Tour Description
This journey is for those who dream of experiencing the Greenlandic winter and dog sledding.
The sun has finally returned from its winter hibernation, and now the all-too-short dog sledding season is here to be enjoyed for the next couple of months. Experiencing the beautiful Greenlandic winter landscape from a dog sled is truly special. And be sure to keep an eye out for the northern lights!
Ilulissat is an excellent starting point for dog sledding adventures. There are about 3,000 sled dogs in Ilulissat, and the mushers are ready to give international guests the experience of a lifetime.
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Highlights
- Experience the “capital” of Disko Bay in winter attire
- Go dog sledding, snowmobiling, and snowshoe hiking in beautiful surroundings
- Stay overnight at Igloo Lodge
- Hike at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Kangia Icefjord
- Sail among giant icebergs in the icefjord
Price includes
Outbound and Return Journey
- Round-trip flights Copenhagen – Greenland
- Domestic flights Nuuk – Ilulissat, round-trip
- Transfers between airport and hotel (Ilulissat)
Accommodation
- 4 nights in Ilulissat at Hotel Icefiord ★ ★ ★
- 1 night in the Ilulissat backcountry at Igloo Lodge
Meals
- Meals and beverages served on flights between Copenhagen and Greenland
- On domestic flights in Greenland, typically a cup of coffee and a cookie are served
- 4 x Breakfast at the hotels
- 1 x Lunch (day 2)
- 1 x Dinner (day 2)
Excursions and Transport
- Snowmobile tour and snowshoe hike at Kangia Icefjord
- Dog sledding tour in the backcountry at Igloo Lodge
- Guided hike to Sermermiut near Ilulissat
- Icefjord boat trip in Ilulissat Icefjord
- Transfer by snowcat to Igloo Lodge
Other
- Contribution to the Danish Travel Guarantee Fund
- All taxes and fees
The price does not include
- Pocket money and expenses for beverages
- Other meals not mentioned under "The price includes"
- Other excursions not mentioned under "The price includes"
- Tour leader (this trip is self-guided)
- Travel and possible cancellation insurance
- Single room supplement, 2,325 DKK
- Access to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Ilulissat Icefjord, but can be purchased online here.
Travel safely to Greenland with Topas – we are with you every step of the way
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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.
Detailed Itinerary
The program below is a recommended itinerary for the trip “Dog Sledding, Igloo Lodge, and Northern Lights in Ilulissat.”
The program is intended as a guide and can be adjusted according to your choice of activities and hotels. The price indicated is a guideline for the travel proposal and will vary depending on the season and your preferences. Upon inquiry, a customized travel offer will be prepared.
Day 1: Copenhagen – Ilulissat
The flight from Copenhagen to Nuuk with Air Greenland takes about 4½ hours. With good service and movies on the menu, the time passes quickly. In Nuuk, you’ll transfer to a smaller plane that takes you to Ilulissat. The hotel’s bus will be waiting at Ilulissat Airport and will drive you the 5–10 minutes down to Hotel Icefiord. Take a walk around Ilulissat to get a good impression of life in the Arctic. For example, visit Zion Church and Knud Rasmussen’s birthplace, which today serves as the town’s local history museum.
Meals: Complimentary meals and beverages are served on the flight from Denmark to Greenland.
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Included Hotel
Hotel Icefiord
★ ★ ★The hotel is located right on the waterfront of Disko Bay, very close to the mouth of the Icefjord—and with sea views from all 36 rooms, the name speaks for itself: Hotel Icefiord. With modern facilities, a cozy atmosphere, and a restaurant serving local specialties, it is an ideal choice for those who want to experience Greenland’s unique nature up close.
Read more about the hotel.
Day 2: Iglo Lodge
We travel 15 km into the backcountry by snowcat to Igloo Lodge. An Arctic sleeping bag is included with your stay. For a sleeping mat, we use reindeer hides, which usually keep you warm inside your igloo.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
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Activity on day 2 (included)
Snowmobile and Snowshoe Tour
In the afternoon, we embark on a combined snowmobile and snowshoe tour from Igloo Lodge to Aattartoq. We start at Igloo Lodge and ride snowmobiles to Aattartoq, a base for local hunters engaged in ice fishing. The journey offers spectacular views, including “Sermeq Avannarleq,” the dead glacier, and the vast Ice Cap.
After about 40 minutes of riding, we reach Aattartoq and the frozen fjord Sikuiuitsoq, where meter-thick icebergs are frozen in place in stunning blue and white hues. Here, we put on snowshoes and explore the unique landscape among the icebergs, gaining insight into the modern life of hunters and fishermen in Greenland.
Participants share snowmobiles two by two. All participants must be at least 12 years old, and drivers must have a valid driver’s license.
