Tour Description
Experience the magic of the Arctic north of the Arctic Circle – welcome to Ilulissat, the home of the icebergs.
Join us on a winter adventure filled with breathtaking natural beauty, where we combine the town’s unique history and world-famous icebergs with authentic experiences in the Arctic wilderness. Look forward to dog sledding, ice fishing with local hunters, and unforgettable moments beneath the Arctic winter sky.
The highlight of the trip is spending two nights in a small, cozy cabin deep in the spectacular backcountry surrounding Ilulissat. Here, you'll find yourself surrounded by snow-covered mountains, frozen lakes, and—if you're lucky—the mesmerizing Northern Lights dancing across the night sky. In the warmth of the cabin, far from the bustle of town, the silence is almost deafening, and the crisp Arctic air is as clear as it gets.
We'll travel by snowmobile, adding an extra thrill to the journey as you speed through snow-covered landscapes, across frozen lakes, and up mountain slopes with sweeping views of the endless winter wilderness.
Perched on a mountaintop, the cabin offers panoramic views of the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's the perfect base for outdoor adventures and peaceful moments immersed in nature. Evenings are spent sharing stories, playing games, enjoying light activities, and relaxing together in the cozy common room.
When we're not exploring the backcountry, we'll stay at the charming Hotel Icefiord, right by the waterfront overlooking Disko Bay. Every room has sea views, and you can upgrade to a room with a private balcony and skylight—perfect for watching the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed.
Although winter brings long, dark nights, Ilulissat is anything but quiet. The town glows with warm lights, while life continues with fishermen on the fjord and dog sleds crossing frozen trails. Winter is a season for togetherness, reflection, and slowing down—a chance to experience the true spirit of the Arctic.
Highlights
- Staying in Ilulissat, the capital of icebergs
- Experiencing the silence at the cabin in the backcountry
- Speeding through the landscape on a snowmobile
- Dog sledding with local mushers
- Experiencing ice fishing and pulling the longline ashore with large Greenland halibut
- Exploring the Ilulissat Icefjord (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Boat trip among enormous icebergs at the mouth of the ice fjord
- Spotting the Northern Lights in the polar sky
Included
- Group trip with destination guide
- Flights from Copenhagen – Greenland return
- All accommodation as described in the detailed itinerary
- Meals as stated in the detailed itinerary
- All excursions and experiences described in the detailed itinerary
- Contribution to the Danish Travel Guarantee Fund
Program
Day 1 – Welcome to the capital of icebergs
We arrive in Ilulissat and check in at Hotel Icefiord. In the afternoon, we go on a guided city walk and get to know the town and its history. You will get your first impression of the town’s charm and atmosphere, and in the evening we meet for a welcome dinner where we raise a glass to the adventure ahead.
Day 2 – Hiking to Sermermiut
We take a beautiful hike to the historic area of Sermermiut and enjoy views of the Ilulissat Icefjord from the edge of the fjord. After the hike, there is an opportunity to visit the Icefjord Centre on your own. Here, you can dive deeper into the history of the area and learn about the great importance the icefjord has had for the local population throughout the ages.
Day 3 – Snowmobile ride to the cabin
We leave the town and travel by snowmobile into the backcountry to our cabin with panoramic views. Here, you can go snowshoeing or simply enjoy the peace and warmth indoors. The landscape surrounding the cabin is untouched and pristine – the perfect place for both adventure and relaxation.
Day 4 – Dog sledding and ice fishing
We travel by snowmobile to the fishing spot, where we continue by dog sled and try our hand at ice fishing. If we are lucky, we will catch today’s dinner together with the locals. You will experience traditional Greenlandic life first-hand and enjoy a unique taste experience as we prepare our catch.
Day 5 – Return to Ilulissat
We return to town by snowmobile and have the rest of the day free to relax or explore Ilulissat on your own. Take a quiet walk along the fjord or visit the local shops to find unique Greenlandic souvenirs.
Day 6 – Boat trip among the icebergs
Today, we sail out onto the Ilulissat Icefjord and experience the enormous icebergs up close. A peaceful and spectacular journey through the frozen landscape, where the icebergs stand like impressive works of natural art.
