Greenland Winter Wonders: Nuuk to Ilulissat

Fly from Copenhagen direct to Nuuk with Air Greenland. On arrival transfer to the Hotel Hans Egede Express and check in for a two-night stay. Attend a welcome meeting and head out on boat trip through the Nuuk Fjord, the second largest fjord system in the world, offering stunning views of rugged mountains towering above the sea. As you sail past Nuuk, you'll gain a new perspective on the city's size. Along the way, admire beautiful icebergs and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. Keep an eye out for wildlife as the boat approaches Sermitsiaq, one of Nuuk’s most famous landmarks.

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Today, enjoy a two-hour walking tour of Nuuk including a visit to the Greenland National Museum to see artifacts from various time periods. Pass by historic sites such as Hans Egede’s house and wooden church of Our Saviour. Visit the traditional market at ‘Kalaaliaraq’ selling locally caught fish and other goods. Finish the tour at Greenland’s government buildings and the Cultural Centre Katuaq. (B)

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Today fly north to Ilulissat on a short flight offering stunning views of Greenland's icy landscape. On approach, the town appears amidst the snow-covered peaks, with colourful houses standing out against the stark backdrop. Prepare for days filled with ice, winter activities, and cultural experiences in this traditional Greenlandic town. After check in and a welcome meeting enjoy a guided tour of Ilulissat. Founded in 1741, it is the third largest town in Greenland with over 4,500 inhabitants. On this tour learn about the town’s history with stops at the church and the birthplace of the renowned Polar explorer Knud Rasmussen. In the evening head away from the town lights into the deep darkness for the best chance to see the Aurora Borealis. Your guide will explain the phenomenon as you enjoy a hot drink under the stars. From late January to March, the tour uses a snowcat for travel into the wilderness. (B,D)

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This morning start your day with a gentle hike to the abandoned settlement of Sermermiut, located 1.5km south of Ilulissat. Beautiful iceberg vistas set the scene for this historic site where various Inuit cultures lived for 4,000 years. Hear stories about the indigenous people's life and traditions before European colonisation. Explore the ruins and enjoy the magnificent views of the Ice Fjord before heading back.
In the afternoon, embark on a traditional dog sled ride, a thousand-year-old Inuit tradition. Experience the thrill of riding a simply constructed wooden sled pulled by a pack of enthusiastic dogs. This excursion usually takes place on flat terrain near Ilulissat. (B)

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Today enjoy a boat trip among the colossal icebergs of Ilulissat. Witness the daily spectacle of more than 40 million tons of ice flowing into the fjord. These floating giants, sometimes over 100m wide and tall, gather at the end of the fjord, providing a breathtaking scene as you cruise among them. This exceptional experience is a must for every visitor to Ilulissat. (B)
For another unforgettable Greenland experience – opt to spend a night in an igloo*. Enjoy an hour snowcat ride out to the hinterland of Ilulissat. Sleep in real igloos with reindeer pelts and warm winter sleeping bags. The lodge features five spacious igloos, each accommodating two people, and a wooden cabin for meals and bathroom facilities.
*Please note that the order of excursions will be amended as dog sledding takes place from the Igloo Lodge, please contact us for details and supplement.

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Today meet Greenland’s iconic sled dogs on this outdoor guided tour and discover their vital role in Arctic life on a 90 minute excursion. Learn about their cultural importance, traditional uses in transport and hunting, and how they remain essential in today’s remote communities. With the owner’s permission, meet selected dogs up close, explore traditional sledding gear, and gain a deeper understanding of this unique bond between humans and animals. An authentic, family-friendly experience. The rest of the day is free for you relax or book other excursions such as a three-hour snowshoe hike. (B)

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Explore the town of Ilulissat further and visit the Icefjord Centre – an impressive building inspired by a snowy owl landing on a mountain. Here, learn about the history of ice, local culture and climate change. Perhaps book other activities such as a three-hour snowmobile excursion. (B)

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After breakfast, transfer to the airport for the flight back to Copenhagen. (B)