Winter Adventure Greenland

Explore the unparalleled magic of Greenland, the land of ice, in the winter. Observe the dancing Northern Lights, discover snowmobiling and go snowshoeing on Greenlands ice sheet... Immerse yourself in a rustic Inuit world far from the stresses of modern day life and discover the ultimate Greenlandic Winter Adventure. You expert guide will lead you on the adventure of a lifetime...

Itinerary

  • Day 1 Ilulissat

    Ilulissat Welcome to Greenland! We will greet you at the airport and escort you to your accommodation in the centre of Ilulissat. Located approximately 220 miles north of the Arctic Circle Ilulissat is an interesting place - it has many sled dogs as people! Discover more about the local culture, history and traditions on a walking tour of this iconic Greenlandic city.

    Accommodation: Guesthouse or youth hostel
    Activities: Free walking tour

  • Day 2 The frozen fjord

    The frozen fjord This morning the adventure begins, we get kitted up and set off into the Greenlandic winter wilderness. We make our way by snowmobile through remarkable scenery and arrive at our basecamp for the next few days, camping under a tent in a second-to-none location, not far from the glacial front and ice sheet.

    Activities: 2 hours snowshoeing
    Accommodation: Camping

  • Day 3 Snowshoeing on the ice sheet

    Snowshoeing on the ice sheet Today we are off on a snowshoeing adventure! We will start from our basecamp and take the day to fully explore the magical world of ice around us. We can search for seals basking in the sun and playing among the icebergs and immerse ourselves in this remote area with its fascinating history and geography.

    Activities: 6 hours of snowshoeing
    Accommodation: Camping

  • Days 4 to 5 Snowshoeing the summits and the unbelievable ice-cap !

    Snowshoeing the summits and the unbelievable ice-cap ! Having mastered show-shoeing techniques yesterday, today’s snowshoeing adventure promises to be a little more challenging as we head upwards in search of breathtaking views. Enjoy more days in this untouched wilderness with spectacular scenes of fjords, icebergs and the ice sheet. If the ice allows it (day 5), we will progress for a few hours on the ice cap overlooking Greenland as many explorers before us, including the famous Paul Emile Victor. Last night camping under the tent before heading back to Ilulissat for the next adventure.

    Activities: 5 hours of snowshoeing per day (+400m)
    Accommodation: Camping

  • Day 6 Snowshoes and snowmobile adventure

    Snowshoes and snowmobile adventure This morning we can enjoy a final short hike on the ice sheet before taking to snowmobiles for a new adventure. Like dog-sledding, snowmobiling is a way of life for some Greenlanders, your normal commute may feel a little underwhelming after trying this traditional transportation method! This afternoon we will fly through stunning Greenlandic scenery back to Ilulissat.

    Activities: 2 to 4 hours of snowshoeing / 2 hour of snowmobiling
    Accommodation: Guesthouse

  • Day 7 Snowshoeing in Ilulissat Icefjord UNESCO World Heritage Site

    Snowshoeing in Ilulissat Icefjord UNESCO World Heritage Site Today we strap on our snowshoes for a hike to the famous icefjord in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ilulissat Icejford is home to one of the largest glaciers in the northern hemisphere and it is mesmerising watching hundreds of icebergs break free and pile up in the fjord before drifting into the ocean. Discover the ancient archaeological site of Sermermiut Valley: abandoned since 1850 the old Inuit settlement was used by Saqqaq, Early Dorset, and Thule cultures. Explore in this frozen paradise with its huge ice cathedrals before a chance to enjoy a traditional evening meal in a local restaurant to uncover Greenlands culinary specialities.

    Activities: 4-5 hours of snowshoeing (+300m)
    Optional activities: Traditional Greenlandic meal in a local restaurant, payable locally
    Accommodation: Guesthouse

  • Day 8 Ilulissat & flight home

    Ilulissat & flight home Spend your final morning in Greenland exploring the vibrant, cultural town of Ilulissat at leisure. You can stroll through the town, visit a museum and discover local artists and their sculptures before your flight home. We have lots of suggestions for your last morning in Greenland.

    Optional activities: Ilulissat museum

Please note that this itinerary, including walking distances and times, is indicative. Our guides aim to provide the adventure that is best suited to the weather, your interests and the demands of the group. Please be aware that in order to achieve this, changes to the programme may be made.

