Tour Description
Join us on an unforgettable journey to the heart of North Greenland, where spectacular scenery, authentic experiences and true Arctic magic await. Disko Bay, Disko Island and its majestic mountain landscapes provide the stunning backdrop for this adventure. One of the unique highlights of this tour is the opportunity to experience both whale watching and dog sledding. You can also look forward to snowmobile excursions, towering icebergs and endless snowy landscapes.
You will spend three nights at the cosy Hotel Disko Island in Qeqertarsuaq and enjoy one truly special night in a unique cabin on the Lyngmarks Glacier – Disko Island’s own ice cap – where you will literally sleep surrounded by eternal snow and ice. The journey begins and ends at the beautifully located Hotel Icefiord in Ilulissat, where panoramic views of Disko Bay and its drifting icebergs complete the experience.
One of the highlights of the tour is the chance to encounter the impressive bowhead whales, which spend the winter in the waters south of Disko Island. These majestic giants can weigh up to 100 tonnes and live for more than 200 years, offering a rare opportunity to see some of the world’s oldest and largest animals up close in their natural habitat.
Important: Please read the "Please note" section under "Practical info". Here you will find important information that applies specifically to this tour.
Highlights
- Basalt mountains and spectacular scenery on Greenland’s largest island, Disko Island
- Historic Ilulissat – the birthplace of Knud Rasmussen and a cultural centre
- Magical boat trip among icebergs at the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord
- Unique overnight stay in a wilderness cabin on the Lyngmarks Glacier
- Spectacular dog sledding on Disko Island’s ice cap
- Snowmobile adventure up Lyngmarks Mountain
- Whale watching with the chance to spot the magnificent bowhead whale
- The very best of the Arctic in one journey: whales, dog sledding, ice, snow and vast wilderness
- Experience North Greenland’s dramatic transition from winter to spring
Included
- Group tour with a destination guide
- Return flights from Copenhagen to Greenland
- Boat transfer between Ilulissat and Disko Island, including an Icefjord cruise
- Whale watching as described in the itinerary
- Dog sledding through the winter landscape
- Snowmobile excursions as described in the itinerary
- Visit to a local dog sled musher, hike to Udkiggen and a cultural presentation in Qeqertarsuaq
- Guided town tour and Sermermiut hike in Ilulissat
- All accommodation as described in the itinerary
- Meals as specified in the itinerary – excluding beverages
- Contribution to the Danish Travel Guarantee Fund
Program
Day 1: Arrival in Ilulissat – Guided Tour of the Arctic Town
We fly north to Ilulissat in the beautiful Disko Bay. Upon arrival, we check in at Hotel Icefiord before joining our local guide for a guided tour of the town to learn about its history and culture.
Day 2: Sailing to Disko Island – Whales and Icebergs Ahead
An exciting day on the water as we sail through iceberg-filled waters to Disko Island, hoping for an encounter with the mighty bowhead whale, Arfivik. Upon arrival, we check in at Hotel Disko Island.
Day 3: Hiking and Adventure – The Glacier or Local Life
In the morning, we hike to the old whale lookout point, Udkiggen. In the afternoon, the group is divided:
• One half enjoys an unforgettable dog sledding excursion before continuing by snowmobile/UTV to the Lyngmarks Glacier, Disko Island’s own ice cap, where they spend the night in a wilderness cabin with spectacular views.
• The other half explores everyday life in Qeqertarsuaq: visiting a local dog sled musher and later meeting a local resident who shares insights into life and winter on this remote island.
Day 4: The Groups Swap – More Dog Sledding and Greenlandic Stories
Today the groups switch activities, ensuring everyone enjoys the full experience: dog sledding and an overnight stay on the glacier for one group, while the other experiences daily life in town and spends the evening enjoying Greenlandic stories about the island’s culture and way of life.
Day 5: Whale Watching and Time in Qeqertarsuaq
Once the final group has returned from the glacier, everyone reunites in the afternoon for a whale watching excursion in search of the majestic bowhead whale.
Day 6: Return to Ilulissat – World-Class Icefjord Cruise
We sail back to Ilulissat and enjoy another breathtaking day on the water. The journey brings us close to the Iceberg Bank at the mouth of the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, where gigantic icebergs rise majestically from the sea. We spend the night once again at Hotel Icefiord.
