Boat Trip to Uunartoq Hot Springs

Guided tour

Experience Greenland’s only hot spring with bathing temperatures! Our boat trip to Uunartoq gives you a unique opportunity to bathe in naturally heated water while enjoying the sight of drifting icebergs.

<h2>About this tour</h2> 5 Days of UNESCO-listed Norse History in South Greenland Farm Holiday: 8 Days of Farm-to-Farm Hiking in South Greenland

About this tour

GUIDET TOUR

The small island of Uunartoq is located approx. halfway between Qaqortoq and Nanortalik. The spring was known by the Norse, who used the 35-degree Celsius hot water to care and heal sore bodies. Today, the place is visited by both locals and tourists.

From the pontoon bridge where you disembark, a path leads up to a small natural pool just 10 meters in diameter. On cold days it evaporates from the warm water surface.

Uunartoq is wonderfully pristine and unspoiled compared to many places in Iceland with hot springs, and it is amazing to sit in the warm water and watch the icebergs drifting along on the fjord right next door.

The trip includes

  • Round-trip boat transfer between Qaqortoq and Uunartoq Island
  • Approximately 1.5 hours at the hot springs
  • Unique opportunity to relax in a natural geothermal pool

DURATION: 4.5–5 hours

NOTE: Minimum 4 participants required

REMEMBER: Bring your own towel, swimwear, food, and drinks

PRICE: 1.900 DKK / 255 EUR


Travel packages to South Greenland

Explore ancient Norse settlements in Hvalsey, Igaliku and Qassiarsuk, and experience Qaqortoq – the colourful heart of South Greenland.

Tour Description

Discover South Greenland through Norse history, unique landscapes and Arctic farming traditions.

Visit the ancient Norse settlements of Hvalsey, Igaliku and Qassiarsuk – UNESCO World Heritage sites that reveal the story of early settlers who shaped life and farming culture in Greenland, still alive today through modern Greenlandic sheep farming.

In Qaqortoq, explore the colourful town where everyday life unfolds surrounded by fjords and mountains.

The journey also includes a breathtaking boat trip into the Qooroq Ice Fjord, where turquoise icebergs drift in silence beneath the glacier.

Trip Highlights

  • Explore three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South Greenland
  • Walk in the footsteps of early settlers in remote Norse settlements
  • Spend 2 nights in charming Igaliku Country Lodge
  • Hike through dramatic valleys and mountain landscapes
  • Sail through the Qooroq Ice Fjord and enjoy a drink chilled with glacier ice
  • Discover everyday Greenlandic life in the colorful town of Qaqortoq


Price Includes

The price estimate is based on the inclusion of the elements listed below. The final travel itinerary will be prepared in collaboration with our travel advisor, who will create a travel offer based on this. 

Accommodations

  • All accommodation incl. breakfast*
  • 2 night in Igaliku Country Hotel
  • 1 night in Narsarsuaq
  • 1 night in Hotel Qaqortoq
* Please note: All included accommodation in double rooms with shared facilities. Read more here.

Meals

  • 4 x Breakfast at the accommodations

Excursions and Transportation

  • Transport of luggage in Igaliku and Qaqortoq
  • All boat transfers
  • Boat trip to the Qooroq Ice Fjord
  • Boat trip to Hvalsey Church
  • Airport transfers in Qaqortoq

Other

  • Tourist tax

Price excludes

  • Flights
  • Pocket money and expenses for beverages
  • Other meals than those listed under “Price Includes”
  • Other excursions than those listed under “Price Includes”
  • Tour guide (this trip is self-guided)
  • Travel and/or cancellation insurance
  • Single room supplement, Aprox EUR 1.338 per person 


Travel safely to Greenland with Topas – we are with you every step of the way

When you choose to travel with Greenland by Topas, you choose more than just transportation and accommodation. You choose a complete travel experience, where nature, culture, and personal guidance go hand in hand—before, during, and after your journey.

This is why many choose us:


Tailor-made journeys – with you at the center
We arrange package tours without a tour leader, but with a high degree of security and guidance. You travel independently, but you are never left on your own.

Experienced Greenland specialists
Our advisor, Line Vinterberg, who has led Topas group tours in Greenland, knows the country intimately and is ready to help you tailor your journey—whether you dream of Disko Bay, Narsarsuaq, or something entirely different.

Personal guidance – every step of the way
We assist you with planning, booking, and practical details, so you can focus on what matters most: your experiences in Greenland. You receive a well-prepared itinerary and access to experienced local partners along the way.

Local knowledge and strong partnerships
Topas has been organizing trips to Greenland since 1998 and today works closely with, among others, Disko Line, Blue Ice Explorer, and several hotels in Disko Bay—giving you access to the best experiences and facilities.

Safety and responsibility
Topas is a member of the Danish Travel Agency Association and part of the Travel Guarantee Fund. In addition, we are affiliated with the UN Global Compact and actively work with responsible tourism and sustainable values.


Your Itinerary

The day-by-day travel program below is a recommended itinerary combining the UNESCO-sites in Greenland over 5 days / 4 nights.

The program is indicative and can be customized according to your choice of activities and hotels. The price indication is a guideline for the proposed trip and may vary depending on the season and your preferences. Upon inquiry, a specific travel offer will be prepared.

Please note! Due to limited capacity at some overnight accommodations, the order of the itinerary may change.


