On a sightseeing trip to the icebergs of Disko Bay by boat
Request a quote Northern Lights and Icebergs

5 days in Ilulissat incl. visiting the UNESCO Ilulissat Icefjord & Northern Lights tour

 from 720.00 €
Request a quote Northern Lights and Icebergs

5 days in Ilulissat incl. visiting the UNESCO Ilulissat Icefjord & Northern Lights tour

 from 720.00 €

How many people are you?

Adults Children < 12 years

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

Start
End

What accommodation level do you prefer?

Should we include international flights?

Yes No

From what airport do you want to fly?

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

Exploring the Arctic winter with a dogsled is an amazing experience. Depending on the conditions we might go to Brede Bay and enjoy the great view of Disko Bay and Disko Island on the way. Or we might explore the hinterland and go to a great viewpoint where we have a view of the spectacular UNESCO Icefjord.

Today, you will enjoy an amazing 3 hours snowmobiling ride from Ilulissat. We follow the old trail to the north, crossing lakes, frozen fjords and hills with breathtaking views of Disko Bay and Disko Island. Finally we cross the frozen sea to reach Oqaatsut where we have a break drinking coffee or tea, eat snacks and discover the traditional settlement. We ride back to Ilulissat taking a different route to explore the back country, visiting a spectacular frozen waterfall and the dramatic rock cliffs that dominate the scenery. Please note that the itinerary can be adjusted to weather & ice conditions. No previous experience but driving license is required. Minimum age is 18 years. We will provide all the equipment and teach all you need to know to ride completely safe with our experienced guide.

Add this option to stay overnight at Igloo Lodge, a camp consisting of six traditional igloos and a wooden hut. We get there by snow cat and once at the base we continue to explore the area by snowshoe enjoying fantastic views of the UNESCO Icefjord. Lunch, dinner, breakfast and a high-performance winter sleeping bag are included. With a bit of luck Northern Lights as well (Feb-Mar). Choosing this option will extend your program by one day.

On a city walk through Ilulissat your guide will show you the most important sites of this charming little town located next to the UNESCO Icefjord for instance the old part of town where the houses of the first Danish settlers are situated at the harbour as well as the Knud Rasmussen Museum and the old wooden church Zion. He will provide us with valuable insight into the history of Ilulissat and the Greenlandic culture.

Further information

Contact Information

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On a sightseeing trip to the icebergs of Disko Bay by boat
Equipment list Northern Lights and Icebergs

5 days in Ilulissat incl. visiting the UNESCO Ilulissat Icefjord & Northern Lights tour
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Equipment list Northern Lights and Icebergs

5 days in Ilulissat incl. visiting the UNESCO Ilulissat Icefjord & Northern Lights tour

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.

Remember when dressing up for your dog sledding trip, that you will mostly sit on the sledge enjoying the great arctic winter landscape without moving much. It is therefore from utmost importance that you dress very warm, especially protecting feet, hands and head.

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 mid-weight wool or other fast-drying fibre.If there’s one thing to stress over and over and over, it is that having several layers to choose from, or use in combination with each other. It is far more valuable for regulating body temperature than having only one or two very heavy layers that might make you too hot and never just right.It is recommended to bring a selection of warm long-sleeves and warm tights as 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. Pick your favourite woollen winter sweater keeping youwarm and cosy. If you are not too much into woollen sweaters you can also bring a warm fleece or PrimaLoft jacket instead.

  • insulated or fleece pants (mid layer)

    It is recommended to bring a pair of insulated hiking pants as a sort of all-purpose pants. Fleece pants can be useful, too. Jeans are strongly discouraged. If you do not own insulated hiking pants, wear a thick base layer underneath your standard hiking pants.

  • down jacket (outer layer)

    Well, you are heading to Greenland in winter. So get prepared for cold! We recommend to bring a nice warm down jacket or the warmest winter jacket you find in your wardrobe. You will always need this jacket when you are outside but not moving so much, like on a boat or dog sledding trip, gazing at the Northern Lights or wandering through the settlements.

  • skiing pants (outer layer)

    Stay snug and warm and bring a pair of skiing pants to Greenland.They keep you warm from blowing cold winds so you can fully enjoy the arctic winter landscapes you came to explore.

  • windproof & waterproof jacket and pants (outer layer)

    Whether it is to protect you from wind and snow 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 pants. Gore Tex is a leading manufacturer of breathable and waterproof layers.As most wind- and waterproof gear does not keep you very warm, you will need to wear one or two warm mid layers below.