Day 7: Sermermiut and Free Time in Ilulissat
Guided hike to the ancient settlement of Sermermiut, beautifully located on the edge of the Icefjord. The rest of the day is yours to explore the town at your own pace or visit the impressive Icefjord Centre.
Day 8: Return to Denmark
We bid farewell to Greenland and fly home with unforgettable memories of whales, sled dogs, icebergs and spectacular Arctic landscapes. In clear weather, we may catch one last glimpse of Disko Island’s dramatic basalt mountains.
See the detailed itinerary here
Not included
- Pocket money and expenses for beverages
- Expenses for meals not included in the itinerary, estimated at DKK 150-400 per meal
- Entrance fees to museums and similar attractions
- Travel insurance and possible cancellation insurance
- Single room supplement, DKK 3,600
Single accommodation in the cabin on the Lyngmarks Glacier is not possible - Upgrade to a Deluxe Explorer room (balcony and skylight) at Hotel Icefiord, DKK 1,200 per room.
Upgrade must be requested by email at: info@topas.dk. Upgrade is subject to availability.
Important information for this trip
Maximum number of participants on the journey: 22 people.
Read more under the Practical info tab about, among other things:
- Accommodation
- Activities
- Climate in Greenland
- Safety guarantee for travel to Greenland
Detailed Itinerary
All accommodation, excursions and experiences described in the itinerary are included in the price.
Included meals are marked on the individual days as Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner. Meals that are not included are not mentioned in the itinerary.
Drinks are not included with the included meals.
On Air Greenland flights between Denmark and Greenland, complimentary meals and drinks are served onboard.
The daily programme may be subject to change before or after arrival, and the order of activities may vary. This is to allow us to adapt boat trips, excursions and accommodation arrangements according to weather and ice conditions.
Day 1. Arrival in Ilulissat – guided town tour in the Arctic capital
We fly north to Ilulissat, beautifully located in Disko Bay – one of Greenland’s most iconic towns. Upon arrival, we are transferred to Hotel Icefiord, where we check in and enjoy the view of icebergs right outside our window.
Our local guide then takes us on a guided town tour and introduces us to the town’s history, culture and way of life. If time allows, you can visit the museum, shop for Greenlandic handicraft souvenirs or relax in the bar at Hotel Icefiord with a “Greenlandic coffee”, which guarantees the Northern Lights.
In the evening, we gather for a cosy welcome dinner and raise a glass to the many adventures awaiting us.
Included meals: – / – / Dinner
Day 2. Arrival in Qeqertarsuaq on Disko Island
After breakfast, we make our way to the harbour and board our boat for an adventurous journey towards Greenland’s largest island – the impressive Disko Island. The island is the size of Zealand and is characterised by its dramatic, distinctive basalt mountains rising up to 1,000 metres just outside the town.
The sailing takes us through ice-filled waters, and depending on the progress of spring, we may experience how the experienced captain navigates the harsh Arctic seas and perhaps even have the opportunity to try breaking through the ice ourselves under safe conditions. The closer we get to Disko Island, the greater the chances of spotting the mighty bowhead whale, Arfivik, which migrates to the area at this time of year from Arctic Canada.
Upon arrival in Qeqertarsuaq – the only town on Disko Island – we check in at the charming Hotel Disko Island, consisting of small houses centrally located in town. The rest of the day is reserved for relaxation after a spectacular sailing journey that only few people experience.
Included meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 3. Dog sledding and ice cap adventure or insight into Greenlandic everyday life
After lunch, the group splits up:
• The first half sets out on an unforgettable dog sledding adventure, gliding through the Arctic snow-covered landscape accompanied only by the sound of the dogs’ breathing and the gentle scraping of the sled. Afterwards, a spectacular snowmobile trip awaits, taking us up to Lyngmarksbræen, located approximately 900 metres above sea level. Lyngmarksbræen is Disko Island’s own ice cap, where you are captivated by the silence and the views across Disko Bay and perhaps all the way to Kangia Icefjord. We spend the night on the ice cap in a cosy wilderness cabin, heated by a paraffin stove, creating an atmosphere found nowhere else.