Day 1. First taste of South Greenland

Arrive in Qaqortoq Airport (JJU)

  • Arrive in Qaqortoq, the capital of South Greenland, where our staff welcomes you and helps you get started on your journey. 
  • Sail through the scenic fjords towards Igaliku, one of Greenland's most charming settlements.
  • Check in at Igaliku Country Hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the village, enjoying the fjord views and settling into the slower pace of life in South Greenland.

Included Hotel (Day 1)

Igaliku Bygdehotel

In the heart of the historic settlement of Igaliku, you will find Igaliku Bygdehotel, where Greenlandic hospitality meets scenic surroundings. The hotel is surrounded by lush valleys and fjords, making it an ideal base for exploring the area’s Viking history, impressive hiking trails, and relaxing atmosphere.

Read more about the hotel.


Day 2. Norse ruins and spectacular hiking trails

  • Wake up in Igaliku, one of Greenland's most beautiful settlements. Colourful houses sit on lush green hills beside a milky-blue fjord, while the iconic Illerfissalik (Burfjeld) Mountain rises dramatically on the opposite shore.
  • Spend the day exploring at your own pace. Wander among the impressive Norse ruins of Gardar, once the religious centre of Viking Greenland, or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that makes Igaliku so special.
  • For those who want to venture further, some of South Greenland's finest hiking trails begin right outside the village.
Meals: Breakfast

Optional selfguided hiking tours (Day 2)

The Plateau Hike (17 km)

Hike to a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the Qooroq Ice Fjord, where stranded icebergs and a vast glacier create one of South Greenland's most impressive panoramas. On the way back, keep an eye out for minerals and stones, including the shimmering "moon stone" (labradorite).

Read more about this hike here.

The Waterfall Hike (15 km)

Follow a scenic trail to a series of beautiful waterfalls cascading towards Tunulliarfik Fjord. This is one of the most popular hikes in the area. Along the way, you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the blue fjord, often with icebergs drifting by.

Read more about this hike here.

Nuuluk Mountain Summit (823 m)

For experienced hikers, the ascent of Nuuluk Mountain offers sweeping views of fjords, mountains and farmland. The summit can be combined with the Waterfall Hike, creating a challenging day hike of 20–22 km.

Read more about this hike here.

Included Hotel (Day 2)

Igaliku Bygdehotel

In the heart of the historic settlement of Igaliku, you will find Igaliku Bygdehotel, where Greenlandic hospitality meets scenic surroundings. The hotel is surrounded by lush valleys and fjords, making it an ideal base for exploring the area’s Viking history, impressive hiking trails, and relaxing atmosphere.

Read more about the hotel.


Day 3. Icebergs and Viking history

  • Start the day with a scenic hike along the King's Road from Igaliku to Itilleq (4 km), following a historic route through South Greenland's stunning landscapes.
  • From Itilleq, board a boat and sail among icebergs of all colours, sizes and shapes in the spectacular Qooroq Ice Fjord. As the glacier comes into view, the engine is switched off, allowing you to enjoy the absolute silence of the Arctic and a drink chilled with glacier ice more than 1,000 years old.
  • Continue to Qassiarsuk, better known as Brattahlid, where Erik the Red settled in AD 982. Explore the well-preserved Norse ruins and discover the story of the Vikings who once called Greenland home. You can also visit the open-air museum (admission fee not included).
  • In the afternoon, continue to Narsarsuaq, where you will spend the night.
Meals: Breakfast

Activity on Day 3 (Included)

Boat Trip to Qooroq Ice Fjord

On the boat trip, we cross the underwater moraine at the mouth of Qooroq Fjord. Many of the large icebergs run aground here, and we sail closely past them to get through and into the fjord. A sight and experience of truly epic proportions.

Read more about the activity.

Activity on Day 3 (Included)

Qassiarsuk (Brattahlid)
Today, sheep farmers work the very same lands that Erik the Red and his people settled over 1,000 years ago. Take a walk through the settlement, where you can feel the atmosphere of a small South Greenlandic community, while also seeing how the history of the Norse settlers and modern sheep farming come together.
Read more about the activity.

Included hotel (Day 3)

Narsarsuaq Hostel

The hostel is nestled at the foot of a mountain with a view of the fjord. In the summertime there is always a pleasant atmosphere, with hikers and travellers exchanging experiences and planning tours.

Read more about the hostel.


Day 4. Art, culture and Norse heritage

  • Start the day with a scenic boat journey from Narsarsuaq to Qaqortoq, the largest town in South Greenland (about 3,300 inhabitants). As you approach, colourful houses appear along the hillsides, marking your return to one of the region’s cultural centres.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring Qaqortoq at your own pace. Wander through the town’s unique open-air art project “Stone and Man”, where more than 30 sculptures are carved directly into the granite bedrock.
  • Discover local life around the harbour and the nearby fish market, where fishermen sell their catch of the day, and take in the atmosphere of the town square with Greenland’s oldest fountain.
  • Later, continue to the Hvalsey Church UNESCO site, one of the best-preserved medieval ruins in South Greenland. With walls up to 6 metres high, it offers a powerful glimpse into the country’s Viking history.
Meals: Breakfast

Activity on Day 4 (Included)

Hvalsey Church Ruins
The largest, most famous, and best-preserved ruin in Greenland. Now also part of the UNESCO World Heritage area in South Greenland. Only half an hour by boat from Qaqortoq, up the Qaqortoq Fjord, sheltered from the open sea and beautifully surrounded by high mountains and green fields.
Read more about the activity.