Day 7 – Snowshoeing and farewell dinner
We go snowshoeing along the icefjord and enjoy the views of the drifting icebergs. In the evening, we gather for a cosy farewell dinner overlooking Disko Bay. The spectacular nature and the wonderful dinner provide the perfect ending to our adventure in Greenland.
Day 8 – Journey home
We say goodbye to Greenland and travel home with memories and photos from an unforgettable week in the Arctic.
Not included
- Pocket money and expenses for drinks
- Expenses for meals not included. Please allow 150-400 DKK per meal
- Entrance fees to museums and similar attractions
- Travel insurance and any cancellation insurance
- Single room supplement 3,500 DKK (5 nights at Hotel Icefiord). Single rooms in the cabin are not available.
- Upgrade to a Deluxe Explorer room (skylight window and balcony) at Hotel Icefiord: DKK 2,500 per room. The upgrade must be requested by email at: info@topas.dk. Upgrade is subject to availability.
Important information for this trip
There is no tour leader on this trip. Instead, we have destination guides, local guides who will accompany us on the excursions.
Read more under the tab Practical info about:
- The difficulty level of the trip
- Accommodation
- Climate
- Safety guarantee for trips to Greenland
Detailed Itinerary
All accommodation, excursions and experiences described in the itinerary are included in the price.
Included meals are marked on the individual days as Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner. Meals that are not included are not mentioned in the itinerary.
Drinks are not included with the included meals.
On Air Greenland flights between Denmark and Greenland, complimentary meals and drinks are served onboard.
Day 1. Welcome to the capital of icebergs
The adventure begins as we land in Ilulissat, the beautiful capital of icebergs! After arriving from Denmark, we meet our local destination guide, who takes us to the charming Hotel Icefiord. The hotel is located directly by Disko Bay, with views of drifting icebergs.
After checking in and a short welcome meeting where we go through the week’s programme, we head out into the town’s snow-covered streets. On our city walk, we gain a unique insight into Ilulissat’s history, culture and daily life. We visit important sites and hear about the polar history that was written here by, among others, Knud Rasmussen and Jørgen Brønlund. Along the way, we feel the fresh Arctic air on our cheeks and hear the snow crunch beneath our boots.
After the tour, you have time to explore the town on your own or head out to the outskirts to experience the silence and admire the impressive snow and ice formations surrounding Ilulissat. In the evening, we meet for a welcome dinner where we raise a glass to the adventure that awaits us in Greenland.
Included meals: – / – / Dinner
Day 2. Hiking to Sermermiut and the Ilulissat Icefjord
Today, an unforgettable hike through history and nature awaits. We set out on a route that takes us past the award-winning Icefjord Centre and onwards to the spectacular UNESCO area of Sermermiut – a former settlement with more than 4,500 years of history.
Along the way, the landscape opens up with breathtaking views, and at the highlight of the hike we stand right at the edge of the Ilulissat Icefjord, where gigantic icebergs slowly drift through the frozen sea.
After the hike, you have the opportunity to visit the impressive Icefjord Centre on your own. Here, you can immerse yourself in the unique culture and nature surrounding the Ilulissat Icefjord – from stories about life in the Arctic to fascinating exhibitions about the power of ice and climate change. A visit that adds extra depth to today’s experiences and brings both history and nature closer.
Included meals: Breakfast / Lunch / –
Day 3. Snowmobile trip to the cabin in the backcountry
Today, we head out into the Arctic wilderness and leave the safety of the town behind. After a delicious breakfast buffet at the hotel, we set course towards the magnificent backcountry. During a technical introduction to the snowmobile, we learn the necessary skills before setting off on our adventure. We drive through varied terrain where snow-covered mountains, steep valleys and frozen lakes create an impressive winter landscape. All the way, we are surrounded by raw, untouched nature, and the landscape reveals its full beauty. To ensure a comfortable journey, you have the option to borrow a thermal suit to wear as an outer layer.
After the ride, we arrive at our cabin, Aurora Lodge, which offers a unique panoramic view of the winter landscape. Here, we find peace and let the adventure unfold – put on your snowshoes and explore the majestic surroundings, or stay indoors and enjoy the warmth and cosiness of the cabin’s common area. It is the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation in the heart of Arctic nature.
