Paddle among icebergs - Kayaking in Greenland
Request a quote Back to the Wild

10 days of kayaking and hiking in the Ammassalik area

 from 3,990.00 €
Request a quote Back to the Wild

10 days of kayaking and hiking in the Ammassalik area

 from 3,990.00 €

How many people are you?

Adults Children < 12 years

The trip you chose is offered from July to August. Within this given time, when can you travel?

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We can customise this trip for you. What activities would you like to add?

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Paddle among icebergs - Kayaking in Greenland
Equipment list Back to the Wild

10 days of kayaking and hiking in the Ammassalik area
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Equipment list Back to the Wild

10 days of kayaking and hiking in the Ammassalik area

Below is an equipment list with items we highly recommend you bring on the journey. To enjoy the trip to the fullest, comfortable and good equipment is essential. So be a bit picky about what you bring on our trip, make sure it is adequate for arctic conditions.

We recommend you take the most important equipment with you as cabin luggage or carry the respective clothes/shoes on your body, notably boots and trousers, fleece shirt, warm and waterproof jacket, functional underwear, glasses, hat, gloves and everything else you consider important. In case of baggage loss you are thus at least able to start the tour.

Your guide will supply all the necessary gear such as kayak, paddling jackets, paddles, spray skirts, life vests, dry suits, etc. There is, however, a few more things you need to bring and consider on a multi day kayak trip. One thing is key - pack only the things you really need. All your gear needs to fit into the storage of the kayak plus all the gear like tents we need for camping and food. After a great day out in the field, a good night’s sleep is key to waking up and doing it all over again, so pick a good sleeping bag that fits your height and weight and make sure that the comfort rating is appropriate for the conditions you are about to experience. The comfort we recommend is around -10°C. The down bags pack better, are lighter and warmer, but have to be stored in a dry bag. The synthetic material copes better when it gets wet and soggy. A sleeping mat is very important. First of all you have to make sure it works, meaning it does not leak and is set for comfort rate to -5°C so it will isolate you and your sleeping bag from the cold arctic ground. Either take an extra pillow with you or use the pillow duvet you use to stuff your down jacket in.

Clothing & Footwear

  • Non-cotton, wool long sleeves and tights (base layer)

    Base layers are designed to keep you warm despite they might be wet from sweating, for example - therefore they must not be cotton but instead a lightweight wool or other fast-drying fiber. Base layers will also keep you warm if, for example, your outer layers are not entirely windproof or waterproof. If there is one thing to stress, it is that having several light layers to choose from, or use in combination with each other, is far more valuable for regulating body temperature than having one or two heavy layers that might make you too cold or too hot, but never just right. It is recommended to bring a selection of long-sleeve shirts and pants for lightweight base layers, so you have a few extras.

  • Wool sweater, fleece or PrimaLoft jacket (mid layer)

    A wool layer is always nice to have as additional warmth. It should not be your heaviest winter sweater, but just something you feel could make you warm and cosy if you had a persistent chill. It is recommended to bring a light- to medium-weight wool sweater or a fleece or prima loft jacket.

  • All-purpose or fleece pants (mid layer)

    When you are on land, and if it’s dry, the waterproof pants (outer layer) layer won’t be necessary, but you’ll need more than a base layer. It is recommended to bring a pair of light, loose breathable pants as a sort of all-purpose pants. Fleece pants can be useful if you easily feel cold. Jeans are strongly discouraged.

  • breathable light jacket (outer layer)

    When you’re on land, and if it’s dry, the waterproof jacket layer won’t be necessary, but you’ll need more than a base layer. It is recommended to bring a light jacket, or even a vest. Lightweight puffy jackets work well.

  • windproof & waterproof jacket and pants (outer layer)

    Whether it’s to protect you from wind and rain on land or from ocean spray while sailing, having good outer layers to protect against the elements will make the difference between a pleasant and unpleasant trip. It is recommended to bring both a windproof/waterproof jacket and a pair of windproof/waterproof rain pants. Gore-Tex is a leading manufacturer of breathable and waterproof layers.

  • gloves for paddling. Neoprene is great.
  • warm hat and light (fleece) gloves

    A bit of wind, a mammoth iceberg nearby, and even fog can have more effect on the air temperature than you might imagine, and it can be magnified when sailing or standing a few hundred meters above sea level. Even though it is summer and there is not a single patch of snow to be found, you still need to be prepared with a few of the more ‘wintery’ items. It is recommended to bring a warm hat and gloves. As a light version, a buff to wear around the head or neck is also useful.

