EASTERN
GREENLAND
Eastern Greenland is an unparalleled destination, a realm of untamed wilderness, dramatic landscapes, and thrilling adventures. With sparse human habitation and vast distances between towns and settlements, it stands as the ultimate off-the-beaten-path locale. The potential for hiking experiences here is boundless, with a myriad of nameless, unclimbed mountains waiting to be conquered.
​
This expedition offers a spectrum of captivating activities, including picturesque hikes, awe-inspiring mountain ascents, fjord exploration amid colossal icebergs, glimpses of the Greenland ice sheet, and immersion in the rich tapestry of Greenlandic culture.
Far removed from the crowds typical of most tourist hotspots, Eastern Greenland provides a haven of serenity and unspoiled natural beauty. It's an ideal escape from the rigors of everyday life, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the present moment and capture the wonders through your camera lens.
​
However, it's worth noting that this journey demands a high level of physical fitness and an appetite for challenging hikes. Steep, rocky terrain with loose rocks and screes can be encountered, requiring surefootedness. Yet, if you are an experienced hiker, in excellent physical condition, eager to conquer steep mountains and long trails, and yearning for the solitude and authenticity of this remote wilderness, then this expedition is tailor-made for you!
TRIP OVERVIEW
ITINERARY
Tasiilaq is the largest town in Eastern Greenland, with a population of approx. 2.000 people
Tasiilaq is the largest town in Eastern Greenland, with a population of approx. 2.000 people
DAY 1
TASIILAQ
Our journey begins with a hotel pickup in Reykjavík, followed by a flight to Greenland. Our destination is the island of Kulusuk, where we board a helicopter to reach Tasiilaq, the largest town in eastern Greenland. In this remote region, there are no road connections, so transportation is primarily by helicopters or boats (and dogsleds in the winter). Upon arriving in Tasiilaq, we take on a short afternoon hike to start our adventure.
TOTAL HIKING
4 km (2.5 mi)
ELEVATION GAIN
250 m (820 ft)
A mountain towering over the town of Tasiilaq, Greenland
A mountain towering over the town of Tasiilaq, Greenland
DAY 2
THE FISHERMAN'S PEAK
Today's adventure leads us to the local mountain, Qaqqartivakajik, also known as "The Fisherman's Peak," situated right behind Tasiilaq. The climb is steep, with scree and large rocks along the way, but the breathtaking views from the summit make it all worthwhile. From the peak, we descend into the Valley of Flowers and proceed towards town, completing a memorable loop.
TOTAL HIKING
9.5 km (6 mi)
ELEVATION GAIN
650 m (2.130 ft)
Travelling in the Sermilik fjord, which is filled with massive icebergs from the main Greenland glacier.
Travelling in the Sermilik fjord, which is filled with massive icebergs from the main Greenland glacier.
DAY 3
SERMILIK FJORD
No Greenland adventure is complete without venturing out to sea to witness the magnificent icebergs drifting in the fjords. We set sail on a boat to explore the other side of Ammassalik Island, entering the awe-inspiring Sermilik Fjord. Filled with icebergs from the Greenland ice sheet, it offers a truly spectacular sight. We visit the village of Tiniteqilaaq (Tinit), explore an old WWII site, marvel at the colossal icebergs, and with some luck, spot whales gracing us with their presence.
TOTAL HIKING
No hiking
ELEVATION GAIN
0
Hiking is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the Greenlandic wilderness
Hiking is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the Greenlandic wilderness
DAY 4
THE SERMILIK TRAIL
After a leisurely day on the boat, we embark on a challenging hike called "The Sermilik Way." This historic trail connects the western side of Ammassalik Island to Tasiilaq and was once used by locals to travel between settlements. We begin our journey with a morning boat ride, reaching the trail's starting point. From there, we ascend a mountain pass and descend into valleys on the other side, eventually arriving in Tasiilaq.
TOTAL HIKING
20 km (12.5 mi)
ELEVATION GAIN
450 m (1.450 ft)
Kulusuk is a small town (p. 240) on an island with the same name.
Kulusuk is a small town (p. 240) on an island with the same name.
DAY 5
KULUSUK & ICE CAVE
Our Greenland adventure continues as we bid farewell to Tasiilaq and fly back to Kulusuk, where we will spend our final two nights. The highlight of the day is our visit to a glacier, where we'll explore an ice cave, immersing ourselves in the world of crystal-clear, blue ice. This unique experience provides a glimpse into centuries of snow compression, resulting in solid ice formations.
TOTAL HIKING
2 hours
ELEVATION GAIN
100 m (330 ft)
The highest mountain on Kulusuk island. A view of the town Kulusuk in the foreground.
The highest mountain on Kulusuk island. A view of the town Kulusuk in the foreground.
DAY 6
QALORUJOORNEQ
On this day, we make the most of our remaining time in Greenland. Our goal is to summit the highest mountain on Kulusuk Island, Qalorujoorneq. It's a full-day climb, but the reward is unparalleled 360° views that encompass the entire island, the surrounding fjords, and the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean. It's a fitting way to conclude our Greenland adventure.
TOTAL HIKING
15 km (9.5 mi)
ELEVATION GAIN
700 m (2.300 ft)
An endless amount of unexplored mountains await in Greenland.
An endless amount of unexplored mountains await in Greenland.
DAY 7
FLYING BACK TO ICELAND
It's time to say our farewells to the enchanting eastern coast of Greenland and embark on our flight back to Iceland, concluding this unforgettable journey.
TOTAL HIKING
No hiking
ELEVATION GAIN
0