Included meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 4. Wilderness day with snowmobile, dog sledding and ice fishing
Today, it is time for a true Arctic adventure! We head towards the fishing grounds at Aattartoq and feel the excitement as we travel by snowmobile through the snow-covered landscape. Here, we change our mode of transport and continue like the locals – by dog sled, gliding across the frozen side fjord Sikuiuitsoq between the frozen icebergs. The crisp air, the sound of the sled dogs and the snow beneath the runners create a truly special atmosphere.
We try our hand at traditional Greenlandic ice fishing. A local fisherman shows us how to fish with a longline, even when the sea is frozen over. If we are lucky, we catch today’s dinner – a fresh Greenland halibut, which we later prepare together. It will be a day filled with speed, immersion and authentic experiences you will remember for a long time.
Included meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 5. Return to Ilulissat and time for your own experiences
After some fantastic days in the wilderness, we head back towards Ilulissat in the late morning – once again travelling by snowmobile through the spectacular winter landscape.
Once back in town, you have the rest of the day at your own disposal. You can relax and let the many impressions sink in, or explore Ilulissat at your own pace. Take a walk along the beautiful coastline, visit the small local shops, or enjoy the view of the icefjord with a warm cup of coffee in hand.
Included meals: Breakfast / – / –
Day 6. Close to the majestic icebergs from the sea
Today, an unforgettable boat trip awaits among the colossal icebergs of the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We sail close to the gigantic icebergs rising majestically above the sea surface, like impressive works of natural art. From the sea, we get a close view of the enormous ice formations glowing in the blue winter light – a sight that is both breathtaking and overwhelming.
The icefjord is a spectacular landscape where millions of tonnes of ice flow daily from the Ilulissat Glacier (Sermeq Kujalleq) into Disko Bay. This is where the enormous icebergs are formed and become stranded, and we have the opportunity to sail close to these giants of nature. An experience where silence, grandeur and beauty come together in the heart of the Arctic wonderland.
Included meals: Breakfast / – / –
Day 7. Snowshoeing along the edge of the icefjord and farewell dinner with a view
On our final full day in Greenland, another unforgettable experience awaits: a beautiful snowshoe hike along the edge of the majestic Ilulissat Icefjord.
In the afternoon, there is time to buy the last souvenirs or Greenlandic specialities. We end the journey with a shared farewell dinner at the hotel restaurant, where we enjoy delicious food, good company and the magnificent view over Disko Bay – the perfect finale to an Arctic adventure we will never forget.
Included meals: Breakfast / – / Dinner
Day 8. Goodbye to Greenland – for now
After a week filled with adventures and Arctic experiences, it is time to say goodbye to Ilulissat. We travel home with our heads full of impressions and memories – and our cameras filled with images telling stories of icebergs, Northern Lights and genuine Greenlandic hospitality. Greenland has left its mark, and although we say goodbye for now, the experience will stay with us long after returning home.
Included meals: Breakfast / – / –
Practical info
Guide
On this trip, there will be a destination guide at each location you visit. The guide has extensive local knowledge and is responsible for carrying out the planned activities during your stay. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by the guide, who will ensure a great stay and assist with your departure.
Duration and difficulty level
The trip has a duration of 8 days/7 nights.
The days with hiking included in the programme have a difficulty level of 1-2.
ACTIVITIES
Dog sledding
Each sled accommodates 2-3 people plus the driver. If you are travelling alone, you may be placed on a sled together with other participants. The dogs run at varying speeds, so it cannot be guaranteed that all sleds will maintain the same pace throughout the entire journey. If you have back or neck problems or are not in good physical shape, the trip may be too demanding. Warm clothing, a hat and gloves are necessary for the trip. Before the trip to the cabin, you will borrow a thermal suit, which you can use as an outer layer during the dog sledding trip.
Snowmobile
There are two people on each snowmobile. If you are travelling alone, you may be asked to share a snowmobile with another participant.
The backcountry around Ilulissat is hilly, and there will be uphill and downhill sections where either a little extra power or extra caution is needed. Most of the route to the cabin follows prepared tracks, but the final 500 metres leave the track as we drive up to the cabin. It is not a question of age, but rather physical ability. The trip can be physically demanding, and if you have back or neck problems, we do not recommend driving a snowmobile. This trip is for those who enjoy challenging activities.