Included Accommodation
Igloo Lodge
15 km into the backcountry of Ilulissat, you’ll find Igloo Lodge. The journey there is an experience in itself, as the snowcat travels through the snowy and rugged terrain—almost like being on a slow-motion amusement park ride.Read more about Igloo Lodge here
Day 3-5: Ilulissat (UNESCO)
After a good night’s sleep in the igloo, the day offers a dog sledding tour in the backcountry. Afterwards, you’ll return to Ilulissat and civilization by snowcat. Icebergs—giant icebergs—are synonymous with the town of Ilulissat, which in Greenlandic actually means “icebergs.” The town is located at the mouth of Ilulissat Icefjord and boasts the most fantastic backdrop of colossal icebergs, which are continuously calved into the fjord from the most productive glacier in the Northern Hemisphere.
Read more about what the town has to offer.
Meals Day 4: Breakfast included.
Meals Day 5: Breakfast included.
Activity on Day 3 (included)
Dog Sledding
On the dog sled, you enter a world of complete silence. The journey goes from Igloo Lodge to a spectacular viewpoint, which we often have entirely to ourselves.The dogs are kept on the lake right in front of the lodge, and you’ll be involved in the whole process—from preparing the sled to feeding the dogs after the tour. The trip lasts about 1.5 hours, but the duration may vary depending on the weather, snow conditions, and the dogs’ energy that day. Please note that participants must be at least 8 years old. This tour is not recommended for people with back or neck problems.Read more about dog sledding here.
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Aktivity on Day 4 (included)
Sermermiut Hike
The colorful houses in Ilulissat provide a beautiful contrast to the snow-covered Greenland. The enormous icebergs at Kangia Icefjord create a stunning sculpture park on the fjord. We hike along the yellow route, with views of the massive grounded white icebergs.UNESCO has protected the Ilulissat Icefjord and the Sermermiut area. The guide will explain what UNESCO protection means for Ilulissat as a town and for the site itself. There are fascinating stories to be told, and it is clear why this particular place has been protected. Truly beautiful—simply put.
Read more about the activity.
Activity on Day 4 (included)
Icefiord Cruise
Depending on the weather and ice conditions, a boat trip among the enormous icebergs is offered. If the icebergs looked big from land, they are truly gigantic when you get up close. Boat trips among the icebergs are available both in daylight and at dusk. If you sail at dusk, you might be lucky enough to see the northern lights dancing in the sky—a sight you will never forget.Read more about the activity.
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Activity on Day 5 (suggestion)
Ilulissat - On Your Own
We have an extra day to enjoy life in Greenland. We recommend exploring the town on your own to soak up the atmosphere among the colorful houses. There’s always something exciting happening, and you might even see a dog sled racing by—here, dog sleds have the right of way over cars. You might also find time to visit Knud Rasmussen’s birthplace, Zion Church, the Ilulissat Art Museum, or the Icefjord Centre—all definitely worth a visit.Read more about the activities.
Included Hotel
Hotel Icefiord
★ ★ ★The hotel is located right on the waterfront of Disko Bay, very close to the mouth of the Icefjord—and with sea views from all 36 rooms, the name speaks for itself: Hotel Icefiord. With modern facilities, a cozy atmosphere, and a restaurant serving local specialties, it is an ideal choice for those who want to experience Greenland’s unique nature up close.
Read more about the hotel.
Day 6: Return Journey from Ilulissat to Copenhagen
Now dog sledding and Ilulissat/Greenland are on your travel résumé, and the experience has surely been unforgettable.Today, your journey home begins. There is an early departure from Ilulissat and a late arrival in Copenhagen. Remember to add 4 hours to Greenlandic time.
Takuss’ – see you again!
Meals: Breakfast included. Complimentary meals and beverages are served on the flight from Denmark to Greenland.
Extend Your Trip in Greenland?
Do you feel the trip is too short and wish to extend your journey? Whether it’s to another destination in Greenland, feel free to ask us. We have extensive knowledge of Greenland and can easily and quickly guide you.
Season and practical info
Greenland is a truly unique destination—magnificent, but not always easy to visit. That’s part of its charm. Our travel advisors are happy to help you tailor a journey that matches your wishes and interests. As part of our service, we will also guide you on the best time to plan your trip, ensuring you return home with the best possible experiences.
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When is the best time to travel?
This journey to the winter landscape around Ilulissat is best experienced during the period from January to March. It is the high season for dog sledding—a special time when the sharp silence of winter, the low sun, and the snow-covered expanses create an atmosphere found only in the Arctic.
In January, the sun has just returned after the darkness of winter, and the daylight increases steadily day by day. Temperatures usually range between -3 and -10°C, and the weather is often clear and dry—making it ideal for outdoor activities such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, and snowshoe hikes. The landscape is covered in snow, and the fjord is filled with ice, providing a dramatic and magnificent backdrop for your travel experiences.