  • hiking boots

    Footwear is of the utmost importance in Greenland. It must be comfortable yet supportive, as it is what protects your feet and will keep you going all day long. So bring your favourite hiking boots, that you will likely use across all land based activities. Good hiking boots have high ankles support, are waterproof or water-resistant and are non-skid / have a sole with good traction (good for both rocky terrain and wet boat decks). It is good if they are worn-in as it is not ideal to break in brand new shoes and have blisters on the first day. Remember that you need to pack the boots into your kayak on kayaking days, so big and bulky boots are not ideal.

  • Change of clothes to wear in the camp

Other gear

  • 60-80 litre backpack or duffle bag

    It is recommended to pack your gear in a backpack. Many of the towns have simple dirt- or rocky roads which are not exactly ideal for pulling luggage with wheels. If you do not own a backpack, prefer a duffle bag over a hard shell suitcase.

  • backpack (20L to 30L)

    We recommend a 20-30L backpack with no metal frame (foam back is perfect). There are many light versions like for trail running and day hiking. You will only carry few personal items during those days, so the pack can be very simple. Couples can also share a pack together. The importance is that they are easy to stow in a kayak.

  • dry bags for your clothes and gear

    all your gear has to be packed in smaller dry bags that can fit in the kayak 5-10 litre, preferably in different colours

  • sleeping bag, down or fibre, comfort from -8°C to -15°C

    aim for a light weight and warm bag. We recommend goose down with high “fill power” or top of the line synthetic bags.

  • sleeping mat, -5°C
  • bug repellant, head net & after bite

    The Arctic summer is notorious for small pesky insects like mosquitos and flies. They will not be a problem when kayaking, but once we hit land, they’ll surely find us soon enough. Only a light breeze will give natural respite from the bugs. It is recommended to bring bug repellent, after bite and a mosquito head net. Not very fashionable, but oh-so-functional. Please note: it should be possible to purchase bug repellent in the local Pisiffik grocery store, pending product availability, however it will be the strong, chemical, non- environment-friendly stuff. If you prefer a natural-based product, you should bring your own.

  • sun protection including dark sunglasses
  • water container, bottle or thermos (0,5 -1 litre)
  • camera/binoculars

    There’s going to be no less than 10,000 amazing things to see and remember - icebergs that look different from every angle, diving whale flukes, flocks of birds gathering around a fishing boat for free giveaways, small colourful houses perched at the edge of the hill and the world and fantastic geological rock formations. It is recommended to bring whatever camera or looking device you wish, whether that’s a smartphone, snazzy camera, or selfie stick.

  • small pillow or pillow duvet
  • spork and plate
  • ear plugs
  • personal medication
  • lighter
  • personal first aid kit incl. blister care
  • a towel – a light-weight and packable one
  • toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap)

Optional

  • pocket knife
  • headlamp
  • aperitif or other heart-warming spirits
  • Power bank / solar phone chargers

What we provide

  • tents
  • kayaks
  • paddling jackets
  • spray skirt
  • paddles
  • life vests
  • dry suits
  • neoprene shoes
  • pogies

In case you have any further questions regarding the equipment to bring to the tour please do not hesitate to contact us.

Paddle among icebergs - Kayaking in Greenland
FAQ Back to the Wild

10 days of kayaking and hiking in the Ammassalik area
FAQ Back to the Wild

10 days of kayaking and hiking in the Ammassalik area

General questions

When best to travel

  • What is the best time to travel to Greenland?
  • What is not a good time for travelling in Greenland?
  • How is the climate in Greenland?
  • What are typical activities in summer or in winter?
  • Where and when can I best witness the midnight sun?
  • Where and when can I best witness the northern lights?
  • How is the daylight during winter in Greenland?

Entering Greenland

  • Which entry requirements apply to Greenland?
  • What are the customs regulations entering Greenland?

Getting there and around

  • How can I get to Greenland?
  • Do I need to stopover in Copenhagen or Reykjavik before or after travelling to Greenland?
  • How long are flight durations to Greenland?
  • What is the baggage allowance on flights to Greenland?
  • How can I get around in Greenland?

Booking your adventure

  • How do I book a tour with Greenland Tours?
  • How far in advance do you recommend to book?
  • Should I book activities in advance or can I book them on the spot?
  • When and in what format do I receive my travel documents?
  • What if I have to cancel my trip?

