Purple route: Illerfissalik round trip (1,752 m)

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.

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

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

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.

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.

Optional selfguided hiking tours (Day 2)

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.

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.

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

• 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)

• 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

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.

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

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.

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. 

Optional selfguided hiking tours (Day 2)

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).

• 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

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

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.

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

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.

You may choose between several selfguided day hikes:

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

• 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)

• 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

Tour Description

South Greenland is a region of contrasts, where colourful towns, peaceful settlements, Norse history, and spectacular fjord landscapes come together in one journey.

During this 8-day tour, you will explore the charming town of Narsaq, beautifully situated among luxuriant hills and iceberg-filled waters, as well as Qaqortoq, South Greenland's largest town, where colourful colonial houses stand alongside a vibrant modern community.

The lively atmosphere of the towns contrasts sharply with the undisturbed calmness and slower pace of life in Igaliku – one of the most beautiful villages in South Greenland.

Along the way, you will visit the historic Norse site of Brattahlid and sail among the blue icebergs of the spectacular Qooroq Ice Fjord, making this tour an ideal introduction to the culture and history of South Greenland's towns and settlements.

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 nights in Hotel Narsaq
• 1 night in Narsarsuaq
• 2 nights in Igaliku Country Hotel
• 2 nights in Hotel Qaqortoq

* Please note: All included accommodation at hotel and guest house with private or shared 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
• 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, Approx EUR ??? per person 

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

Your Itinerary

The day-by-day travel program below is a recommended itinerary combining the towns and settlements in South Greenland 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, followed by a boat journey to Narsaq where you will spend your first night.

Today's highlights:

• A short transfer takes you from the airport to the harbour in Qaqortoq.
• Enjoy a scenic boat journey through the fjords of South Greenland to Narsaq (approx. 45 minutes).
• Arrive in Narsaq, a charming town surrounded by mountains, fjords, and some of South Greenland's most beautiful landscape.

Day 2. Explore Narsaq at Your Own Pace

Today is yours to explore Narsaq and its beautiful surroundings. Narsaq is a medium-sized town in South Greenland with about 1,500 inhabitants. In the backcountry are high mountains, including the famous Kvanefjeld, which contains over 200 different minerals (including the beautiful, pink gemstone Tugtupit) and is a Mecca for anyone interested in geology.

Today's highlights:

• Discover Narsaq, a charming town situated at the foot of a mountain and beside a sound where icebergs from the surrounding glaciers drift by year-round.
• Visit the local museum, located in the historic colonial buildings by the old harbour, and learn more about the history and culture of South Greenland.
• Choose from several shorter and longer hiking routes around Narsaq, including the walks to Narsaq Point and Dyrnæs (7-8 km), the summit of Tasiigaaq (a landmark for Narsaq), or the mineral-rich Kvanefjeld area.

You may also choose to buy a tour by boat to the Ice Cap or an iceberg safari. We recommend booking these tours in advance.

Hiking tip! If you want to visit Kvanefjeld, we advise that you take a taxi to the sheep farm in the valley (about 7 km). Otherwise, it is quite a long day hike (20-25 km), and you have less time to look for stones! For hiking recommendations and local information, visit the tourist office located near the museum.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 3. Qassiarsuk: Norse History & Greenlandic Farm Life

Today, you travel by boat from Narsaq to Qassiarsuk (approx. 1 hour).  The approx. 40 inhabitants earn their livelihoods from sheep farming, but the village also has a school, a shop and a church. 

Today's highlights:

• Visit Qassiarsuk, also known as Brattahlid, where Erik the Red established his settlement in AD 982.

• Explore the well-preserved Norse ruins and visit the Brattahlid open-air museum (admission fee not included).

• Experience life in one of South Greenland's small farming communities, where sheep farming remains an important part of daily life.

After a couple of hours in Qassiarsuk, you continue by boat across the fjord to Narsarsuaq (approx. 10 minutes).

Meals: Breakfast

Day 4. Qooroq Ice Fjord & Arrival in Igaliku

Today begins with a boat excursion from Narsarsuaq to the spectacular Qooroq Ice Fjord (approx. 1.5 hours).

Today's highlights:

• Sail among icebergs of all colours, sizes and shapes. When the glacier is in view, the boat engine is stopped, so you can enjoy the absolute silence and a drink chilled with glacier ice – more than 1000 years old!
• From Itilleq, follow a scenic 4 km hike along a picturesque unpaved country road to Igaliku, one of the most beautiful villages in Greenland!
• Admire the colourful houses set on lush grasslands beside a milky-blue fjord, with the dramatic peak of Illerfissalik (Burfjeld) rising across the water.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 5. Explore Igaliku at your own pace

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.

You may choose between several selfguided day hikes:

Day 6. Arrive in Qaqortoq, the largest town in South Greenland

Today, you enjoy a scenic boat journey through the fjords of South Greenland – from Igaliku to Qaqortoq (approx. 1 hour). You can spend the rest of the day exploring the town at your own pace.