  • warm hat, scarf and warm (fleece) gloves

    Now that you are all dressed up don’t forget your head and hands. Half of our body heat we lose through or heads.Therefore we recommend to bring two pairs of warm hats and gloves as well as a pair of warm mittens.

  • warm and supportive footwear

    Footwear is of the utmost importance in Greenland. It must be comfortable, warm, yet supportive, as it is what protects your feet and will keep you going all day long. It is recommended to bring burly and warm winter boots for this winter trip, plus several pairs of super warm wool socks. The best warm & comfortable footwear is: • insulated and warm • waterproof or water-resistant • offering high ankle support • non-skid / has a sole with good traction. (Good for both icy terrain and slippery boat decks.) • worn-in. (It is not ideal to break in brand new shoes and have blisters on the first day.)

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 covered in ice and snow in winter 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.

  • 20-30 liter daypack

    For maximum versatility, it is recommended to also bring a small foldable daypack to hold an extra layer or two and a thermos during short excursions.

  • sunscreen, lip balm

    Even though you are visiting Greenland during winter, we advise to bring sun screen and lip balm. If sun shines, the reflection off water, snow and nearby icebergs can cause some fierce sun exposure.

  • sunglasses

    As sun stays quite low during winter time, it is good to have a pair of sunglasses along.

  • water bottle

    Make sure you stay hydrated. It is recommended to bring your own water bottle or thermos to fill up with the freshest, cleanest, tastiest water you can find.

  • 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, small colourful houses perched at the edge of the hill and of course those cute sled dogs. It is recommended to bring whatever camera or looking device you wish, whether that’s a smartphone, snazzy camera, or selfie stick.

What we provide

  • seal skin dog sled clothing in Ilulissat

    Clothing includes parka, trousers and boots.

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

On a sightseeing trip to the icebergs of Disko Bay by boat
FAQ Northern Lights and Icebergs

5 days in Ilulissat incl. visiting the UNESCO Ilulissat Icefjord & Northern Lights tour
FAQ Northern Lights and Icebergs

5 days in Ilulissat incl. visiting the UNESCO Ilulissat Icefjord & Northern Lights tour

Tour related questions

  • Is this trip flexible in dates?
  • Can the excursions/activities be customised and can I add more?
  • In what language are guided excursions/activities offered?
  • How will I know where my excursions/activities start and how can I get there?
  • How will I get from Ilulissat airport to my accommodation?
  • Which shopping and eating out facilities can I expect in Ilulissat?
  • What are my chances to see northern lights on this trip?
  • Can I ride the dog sled myself?

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
Dylan Furst
Individual tour

Northern Lights and Icebergs

5 days in Ilulissat incl. visiting the UNESCO Ilulissat Icefjord & Northern Lights tour

Difficulty level: Easy from 720.00 €
Request a quote

This adventure boasts the arctic winter highlights in and around Ilulissat in Disko Bay. A guided walk to UNESCO Ilulissat Icefjord starts things off the right way - visiting the massive icebergs you came here to see. In the evening you will also get a chance to hunt for the Northern Lights with our guide bringing you to locations around Ilulissat offering the best views to see them.

Next day, a local captain will take you by boat into freezing Disko Bay to bring you closer to the massive icebergs laying dormant in front of Ilulissat.

A free day serves as a buffer day in case activities have to be moved due to weather or can be used to tweak your trip with our optional activities.

Rough summary

Day 1:

Arrival in Ilulissat

Day 2:

Guided walk to Ilulissat Icefjord and Northern Light Hunt. Night in Ilulissat

Day 3:

Iceberg Sailing to UNESCO Icefjord. Night in Ilulissat

Day 4:

Day at leisure in Ilulissat. Night in Ilulissat

Day 5:

End of the trip

Prices and dates

Price per person:

Package based on: Double Single
Guesthouse 720 965
3* hotel 800 1100
3* hotel with sea view 900 1250
4* hotel 850 1270
4* hotel with sea view 1000 1575

Dates:

daily departures, February 01, 2023 – April 15, 2023 (available)

Further details

Price includes:

  • 2 hour guided walk to UNESCO Ilulissat Icefjord (Local guide)
  • 2 hour guided northern lights tour (Local guide)
  • 2 hour boat tour to UNESCO Ilulissat Icefjord (Local guide)
  • 4 nights in Ilulissat
  • Breakfast included when staying in hotel

Type of trip:

This pre-arranged adventure is an individual trip, meaning you are discovering Greenland on your own but joining selected guided group activities during your stay. You will receive comprehensive travel information such as where and when to meet for the activities

Minimum age:

12 years

Options

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

Exploring the Arctic winter with a dogsled is an amazing experience. Depending on the conditions we might go to Brede Bay and enjoy the great view of Disko Bay and Disko Island on the way. Or we might explore the hinterland and go to a great viewpoint where we have a view of the spectacular UNESCO Icefjord.