Being safe and sound

  • Do I need travel insurance?
  • Are vaccinations required when travelling to Greenland?
  • Do I need to meet certain requirements when taking part in your tours?
  • What about medical care in Greenland?
  • Can I travel with children in Greenland?

Money matters

  • What is the currency in Greenland?
  • How much Danish krone (DKK) in cash should I bring to Greenland?
  • Where can I withdraw money in Greenland?
  • How is the acceptance for credit cards in Greenland?
  • Is tipping common in Greenland?

Having a chat

  • What is the official language in Greenland?
  • Can I get by with English in Greenland?

Staying connected

  • How is mobile phone reception in Greenland?
  • How is internet and mobile internet connection in Greenland?
  • How will Greenland Tours contact you once in Greenland?
  • Do I need a power plug adapter or voltage converter?

Sleeping and eating

  • What types of accommodation are there in Greenland?
  • What is the Greenlandic cuisine like?
  • What choice of restaurants is there in Greenland?
  • How can I cater for myself in Greenland?
  • Is there vegetarian or vegan food in Greenland?
  • What are the approximate costs for meals?

Facts and figures

  • How many people live in Greenland?
  • What is the capital city of Greenland?
  • What religions are there in Greenland?
  • Are there UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Greenland?

Traditions and culture

  • How to immerse into Greenlandic culture?
  • What is a kaffemik?
  • What is a Tupilak?
  • How does the traditional dress in Greenland look like?

Encountering wildlife

  • Which animals are there in Greenland?
  • How likely is it to encounter a polar bear in Greenland?
  • How are the chances for whale watching?
  • Are there mosquitoes in Greenland?
  • Beware of sled dogs!

Being stuck in Greenland

  • How about the risk of flight delays and cancellations in Greenland?
  • What happens when my flight is delayed or cancelled?
  • How can I best use my extra time when being stuck?
  • How can I best use a stopover in Kangerlussuaq?
  • What if an individual activity is cancelled by the local provider due to bad weather?

What’s more...

  • Are the trips you are offering group or individual trips?
  • Can you send us a printed brochure or catalogue?
  • Where can I find good maps and city maps?
  • Where can I find literature about Greenland?
Covid-19 info
Greenland Tours - Elli Thor Magnusson
Guided tour

Back to the Wild

10 days of kayaking and hiking in the Ammassalik area

Difficulty level: Moderate from 3,990.00 €
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East Greenland is famous for its pristine and unforgiving landscape, with colossal jagged mountains stretching as far as the eyes can see. Gain first-hand experience in how the Inuit traveled from various hunting grounds to another a few generations ago.

On this kayaking tour it is not uncommon to encounter curious seals, while listening to icebergs crumbling in the distance. While you paddle through the domain of the giants – the whales, you may feel their deep breaths from afar in this dreamlike corner of the world. During the hikes you will get up close with the forces of nature unlike any other and immerse yourself into a savage wilderness carrying a sweet scent of the fragile flora growing in impossible conditions in valleys and fjords carved by glaciers over thousands of years.

The inhabitants of the area are just as vivid as any wild flower, so while you sail by the friendly fishermen you will understand why the Inuit is known as “the smiling folk”.

Rough summary

Day 01:

Kulusuk - Nêrernaq

Day 02:

Sangmileq Bay

Day 03:

Ikâsartivaq Fjord

Day 04:

Tiniteqilaaq and Sermilik Fjord

Day 05:

Sermilik Fjord

Day 06:

Pupik

Day 07:

Southern Sermilik Fjord

Day 08:

Tasiilaq

Day 09:

Tasiilaq

Day 10:

Tasiilaq - Kulusuk

Prices and dates

Price per person:

3,990.00 Euro

Dates:

July 17, 2023 – July 26, 2023 (fully booked)
August 07, 2023 – August 16, 2023 (available)

Further details

Price includes:

  • english-speaking guide
  • food for 10 days (from dinner day 1 to breakfast day 10)
  • boat transfer: Tasiilaq – Kulusuk
  • tents (7 nights, 2 pers. in each tent) and camping equipment,
  • kayaks and kayak equipment
  • transport of kayaks and equipment,
  • 2 nights in a guesthouse in Tasiilaq (shared rooms and bathrooms)

Min. / Max. participants:

6/10

Minimum age:

18

Options

Feel free to add one or more of our tour options to make them part of your request.

Flight connections

Flights to Greenland are not included.
Best way to fly to Kulusuk is via Keflavik/Iceland.
Return flight from 950 EUR per person can be added to your package.