Qaqortoq is the largest town in South Greenland with about 3,300 inhabitants. It is the main centre of education in South Greenland with an upper secondary school, a business school, a vocational school adults and a school for tourism management and guide training.

Furthermore, the town has several fair-sized companies such as Great Greenland, with its tannery and sewing facilities for creating beautiful sealskin clothes.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 7. Explore Qaqortoq at Your Own Pace

Today is yours to discover Qaqortoq and its surroundings. With colourful houses, a lively harbour, and a thriving local community, Qaqortoq is the cultural and commercial centre of South Greenland.

Today's highlights:

• Discover the famous Stone & Man project, which consists of more than 30 sculptures that are carved into the granite bedrock by various artists. This permanent exhibition makes a stroll around the city a very special experience.

• Visit the town square and Greenland's oldest fountain, located next to the harbour. Here you can sit and watch the hunters and fishermen selling the catch of the day at the nearby fish market.

• Explore the charming streets of Qaqortoq and experience everyday life in South Greenland's largest town.

There is also the option to join an excursion to the historic Hvalsey Church, one of the best-preserved Norse ruins in Greenland (advance booking recommended).

Day 8. Farewell to South Greenland

Depart from Qaqortoq Airport (JJU)

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

From Qaqortoq, you will be transferred by car to the airport for your departure, taking with you memories of everyday life in som of the worlds most remote towns and settlements.

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

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.

Meals

Breakfast is included.

Dinner and lunch packets can be ordered at all the hotels. In Narsarsuaq we have a self catering kitchen available at our guest house so you can prepare your own meals.

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

• 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)

• 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

Tour Description

This 13-day backpacking adventure takes you off the beaten track to some of the finest hiking opportunities in South Greenland. Experience life in small Greenlandic communities and at authentic sheep farms.

Along the way, you stay at two sheep farms, visit two settlements, and spend time in the town of Narsaq, using each location as a base for exploring the surrounding landscapes on foot.

Wherever you go, the ice is present all the time - glaciers, icebergs and the amazing ice cap on the horizon! The package includes accommodation and all necessary boat transfers.

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 excl. meals*
• 3 nights in Narsaq Guesthouse
• 2 nights in Narsarsuaq
• 2 nights in Sermilik Hostel - Tasiusaq
• 1 night in Sillisit Farm
• 3 nights in Igaliku Country Hotel
• 1 night in Hotel Qaqortoq

Meals

• 3 x Breakfast at Igaliku Country Hotel
• 3 x Breakfast at Narsaq Guest House

Excursions and Transportation

• All boat transfers
• Airport transfers in Qaqortoq

Other

• Tourist tax (Approx. DKK 30 / 4 EUR per person, per night)

Price excludes

• Flights
• Transport of luggage
• Pocket money and expenses for beverages
• Breakfast at hostels/farms
• 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 traveler fee, Aprox EUR ??? per person 

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

Your Itinerary

The day-by-day travel program below is a recommended itinerary combining backpacking and hiking in South Greenland over 13 days / 12 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 at Qaqortoq Airport (JJU).

Today you arrive in South Greenland, followed by a boat journey to Narsaq where you will spend your first night.

Today's highlights:

• A short transfer takes you from the airport to the harbour in Qaqortoq.
• Enjoy a scenic boat journey through the fjords of South Greenland to Narsaq (approx. 45 minutes).
• Arrive in Narsaq where you will spend the coming days. 

Day 2–3. Explore Narsaq & Its Surroundings

Spend the next two days exploring Narsaq and the beautiful landscapes surrounding the town. Narsaq is a medium-sized town in South Greenland with about 1,500 inhabitants. It is beautifully situated at the foot of a mountain and next to a sound, which is always filled with icebergs from the surrounding glaciers.

Today's highlights:

• Discover Narsaq, a charming town with high mountains in the backcountry, including the famous Kvanefjeld.
• Explore the famous Kvanefjeld area, which contains over 200 different minerals (including the beautiful, pink gemstone Tugtupit) and is a Mecca for anyone interested in geology. 
• Visit the local museum, located in the historic colonial buildings around the old harbour. Definitely worth a stop!
• Choose from several hiking routes around Narsaq, including Narsaq Point and Dyrnæs (7-8 km),  the summit of Tasiigaaq (the smaller of the two mountains near the town that serve as a landmark for Narsaq), or longer hikes into the surrounding backcountry.

Hiking tip! If you plan to visit Kvanefjeld, we recommend taking a taxi to the sheep farm in the valley (approx. 7 km) to shorten the hike and allow more time for exploring the area. Otherwise it is quite a long day hike (20-25 km).

Ask for more information at the tourist office, near the museum. From Narsaq you can also buy a tour by boat to the ice cap or an Iceberg safari. We recommend that you book the tour in advance.