• The second half remains in Qeqertarsuaq and gains unique insight into everyday life on the isolated island. We visit a local sled dog driver and end the day with an intimate and personal evening, where a local resident shares stories about life, traditions and the harsh winter on Disko Island. Overnight stay at Hotel Disko Island.
Included meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 4. The groups swap – dog sledding adventure and Arctic stories
The morning sun colours the snow golden on Lyngmarksbræen, where the first group wakes up in the warm wooden cabin. With a cup of coffee in hand, the sunrise can be enjoyed in silence – either from the warmth of the cabin or outside in the crisp, frosty air. The morning offers time to relax and take in the spectacular glacier landscape, where, on clear days, the view stretches all the way to Kangia Icefjord near Ilulissat and down towards the town of Qeqertarsuaq.
During the morning, the journey continues by snowmobile/UTV back to town, where the afternoon is dedicated to cultural experiences. We visit a local sled dog driver before ending the day with Greenlandic stories about winter, isolation and strong community spirit.
Meanwhile, the second group sets out on another unique dog sledding adventure and a spectacular ascent through the Arctic landscape towards Lyngmarksbræen, where they spend the night in the wilderness cabin – warmed by the stove and surrounded by views of ice, mountains and fjords.
Included meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 5. Whale safari – meeting the majestic ‘Arfivik’
After an unforgettable morning on Lyngmarksbræen, where the second group enjoys the sunrise over the beautiful, frost-covered glacier, they are transported back to Qeqertarsuaq by snowmobile/UTV. At the same time, the group that spent the night in town has time to enjoy a peaceful morning and explore Qeqertarsuaq at their own pace.
When we are all gathered again, we set out for an exciting afternoon on the water. We sail into Disko Bay hoping for a close encounter with the impressive bowhead whale, Arfivik. This majestic whale, which can live for up to 200 years, grow up to 20 metres long and weigh up to 100 tonnes, is characterised by its distinctive round, “barrel-shaped” body – and in Greenlandic, Arfivik means precisely “the barrel-shaped one”.
The bowhead whale moves slowly and calmly, making it possible to get relatively close. Although the species was once close to extinction due to international whaling, it is now protected through regulated quotas limiting the number of annual hunts. At this time of year, the whales spend the winter in the waters around Disko Island, where we hope to have the rare opportunity to experience their majestic presence as they often rest at the surface of the sea.
Included meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 6. Back to Ilulissat – world-class icefjord sailing
On the final sailing trip of the journey, we depart from Qeqertarsuaq and set course for Ilulissat. We dedicate the day to crossing the impressive Disko Bay and approaching the Iceberg Bank at the mouth of the UNESCO-protected Ilulissat Icefjord. Here we encounter gigantic icebergs rising majestically from the sea – a sight that takes everyone’s breath away.
Along the way, we may spot small boats fishing with longlines for the highly sought-after Greenland halibut. Our guide shares knowledge about life by the icefjord, hunting and fishing, as well as the climatic changes affecting the melting of the ice. It is a unique opportunity to understand the natural world around us and how it is changing.
Upon arrival in Ilulissat, we say goodbye to the ship and crew and are transferred to Hotel Icefiord, where we check in and enjoy a well-deserved night’s rest.
Included meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
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Day 7. Sermermiut and Ilulissat at your own pace
Today we set out on a fascinating hike to Sermermiut, the ancient settlement located at the edge of the impressive Ilulissat Icefjord – Kangia. Sermermiut, together with Kangia, is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was home to the Paleo-Inuit people for approximately 4,500 years. Here, three major cultures – Saqqaq, Dorset and Thule – lived and adapted to the harsh Arctic climate.
Along the way, we gain insight into the groundbreaking excavations carried out by the National Museums of Denmark and Greenland, which revealed both the presence and disappearance of early cultures due to climate changes, diseases and other factors. Today, few traces of the peat houses remain, but the site provides a strong impression of the conditions people lived under in this challenging part of the world.
From “Kællingekløften”, we enjoy a spectacular view of the icefjord and the majestic icebergs, making this a truly magnificent natural experience.
After the hike, you have time to explore Ilulissat independently, visit the impressive Icefjord Centre or simply enjoy the atmosphere of the town. A perfect ending to an unforgettable journey!