Other trips you may like

Cross country skiing in Greenland
Disko Bay Cross Country Skiing Expedition: This expedition can be done on snowshoes instead of skis.A unique chance to experience Greenlands truly remarkable winter wilderness and to discover the highlights of the iconic Disko Bay area. Join us on a snowy adventure in a land of ice and granite peaks...

Dates & prices

International departures:

No departure for now

Trip code: GROWR10

Included

  • All in-country transfers as detailed in itinerary
  • Guesthouse or youth hostel accommodation in Ilulissat
  • Three nights of camping 
  • Full board (except the final dinner)
  • Full supervision by a qualified expert guide
  • All shared and technical equipment needed
  • Snowmobiling
  • Guided snow-shoe hikes in some of the most spectacular destinations in the world

Not included

  • Registration fee: €18 (free for under 12s)
  • International flights
  • Insurance 

Optional activities
Please let us know if you would like to reserve any of the following optional activities:
  • Ilulissat Museum: from €8
  • Greenlandic meal in traditional restaurant: from €30

Notes

Comfort - 1/5 Basic
We love our back to basics no frills accommodation options which enable us to get close to nature. Examples of 1/5 comfort accommodation include camping under the tent.
This trip also includes local guesthouse or youth hostel accommodation in Ilulissat.

Level - 1/5 Easy
Normally our ‘easy’ trips involve less than 6 hours of activity per day, no previous experience in the activity/activities is required and time to relax and unwind is included - accessible to all people in fair health with a sense of adventure and a positive attitude. Please note that our difficulty ratings may vary depending on the weather.

Terms and conditions

Booking conditions

Booking a trip with Altai Greenland implies acceptance of the terms and conditions of sale. Each customer is required to complete a registration form and, subject to availability at the time of registration, travellers are expected to pay a deposit of 30% of the total price to complete their booking. Payments can be made online or by bank transfer. You will receive an e-mail with your booking confirmation.

Invoice procedure

Once your booking is confirmed you will receive an invoice by e-mail. The full balance of the trip must be received at least 30 days before your departure date. We reserve the right to cancel your booking, free of charge, if this deadline is not respected.

Cancellation policy

If for any reason you have to cancel your trip, Altai Greenland requires written confirmation of your decision. The money you have paid will then be refunded according to the following deductions:
  • Cancellation received more than 30 days prior to the departure date: a sum of €50 per person will be retained
  • Cancellation received 30 to 21 days before the departure date: your deposit, 30% of the total trip price will be retained
  • Cancellation received 20 to 14 days before the departure date: 50% of the total trip price will be retained
  • Cancellation received 13 to 7 days before the departure date: 75% of the total trip price will be retained
  • Cancellation received less than 7 days before the departure date: 100% of the total trip price will be retained

Special cases:
Please note that, regardless of the date of cancellation or modification if you have agreed to pay for services such as hotel reservations, flights or additional activities, these services are usually non-refundable so additional fees may apply.
Fixed airfares: if your airline ticket was issued in advance, often done to avoid significant surcharges, you will be charged 100% of any non-refundable fees if you wish to change or cancel your flight plan.
Fixed in-country costs: early charges for firm bookings will be charged if you cancel or modify your trip.Insurance costs: if you have taken out comprehensive or cancellation insurance, the cost of insurance is due and cannot be refunded.

Please note that fees apply according to the date we receive your cancellation or modification request in writing.

If we have to cancel a departure due to an insufficient number of participants, you will be informed no later than 21 days before departure and a full refund will be issued, you will not be entitled to further compensation. We reserve the rights to cancel departures due to exceptional circumstances which may impact the safety of participants. Such circumstances include those amounting to 'force majeure' in which case participants will receive a full refund but they will not be entitled to any compensation.

Changes to travel contract

If you wish to make a change to your booking please contact Altai Greenland in writing; you will be expected to pay any fee which might arise from this change. In the event of unforeseen external events, Altaï Greenland may change some aspects of the travel contract. If any changes are necessary you will be informed as quickly as possible.

Pricing

The prices on our website are updated regularly and all of the prices we advertise are accurate when published. We reserve the rights to make changes to any of these prices. Before you make a booking we will give you the up-to-date price of your chosen holiday including any supplements, upgrades or additional activities you may have requested. If the number of travellers is fewer than the indicated number of participants on the website, a small group surcharge may be applied. For all of our trips we include details of services, prices and what is/is not included but please be aware that changes to the prices may be necessary in accordance with exchange rates or price changes of various components of the journey.

