About Igaliku
Igaliku is a small, idyllic settlement in South Greenland, beautifully situated between green valleys, mountains, and the sparkling fjord. Only about 30 people live here, and the atmosphere is characterized by tranquility, presence, and a strong sense of community, where traditions are still part of everyday life.
Life in Igaliku moves at a slow pace, giving you the space to enjoy nature and simply be present.
The village is part of the UNESCO World Heritage, and you can feel history up close when you visit the ruins of Garðar, the old episcopal residence, or explore the area’s impressive Norse ruins. The village’s recent history is also interesting and you can learn more about it at a permanent exhibition in the church.
Hiking tours in the Igaliku area
The area around the village of Igaliku includes some of the best hiking terrain you can imagine. The landscape is full of contrasts – from green and lush hillsides to barren rock deserts and rugged mountain terrain. You have views of drifting icebergs, waterfalls and even a lake for swimming! And to top it all off, Igaliku is an absolutely charming and friendly village.
The tours described here are all day trips starting from Igaliku, where you can stay at the Country Hotel. The colours of the routes refer exclusively to the overview map and have nothing to do with any trail marks on site, nor do they indicate any particular level of difficulty.
Red route (The Lake and the Plateau - round trip)
SELFGUIDED TOUR (About 17 km)
The Plateau hike is one of the most beautiful day trips in the area and offers great variety. The route is about 17 km long (approximately 6 hours, max altitude 266 m), and follows marked trails through dunes, willow and birch trees, as well as a rugged “moonscape” of weathered rocks. Along the way, you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the Qooroq Icefjord and have the chance to find the local gemstone, labradorite. The hike starts at Igaliku Country Hotel.
Orange route (The Waterfall Hike - round trip)
SELFGUIDED TOUR
The Waterfall Hike is a scenic circular route where you follow sheep trails through lush vegetation and experience several beautiful waterfalls cascading down toward the Tunulliarfik Fjord. Along the way, you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the blue fjord, often with icebergs drifting by.
The route offers varied terrain and atmospheric nature experiences, and all the way back to Igaliku you can appreciate the beauty and tranquility of the landscape.
Yellow route (Blue Ice Camp – Plateau – Igaliku)
SELFGUIDED TOUR (About 10 km)
Blue Ice Camp is located by the Qooroq Icefjord and features a small, sturdy aluminum cabin equipped with kitchenware and a gas stove. The cabin provides shelter in bad weather, but you should bring your own tent for overnight stays.
You can arrange boat transfer from Narsarsuaq (for an additional fee) if you want to experience the area without hiking all the way. The route to Igaliku goes via the Plateau and then follows the red route.
Blue route (Nuuluk 823 m - return)
SELFGUIDED TOUR (About 823m)
Nuuluk Mountain can be climbed on a moderate hike from Igaliku, and at 823 meters offers a fantastic view of the surrounding landscape.
The ascent provides a true sense of mountain hiking, especially on the final steep slopes toward the summit.
Along the way, you’ll experience both green valleys and more rugged mountain terrain, and at the top you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of fjords and mountains.
Purple route (Illerfissalik round trip - 1,752 m)
SELFGUIDED TOUR (About 30 km)
Illerfissalik is the highest point in the area and a prominent landmark once used by the Norse as a lookout post. When ships approached from the south, they would light fires on the summit to signal that it was time to gather and trade.
The hike to the top does not require technical climbing, but it is physically demanding and not suitable for beginners.
Hiking route from Qaqortoq to Igaliku
SELFGUIDED TOUR (About 65 km)
The hiking route from Qaqortoq to Igaliku is a South Greenland classic, covering about 65 km, of which 30–40 km follow roads. The route takes 3–4 days and reaches up to 445 meters in elevation.
You’ll hike through beautiful mountain landscapes with views of fjords and icebergs, passing historic Norse ruins such as Hvalsey Church and Sissarluttoq.
The trek is moderate, requires a tent and provisions, and there is almost always access to spring water along the way.
Days trips from Igaliku (Itilleq)
Boat Trip to Qooroq Icefjord
GUIDED TOUR (1,5 hours)
We sail from Itilleq to the mouth of the Qooroq Icefjord, navigating among stranded icebergs and experiencing an impressive view of thousands of icebergs and the mighty glacier. Here, the glacier calves enormous amounts of ice daily, filling the fjord with icebergs in beautiful turquoise hues.
Along the way, we collect ice for our drinks and enjoy the silence, broken only by the sound of ice breaking free from the glacier.
Igaliku Bygdehotel
Igaliku Country Hotel is beautifully situated among green fields and fjords in South Greenland. The hotel offers cozy rooms, modern cabins, and a villa with fantastic views.
Here, you can enjoy Greenlandic specialties in the village’s only restaurant and relax after a day of hiking or sightseeing.
The Country Hotel is the ideal starting point for experiences in the area, whether you are seeking tranquility, nature, or historical attractions.
Weather in Igaliku
The weather in Igaliku and South Greenland is shaped by the Arctic climate and can change quickly. Summer is mild, with temperatures between 5°C and 15°C, long bright days, and often clear weather—ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
However, sudden gusts of wind or rain can occur, so it’s important always to be prepared. Winters are cold, with snow and short days, giving the area a special atmosphere. No matter the season, Igaliku invites you to take things at your own pace and enjoy the silence, the nature, and the ever-changing weather conditions that make each day unique.
