WESTGREENLAND

Day 3 Today, we’ll cross the fjord to Qassiarsuk, formerly known as Brattahlid, the site of Erik the Red’s farmstead and the first Viking settlement in Greenland. This historic area, a cornerstone of the Norse Eastern Settlement, is rich with remarkably preserved ruins, including replicas of a longhouse and a turf church. As we explore, we’ll uncover traces of Norse habitation woven into the modern sheep farming landscape, a testament to 1,000 years of settlement. After visiting the farmstead, we’ll all embark on our first longer hike, enjoying breathtaking views of the fjord and the surrounding timeless landscapes that have inspired generations of explorers. 10 km, ~300m ascent/descent Day 4 It’s time to change basecamp as we take a 1-hour 15-minute flight to Nuuk, Greenland’s capital. With Kallalit Nunaat’s rugged terrain, air and boat travel are the only ways to connect with other cities. After arrival, we’ll have the afternoon to explore Nuuk’s Greenland National Museum, home to the fascinating Qilakitsoq mummies and offering insight into the island’s cultural history. Nuuk stands as a striking blend of the modern and the traditional, offering a unique look at how its people balance progress with preserving their way of life. A stroll through the old harbor reveals colorful houses, the Katuaq Cultural Center, and vibrant art installations. You can also enjoy Arctic-inspired meals in cozy cafes or find scenic viewpoints along the fjord. Nuuk invites us to experience its dynamic mix of history and contemporary culture. ~city stroll Day 5 Our adventure takes us on a stunning day hike. We’ll head northeast from Nuuk toward the beautiful Paradise Valley. From there, we’ll ascend Ukkusissaq, a peak steeped in local legend and natural beauty. According to Inuit mythology, Ukkusissaq is known as the "Mountain of Spirits," where ancient spirits are believed to dwell, watching over the land. The summit offers breathtaking views of the surrounding fjords and the rugged landscape, showcasing the vast, untouched wilderness of Kalaallit Nunaat. We’ll maintain a comfortable pace to manage the elevation, ensuring everyone feels at ease while savoring the stunning surroundings. After enjoying a packed lunch at the summit, we’ll descend and take a shortcut back to civilization, where a taxi will return us to the hotel. 10 km, ~1000m ascent/descent Day 6 This day marks the halfway point of our adventure. We’ll start the day with a guided city walk, where a local guide will help deepen our understanding of the people and their culture. Following the walk, we’ll enjoy a local lunch experience together. The afternoon is then yours to enjoy at your leisure. If kayaking is on your list, we highly recommend doing it today. In the evening, we’ll come together for a delicious, home-cooked dinner. ~city stroll Day 7 Today, we’ll change locations for the second time, doing so in the morning so we’re ready to hop on a tundra safari with Daniel, our local guide. Over the next 3-4 hours, we’ll travel the longest road in Greenland, heading toward the ice sheet. Here, we’ll stop to take in the vast, endless ice stretching as far as the eye can see. Kangerlussuaq is also known for its unique fauna, so keep your eyes peeled for reindeer, musk oxen, and Arctic hares. In the evening, we’ll visit the iconic Dogtown—many towns in this region feature these remarkable sights, adding to the charm of the area. ~ice shield stroll Day8 On this Day, we start a true adventure with a ride across town and the dusty road leading up to Lake Ferguson. If the pedalos are available, we’ll board them for a scenic ride across the lake, adding a refreshing water experience to our journey. After about an hour on the water, we’ll continue with an hour hike to Granatfjeldet (Garnet Mountain). Once we arrive, the real excitement begins—hunting for garnet gems amidst the rugged terrain. Take your time to search for these beautiful red stones, connecting with the land in a truly hands-on way. Also, keep an eye out—musk oxen are often seen in the area. After a rewarding day, we’ll return to "civilization" for the evening. 16km, ~150m ascent/descent Day 9 Our journey takes us to Ilulissat today, marking the final change of location. For the grand finale of our adventure, we’ll fly to the world-famous Disko Bay. A charming AirBnB will be our home for the next few days. After settling in, we’ll embark on an afternoon hike along the Icefjord, just past the Icefjord Centre. As we traverse the shoreline, we’ll be left speechless by the breathtaking sight of icebergs filling the fjord as far as the eye can see. If we’re incredibly lucky, a whale may even swim by, adding an extra touch of magic to the experience. 7 km, ~50m ascent/descent Day 10 Today, our local guide, Jan, takes us on a thrilling whale safari. The next four hours will leave a lasting impression as we venture into the rich waters of Disko Bay, surrounded by breathtaking icebergs. Here, we’ll encounter whales that have traveled thousands of kilometers to feast on the abundant plankton. With a bit of luck, we may even have the chance for close-up encounters with these magnificent creatures. In the afternoon, small hikes invite us to explore what Ilulissat has to offer. We’ll end the day with a shared dinner, reflecting on the experiences of this remarkable place. ~village stroll Day 11 On our final full day, we embark on a hike to the nearby village of Oqaatsut. This day trip offers breathtaking views of Disko Bay and almost guarantees additional whale sightings along the way. We’ll enjoy a picnic together on the trail before arriving at the small village. After exploring the charming houses, we’ll meet Jan once more, who will take us fishing for Arctic cod. Once we’ve had our fill of fishing, we’ll head to his nearby piece of land. Here, we’ll celebrate the end of our journey with a “kaffemik”, a traditional local gathering, and enjoy a barbecue featuring the fish we just caught. We’ll return to Ilulissat by boat, taking in the stunning scenery one last time. 15-18 km, ~230m ascent/descent (can be shortened on request). Day 12 Saturday morning marks the end of our journey together. You’re welcome to use the lodge until 12:00, giving you time to relax, reflect, and savor your final moments in Ilulissat. As we bid each other farewell, we take with us not only memories of breathtaking landscapes and shared adventures but also the warmth of new connections made along the way. Until we meet again—happy trails!