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February and March bring longer days and slightly milder temperatures. The light becomes softer and is beautifully reflected on the surfaces of the ice and snow, and at the same time, there are excellent chances to experience the northern lights when darkness falls. The green, dancing lights across the sky are among winter’s most magical phenomena—and in Ilulissat, the darkness and dry climate create the perfect conditions.
This journey is designed to make the most of winter’s strengths. You will stay overnight at Igloo Lodge, surrounded by snow and silence, go dog sledding in the backcountry with local mushers, and have the opportunity to explore the landscape—both on foot and by motor. It’s an experience where the rawness and beauty of the season go hand in hand, giving you a unique insight into life and nature north of the Arctic Circle.
From January to March, it is possible to see the northern lights. If the sky is clear and it’s dark enough, there is almost a guarantee of seeing them. The northern lights (aurora borealis) are a phenomenon that occurs when solar winds are stronger than usual. These solar winds carry electrically charged particles, which are drawn toward the magnetic poles (the north pole = northern lights and the south pole = southern lights).
Read more about the northern lights here.
Practical info
General Information for Dog Sledding
When dog sledding, it is important to follow the guidelines below to protect yourself from injury and cold, and to ensure the best possible sledding experience.
- The musher will usually sit at the front of the sled, or at times run alongside the sled or “hang” on the upright at the back.
- Passengers sit facing the direction of travel.
- When traveling over even terrain, you may change position and sit sideways on the sled.
- Always keep your legs up on the sled so your feet don’t hit rocks, stones, ice, or similar obstacles.
- On uneven terrain or when going uphill, hold onto the designated ropes/lines. NEVER hold onto the sides of the sled, as this can cause finger injuries if they get caught under the sled.
- On uneven terrain, you can help the musher maintain balance by leaning to the opposite side of where the sled tilts.
- On steep inclines, it may be necessary to get off the sled and walk beside it until the incline ends.
- When traveling on ice, you may occasionally cross cracks in the ice. It is important to stay on the sled (unless the musher gives specific, different instructions), as it is usually easier to cross these cracks while seated.
- If it is cold, you should regularly get off the sled to run or walk alongside it to keep warm.
- Never approach the dogs.
- Never give the dogs treats or leftovers from your lunch.
- Always wear sunglasses or ski goggles and remember to use high-factor sunscreen. The sunscreen must NOT be water-based.
- Cameras and video equipment should be kept under your outerwear to protect the batteries from the cold.
- Any food you bring is best stored under your outerwear or packed between layers of clothing to keep it from freezing.
General Information about Igloo Lodge
- Igloo Lodge consists of 6 spacious igloos, each accommodating 2 people.
- All necessary equipment for your stay is included.
- All meals are included.
- The igloos are fully furnished with sheepskins, warm winter sleeping bags, and candles to create a cozy and warm atmosphere inside your igloo.
- The comfortable bedding, combined with the warm winter sleeping bags and the igloo’s excellent insulating properties, gives you the opportunity to spend the night in harmony with nature.
Physical Requirements for Travelers in Greenland
Greenland is hilly and uneven, and the weather dictates almost everything here. Locals are used to this, but as a visitor, it can be challenging if you are not adequately prepared for the conditions. However, if you are aware of what Greenland entails, you can look forward to an unforgettable journey in one of the world’s most beautiful countries.
As a rule, we require that you are physically self-reliant as a traveler. For example, you must be able to carry your luggage from the bus to your room, from the harbor to the ship (boarding via a ramp), and from the bus to the airport building, etc.
There is only limited mobile coverage on this trip. Mobile phones can therefore only be used from time to time. Wi-Fi is available at Hotel Icefiord.
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 digital camera batteries at the hotel (with your own charger). There is NO access to electricity at Igloo Lodge.
Currency and Credit Cards
VISA/Dankort can be used at almost all hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, we recommend bringing some cash (DKK) as a backup.
Maps and Travel Literature
Scanmaps: Hiking Map North Greenland, Ilulissat. 1:100,000
Can be purchased locally
NOTE
Please note that the price of the trip is a starting price, as there may be additional charges for a more expensive flight ticket type or a different cabin/room standard, depending on availability at the time of booking. You are, of course, only committed to purchasing the trip AFTER you have confirmed any possible surcharge.
We reserve the right to make changes. Please be aware that a trip like this depends on good weather conditions. Therefore, some changes to the program may occur. Delays and cancellations can happen, especially when traveling by plane or ship.
No compensation or reimbursement is provided for the first 24 hours of delays or travel changes due to external circumstances. We will strive to minimize any inconvenience and ensure an alternative program or make the extra waiting time as comfortable as possible.
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