Contract transfer

If you are unable to travel for any reason, you can transfer your booking to another person in which case our modification conditions apply. Both the transferor and transferee will be jointly and severally liable for payment of the total holiday price and other associated expenses. Some airline carriers treat name changes as cancellations and you may be required to pay for the cost of a new ticket.

Practical info

Staff

You will be welcomed at the airport by a representative from our friendly team and accompanied for the duration of your holiday. Armed with an abundance of experience and a wealth of expert knowledge our professional Greenland team know the country inside out. All activities are lead by our qualified guides. They are all English speaking outdoor practitioners with a passion for everything Greenlandic. Please note that this adventure takes place in an isolated polar environment which can be hostile - your guide will explain safety rules which must be followed.

Food

This trip includes full board except one final evening meal - we are proud of the varied, fresh and frankly delicious food we provide. Meals are based on a selection of local products and you will have the opportunity to try Greenlandic delicacies such as cod, arctic char and mussels.

Each day will start with a hearty breakfast accompanied by plenty of tea and coffee. Then you will prepare your own picnic lunch for the day from a buffet style array of options - everyday there will definitely be sandwiches, hot drinks and cakes among the other options. Each evening meal will include three courses- we try to offer fresh fruit and vegetables everyday but this is not always possible in Greenland!

Your help in the kitchen is expected and much appreciated, particularly in the evenings. We like when the whole group work as a team to cook dinner, it creates a pleasant atmosphere as we reflect on the days adventures together.
Please let us know about any dietary requirements when you book the trip and we will work with you to cater for your needs.

Accommodation

In Ilulissat we use local guesthouse or hostel accommodation with shared facilities. This trip also includes three nights of camping under a tent. We provide quality 3 man dome tents, 1 per 2 people for maximum space and comfort plus a spacious fully equipped mess tent complete with a table and stools for communal moments and mealtimes. 

Budget & exchange

The currency in Greenland is the Danish Krone (DKK)
Please budget for a meal in Ilulissat (200-500DKK). Alcohol is very expensive in Greenland, if you want to enjoy an evening drink after your days adventures, we recommend buying Duty Free alcohol in the airport but please be aware that you will have to carry whatever you buy with you for the duration of the trip.

Supplied equipment

We provide you with all of the technical equipment you will need for this adventure including:
  • A warm sleeping bag (comfort -25°C/-13°F)
  • A thermal sleeping mat
  • Quality snowshoes
  • Warm snow boots - Sorel glacier boots
  • A quality winter jacket and overtrousers
  • All cooking equipment
  • Pulks

Vital equipment

  • At least 3 sets of good thermals - top & long johns, one for activities, one spare set and one pair for sleeping in
  • A ski mask (essential)
  • A warm wind and waterproof jacket
  • Suitable warm  trousers - windproof ski style, soft shell or fleece lined mountaineering trousers are ideal
  • Suitable underwear, t-shirts and walking trousers
  • Warm jumper(s) and jacket(s)
  • Sunglasses (UV 400)
  • Sun cream for face and lips (not water based, water freezes)
  • A headtorch and spare batteries
  • Thick socks
  • Gloves - multiple pairs of under and over gloves
  • A warm hat
  • A balaclava
  • Appropriate neck wear like a warm buff
  • Any personal medication
  • Towel & toiletries
  • A thermos/suitable water bottle
  • A sleeping bag liner

Material

We prefer that you do not wear cotton clothing, including underwear, when participating in activities. When cotton gets wet from water or sweat it ceases to insulate and it does not dry fast. The best materials for outdoor activities are fast drying materials like polyester or materials which are warm when wet like wool. The most powerful materials against the wind and rain are 'breathable' materials like Gore-Tex or Nikwax.

Our advice for keeping warm
Winter in Greenland can be very cold, please think carefully about what clothes you bring, although we will provide warm outer layers, the layers you wear next to your skin make the biggest difference. We recommend:
  • No cotton
  • Bring dry spares of everything, even underwear and gloves
  • Wear multiple layers including:
    1. A warm breathable base layer
    2. A second thermal layer
    3. Wind and waterproof protective out layer (we provide a quality jacket and over trousers for when you are snowmobiling)

Helpful equipment

You may also consider packing
  • A pair of warm comfortable boots for the evenings (in addition to the boots provided)
  • Overgloves
  • An extra jumper/fleece jacket
  • Energy bars
  • Wetwipes
  • Blister plasters 
  • A suitable camera
  • Plastic bags for wet/dirty clothing
  • A small inflatable pillow

Luggage

Please bring a small rucksack to use as a day bag. You can bring this as hand luggage on the aeroplane. You will carry your lunch, water, spare layers and any personal medication with you each day in this bag. You will also need a larger bag to store your other clothes and belongings in, please ensure that this is a soft bag like a ruckack or holdall rather than a hard cased suitcase because it is more practical. We recommend packing all of your clothes in plastic bags so that they stay dry in the event of bad weather.