Included Hotel (Day 4)

Hotel Qaqortoq
★ ★ ★ ★
The phrase “Home – away from home” is not just a slogan but a central guiding principle for Hotel Qaqortoq and its staff. This 4-star hotel enjoys one of the town’s best locations, with views over the harbor and town center, making it a natural gathering place for both guests and locals.
Read more about the hotel.


Day 5. Farewell to South Greenland

Depart from Qaqortoq Airport (JJU)

Enjoy a final glimpse of South Greenland’s fjords and colourful townscape before your journey home.

At the arranged time, you will be picked up and driven to the airport for your departure, taking with you memories of fjords, icebergs, Viking history and life in one of the world’s most remote landscapes.

Meals: Breakfast


Extend Your Trip?

Do you feel the trip is too short and want to extend it? Whether it’s to another destination in Greenland or simply more time to explore, feel free to ask us. We have extensive knowledge of Greenland and can provide guidance quickly and easily.

Click here for Price and Practical information


Season and practical info

Greenland is a truly unique destination – majestic, yet not always easy to reach. That is part of its charm. Our travel advisors are happy to help you tailor a trip that matches your wishes and interests. As part of our guidance, we also advise you on the best time to plan your journey, ensuring you bring home the most memorable experiences.


About South Greenland and this itinerary

In 2017 five core areas in South Greenland were inscribed in the UNESCO World Heritage List. They represent a unique landscape and arctic farming history, dating from the Norse settlement to the present day Greenlandic sheep farmers. On this tour, you can visit Hvalsey, Igaliku and Qassiarsuk – 3 of the UNESCO sites – together with South Greenland’s colourful town Qaqortoq. In addition we will take you on an unforgettable boat ride into the Qooroq Ice Fjord.

When is the best time to travel?

You can start this tour every day of the week and are free to choose your own pace and what to see and do each day. Just let us know which date/flight you will arrive with and we will book the tour for you as desired.

The best time to travel for this itinerary in South Greenland is from June to September.

Difficulty

No special requirements on this trip. The hike between Itilleq and Igaliku is 4 km.

Self-guided

All our package tours are self-guided. This means that you are not a part of a bigger group with a tour leader to guide you around. We will send you very detailed information about the tour before you arrive in Greenland.


Accommodation and meals

Accommodation at hotel and guest house with private or shared facilities. Breakfast is included.

Dinner and lunch packets can be ordered at the hotels in Qaqortoq and Igaliku. In Narsarsuaq there is a large kitchen available for preparing your own meals. Alternatively, you can buy a ready prepared meal on site.

(*) All rooms in Narsarsuaq are with shared toilet facilities.


How to get here

There are direct flights to Qaqortoq (South Greenland) from Nuuk (GOH) all year round and from Iceland (Reykjavik, KEF) in the high season from mid-June to early September.

Tickets can be purchased at the airlines’ websites:

  • Air Greenland flies from Nuuk to Qaqortoq.
  • Icelandair flies from Reykjavik to Qaqortoq. Iceland air provides connecting flights from many major cities in US and EU. With just one stopover in Reykjavik.

Several airlines fly from Europe and the US to Denmark and Iceland.

Please notice, flight tickets are not included in any of our tours or products.


Food and drink

Meat and fish are the foundation of the Greenlandic diet, so be prepared for high-protein fare with relatively few vegetables and side dishes.

In South Greenland you will primarily be served lamb, but also musk ox, reindeer and whale meat. Cod, trout and shrimp are the most common fish and seafood used in South Greenlandic cuisine.

If you have an opportunity to cook your own meals, you won’t want to miss out on a visit to the local meat and fish market, where hunters and fishermen sell the catch of the day.

In South Greenland several sheep farmers have also begun to grow potatoes, turnips, lettuce and cabbage on a larger scale and you can enjoy this fresh produce if you are travelling in late summer.

Opening hours

There are grocery stores (the Pilersuisoq chain) in the villages of Narsarsuaq, Qassiarsuk and Igaliku, where you can buy canned, dried and frozen food, and to a limited extend fresh products. If your package tour includes one of the major towns, we always recommend that you buy food in a supermarket there before continuing on to a small village.

In the towns of Narsaq, Qaqortoq and Nanortalik shops are generally open from 8-9 am to 5-6 pm on weekdays, with slightly shorter opening hours on Saturdays and Sundays. In the settlements (Narsarsuaq, Qassiarsuk and Igaliku) shop opening hours are somewhat more limited: weekdays often from 10 am to 3 pm, Saturdays 10-12 am and closed on Sundays.

About dining in villages and on sheep farms

We always recommend that you take the opportunity to eat locally and taste different Greenlandic dishes when you visit a sheep farm or a small settlement. However, please do not expect a large variety of dishes (à la carte menu), as well as a special children’s menu or vegetarian dishes at such places, as shopping facilities and the choice of products are limited.

If you are a vegetarian or have a food allergy (e.g., allergic to gluten), you may want to consider bringing some food along with you, unless you will be staying in the vicinity of a supermarket in one of the major towns!

