A UNESCO World Heritage site, Ilulissat Icefjord provides a constant spectacular backdrop, of enormous icebergs lined up at the mouth of the fjord to Disko Bay. It's also a place where the sled dogs outnumber the local population and where you can also experience the Midnight Sun, inland ice, and calving glaciers. The short and intense summer months of July and August offer opportunities to witness an array of Arctic flora dazzle in an explosion of colour across the landscapes. Picturesque hiking trails, sailing and iceberg trips are some of the highlights of a summer in Greenland.
Greenland in Summer: Icebergs, Whale Watching & the Midnight Sun
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At a glance…
Experience natural beauty of Ilulissat, from giant glaciers to abundant wildlife under the glow of the Midnight Sun
» 7 day tailor-made holiday
» Accommodation: Superior A higher standard of accommodation with a better range and quality of facilities, often in a good location (typically 4 stars)
» Price from: £3,335 pp incl. flights
Day by day itinerary
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Day 1 » Fly to Copenhagen
Depart London Heathrow and arrive at Copenhagen. Check into your hotel, conveniently attached to the airport's terminal and just 15 minutes from the city centre via metro. The hotel provides the perfect base to explore the city in the evening before continuing with your onward journey tomorrow.
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Day 2 » Welcome to Ilulissat
After an early breakfast, catch your flight to Ilulissat, on the west coast of Greenland. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, the town is renowned for its outstanding natural beauty and prominent icebergs. The flight enables you to take in the magnificent Arctic landscape, the barren wilderness, and the magnitude of the Inland Ice Cape. On arrival take the Hotel Arctic transfer bus to your hotel, where a local guide awaits to brief you about the city, the area, dining and excursion possibilities.
We have included an easy guided walking tour of the town where you can begin to absorb some of the history of this 18th century trading post and enjoy its sedentary vibe against the backdrop of the unmissable icefjord. Later this evening, enjoy a welcome dinner in the restaurant at the Hotel Arctic.
Stay: Hotel Arctic, Ilulissat
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 3 » Hiking, Sled Dogs & Icebergs
Enjoy breakfast before enjoying a guided walk to Sermermiut – the 4,000-year-old settlement at the Ice Fjord – as you admire the spectacular, constant icebergs floating by, before hearing about Inuit life and traditions. In the afternoon, get acquainted with Greenlandic sled dogs, an integral part of the local culture. Meet these hard-working animals and hear fascinating stories about their role in the Arctic.
Later this evening, we've included an unforgettable boat trip out to the Ilulissat Icefjord – an absolute must on any Greenlandic adventure – where you'll witness massive icebergs calving from the impressive glacier. You’ll get close up to these majestic natural phenomena, and in the middle of the bright Arctic summer, this sight will leave you speechless. Back at the hotel, enjoy dinner at Hotel Arctic (pay locally) or venture back into town for more culinary adventures.
Stay: Hotel Arctic, Ilulissat
Meals: Breakfast
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Day 4 » Experience Eqi – the calving glacier
The Eqi Glacier, a sight to behold, spills into the fjord 80 kilometres north of Ilulissat. Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of massive icebergs, reaching heights of 100m above the waters surface, calving into the water, accompanied by thunderous sounds. Today, your excursion takes you there in modern boats, passing through Bredebugt, the settlement of Oqaatsut and the big fjord system called Pakitsoq, where whales and seals often are seen. Enjoy a delicious lunch while observing the glacier's activity. The sounds are loud, and the sight of the ice crashing into the water is breathtaking.
The length of the boat trip to and from the glacier can last between 2 – 5 hours each way. It depends on the boat used on the given day. Speak with our experts if you wish to overnight at Eqi Glacier or Ilimanaq Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast
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Day 5 » Whale watching
Getting close to the majestic whales is an overwhelming experience, and Greenland’s waters are home to around 15 species of these incredible creatures. During the summer months, the humpback, fin, and minke whales are the most commonly seen. Today, you'll embark on a thrilling boat tour through Disko Bay aboard a fast Targa vessel, increasing your chances of encountering these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Local fishermen, experts in spotting whales, will guide your expedition, ensuring an unforgettable journey.
The rest of the day and evening is at your leisure. Speak with our specialists if you wish to plan further excursions including kayaking or a helicopter flight.
Stay: Hotel Arctic, Ilulissat
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
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Day 6 » Return to Copenhagen
After an incredible few days, it's time to say goodbye to Ilulissat and Greenland. Depart for Copenhagen via Nuuk, returning to the same airport hotel for an overnight stay. Enjoy the evening at your leisure before your flight back to the UK the next day.
Stay: Clarion Hotel Copenhagen Airport
Meals: Breakfast
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Day 7 » Departure
Fly home to the UK or extend your stay in the Danish capital – contact us for ideas and inspiration on what to do in this fantastic city.
Meals: Breakfast
To book call us on:
At a glance…
Experience natural beauty of Ilulissat, from giant glaciers to abundant wildlife under the glow of the Midnight Sun
» 7 day tailor-made holiday
» Accommodation: Superior A higher standard of accommodation with a better range and quality of facilities, often in a good location (typically 4 stars)
» Price from: £3,335 pp incl. flights
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