Day 4. Narsarsuaq – Hike to Signal Hill or the Ridge

Today, you travel by boat from Narsaq to Narsarsuaq (approx. 1 hour).

Today's highlights:

• Enjoy a scenic boat journey through the fjords of South Greenland.
• Explore Narsarsuaq at your own pace.
• The area offers some of the beautiful hikes on your own hand and is the place in Greenland with the shortest hiking distance to the Greenland Ice Sheet.

The hike to Narsarsuaq Glacier is approximately 16 km return and includes an ascent of around 300 metres. If you prefer a shorter hike, several other trails can be explored independently around Narsarsuaq on this day.

Meals: Breakfast

Optional Selfguided Hiking Activities (Day 4)

Day 5. Hike to Flower Valley and Narsarsuaq Glacier

Today, you have the entire day available to explore the spectacular landscapes surrounding Narsarsuaq.

Today's highlights:

• Hike through the beautiful Flower Valley on your way towards Narsarsuaq Glacier.
• Climb to a plateau offering magnificent views of the glacier and the Greenland Ice Sheet.
• Continue to the glacier itself, where you can experience and touch the ice up close.
• Enjoy some of the best hiking opportunities in South Greenland, with several alternative routes available around Narsarsuaq.

Day 6. Qassiarsuk to Tasiusaq Sheep Farm

Today, you travel by boat from Narsarsuaq to Qassiarsuk before beginning your hike towards Tasiusaq.

Today's highlights:

• Arrive in Qassiarsuk, the area once known as Brattahlid, where Erik the Red established his settlement in AD 982.
• Follow an easy hiking route along a gravel road through the open landscapes of South Greenland.
• Enjoy beautiful views of rolling terrain dotted with small blue lakes and surrounding mountains.
• Keep an eye on the sky for white-tailed eagles soaring above the valley.
• Arrive at Tasiusaq sheep farm, beautifully located on the shores of the Sermilik Fjord.

Day 7. Tasiusaq – Hike to the Ipiutaat Viewpoint

Today, you have the opportunity to explore the spectacular landscapes surrounding Tasiusaq on foot.

Today's highlights:

• Hike along the iceberg-filled shores of Sermilik Fjord towards the Ipiutaat viewpoint.
• Follow an easy walking route through open grazing land, where sheep keep the vegetation low and the views wide open.
• Cross small rivers and creeks, which in late summer are often filled with trout swimming upstream.
• Enjoy panoramic views of a large glacier stretching up to the awe-inspiring ice cap on the opposite side of Sermilik Fjord.

The hike to the Ipiutaat viewpoint is approximately 22 km return.

Day 8. 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.

Day 9. Arrive in the village of Igaliku

Today, you travel from Sillisit to the beautiful village of Igaliku.

Today's highlights:

• Enjoy a short boat transfer from Sillisit to Itilleq, passing through the scenic waters of South Greenland.
• Follow a 4 km hike along a picturesque unpaved country road towards Igaliku.
• Arrive in Igaliku, one of the most beautiful villages in Greenland, surrounded by green grasslands and a milky-blue fjord.
• Take in the views of Illerfissalik (Burfjeld), the dramatic mountain rising on the opposite side of the fjord.

Day 10-11. Spot Qooroq Ice Fjord from the Plateau or Hike to Waterfalls

These day are 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:

Day 12. Explore Qaqortoq at Your Own Pace

Today is yours to discover Qaqortoq and its surroundings. With colourful houses, a lively harbour, and a thriving local community, Qaqortoq is the cultural and commercial centre of South Greenland.

Today's highlights:

• Discover the famous Stone & Man project, which consists of more than 30 sculptures that are carved into the granite bedrock by various artists. This permanent exhibition makes a stroll around the city a very special experience.

• Visit the town square and Greenland's oldest fountain, located next to the harbour. Here you can sit and watch the hunters and fishermen selling the catch of the day at the nearby fish market.

• Explore the charming streets of Qaqortoq and experience everyday life in South Greenland's largest town.

There is also the option to join an excursion to the historic Hvalsey Church, one of the best-preserved Norse ruins in Greenland (advance booking recommended).

Day 13. 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 amazing hikes and life in one of the world’s most remote landscapes.

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

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.

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

Hikes between the hostels are over easy/moderate terrain or follow gravel roads. Some hikes are long 15-23 km depending on the route. Please note, that you have to carry your own luggage on this backpacker tour!

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

Sleeping bag accommodation at farm and hostel in 4-bed and 6-bed dorm rooms. Bring your own sleeping bag.

The tour includes an upgrade with 3 nights at Igaliku country hotel  and 3 nights at Narsaq Guest house with bed linens, towels and breakfast.

Meals

No meals included at farms and hostels.Breakfast included at Igaliku country hotel and Narsaq Guest house.

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, Igaliku and Narsaq.

There are restaurants in Narsaq and Igaliku.

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

• 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)

• 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