Trekking in the Great East of Greenland

Join us on an exceptional wilderness immersion adventure in the most isolated and mountainous part of Greenland. During this 9 day trek we venture deep into the untouched land of rugged peaks and giant iceberg-filled fjords. Our carefully planned itinerary combines hiking with boat trips to fully explore this spectacular area from icebergs and whales to tundra fields and ridges...

Itinerary

Day 1 Welcome to Greenland!

We will greet you at the airport and entertain you with tales of local myths and legends as we journey to our camping location for the night. A short cruise on a small boat among icebergs through the distinctive narrow fjord Ikaasatsivaq to Ammassalik will lead us to a cosy secluded bay where we will set up camp. We will spend two nights here nestled into the rugged landscape with spectacular views of Icebergs and sharp peaks.

Accommodation: Camping
Day 2 Ikaasatsivaq Fjord

Today we will explore the untamed wilderness surrounding our basecamp. We will walk in the glacial valley and a short off-trail climb will lead us to stunning views of the geographical features that characterize this remote area. Observe the local wildlife, discover Arctic vegetation and learn about the history of the area before heading back to camp to help prepare a delicious meal.

Accommodation: Camping Walking time: 5 hrs
Day 3 Amitsvartivit Peaks

Time to say goodbye to our home for the last two nights and head to a new campsite at the foot of the dramatic Amitsvartivit Fjord. Our walk today has stunning views and a short climb will give us a first sighting of the breathtaking Sermilik Fjord with its thousands of icebergs. Keep your eyes open for local wildlife as we journey deeper into the captivating landscape of Eastern Greenland.

Accommodation: Camping walking time: 7 hrs
Day 4 Amitsvartivit - Parmagaji

The walk from Amitsvartivit to Parmagaji provides a unique insight into Inuit culture and a chance to further explore the changing landscape around us. Today we will journey through a beautiful valley with un-spoilt lakes and stunning mountainous views to a traditional Inuit hunters hut. Tonight we will set up camp on the edge of Sermilik Fjord - a location second to none!

Accommodation: Camping Walking time: 5 hrs
Days 5 to 6 Sermilik Fjord

Two days in the vast and magical area of Sermilik Fjord with plenty of options. Maybe you just want to sit and watch the icebergs float by or perhaps you want to embark on a more challenging adventure. There are lots of possibilities including beautiful short walks and day hikes in the surrounding mountains as well as the opportunity to cross the Igassalak valley and get close to the glacial tongue. The next two days are an opportunity to explore this spectacular location however you wish with help from our knowledgeable guides.

Accommodation: Camping Walking time: 6 hrs
Day 7 Tinitequilaq - Crossing the Icefjord Sermelik - Peterson Fiord

We dismantle the camp, then board towards the Inuit village of Tinitequilaq (150 inhabitants). Located on a point, this isolated traditional village with its brightly coloured wooden houses has an undeniable charm.
We then cross the Sermilik Fiord to reach our bivouac site in Peterson Fiord. This crossing is a highlight of the trip as our pilot waves between icebergs and ice sheets to get closer to the ice cap and its huge glaciers continuously pouring icebergs into the fjord. It is a privileged opportunity to observe the marine fauna. Installation of the camp for 3 nights facing the ice sheet.

Accommodation: Camping
Days 8 to 9 Johan Peterson Fjord

We discover the wild and isolated Johan Peterson Fiord on foot, sometimes by the seaside to observe icebergs and whales, sometimes by the peaks to get closer to the glaciers. From the summits, the view is extraordinary. We dominate the entire fjord and the view of the polar cap is incredible. We are in a world marked by ice and rock and only the whales that pass in front of our camp disturb the tranquility of this place.

Accommodation: Camping Walking time: 5 hrs
Day 10 Johan Peterson Fjord - Ikateq - Tasiilaq

We embark to Ikateq, an Inuit village now abandoned and frozen in the past, where we stop if conditions allow, before reaching the colourful village of Tasilaaq (Angmassalik), the capital of the Angmassalik district. It is not uncommon during this navigation to meet humpback whales, as well as whales

Accommodation: Camping
Day 11 Tasiilaq - hiking in the Valley of Flowers

Discovery of the village of Tasiilaq, where Paul Emile Victor spent his first winter in 1934. Then we will hike in the valley of flowers that dominates this village at the end of the world. Last night camping in Greenland.

Accommodation: Camping Walking time: 4 hrs
Day 12 Helicopter flight to Kulusuk and Farewell Greenland

Early morning tidying up of the camp and then we board for a spectacular helicopter flight over the icebergs towards Kulusu.
Helicopter flight is subject to availability upon confirmation of travel. If there is no more availability, the transfer will be made by boat.
From Kulusuk airport onwards tavel home layover in Nuuk, Greenland or Reykjavik (Iceland) (flights not included)

The details in this programme are updated regularly but imponderables and unpredictable circumstances may result in inaccuracies. In order to provide the adventure which is best suited to your demands, the weather and the operational conditions, changes to the itinerary may be made. For safety reasons, we reserve the rights to interrupt your participation at any time if your technical level or fitness is deemed unsuitable or if you are seen as a danger to yourself or to those around you. This will in no case give rise to refunds or compensation.