Open map

Detailed itinerary

Day 1: Kulusuk - Ammasalik Fjord

When arriving to Kulusuk we do the final preparations and packing of kayaks and start paddling around noon between beautiful icebergs towards Apusiaajik Island where we will see our first glacier – and then west towards our campsite. We aim to cross Ammassalik Fjord to a beautiful campsite in a small bay on east coast of Ammasalik Island. Accommodation: Tents.
Kayaking: 5-6 hours, 15-20 km.

Day 2: Sangmileq Bay

Today we head first north and after a while further west, deeper into the stunning fjords of the east coast. Our destination for today is at the end of Sammileq bay. Our campsite is situated next to a river surrounded by impressive high peaks and glaciers. Accommodation: Tents.
Kayaking: 5-6 hours, 15-20 km.

Day 3: Ikâsartivaq Fjord

We head towards Ikaasatsivaq Fjord, still among high peaks, glaciers and huge cliff faces. We pass an abandonned village and go between small islands if the ice allows us to do so. This is one of our longer days. We stay overnight next to a glacier halfway along the fjord. Accommodation: Tents.
Kayaking: 7-8 hours, 20-25 km.

Day 4: Ikâsartivaq Fjord – Tiniteqilaaq – Sermilik Fjord

After half a day paddling in the fjord surrounded by mountains so tall that they make you feel tiny and humble, we stop in the small Inuit settlement of Tiniteqilaaq. After spending some time in the village, visiting the shop and greeting the locals we steer our kayaks into the magical ice filled Sermilik Fjord and navigate our way around icebergs towards north to a bay and a well-earned rest after a long day. Accommodation: Tents.
Kayaking: 7-8 hours, 17-22 km.

Day 5: Sermilik Fjord

To really grasp the enormity and beauty of the area it’s good to leave the kayaks behind for a day and head up to the mountains for a better view. From our beautifully located campsite we hike uphill to the top of Innertvik (543 m). A wonderful spot to view the whole Sermilik Fjord and to get a good look at the Greenland Icecap. Accommodation: Tents.
Hiking: 6-7 hours, 543 m heightmeters.

Day 6: Sermilik Fjord - Pupik

We continue south in the Sermilik fjord finding our way through this world of icebergs. We will enjoy the mesmerising ice sculptures, listen to the thunder-like sound of icebergs breaking and turning while looking for curious seals surfacing between the ice. In the afternoon we will arrive to Pupik where we spend the night. Accommodation: Tents.
Kayaking: 7-8 hours, 20-23 km.

Day 7: Pupik – Southern part of Sermilik Fjord

We leave in the morning for this last day of kayaking. We follow the west coast of Ammassalik Island further south. Following closely the coastline we pass a nice sand beach and the last few gigantic icebergs before we head into a quiet bay and our last campsite on Ammassalik Island.
Kayaking: 6-7 hours, 15-20 km.

Day 8: Hike from Sermilik to Tasiilaq

After sending our kayaks off in transfer boats we will start our walk crossing the Ammassalik Island towards Tasiilaq. Walking first gradually uphill to a pass where there is a great view of the Sermilik Fjord that we are now seeing for the last time. Then we head downhill and on flat ground into a different and more fertile landscape. We pass a waterfall and some beautiful lakes on our way to Tasiilaq where we arrive in the late afternoon. Accommodation: Guesthouse.
Hiking: 7-8 hours. 16 km.

Day 9: Tasiilaq

Today we have a full day to explore Tasiilaq - the largest town on the east coast with a population of about 2,000 and one of the fastest-growing towns in Greenland. You can go for a visit at the local museum, experience the live local life at the harbor, go for a walk in the blooming Flower Valley or buy some souvenirs to bring home. Accommodation: Guesthouse.

Day 10: Kulusuk

Today we will go on a boat tour back to Kulusuk where we started. A unique sailing experience where the local boat driver safely navigates the boat through the ice-filled water. Make sure to look out for whales surfacing between the ice. It is a truly amazing experience seeing and hearing these giants in these surroundings. When we get to Kulusuk, we head to the airport where our flight back to Keflavik will be waiting for us.

Total kayaking distance: 130 km

All adventure trips are undertaken on the responsibility of its participants. Greenland Tours does not assume any responsibility for accidents which are caused by its customers or can be traced to their own actions. Participants have to sign a waiver before undertaking all trips stating that they realise that all outdoor activities carry an inherent risk.