Costs

The price level of food in shops is roughly the same as in the rest of Northern Europe. Fresh fruit and vegetables, alcoholic drinks and sweets are the most expensive. See below for indicative prices for meals in cafes/restaurants:

Lunch at cafes/hotels: DKK 120-150 (approx. 16-20 EUR)

Dinner at cafeteria / sheep farm / restaurant: DKK 120 (approx. 16 EUR) / DKK 200-300 (approx. 27-40 EUR) / DKK 200-400 (approx. 27-54 EUR)

These prices are without drinks

1 beer at a bar/restaurant: from DKK 50 (approx. 7 EUR)

1 bottle of wine at a restaurant: from DKK 230 (approx. 31 EUR)


Money, Tele & Internet

Currency and Credit cards

The currency used in Greenland is the Danish krone (DKK). You can pay by credit card in stores (also in the settlements), at hotels, restaurants (including the Igaliku Country Hotel) and at tourist offices. However, it is a good idea to have a small amount of cash with you, especially if you are going to stay and dine on a sheep farm, where cash is the only means of payment. There are ATMs in the towns of Narsaq, Qaqortoq and Nanortalik.

Telephony

There is mobile coverage in all towns and villages. Most European telecommunications providers have roaming agreements with Tele Greenland, but it might be quite expensive to use your phone in Greenland. You should also not rely on your mobile phone as a means of communicating with the outside world on a hiking trip, as there are many places in the countryside/mountains where you will not have a signal. If you are planning a longer hiking or kayaking trip in isolated areas, for safety reasons we recommend that you rent a satellite phone.

Internet

There is wireless internet at most hotels and hostels in the towns (including Narsarsuaq and the Igaliku Country Hotel). At most tourist offices you can also borrow a computer to check your emails and so on. What all of these points of access have in common is that you pay for the use of the internet in Greenland and – compared to the rest of Europe – it is quite expensive.

Mobile Phone

Using mobile data from an international phone can be very expensive in Greenland. Make sure to check what your plan covers before enabling data roaming. If you need a Greenlandic SIM card, we recommend Tusass eSIM packages. See prices and packages here (affiliate link).

Access to Electricity

It is possible to charge your devices at the accommodations (bring your own charger).


IMPORTANT NOTE!

Please note that the price of the trip is a starting price, as there may be additional costs for a more expensive type of flight ticket or a different cabin/room standard, depending on availability at the time of booking. You are, of course, only committed to the trip once any price supplements have been confirmed. The starting price is indicated for Greenland’s low season.

Right to Changes Reserved. Please note that a trip like this is weather-dependent, and some changes to the program may occur. Delays and cancellations are possible, especially for flights and boat transport.

No compensation or reimbursement is provided for the first 24 hours of delays or changes due to external circumstances. We will make every effort to minimize inconvenience, provide an alternative program, or make the most of the extra waiting time.


What to bring

For our package tours in South Greenland we recommend:

  • A sleeping bag and towel (only if you stay in hostels)
  • Slippers or sandals (for use indoors when you stay at hostels/farms or visit a Greenlandic home)
  • Hiking boots or solid walking shoes
Clothes according to the layer-to-layer principle:
  • Wind and waterproof outerwear
  • Sweater or fleece for insulation
  • T-shirts and long-sleeved blouses (it can get really hot in the sun on land)
  • A knit hat and gloves (it can be rather chilly on a boat trip to the ice fjord)
There are laundry facilities at the hostels in Narsarsuaq, Narsaq and Qaqortoq
  • A mosquito net and mosquito repellent. The mosquitoes are worst in June and early July in southern Greenland. There may be small, annoying flies in August. Mosquitoes are virtually non-existent in sheep farming areas, but can be troublesome in Narsarsuaq and mountain areas with few or no sheep
  • Sunglasses and sun lotion
We recommend that you pack your things in a duffle bag or backpack instead of a hard suitcase with wheels. Bags are easier to transport by boat and car, and small suitcase wheels are not conducive for use on gravel roads.


Spend a week in remote South Greenland, staying at authentic sheep farms and small settlements along the way. This unique hiking journey takes you from farm to farm along quiet gravel roads and "alone in the wild" hiking trails.

Tour Description

South Greenland is the only region in Greenland where agriculture exists, with more than 30 sheep farms scattered across remote and dramatic landscapes. Here, green pastures, mountains, and fjords form the backdrop for traditional farm life, where sheep, cattle, and horses roam freely.

On this journey, you are invited to visit selected farms and gain a first-hand insight into the daily life of Greenlandic farmers living in close connection with nature.

Over the course of one week, you stay at three different sheep farms and visit small settlements as you hike from place to place along gravel roads and quiet trails. Your luggage is transported between accommodations, allowing you to focus on the hiking experience with just a light daypack.

Trip Highlights

  • Stay at authentic, working sheep farms in remote South Greenland 
  • Hike from farm to farm through dramatic mountain landscapes and stunning fjords 
  • Experience true “alone in the wild” hiking sections far from modern roads and settlements 
  • Explore the iconic Qooroq Ice Fjord with drifting icebergs and impressive glacier views 
  • Enjoy the slow pace of life in the picturesque village of Igaliku


Price Includes

The price estimate is based on the inclusion of the elements listed below. The final travel itinerary will be prepared in collaboration with our travel advisor, who will create a travel offer based on this. 

Accommodations

  • All accommodation incl. breakfast*
  • 1 night in Hotel Qaqortoq
  • 1 night in Narsarsuaq
  • 1 night in Qorlortup farm
  • 1 night in Sermilik farm
  • 1 night in Sillisit farm
  • 2 night in Igaliku Country Hotel

* Please note: All included accommodation at guest houses (private room at hotels and farms with shared toilet facilities). Read more here.