Other trips you may like

From Kangerlussuaq to Disko Island: Discover West Greenland, a beautiful area where whales, musk-ox and icebergs frequent. Visit the ice cap, spend a night in a chalet facing Eqi Glacier and cruise through whale and ice filled waters on local boats. This trip has been designed so that you can go hiking and explore the highlights of Disko Bay and the Polar Cap as you wish.

Dates & prices

International departures:

No departure for now

Departures for French-speaking groups:

No departure for now

Trip code: EGRO

Included

All in-country transfers as detailed in itinerary
Accommodation as detailed in itinerary
Full board (except the last evening meals)
Full supervision by a qualified expert guide
Two scenic boat trips with a chance to see whales
Guided hikes in one of the most remote and inaccessible locations in the world
Two days to fully explore the famous Sermilik Fjord
Free walking tours of Inuit settlements and Kulusuk
All technical camping equipment

Not included

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

Notes

For many years, we put our know-how and our experience of nature and adventure travel in Greenland to the service of travelers from different horizons. You may find yourself in an international group with participants from our various partners.

Comfort - 1/5 Camping

We provide a 3 man dome tent per 2 people for maximum space and comfort. For our basecamps we set up a fully equipped mess tent for meal times, including a table and stools. We are proud of our high quality camping equipment and take care to monitor and store everything correctly. This trip also includes cabin accommodation with shared sleeping arrangements and facilities.

Level - 4/5 Demanding

You should be in good physical shape and prepared for adventure; a positive attitude and love of the outdoors is essential. Please note that our difficulty ratings may vary depending on the weather. Physically you should be able to participate in 4-7 hours of hiking per day. This is a camping adventure and please note that your help with tasks like cooking is much appreciated and expected - we want you to be a part of our team.

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 - we are proud of the varied, fresh and frankly delicious food we provide even when camping. 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 help prepare and carry a own picnic lunch for the day featuring an array of options - everyday there will definitely be salad, 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 in spite of our Northern location.

Please note that 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

Wild Camping

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.

This trip also includes a night in basic cabin accommodation with shared facilities.

Transportation

In Greenland we use local boats, specially adapted for ice navigation, to cross fjords.

Budget & exchange

The currency in Greenland is the Danish Krone (DKK)

Please budget for meals in Kulusuk (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.

Tips

Although the custom is not widespread here, if you are satisfied with the services of your guide, tipping is always appreciated - it is not obligatory and should be left to the discretion of each individual.

Supplied equipment

We provide you with the technical equipment you will need for this adventure including:

3 man dome tents (1 per 2 people for maximum space and comfort)
Self-inflating sleeping mat
A mess tent with table, stools and cooking equipment

Vital equipment

Sleeping bag (comfort 0°C)
Walking boots (sturdy, ankle support, vibram soles)
Waterproof jacket (with a hood)
Waterproof trousers
A warm jumper or two
Suitable underwear, t-shirts and walking trousers
Thermals - tops & long johns
A swimsuit
Warm gloves and hat (even in the summer - evenings can be chilly)
Sunhat and sun cream
Sunglasses (UV 400)
Any personal medication
Fast drying towel & toiletries
Water bottle(s) min 2L
A small rucksack to use as a day bag
Warm pyjamas
Head torch & spare batteries (although it is nearly always light in the summer months)

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

It can be cold in Greenland, please think carefully about what clothes you bring, the layers you wear next to your skin make the biggest difference. We recommend wearing multiple layers including:

A warm breathable base layer
A second thermal layer
Wind and waterproof protective outer layers

Helpful equipment

You may also consider packing

Your camera
Binoculars
A notepad and pencil
A thermos flask
Plastic bags for wet/dirty clothing
A comfortable evening outfit
Walking poles
Inflatable pillow
Insect repellant
Blister plasters
Tissues

Luggage

Please bring a small rucksack to use as a day bag - you will carry your lunch, water, spare layers and any personal medication with you each day when hiking. You will also need a larger bag to store your other clothes and belongings in, please ensure that this is a soft, easy to transport back like a ruckack. You will have to carry this bag for several metres when setting up camps. We recommend packing all of your clothes in plastic bags so that they stay dry in the event of wet 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 -25°C to more than 20°C (-13°F to +68°F). 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. Generally speaking Greenland is not very windy and the warmest months are June - August.

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. You can see the midnight sun from May - July and the Northern Lights in the darker months.

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 observe 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...

Be prepared
Stick to trails and camp overnight right
Stash your trash and pick up waste
Leave it as you find it
Be careful with fire
Respect wildlife
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.

Request a quote

My local agent
Elodie

Outdoor activities enthusiast
Adventure travel expert
Logistics expert

Request a quote

Region: East Greenland
Activity: Hiking Summer
Duration: 12 days
Group: 4 to 12 people
Code: EGRO
Price: From €3,650
Level: 4/5
Comfort: 1/5
Language(s): English / French

Strengths

Hikes with experienced professional guides in some of the most remote and inaccessible locations in the world
Two days to fully explore the famous Sermilik Fjord plus visit Tasiilaq & Kulusuk
Boat trips with whale watching opportunities

Required level

This trip is accessible to anyone in good health with a sense of adventure and a positive attitude. Physically you should be able to participate in 4-7 hours of hiking per day. This is a camping adventure and please note that your help with tasks like cooking is much appreciated and expected - we want you to be a part of our team.

Download trip details

Request a quote

Trekking in the Great East of Greenland