Medicine

Your guide is a trained first-aider and will carry a full first aid kit at all times during the trip. We recommend that you bring a small personal first aid kit containing any medication you may need such as inhalers, plasters, antiseptic and painkillers.

Passport

Most travellers require a passport that is valid for at least three months after the return date. It is your responsibility to confirm your specific passport requirements and please be aware that proof of onwards travel may be required.

Visa

Most travellers do not need a VISA to travel to Greenland but proof of onwards travel may be required. It is your responsibility to confirm your specific visa requirements.

Mandatory vaccines

There are no specific health risks.

Health information & recommendations

It is your responsibility to check that your personal health insurance covers everything in this trip. A consultation with your doctor is a prerequisite for any trip.

Weather

Year round the temperatures in Greenland can range from -30°C to more than 20°C (-22°F to +68°F). Generally speaking Greenland is not very windy and we can anticipate calm weather but perhaps with snow showers and sleet. Near the ice sheet temperatures can be very cold and there can be gusts of wind of up to 15 miles per hour. The air is low in humidity which means that the temperatures do not feel as cold as you might imagine and that the views are amazing, it appears that you can see further.

The length of the day varies significantly throughout the year. The shortest day of the year is 21st December with no sunlight! The longest day, with 24 hours of sunlight, is 20th June. During March and April we can expect 16-20 hours of daylight. You can see the midnight sun from May - July and the Northern Lights year round when is is dark.

Electricity

Greenland uses Northern European electrical standards (50Hz/220 volts)  and the standard Europlug socket with two round prongs.

Local time

Most of Greenland uses Coordinated Universal Time (UTC)/ Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) -3; most areas use Daylight Saving Time (DST).

Topography

Area: 836,300 mi²
Population: 56,186 inhabitants (2016)
Capital: Nuuk
Languages: Kalaallisut or West Greenlandic, Danish is also widely used
Regime: Part of the Kingdom of Denmark but politically autonomous

Part of the continent of North America, Greenland is the largest island on Earth and it is covered by the largest ice sheet in the world outside of antarctica.

Sustainable tourism

As adventure and wilderness travel experts who run trips to some of the most remote parts of the world, we take responsible tourism very seriously.

We respect the ‘Leave No Trace’ outdoor ethical code and try to explore this beautiful location whilst causing minimal environmental damage.

The Leave No Trace policy can be summarized in 7 simple steps which we hope you will follow during ourtrip...
  1. Be prepared
  2. Stick to trails and camp overnight right
  3. Stash your trash and pick up waste
  4. Leave it as you find it
  5. Be careful with fire
  6. Respect wildlife
  7. Be considerate of other visitors

Over the years we have built up good relations with our local suppliers and we are keen to support local businesses as much as possible. We are a small company and we pay our local partners and suppliers directly insuring fair rates.

Our small group sizes not only provide a more intimate adventure but also cause less impact on the environment and local communities.

We expect all who travel with us to support and uphold our Sustainable Tourism philosophies.
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Region
Disko Bay
Activity
Northern lights Snowshoeing Winter
Duration
8 days
Group
4 to 8 people
Code
GROWR10
Price
From €2,995
Level
1/5
Comfort
1/5
Language(s)
English

Strengths

  • Every night we will hunt for the Northern Lights in an area renowned for its isolation and dancing light displays
  • Everyday we will try a different winter activity like snowmobiling or snow-shoeing
  • Join us for snowmobiling through the wilderness and snowshoeing on Greenlands ice sheet

Required level

This trip is accessible to anyone in fair health with a sense of adventure and a positive attitude. We will do 4-6 hours of activity per day, no previous experience of our activities is necessary: if you can walk, you can snow-shoe. Please note that your help with tasks like cooking is much appreciated and expected - we want you to be a part of our team; not just a sheep!

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