Meals

  • 7x Breakfast at the accommodations

Excursions and Transportation

  • Transport of luggage
  • All boat transfers
  • Boat trip to the Qooroq Ice Fjord
  • Airport transfers in Qaqortoq

Other

  • Tourist tax

Price excludes

  • Flights
  • Prebooked meals at sheep farms
  • Pocket money and expenses for beverages
  • Other meals than those listed under “Price Includes”
  • Other excursions than those listed under “Price Includes”
  • Tour guide (this trip is self-guided)
  • Travel and/or cancellation insurance
  • Single room supplement, Aprox EUR 1.338 per person 


Travel safely to Greenland with Topas – we are with you every step of the way

When you choose to travel with Greenland by Topas, you choose more than just transportation and accommodation. You choose a complete travel experience, where nature, culture, and personal guidance go hand in hand—before, during, and after your journey.

This is why many choose us:


Tailor-made journeys – with you at the center
We arrange package tours without a tour leader, but with a high degree of security and guidance. You travel independently, but you are never left on your own.

Experienced Greenland specialists
Our advisor, Line Vinterberg, who has led Topas group tours in Greenland, knows the country intimately and is ready to help you tailor your journey—whether you dream of Disko Bay, Narsarsuaq, or something entirely different.

Personal guidance – every step of the way
We assist you with planning, booking, and practical details, so you can focus on what matters most: your experiences in Greenland. You receive a well-prepared itinerary and access to experienced local partners along the way.

Local knowledge and strong partnerships
Topas has been organizing trips to Greenland since 1998 and today works closely with, among others, Disko Line, Blue Ice Explorer, and several hotels in Disko Bay—giving you access to the best experiences and facilities.

Safety and responsibility
Topas is a member of the Danish Travel Agency Association and part of the Travel Guarantee Fund. In addition, we are affiliated with the UN Global Compact and actively work with responsible tourism and sustainable values.


Your Itinerary

The day-by-day travel program below is a recommended itinerary combining the Farm Holiday with a hiking round trip over 8 days / 7 nights.

The program is indicative and can be customized according to your choice of activities and hotels. The price indication is a guideline for the proposed trip and may vary depending on the season and your preferences. Upon inquiry, a specific travel offer will be prepared.

Please note! Due to limited capacity at some overnight accommodations, the order of the itinerary may change.


Day 1. Welcome to South Greenland

Arrive at Qaqortoq Airport (JJU)

Today you arrive in South Greenland, and the day is spend on your own pace in the regions largest town, Qaqortoq. 

Today's highligts:

  • A short transfer brings you to Qaqortoq (10 km), the largest town in South Greenland and the starting point of your journey.

  • Spend the rest of the day at your own pace. Explore the colourful streets and lively harbour, or discover the famous Stone & Man project, where more than 30 sculptures are carved directly into the granite bedrock and scattered throughout the town.

  • You may also visit the town square with Greenland’s oldest fountain and enjoy the atmosphere where local fishermen and hunters often sell the day's catch.

Included Hotel (Day 1)

Hotel Qaqortoq
★ ★ ★ ★
The phrase “Home – away from home” is not just a slogan but a central guiding principle for Hotel Qaqortoq and its staff. This 4-star hotel enjoys one of the town’s best locations, with views over the harbor and town center, making it a natural gathering place for both guests and locals.
Read more about the hotel.


Day 2. A Day in Narsarsuaq: Gateway to the Inland Ice

The day begins with a boat transfer from Qaqortoq to Narsarsuaq (approx. 2 hours). Here, you have the rest of the day at leisure to explore the area on your own.

Narsarsuaq offers beautiful hiking opportunities and is the place in Greenland with the shortest hiking distance to the inland ice. Take a look at all the different hiking trails in Narsarsuaq here. 

This is also a good opportunity to prepare for the days ahead, stock up on snacks, and get your backpack ready for hiking in more remote areas.

Meals: Breakfast

Optional selfguided hiking tours (Day 2)

Signal Hill - Red Route (4 km)

The hike to the top of Signal Hill is a “must” if you stay in Narsarsuaq. It is a short and easy walk of around 1 hour, where you will experience the ice sheet and breathtaking views of the Narsarsuaq area.

Read more about this hike here.

The Ridge - Yellow Route (8 km)

If you are looking for a nice, shorter and easier alternative to the full-day tour to Narsarsuaq glacier, the Ridge is for you. The Ridge offers great views, rich flora and fauna (birds, mountain hare) and is also an excellent trip in bad weather (e.g., strong foehn winds)!

Read more about this hike here.

Narsarsuaq Glacier - Blue Route (16 km)

The hike to the ice cap (Narsarsuaq Glacier) is a classic walk from Narsarsuaq. On this day trip you can reach the glacier and touch the ice! Furthermore, it is a trip that will offer you several different types of landscapes. This hikes takes 5-7 hours. The path is easy, but with a steep ascent and descent.

Read more about this hike here.

Included hotel (Day 2)

Narsarsuaq Hostel

The hostel is nestled at the foot of a mountain with a view of the fjord. In the summertime there is always a pleasant atmosphere, with hikers and travellers exchanging experiences and planning tours.

Read more about the hostel.


