Qaanaaq – Community Visit Discover Greenland’s northernmost town, meet the community, and learn about life on the edge of the world.
One of the world’s most remote communities
Join us as we visit the Qaanaaq community in Greenland’s ‘Far North’ Avanersauq region.
In this remote area, Inuit traditions live on. In winter, locals don sealskin mittens and boots, and dogsleds regularly depart on hunting trips. As you explore the local church, museum and women’s club, and watch a traditional drum dance performance, you’ll get a glimpse into the way of life here.
Duration: At leisure
Difficulty: Level 1 — Easy
Booking code: INCL-NAQ1
Min. number: 10 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Explore Qaanaaq, the northernmost town of Greenland.
• Visit the town’s church, museum, and women’s club.
• Enjoy a traditional drum dance performance and listen to music from local musicians.
• Get insight into local hunting culture, talk with the hunters, and visit the hunting exhibition.
Practical information:
• Included: Open town visit, including entrance to the local museum.
• Remarks/requirements: Please wear comfortable walking shoes and dress according to the weather. Layers are recommended.
• Walking or Activity information: At guests' discretion. Includes some walking over uneven surfaces.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English, Danish, Greenlandic
Ilulissat - UNESCO Icefjord and Blue Lakes Explore the wonders of Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and witness the ice cap from above.
A flight to remember
Settle into your window seat, headset on, as your pilot shares the story of the ice. We head to the northern glacier of Sermeq Avangnardleq, before flying over the immense glacier front of Sermeq Kujalleq, the largest producer of icebergs in the Northern Hemisphere. It’s a staggering sight to see.
We then follow the icebergs out into the bay, tracing their journey from source to sea. On the return, take in a final aerial view of Ilulissat as we descend to land.
Duration: 2h00 (Flight time is approx. 1 hour)
Difficulty: Level 1 — Easy
Booking code: G-ILU10
Min. number: 5 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Witness the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord from a rare aerial perspective.
• Get unique local insight on this family-run, hour-long flight.
• Take in panoramic views of vast glaciers and drifting icebergs from your window seat.
Practical information:
• Included: Transfer and flight
• Remarks/requirements: This tour is subject to weather conditions on the day, and weight limits may apply.
• Walking or Activity information: Involves limited physical activity, most of the tour is operated by vehicle. Includes approx. 100 yds of walking on level terrain and a step into the airplane.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English and Danish
Qaanaaq - Kayak Tour with Local Hunter Learn traditional hunting techniques from a local hunter while paddling between the ice floes.
Duration: 2 hours
Difficulty: Level 3 — Active
Booking code: G-NAQ1
Min. number: 4 traveller(s)
Qeqertarsuaq - Qeqertarsuaq City Walk Discover Qeqertarsuaq’s living history as you enjoy a guided walk around the Arctic island town.
The charm of Qeqertarsuaq
Join a guided walk through Qeqertarsuaq and get a closer look at life on remote Disko Island. Pass the dramatic black sand beach before heading into town to see the local store, marketplace and historic wooden church.
Along the way, your guide will share stories of tradition, resilience and daily life in Greenland’s west. The walk ends near the town center, where you can continue exploring or return with the group.
Duration: 1h00
Difficulty: Level 2 — Moderate
Booking code: G-JGO5
Min. number: 8 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Explore Qeqertarsuaq with an engaging and knowledgeable local guide.
• Learn how Greenlandic traditions and community shape life on remote Disko Island.
• See the town’s striking black sand beach, historic wooden church, and marketplace.
Practical information:
• Walking or Activity information: Involves moderate physical activity on relatively level surfaces and gentle terrain. Approx. 0.75 mi of walking.
• Wheelchair accessible: Yes
• Language availability: English
Ilulissat - Meet n' Greet the Arctic Sleddog Meet Greenland's sled dogs and learn about their important role in Arctic culture and way of life.
A true Arctic experience
Step into the heart of Arctic culture with an unforgettable encounter with Greenland's legendary sled dogs. This immersive experience invites you to meet a pack of friendly, well-trained dogs and discover the deep bond between musher and animal.
Guided by local experts, you'll explore the fascinating history of sled dogs and their vital role in Greenlandic society. Learn how these resilient animals have supported communities for generations and the challenges they face today in a changing climate.
Duration: 1h30
Difficulty: Level 2 — Moderate
Booking code: G-ILU12
Min. number: 4 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Enjoy a unique Arctic cultural experience and meet Greenland's sled dogs.
• Trace the deep-rooted connection between Greenland's people and their sled dogs.
• Meet the sled dogs and hear fascinating stories that bring the Arctic to life.
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: Please note dogs must only be approached with the owner's permission.
• Walking or Activity information Involves moderate physical activity on relatively level surfaces and moderate terrain. Includes approx. 200-300 yds of walking.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English, Danish
Qeqertarsuaq - Hike to the Basaltic Rocks Set out on a 6-mile guided hike through Qeqertarsuaq and into Disko Island’s otherworldly terrain.
Disko Island’s volcanic heart
On this guided nature hike, you’ll discover volcanic sand, basalt cliffs and the wild beauty of Qeqertarsuaq.
You'll pass Qeqertarsuaq’s black sand beach and iconic soccer pitch, where icebergs drift just beyond the goalposts. Then leaving the town behind, we’ll enter Kuannit, a remote area known for its volcanic cliffs. Learn about the island’s geology and traditions, such as harvesting Angelica plants, from your local guide as you make your way to the striking Qorlortorsuaq waterfall.