The snowmobile driver must present a valid driving licence and will receive instructions on how to operate the vehicle. The type of snowmobile may vary, and great emphasis is placed on safety. Warm clothing, a hat and gloves are necessary for the trip. Before the trip to the cabin, you will borrow a thermal suit, which you can use as an outer layer when we drive the snowmobile.
Accommodation
ILULISSAT - ’The place with icebergs’
Ilulissat is Greenland’s third-largest town and was formerly known in Danish as Jakobshavn. Ilulissat is also located next to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Ilulissat Icefjord/Kangia, which, at more than 60 km long, is an impressive sight.
Accommodation is at Hotel Icefiord in Ilulissat (2 + 3 nights). In the backcountry of Ilulissat, there are also 2 nights in a cabin in twin rooms. The standard of accommodation varies on this trip. At the hotels, you stay in shared twin rooms with private bathroom facilities. In the cabin, the toilet facilities are a shared dry toilet/bag toilet, which is still common in many settlements in Greenland today.
Hotel Icefiord has one of Ilulissat’s best locations on the cliffs right by the sea. From the hotel restaurant and the large terrace, you can enjoy views of Disko Island and the constantly changing formations of icebergs surrounding the town. Hotel Icefiord is a modern hotel with different room categories.
As a starting point, accommodation is in standard rooms, but you have the option to upgrade (subject to availability) to a Deluxe Explorer room. The upgrade can be requested from Topas by phone or email. The Deluxe Explorer rooms have a private balcony facing Disko Bay and a skylight, allowing you to lie in bed and look at the stars and perhaps the Northern Lights throughout the night.
Single rooms are available at Hotel Icefiord for an additional charge stated in the section “Not included".
AURORA LODGE
The lodge is basic and has been rebuilt from a former hunting cabin. The cabin contains a common room that functions as a living room, dining room and kitchen, as well as 6 small rooms, each accommodating 2 overnight guests.
The toilet is a bag toilet, and there is no shower or electricity out here in the backcountry. On the other hand, we get to experience the true cabin atmosphere, where the breathtaking nature is right outside our door, along with views of the beautiful snow-covered landscape. The cabin is heated.
DIVISION OF TASKS
To ensure the smooth running of a trip like this, the guide will delegate various practical tasks. Everyone is expected to help with cooking, washing dishes, collecting ice and cleaning the cabin.
Meals
Included meals are marked on the individual days in the itinerary as Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner. Meals that are not included are not mentioned in the itinerary.
Drinks are not included with the included meals.
On Air Greenland flights between Denmark and Greenland, complimentary meals and drinks are served onboard.
Flights and local transport
Climate
In February/March in Ilulissat, you can expect very cold weather with average temperatures typically ranging between -10°C and -20°C. Daylight is still limited at this time of year, although the days are beginning to get brighter.
Ilulissat is known for its impressive icefjord, which is often frozen during winter. It is a beautiful time to visit the town, as you can experience the icy formations and the winter landscape. However, you should be prepared for the harsh climate with suitable clothing and equipment, as the cold and wind can be quite intense. The air is generally very dry, so the cold feels different compared to Denmark.
The Northern Lights are created by electrically charged particles from the sun when these particles interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. The amount of solar activity is not constant, which means the intensity and frequency of the Northern Lights vary considerably. The human eye’s night vision cannot capture all the colours of the Northern Lights. You will get the best photos with a good camera. A tripod can be useful to keep the camera steady.
Currency and credit cards
Wi-Fi and mobile coverage
There is mobile coverage in towns, but not necessarily outside the towns in the mountains or at sea. Wi-Fi is available at Hotel Icefiord.
If you need a Greenlandic SIM card, we recommend Tusass eSIM packages. See prices and packages here.
Maps and travel literature
Sagamaps: Disko Bay & Umanak 1:500,000 – overview map
Scanmaps: Hiking map North Greenland, Ilulissat. 1:100,000
Available for purchase locally
Please note
Changes may occur. Please note that a trip like this is dependent on weather conditions. Therefore, minor changes to the programme may occur. Delays and cancellations may happen, especially when travelling by plane and boat.
Should changes occur, Topas, in cooperation with the guide on the trip, will aim to minimise any inconvenience and arrange an alternative programme or make the best possible use of any additional waiting time.