Day 3. Fjordside Hiking from Qassiasuk to Qorlortup Farm (10 km)

With around 40 inhabitants, Qassiarsuk is a small farming community where sheep farming is the main livelihood, alongside a school, a church, and a local shop.

Also known as Brattahlid, this is where Erik the Red established his settlement in 982. Today, the area is home to well-preserved Norse ruins, which you can explore at your own pace. The open-air museum can also be visited (admission fee not included).

Today’s highlights:
  • From Qassiarsuk, you continue your hike north along a gravel road following the scenic shores of Tunulliarfik Fjord. The route is easy to walk and offers continuous views across the fjord towards Narsarsuaq on the opposite side.
  • If you bring a fishing rod, this stretch offers a good opportunity to try your luck in the fjord, especially near the mouth of the Qorlortoq River.
  • Before reaching the river, you turn left and follow a gravel road uphill to Qorlortup Ittinnera Farm, your destination for the day. 

The total hike today is approximately 10 km.

Meals: Breakfast

Included Accommodation (Day 3)


Qorlortup Ittinnera farm

Right before the Qorlortoq river, the gravel road on the left side leads uphill to the Qorlortup Ittinnera farm. The accommodation has a living room and self-service kitchen.


Day 4. Through the Qorlortup Itinnera Valley to Tasiusaq Sheep Farm (10 km)

Today’s hike takes you through the beautiful Qorlortup Itinnera valley, heading towards the bay of Tasiusaq in the Sermilik Fjord. There is no marked trail through the valley, but the route is easy to follow as you walk along a small stream leading all the way towards the fjord.

Today’s highlights:

  • In many places, you can follow sheep tracks that naturally guide you through the landscape. Looking up, you may be lucky enough to spot white-tailed eagles soaring above the valley. 
  • As you get closer to the bay of Tasiusaq, gravel roads and paths begin to appear, leading you towards the Tasiusaq sheep farm. 

Today’s hike is approximately 10 km

Meals: Breakfast

Included Accommodation (Day 4)

Sermilik Hostel – Tasiusaq
Farm accommodation in Tasiusaq. The amount of icebergs here are stunning and you begin to understand why the farmers love this place.



Day 5. Hike from Tasiusaq to Sillisit Along the Sheep Track (15 km)

Today’s hike takes you from Tasiusaq to Sillisit, a long and varied day covering approximately 15 km.

Today’s highlights:

  • From Tasiusaq, you begin by following a sheep track along the innermost part of the fjord for the first 3 kilometres. At Nunataaq, you join the gravel road towards Qassiarsuk, before leaving it again after about 1 km to continue across slightly undulating terrain towards Sillisit.
  • This section of the route is a true “alone in the wild” experience in South Greenland, and you navigate by following small stone cairns built by farmers and fellow hikers.
  • Sillisit is beautifully located opposite the Qooroq Ice Fjord. Here, you find today's farm stay in idyllic settings.

Today’s hike is approximately 15 km. In case of bad weather, it is recommended to stay on the gravel road all the way, passing by the Inneruulalik sheep farm, before reaching Sillisit. This is somewhat longer, approximately 23 km.

Meals: Breakfast

Included Accommodation (Day 5)

Sillisit farm
Farm accommodation in Sillisit. The farm offers an idyllic setting where a stunning wilderness backdrop meets the warm hospitality of a Greenlandic farm family—an unforgettable experience.



Day 6. Cruise through Qooroq Ice Fjord to Igaliku

After three days of hiking from farm to farm, today offers a more relaxed pace. From Sillisit, we pick you up by boat and sail into the Qooroq Ice Fjord, where massive icebergs drift in constantly changing shapes and shades.

Today’s highlights:

  • As you approach the glacier, the engine is turned off, allowing you to experience the absolute silence of the Arctic—and enjoy a drink chilled with thousand-year-old glacier ice.
  • From the ice fjord, the journey continues to Itilleq, followed by a 4 km hike along a scenic unpaved country road to Igaliku, one of the most beautiful villages in Greenland. 
  • The colourful houses are set in green grasslands beside a milky-blue fjord, while across the water the dramatic peak of Illerfissalik (Burfjeld) rises above the rugged landscape.

Meals: Breakfast

Activity on Day 6 (Included)

Boat Trip to Qooroq Ice Fjord

On the boat trip, we cross the underwater moraine at the mouth of Qooroq Fjord. Many of the large icebergs run aground here, and we sail closely past them to get through and into the fjord. A sight and experience of truly epic proportions.

Read more about the activity.

Included Hotel (Day 6)

Igaliku Bygdehotel

In the heart of the historic settlement of Igaliku, you will find Igaliku Bygdehotel, where Greenlandic hospitality meets scenic surroundings. The hotel is surrounded by lush valleys and fjords, making it an ideal base for exploring the area’s Viking history, impressive hiking trails, and relaxing atmosphere.

Read more about the hotel.


Day 7. Explore Igaliku on a Day Hike or visit the Norse Ruins

Today is dedicated to exploring Igaliku and its surrounding landscapes at your own pace.

Igaliku, known in the Norse era as Gardar, was the episcopal seat for around 300 years between 1100 and 1400. The impressive ruins from this period can still be seen today, offering a unique glimpse into Greenland’s Viking history. In 1782, Anders Olsen and his Greenlandic wife Tuperna settled here as farmers, marking the beginning of the village’s more recent history.