Included meals: Breakfast / – / Dinner
Day 8. Return journey to Denmark
The journey in Greenland is coming to an end. We say goodbye to the magnificent Arctic landscape and fly home filled with memories of majestic whales, dog sledding, icebergs and unforgettable natural experiences. In clear weather, we may catch one final glimpse of Disko Island’s dramatic basalt mountains, marking the end of an adventurous journey through the wonders of Greenland.
Included meals: Breakfast / – / –
Practical info
Guide
On this trip, there will be a destination guide at each location you visit. The guide has extensive local knowledge and is responsible for carrying out the planned activities during your stay. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by the guide, who will ensure a great stay and assist with your departure. Thus, a new destination guide will be assigned each time you visit a new location during the journey.
Duration and difficulty level
8 days. Whale safari, dog sledding and snow mobile (level 1-2)
Activities
GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE ACTIVITIES ON THE TOUR
Whale safari
All boat trips will take place either on a steel vessel or a Targa boat, depending on the ice conditions. Both types of vessels are classified for sailing in Greenlandic waters and are widely used in the Disko Bay area. There is plenty of space for all passengers both indoors and outdoors.
In April, Greenland whales normally stay in the waters around the southern part of Disko Bay towards Davis Strait, and sometimes they can even be spotted just outside the town.
Snowmobile/UTV transport
When we go on the overnight excursion to Lyngmarksbræen, transport will primarily take place in a sled pulled by a snowmobile or UTV. The journey between Qeqertarsuaq and the cabin takes approximately 30 minutes, depending on weather and snow conditions.
Dog sledding
Approximately 1.5–2 hours of dog sledding through the beautiful winter landscape. In addition to the driver and the team of sled dogs, there will be 2–3 travellers per sled.
Dog sledding has been – and still is – widely used in Greenland, but in West Greenland only north of the Arctic Circle. Traditionally, hunters used dog sleds as a means of transportation when travelling out onto the sea ice in search of game. Today, the dog sled remains an important means of transport in many parts of Greenland.
Accommodation
There will be 3 nights’ accommodation at Hotel Disko Island in Qeqertarsuaq on Disko Island and 1 night in a basic, heated cabin on Lyngmarksbræen at the top of the mountain behind Qeqertarsuaq. There will also be 3 nights’ accommodation at Hotel Icefiord in Ilulissat.
At Hotel Disko Island and Hotel Icefiord, accommodation is in shared twin rooms with private bathroom and toilet. In the cabin on Lyngmarksbræen, the sleeping area is arranged with bunk beds and partitions. The cabin has a shared dry toilet/bag toilet, which is still widely used in most settlements in Greenland today. There is no shower or electricity in the cabin.
It will be possible to upgrade your room at Hotel Icefiord, as well as request a single room at Hotel Disko Island and Hotel Icefiord, for an additional fee stated in the section “Not included in the price”.
Meals
Included meals are marked on each day as Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner. Meals that are not included are not mentioned in the daily programme.
Drinks are not included with the included meals.
On flights with Air Greenland between Denmark and Greenland, complimentary meals and drinks are served on board.
Flights and local transport
Climate
In April, the average temperature in Disko Bay – including areas such as Ilulissat and Qeqertarsuaq – is typically between -10°C and -5°C.
However, temperatures can vary depending on weather conditions and location (e.g. coastal areas compared to higher elevations such as Lyngmarksbræen). Nights are considerably colder, while the sun during the middle of the day – especially in sheltered areas and in clear weather – can make it feel warmer. Snow is still common in April, and sea ice may still cover parts of the bay, depending on the progress of spring.
Due to the sunshine and the dry air, temperatures do not feel as cold as they might in other parts of Europe.
Currency and credit cards
VISA/Dankort can be used at almost all hotels, restaurants and shops.
Wi-Fi and mobile coverage
There is mobile coverage in towns, but not necessarily outside the towns in the mountains or at sea. Wi-Fi is available at Hotel Icefiord.
If you need a Greenlandic SIM card, we recommend Tusass eSIM packages. See prices and packages here.
Maps and travel literature
Saga Map no. 10, Disko Bay. 1:250,000 and optionally Hiking Map North Greenland, Ilulissat. 1:100,000 and/or Hiking Map Qeqertarsuaq, Disko Island. 1:100,000.
