landscape. Follow the well-maintained boardwalk and trails along the coastline, where breathtaking views of enormous icebergs drifting through the fjord unfold at every turn. Your local guide will share fascinating stories about the people who lived here, their traditions, hunting methods, and their deep connection with the Arctic environment. Along the way, discover archaeological remains and learn how generations of Inuit adapted to life in one of the world's harshest yet most beautiful regions.

Whale Watching Safari
In the afternoon, set out on a whale-watching excursion in the spectacular waters of Disko Bay. During the summer months, humpback whales are frequent visitors, drawn by the rich feeding grounds created by the cold Arctic waters. With their impressive size and graceful movements, these magnificent creatures often provide unforgettable encounters as they surface near the boat. Keep your eyes open for other Arctic wildlife, including minke whales, fin whales, seals, and seabirds that thrive in this unique marine ecosystem. Your experienced captain will navigate carefully to observe the whales responsibly while allowing plenty of opportunities for photography. Combining ancient history, breathtaking landscapes, and Arctic wildlife, this day offers a perfect introduction to the natural and cultural wonders that make Ilulissat one of Greenland's most extraordinary destinations.

• Breakfast
• Hotel Arctic 4* or similar

After breakfast, enjoy some free time around Ilulissat. Then, transfer to Ilulissat Airport for your journey home via Nuuk. Spend your last night in Nuuk.

• Breakfast
• Hotel Hans Egede 4* or similar

In the morning, transfer to the airport . Your Greenland adventure concludes with a truly unforgettable flight from Nuuk to Newark. As you depart Greenland's capital, take one last look at the colorful houses of Nuuk nestled between rugged mountains and the deep blue waters of the fjords. As the aircraft climbs over the coast, Greenland reveals its incredible scale. Below you, a dramatic landscape of endless fjords, snow-covered peaks, glaciers, and untouched wilderness unfolds. Watch as the coastline disappears into a mosaic of islands and ice-filled bays, showcasing the raw beauty of the Arctic. The approximately 4.5-hour flight gives you time to reflect on the experiences of the past week—from standing on the Greenland Ice Sheet in Kangerlussuaq, to sailing among giant icebergs in Ilulissat, to discovering Greenlandic culture and wildlife in Nuuk. A scenic farewell to Greenland—where the views from the airplane window are the perfect final chapter of your Arctic adventure.

• Breakfast
• Transfer