Today, Igaliku is surrounded by some of the finest hiking terrain in South Greenland. Check all the different hiking trails in Igaliku here.

Meals: Breakfast



You may choose between several selfguided day hikes:

The Plateau Hike (17 km)

One popular route (approx. 17 km) leads to a high plateau with sweeping views over the Qooroq Ice Fjord, where stranded icebergs rest on the underwater moraine and the glacier stretches deep into the fjord. This is an ideal spot for a picnic, and on the return you may even find local minerals such as the shimmering “moonstone” (labradorite). Read more about this hike here.

The Waterfall Hike (15 km)

Another scenic hike, the “waterfall route” (approx. 15 km), follows a chain of cascading waterfalls flowing like pearls down towards Tunulliarfik Fjord. This hike can also be extended to the summit of Nuuluk Mountain (823 m), offering a challenging but rewarding full-day experience (20–22 km). Read more about this hike here.

Included Hotel (Day 7)

Igaliku Bygdehotel

In the heart of the historic settlement of Igaliku, you will find Igaliku Bygdehotel, where Greenlandic hospitality meets scenic surroundings. The hotel is surrounded by lush valleys and fjords, making it an ideal base for exploring the area’s Viking history, impressive hiking trails, and relaxing atmosphere.

Read more about the hotel.


Day 8. Farewell to South Greenland

Depart from Qaqortoq Airport (JJU)

The day begins with a boat transfer from Igaliku to Qaqortoq (approx. 1 hour) and a final glimpse of South Greenland’s fjords and colourful townscape before your return home.

Upon arrival in Qaqortoq, you will be transferred by car to the airport for your departure, taking with you memories of remote sheep farms and unforgettable “alone in the wild” hikes.

Meals: Breakfast


Extend Your Trip?

Do you feel the trip is too short and want to extend it? Whether it’s to another destination in Greenland or simply more time to explore, feel free to ask us. We have extensive knowledge of Greenland and can provide guidance quickly and easily.

Click here for Price and Practical information


Season and practical info

Greenland is a truly unique destination – majestic, yet not always easy to reach. That is part of its charm. Our travel advisors are happy to help you tailor a trip that matches your wishes and interests. As part of our guidance, we also advise you on the best time to plan your journey, ensuring you bring home the most memorable experiences.


About South Greenland and this itinerary

South Greenland is the only place in Greenland where you will find agriculture. Today, more than 30 farms are located throughout the entire region. Often in very remote and beautiful areas with green pastures and sheep, cattle and horses roaming freely in the hills. On this tour we welcome you to visit a few of the farms and get a first-hand experience to the daily life of the Greenlanders who live of the land.

Qaqortoq is the largest town in South Greenland with approximately 3,300 inhabitants. The town serves as an important regional centre for education and training, including an upper secondary school, a business school, vocational education for adults, and programmes within tourism and guide training.

The town also has a number of local enterprises, including Great Greenland, which operates a tannery and sewing facilities producing traditional sealskin garments.

Qaqortoq is particularly known for the Stone & Man project, Greenland's oldest fountain in the town square an the harbour, where local fishermen and hunters often sell the day's catch.

When is the best time to travel?

You can start this tour every day of the week and are free to choose your own pace and what to see and do each day. Just let us know which date/flight you will arrive with and we will book the tour for you as desired.

The best time to travel for this itinerary in South Greenland is from June to September.

Difficulty

The hikes between the farms are mostly easy and follow gravel roads. However, one hike is long (15 km) and with many height meters. Your luggage is transported by car or boat.

Self-guided

All our package tours are self-guided. This means that you are not a part of a bigger group with a tour leader to guide you around. We will send you very detailed information about the tour before you arrive in Greenland.


Accommodation and meals

Accommodation at guest houses (private room at hotels and farms with shared toilet facilities). Rooms include bed linens and towels.

Meals

Breakfast is included.

Cooking facilities available at all sheep farms and in Narsarsuaq so you can prepare your own meals. You can also choose to prebook dinner at some/all sheep farms. A nice way to meet the local family at the farm. All dinners have to be ordered in advance and paid directly to the farmer on site. Prices are around 350 DKK/meal.

You can go shopping in Narsarsuaq, Qassiarsuk and Igaliku.

At the hotels in Igaliku and Qaqortoq you can buy dinner and lunch packs.


How to get here

There are direct flights to Qaqortoq (South Greenland) from Nuuk (GOH) all year round and from Iceland (Reykjavik, KEF) in the high season from mid-June to early September.

Tickets can be purchased at the airlines’ websites:

  • Air Greenland flies from Nuuk to Qaqortoq.
  • Icelandair flies from Reykjavik to Qaqortoq. Iceland air provides connecting flights from many major cities in US and EU. With just one stopover in Reykjavik.

Several airlines fly from Europe and the US to Denmark and Iceland.

Please notice, flight tickets are not included in any of our tours or products.


Food and drink

Meat and fish are the foundation of the Greenlandic diet, so be prepared for high-protein fare with relatively few vegetables and side dishes.

In South Greenland you will primarily be served lamb, but also musk ox, reindeer and whale meat. Cod, trout and shrimp are the most common fish and seafood used in South Greenlandic cuisine.

If you have an opportunity to cook your own meals, you won’t want to miss out on a visit to the local meat and fish market, where hunters and fishermen sell the catch of the day.