Please note
Changes to the programme may occur. Please note that a journey like this is dependent on weather conditions, and therefore minor changes to the itinerary may occur. Delays and cancellations may happen, especially when travelling by air and sea, and snowmobile and dog sledding activities are also dependent on snow conditions.
Should changes occur, Topas, in cooperation with the guide, will do its utmost to minimise any inconvenience and arrange an alternative programme or make the best possible use of any additional waiting time.
April is a transitional season in terms of weather in North Greenland. Winter begins to loosen its grip, and spring starts to arrive. The timing of when the sea ice and snow melt varies from year to year. In rare cases, spring may arrive exceptionally early or late. Should this happen, we will do everything possible to find good alternative solutions.
Safety guarantee for trips to Greenland
Who travels on group trips with Topas?
On our group trips, you will meet everyone from solo travellers and singles to couples, friends and families. What brings the groups together is the desire to experience the world and be active as part of a great community. It is often the combination of active days, small achievements along the way and evening conversations around the dinner table that creates the foundation for a strong sense of togetherness.
If this is your first solo trip, it may feel like a big step for some people. But you will quickly discover that the group consists of people with the same curiosity and passion for travel as yourself.
Packing list
We have prepared a packing list to help you when packing for your trip. The packing list contains general information as well as what is useful to bring on this specific journey.
The packing list should be seen as a guide to what you CAN bring, and not as a list of items you MUST bring, as individual needs and preferences may vary. However, our experience shows that the items listed below are useful to bring.
Luggage
You can bring 20 kg of checked baggage and 8 kg of hand luggage. It is possible to leave any remaining/excess baggage that you do not need for the overnight stay in the cabin.
We recommend bringing a daypack, which can also be used as hand luggage on the flights.
For your main luggage (the baggage checked in for the flights), we recommend bringing a soft sports bag, backpack, duffel bag or similar, as this type of luggage is easier to handle during transfers, boarding boats, disembarkation and other transport situations. However, it is possible to bring a suitcase. Please note that, as a general rule, you should be able to carry and handle your own luggage throughout the entire journey.
Boots
It is a good idea to bring sturdy hiking boots with a stiff sole (e.g. Vibram) and good ankle support to help prevent ankle injuries. As there is not a lot of hiking included on this trip, a pair of regular winter boots that you are comfortable walking in can also be used.
It is a good idea to travel wearing your boots from home or to pack them in your hand luggage in case your checked baggage is delayed unexpectedly.
It may be a good idea to bring shoe spikes/ice grips/traction cleats to attach to your footwear, thereby reducing the risk of slipping on icy surfaces.
It may also be a good idea to bring gaiters to prevent snow from getting into your boots.
Other footware
Sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner and sleeping mat
Clothing for whale safari and dog sledding
- 1 warm wool sweater and 1 fleece sweater
- 1 pair of fleece trousers or insulated trousers
- 1 warm hat / balaclava (must cover the ears)
- 1 pair of warm mittens (optionally with a pair of thin gloves underneath)
- 1 scarf/neck gaiter/buff
- 2 pairs of thick hiking socks
- Optional: 2 pairs of thin liner socks
- Moisture-wicking base layer, preferably woollen underwear
- 1 thin wool sweater
- 1 windproof anorak or jacket with hood
Ski underwear (that does not contain wool) is designed for activities where you are moving. During dog sledding/snowmobile activities, you sit still for up to a couple of hours, and you may therefore feel colder if you do not wear wool as your innermost layer.
It may be a good idea to bring hand and foot warmers for your gloves and boots respectively.
Other clothing
- Travel clothing
- T-shirts
- Shirts/long-sleeved tops
- Socks
- Underwear
Sun protection
- Good sunglasses
- Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
Miscellaneous
- Passport, currency, health insurance card and travel documents
- Personal medication
- Large water bottle/drinking bottle (preferably 0.75–1 litre)
- Entertainment/games for boat trips and time in the cabin
- Power bank and optionally a headlamp/flashlight for the cabin
- Toiletries (optionally wet wipes for personal hygiene in the cabin)
- Camera and possibly extra batteries/charger
- Binoculars
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