Day 1: Ilulissat
Aluu! Welcome to Greenland. Your journey begins in Ilulissat, a colourful coastal town set beside one of the world’s most dramatic ice fjords. After settling into your accommodation, meet your local leader and fellow travellers for a welcome meeting at 4 pm. Take advantage of the long Arctic daylight that stretches into evening for an orientation walk through town. Your leader will introduce you to Ilulissat’s fishing culture, its historic wooden houses and the everyday rhythms of life lived beside the drifting ice. Then, head to your welcome dinner for a first taste of Greenlandic cuisine and a chance to get to know your group.
Day 2: Ilulissat
This morning, walk to Sermermiut – an ancient Inuit settlement that overlooks the Ilulissat Icefjord. Follow the path through open tundra to viewpoints where icebergs tower above the water. Your leader will share stories of the Saqqaq, Dorset and Thule peoples who lived here for thousands of years. Continue to the Ice Fjord Centre – a striking modern building where you can study up on this UNESCO World Heritage site’s glaciology, climate science and cultural significance. This afternoon you’ll have free time to explore the town, visit local artisans or simply enjoy the view from the coastline. If you’re up for it, join the optional midnight sailing trip, taking advantage of the Arctic daylight for some dreamy photos.
Day 3: Ilulissat
Today you’ll travel by boat to the Eqi Glacier – one of the most active calving glaciers in West Greenland and only accessible by water. As you travel north, the landscape slowly unfolds – drifting icebergs, steep cliffs and long, remote stretches of shoreline. You’ll often see local fishermen going about their daily work, offering a glimpse into life on the water. With a bit of luck, you may spot whales, too! Spend some time near the glacier front, listening for the deep cracks and thunder‑like sounds of icebergs calving, then take a moment to pause and have lunch in full view of the glacier – certainly not your everyday lunch view. Be sure to ask your knowledgeable crew all your burning questions – they’re happy to share about wildlife, how the glacier behaves and what’s it like to live and work in these waters. Return to Ilulissat in the late afternoon, with the evening free to relax or explore.
Day 4: Qeqertarsuaq
Hop in another boat today and sail across Disko Bay to Qeqertarsuaq, the only town on Disko Island. As soon as you arrive, you’ll notice the island’s volcanic origins – basalt cliffs, dark sand and steep slopes rising behind the settlement. Take a nature walk with your leader to learn about the island’s history as a whaling and trading centre, enjoying view across Disko Bay along the way. Stop at the DISKO Live listening station at Qaqqaliaq, where an ongoing research project records underwater sound in the bay year‑round. The station helps scientists track marine mammals, ice movement and human activity, offering insight into how sound reflects changes in the Arctic marine environment and daily life along Greenland’s coast. After a day of walking, take a page from Nordic wellness traditions and unwind in a sauna overlooking Disko Bay and the island’s dramatic volcanic scenery.
Day 5: Qeqertarsuaq
This morning, take a walk to Disko Island’s waterfall – Qorlortorsuaq, which is fed by glacial meltwater and set within a landscape shaped by ancient volcanic activity. As you look out over Disko Bay and the surrounding mountains, you’ll witness the island’s natural process. In the evening, kayak among icebergs and coastal cliffs with experienced instructors for one of the most atmospheric ways to experience the Arctic (in fact, Greenland is the home of the kayak). With long summer light and calm conditions, Disko Bay often feels still and expansive at this hour and offers a different perspective on the bay’s ice formations and wildlife. Soak up the solitude, then return to the hotel for dinner.
Day 6: Ilimanaq
Say goodbye to Disko Island this morning and travel by boat from Qeqertarsuaq to the small settlement of Ilimanaq, one of Greenland’s oldest trading posts. Have a quick lunch, then head out with your leader for a town and tundra walk. Visit the local church and restored historic buildings that reflect centuries of life along the Icefjord. As you walk, your leader will share stories and traditions connected to the settlement, from fishing practices to local legends that have shaped the community’s identity. After your walk, you’ll make your way to Ilimanaq Lodge – your Feature Stay. Settle into your sleek, Nordic bungalow that features large windows overlooking the bay. Enjoy the serene landscape, then head to the neighbouring historic building for a special dinner made with local produce.
Day 7: Ilulissat
This morning, depart the lodge and return by boat to Ilulissat. The rest of the day is free, so you can revisit a favourite viewpoint, browse local shops or take a final walk along the coastline. Maybe you’ll take the opportunity to go hiking near Ilulissat, hop in a helicopter to Kangia Icefjord or go whale watching. In the evening, come together for a farewell dinner featuring Greenlandic cuisine, where locally sourced fish, seafood, lamb and seasonal Arctic herbs reflect both Inuit food traditions and modern Nordic influences. It’s a final chance to share stories from your journey and enjoy a meal rooted in the landscapes you’ve explored.
Day 8: Ilulissat
With no activities planned, your adventure comes to an end after breakfast today. A departure transfer is included, ensuring a smooth journey onward from this remote Arctic town. If you’d like to extend your stay in Ilulissat, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time.