Today, you will enjoy an amazing 3 hours snowmobiling ride from Ilulissat. We follow the old trail to the north, crossing lakes, frozen fjords and hills with breathtaking views of Disko Bay and Disko Island. Finally we cross the frozen sea to reach Oqaatsut where we have a break drinking coffee or tea, eat snacks and discover the traditional settlement. We ride back to Ilulissat taking a different route to explore the back country, visiting a spectacular frozen waterfall and the dramatic rock cliffs that dominate the scenery. Please note that the itinerary can be adjusted to weather & ice conditions. No previous experience but driving license is required. Minimum age is 18 years. We will provide all the equipment and teach all you need to know to ride completely safe with our experienced guide.

Add this option to stay overnight at Igloo Lodge, a camp consisting of six traditional igloos and a wooden hut. We get there by snow cat and once at the base we continue to explore the area by snowshoe enjoying fantastic views of the UNESCO Icefjord. Lunch, dinner, breakfast and a high-performance winter sleeping bag are included. With a bit of luck Northern Lights as well (Feb-Mar). Choosing this option will extend your program by one day.

On a city walk through Ilulissat your guide will show you the most important sites of this charming little town located next to the UNESCO Icefjord for instance the old part of town where the houses of the first Danish settlers are situated at the harbour as well as the Knud Rasmussen Museum and the old wooden church Zion. He will provide us with valuable insight into the history of Ilulissat and the Greenlandic culture.

Flight connections

Flights to Greenland are not included.
Fly to Ilulissat via Reykjavík/Iceland or Copenhagen/Denmark.
Return flight from 1090 EUR per person can be added to your package.

Open map

Detailed itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Ilulissat

Welcome to Ilulissat - the town on the shore of the UNESCO Icefjord. Our recommendation is to keep this as a free day in case of possible flight delays. Use the day to explore the town and to settle and prepare for your adventures ahead. You will spend the night in Ilulissat.

Day 2: Guided walk to the Icefjord and Northern Light Hunt

It is a big day today. You came here to see glaciers and icebergs. And you do not mean the small ones, you mean the massive ones. Well this is what you are going to see today. Standing in front of the enormous Ilulissat Icefjord will make you feel small and humble. An endless amount of ice is pushing down from the glacier Sermeq Kujalleq towards the sea, where ice is calving constantly creating those majestic icebergs floating in Disko Bay. Here, at the Ilulissat Icefjord UNESCO World Heritage Site, you also stop at Sermermiut, an abandoned Inuit settlement, which had been used by Saqqaq, early Dorset and Thule cultures. Your guide provides you with exciting insights into Inuit culture.

In the evening we will head out to the near surroundings of Ilulissat to hunt for the Northern Lights. We will drive and walk to different viewpoints and with a bit of luck we will get to spot the majestic aurora borealis dancing across the arctic sky. These mesmerizing colors and shapes are featured in many ancient Greenlandic myths, which the guide will introduce to you. You will spend the night in Ilulissat.

Day 3: Iceberg Sailing to UNESCO Icefjord

Today will be pretty amazing, but also pretty cold. You will head out by boat and visit the gigantic floating icebergs, so wrap yourself up warmly and have your cameras locked and loaded. One of our experienced captains will take you out into partly frozen Disko Bay, getting you as close as safe to the fascinating icebergs. These icy giants have calved from the most productive glacier of the Northern Hemisphere, the Sermeq Kujalleq. It annually calves 35 km³ of ice into the UNESCO Icefjord - a sheer unimaginable amount. You will spend the night in Ilulissat.

Day 4: Day at leisure in Ilulissat

This day serves as a buffer day in case activities have to be moved due to weather or can be used to tweak your trip with our optional activities. You will spend the night in Ilulissat.

Day 5: End of trip

Today you could fly back or extend your stay with optional activities.

Remark

The Northern Lights are a natural phenomenon, thus we cannot guarantee that you will see them during your trip. However, if you are traveling in Greenland from end of August to end of March, chances are good that you will be able to observe them, but best deep in the winter (from mid November to mid March). If you travel in April it is unlikely to see the Northern Lights as days are already too bright.

What our customers say

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.