In South Greenland several sheep farmers have also begun to grow potatoes, turnips, lettuce and cabbage on a larger scale and you can enjoy this fresh produce if you are travelling in late summer.

Opening hours

There are grocery stores (the Pilersuisoq chain) in the villages of Narsarsuaq, Qassiarsuk and Igaliku, where you can buy canned, dried and frozen food, and to a limited extend fresh products. If your package tour includes one of the major towns, we always recommend that you buy food in a supermarket there before continuing on to a small village.

In the towns of Narsaq, Qaqortoq and Nanortalik shops are generally open from 8-9 am to 5-6 pm on weekdays, with slightly shorter opening hours on Saturdays and Sundays. In the settlements (Narsarsuaq, Qassiarsuk and Igaliku) shop opening hours are somewhat more limited: weekdays often from 10 am to 3 pm, Saturdays 10-12 am and closed on Sundays.

About dining in villages and on sheep farms

We always recommend that you take the opportunity to eat locally and taste different Greenlandic dishes when you visit a sheep farm or a small settlement. However, please do not expect a large variety of dishes (à la carte menu), as well as a special children’s menu or vegetarian dishes at such places, as shopping facilities and the choice of products are limited.

If you are a vegetarian or have a food allergy (e.g., allergic to gluten), you may want to consider bringing some food along with you, unless you will be staying in the vicinity of a supermarket in one of the major towns!

Costs

The price level of food in shops is roughly the same as in the rest of Northern Europe. Fresh fruit and vegetables, alcoholic drinks and sweets are the most expensive. See below for indicative prices for meals in cafes/restaurants:

Lunch at cafes/hotels: DKK 120-150 (approx. 16-20 EUR)

Dinner at cafeteria / sheep farm / restaurant: DKK 120 (approx. 16 EUR) / DKK 200-300 (approx. 27-40 EUR) / DKK 200-400 (approx. 27-54 EUR) 

These prices are without drinks

1 beer at a bar/restaurant: from DKK 50 (approx. 7 EUR) 

1 bottle of wine at a restaurant: from DKK 230 (approx. 31 EUR)


Money, Tele & Internet

Currency and Credit cards

The currency used in Greenland is the Danish krone (DKK). You can pay by credit card in stores (also in the settlements), at hotels, restaurants (including the Igaliku Country Hotel) and at tourist offices. However, it is a good idea to have a small amount of cash with you, especially if you are going to stay and dine on a sheep farm, where cash is the only means of payment. There are ATMs in the towns of Narsaq, Qaqortoq and Nanortalik.

Telephony

There is mobile coverage in all towns and villages. Most European telecommunications providers have roaming agreements with Tele Greenland, but it might be quite expensive to use your phone in Greenland. You should also not rely on your mobile phone as a means of communicating with the outside world on a hiking trip, as there are many places in the countryside/mountains where you will not have a signal. If you are planning a longer hiking or kayaking trip in isolated areas, for safety reasons we recommend that you rent a satellite phone.

Internet

There is wireless internet at most hotels and hostels in the towns (including Narsarsuaq and the Igaliku Country Hotel). At most tourist offices you can also borrow a computer to check your emails and so on. What all of these points of access have in common is that you pay for the use of the internet in Greenland and – compared to the rest of Europe – it is quite expensive.

Mobile Phone

Using mobile data from an international phone can be very expensive in Greenland. Make sure to check what your plan covers before enabling data roaming. If you need a Greenlandic SIM card, we recommend Tusass eSIM packages. See prices and packages here (affiliate link).

Access to Electricity

It is possible to charge your devices at the accommodations (bring your own charger).


IMPORTANT NOTE!

Please note that the price of the trip is a starting price, as there may be additional costs for a more expensive type of flight ticket or a different cabin/room standard, depending on availability at the time of booking. You are, of course, only committed to the trip once any price supplements have been confirmed. The starting price is indicated for Greenland’s low season.

Right to Changes Reserved. Please note that a trip like this is weather-dependent, and some changes to the program may occur. Delays and cancellations are possible, especially for flights and boat transport.

No compensation or reimbursement is provided for the first 24 hours of delays or changes due to external circumstances. We will make every effort to minimize inconvenience, provide an alternative program, or make the most of the extra waiting time.


What to bring

For our package tours in South Greenland we recommend:

  • A sleeping bag and towel (only if you stay in hostels)
  • Slippers or sandals (for use indoors when you stay at hostels/farms or visit a Greenlandic home)
  • Hiking boots or solid walking shoes
Clothes according to the layer-to-layer principle:
  • Wind and waterproof outerwear
  • Sweater or fleece for insulation
  • T-shirts and long-sleeved blouses (it can get really hot in the sun on land)
  • A knit hat and gloves (it can be rather chilly on a boat trip to the ice fjord)
There are laundry facilities at the hostels in Narsarsuaq, Narsaq and Qaqortoq
  • A mosquito net and mosquito repellent (which can also be purchased at Blue Ice Café). The mosquitoes are worst in June and early July in southern Greenland. There may be small, annoying flies in August. Mosquitoes are virtually non-existent in sheep farming areas, but can be troublesome in Narsarsuaq and mountain areas with few or no sheep
  • Sunglasses and sun lotion
We recommend that you pack your things in a duffle bag or backpack instead of a hard suitcase with wheels. Bags are easier to transport by boat and car, and small suitcase wheels are not conducive for use on gravel roads.