Igloo Lodge – A Night in the Arctic Wonderland
The adventure began not in the wilderness, but in a warm little office in Ilulissat – where a dozen excited travelers, including me, were about to set off for a night in the Arctic wild. Some were chatting nervously, others already swapping travel stories. While waiting for our snowcat transfer, I struck up a conversation with an elderly couple from Spain — proof that adventures like this attract people of all ages. By the time the group was complete, we already felt like a small team heading into the Arctic together.
Dogs, Views & Greenlandic Hospitality
Soon, our snowcat arrived — basically a bus on tracks, just roomy enough for about a dozen people. The ride was bumpy, funny, and filled with laughter as we bounced across frozen lakes and wound through snow-covered valleys. Heated inside, with big windows framing the dramatic landscape, it felt like a warm little bubble rolling through the wilderness. By the time we reached Igloo Lodge, we had already bonded over the shared jolts and giggles of the ride.
At the lodge, we were greeted warmly by the staff – and loudly by the sled dogs who live there in winter. Trust me, nothing makes you feel more “Arctic” than being surrounded by eager sled dogs howling at your arrival.
The wooden lodge itself is cozy and warm, with huge windows overlooking the little igloos dotted across the snow. From here, you can watch fishermen glide past on sleds and snowmobiles heading towards the Ilulissat Icefjord. With steaming mugs in our hands, we felt like characters in our own Arctic fairytale.
And then came Jørgen – five-time national dogsledding champion, proud owner of the sled dogs, and a man who clearly loves his dogs more than most people love their morning coffee. He introduced us to his dogs and took us on an unforgettable sled ride through the snowy backcountry, stopping at breathtaking viewpoints where silence was so deep you could almost hear the snowflakes falling.
Choose Your Adventure
After a hearty Greenlandic lunch, it was time to shift gears – literally. Guests can choose between three different adventures:
• Walking Among Giants – Hop on a snowmobile to the edge of the UNESCO-protected Ilulissat Icefjord, then walk among towering icebergs that rise like frozen cathedrals.
• Snowshoeing through silence – Strap on snowshoes and wander into the winter landscape at your own rhythm, with only the crunch of snow beneath your feet.
• Dogsledding with a champion – Join Jørgen and his huskies for another ride through the Arctic wilderness, filled with stories and passion for his dogs.
I went for the snowmobile & ice walk option — and standing out on the frozen fjord, surrounded by towering icebergs, was one of those “pinch-me” moments. Meanwhile, others strapped on snowshoes, and some saved their dogsled adventure for the next morning.
On the way back, the guides even let us play around with the snowmobiles on a wide-open stretch – imagine adults behaving like kids with brand new toy cars, but on snow.
Dinner, Stories & Arctic Coffee
Back in the lodge, we thawed out with hot drinks before being treated to a delicious Greenlandic dinner. As we ate, the staff placed small candles all around the lodge, filling the room with a warm, flickering glow. The guides shared stories, laughter filled the room, and the evening ended with a special ritual: Greenlandic coffee (a little coffee, a lot of surprises).
Just when we thought the evening couldn’t get better, the northern lights decided to join the show. We rushed outside, cups still warm in our hands, and stood in awe as green ribbons of light danced across the Arctic sky. A truly magical ending to the day.
The Night in an Igloo (or the Lodge)
Then came the highlight – sleeping in the igloo. After a briefing, we were equipped with headlamps and hot water bottles (essential, when the outside temperatures can drop to . Crawling through the small igloo entrance felt like entering a secret snow cave.
Inside, reindeer furs and sleeping bags awaited, lit by the glow of tiny candles. Cozy, magical, and surprisingly warm once you’re zipped into your sleeping bag.
And if the idea of a frosty nose all night doesn’t appeal to you? No problem. The wooden lodge also has warm, cozy bunk rooms for single travelers or pairs. You can always decide whether to brave the igloo or sleep in comfort — and either way, you’re still part of the experience. Just keep in mind: Igloo Lodge is simple and rustic – there are no showers, and only a dry toilet. But somehow, that just adds to the authenticity of living like an Arctic explorer for a night.
Did everyone spend the night outside? Not quite – the Inuit couple from Ilulissat politely skipped the igloo, while the rest of us embraced the Arctic challenge. And yes, we survived to tell the tale!
Farewell to the Arctic Dream
The next morning, some participants headed out with Jørgen for their dogsled adventure while others lingered over breakfast. Around 10:30 the snowcat appeared with a fresh group of wide-eyed guests, ready for their own Arctic dream.
We swapped smiles, shared our stories, and reluctantly left behind our temporary snow kingdom. The ride back felt just as bumpy and fun – but this time, our heads were full of memories of one truly magical Arctic experience.
Would I do it again? Absolutely. Sleeping in an igloo, riding dogsleds, walking among ice giants, sipping Greenlandic coffee – it’s the perfect mix of adventure, comfort, and pure Arctic magic.
Want to experience it yourself? The Igloo Lodge adventure is included in our Frozen West tour – the perfect way to explore Ilulissat and the wonders of Greenland’s winter.