Safety guarantee for trips to Greenland
If your package holiday cannot be completed due to unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances – such as government restrictions, travel restrictions or safety conditions at the destination – we will refund the full amount paid. This applies regardless of whether your travel insurance provides coverage. The guarantee follows the Danish Package Travel Act and applicable EU regulations for package holidays.Who travels on group trips with Topas?
On our group trips, you will meet everyone from solo travellers and singles to couples, friends and families. What brings the groups together is the desire to experience the world and be active as part of a great community. It is often the combination of active days, small achievements along the way and evening conversations around the dinner table that creates the foundation for a strong sense of togetherness.
If this is your first solo trip, it may feel like a big step for some people. But you will quickly discover that the group consists of people with the same curiosity and passion for travel as yourself.
Packing list
We have prepared a packing list to help you when packing for your trip. The packing list contains general information as well as what is useful to bring on this specific journey.
The packing list should be seen as a guide to what you CAN bring, and not as a list of items you MUST bring, as individual needs and preferences may vary. However, our experience shows that the items listed below are useful to bring.
Luggage
You may bring 20 kg of checked baggage and 8 kg of carry-on baggage. Any luggage you do not need at the cabin can be left behind.
Please bring a smaller bag, such as a duffel bag or sports bag, for the cabin stay. Your main luggage can be left at the hotel. This makes handling the luggage on the snowmobiles much easier.
Boots
It is important to bring good winter boots with a stiff sole (e.g. Vibram) and good ankle support for maximum stability. High-cut winter boots are recommended to help protect against snow and wind. Most importantly, make sure your boots are warm enough for winter conditions, have room for thick wool socks, and are suitable for being active outdoors.
We recommend travelling in your winter boots or packing them in your carry-on luggage in case your checked baggage is unexpectedly delayed.
It may also be a good idea to bring ice grips (traction cleats) that can be fitted to your footwear to reduce the risk of slipping on icy surfaces.
You may also want to bring gaiters to prevent snow from getting into your boots.
Other footware
Light indoor footwear, such as sandals or slippers, for use indoors, for example in the cabin.
Trekking poles
The streets in Greenlandic towns can be icy during winter, so bringing trekking poles for extra support is a good idea. They are also very useful when snowshoeing.
Clothing for dog sledding
- 1 warm wool sweater and 1 fleece
- 1 pair of fleece trousers, sweatpants or other comfortable trousers. Preferably lined (to be used as a mid-layer under the thermal suit)
- 1 thick, warm hat / balaclava (must cover the ears)
- 1 pair of warm mittens (possibly with a pair of thin gloves underneath)
- 1 scarf/neck warmer/buff
- 2 pairs of thick hiking socks
- Optional: 2 pairs of thin liner socks
- Woolen base layer (we recommend choosing a thickness of at least 200g/m²)
- 1 thin wool sweater
- 1 warm winter jacket
In general, it is best to dress in several layers (the layering principle), as this allows you to adjust the amount of clothing according to the current weather conditions.
Ski underwear (that does not contain wool) is designed for active use. During dog sledding/snowmobile trips, you sit still for up to a couple of hours, which means you will often feel colder if you do not have wool as your innermost layer.
It may be a good idea to bring hand and foot warmers for your gloves and boots respectively.
During the snowmobile trip and dog sledding trip, Topas will provide a warm thermal suit (see image). We have suits available in sizes S-XXL. It is a good idea to choose a relatively large suit, so you can wear several layers of clothing underneath.
Other clothing
- Travel clothing
- T-shirts
- Shirts/long-sleeved tops
- Socks
- Underwear
Sun protection
- 1 scarf for sun protection and cooler days
- Good sunglasses
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
- Optional: ski goggles – they provide better protection from wind than sunglasses
Miscellaneous
- Passport, currency, health insurance card and travel documents
- Personal medication
- Power bank and headlamp/flashlight for the cabin
- Toiletries (possibly wet wipes for personal hygiene in the cabin)
- Camera and possibly extra batteries/charger
Specific trip notes
BALACLAVA
We recommend bringing a balaclava or similar to protect your face from the wind and prevent frostbite around the nose. Cold cream or a rich moisturising cream (a cream without water) can also be useful to bring.
On the snowmobile trip, Topas will provide a helmet. It is a good idea to bring a thin hat that can be worn underneath the helmet.
.jpg)
.png)