Duration: 5h00
Difficulty: Level 3 — Active
Booking code: G-JGO3
Min. number: 8 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Join an exhilarating hike to Kuannit with its iconic basalt formations.
• Discover black sand beaches and enjoy wide views over Disko Bay.
• Reach the Qorlortorsuaq waterfall, a dramatic reward at the end of the trail.
• Stand pitch-side at Qeqertarsuaq’s soccer field with glacier views in every direction.
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: Please wear good hiking shoes and dress according to the weather.
• Walking or Activity information: Involves physical activity on uneven surfaces and/or steep terrain. Not suitable if you have limited mobility. Approx. 6 mi hike with 260 ft altitude gain.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English, Danish
Ilulissat - Hike along the Icefjord Hike Ilulissat's Blue Trail with canyon views, lakes, and iconic Iicefjord panoramas.
Explore the Ilulissat Icefjord on Foot
Experience one of Greenland's most scenic routes on this 7 km guided hike along the shoreline of the Ilulissat Icefjord.
A transfer will take you to the old stone quarry, where the trail begins and winds through a canyon, past mountain lakes, and out towards the Iicefjord. We'll make several scenic stops withand enjoy coffee, tea, and a light snack. The hike also includes a visit to the ancient Inuit settlement of Sermermiut, before ending at the heliport, where you can visit the Icefjord Centre and then take the shuttle bus back to the harbour.
Duration: 4 hours
Difficulty: Level 4 — Challenging
Booking code: GLJAV-OP18
Highlights:
• Hike the famous Blue Trail with the UNESCO Ilulissat Icefjord and glacier views.
• Admire Arctic landscapes, canyons, lakes, and dramatic mountain scenery.
• Visit Sermermiut, a 4,000-year-old Inuit settlement with rich history.
• Enjoy guided 7 km hike with breaks, refreshments, and scenic viewpoints.
Practical information:
• Included: Light refreshment
• Remarks/requirements: Guests should wear sturdy hiking boots and bring hiking poles, water, insect repellent, sun protection, and a small backpack for personal items. Guests should be in good physical condition.
• Walking or Activity information: 7 km hike over rocky, uneven terrain. Trail may be muddy and slippery, with inclines and approximately 60 stairs.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: Danish, English
Savissivik – Community Visit Follow in the footsteps of explorer Robert Peary as you explore the isolated community of Savissivik.
Life in the North
Wander the town at your own pace, meet the locals, and discover one of the most isolated communities in Greenland.
Savissivik means ‘the place of material for knives’ and meteorite fragments have been used here for centuries to make Ulus, or Inuit knives. As you explore at leisure, some locals may have small pieces to show you.
Duration: At leisure
Difficulty: Level 1 — Easy
Booking code: INCL-THU1
Min. number: 10 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Discover Savissivik, one of the most isolated communities in Greenland.
• Explore the village at your own pace and meet the welcoming community.
• Be one of the few people to visit this remote corner of Greenland.
Practical information:
• Included: Open town visit
• Remarks/requirements: Please note that this is an isolated community rarely visited by cruise ships, so there are no professional tourist services. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and dress according to the weather. Layers are recommended.
• Walking or Activity information: At guests' discretion. Includes some walking over uneven surfaces.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Uummannaq - Uummannaq Community Visit Explore the town on Uummannaq Island and learn about everyday life from the locals.
Uummannaq lies 600 km north of the Arctic Circle, known as Greenland’s ‘heart’ for its striking heart-shaped mountain backdrop.
Wander the colourful settlement of peat houses, discover traditional fishing and hunting practices, visit the Qilakitsoq museum and granite church, and meet the close-knit community that calls this dramatic coastline home.
Duration: At leisure
Difficulty: Level 2 — Moderate
Booking code: INCL-UUM1
Highlights:
• Discover authentic Greenlandic culture in the community church
• Step back in time with preserved Arctic heritage in the church and turf houses
• Meet locals, hear stories, and learn about old traditions
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: If you wish to purchase any souvenirs, please bring Danish kroner.
• Walking or Activity information: Up to guests' discretion; all locations in the community are close together, apart from the dog yard which is 1.2 km walk.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: Greenlandic, Danish, and a little English
This experience is available to all guests, and no pre-booking is required. Our Expedition Team will share all the details once you’re on board. Please note that the exact schedule of events will be confirmed by the Expedition Team the day before the experience takes place.
Ilulissat - Walk to the Icefjords Experience the breathtaking view of floating ice sculptures at the UNESCO World Heritage Site Ilulissat Icefjord.
Enjoy exceptional beauty
Just outside Ilulissat, a gallery of gigantic ice sculptures awaits you. This awe-inspiring sight will leave you humbled. You might hear the ice cracking as you admire the sculptures floating by. Then, on a short walk, visit the abandoned settlement of Sermermiut. See the remains of the settlement and learn how the people here used to live. Admire the ancient Inuit graves, now overgrown by the lush flora.
Duration: 2-3h
Difficulty: Level 3 — Active
Booking code: INCL-ILU1
Highlights:
• Enjoy hiking in the spectacular surroundings of this UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Marvel at the splendid views of the Jakobshavn Glacier and the many icebergs in Ilulissat Icefjord
• See the remains of the abandoned settlement in Sermermiut and the well-preserved Inuit graves
• Marvel at the lush Arctic flora
Practical information:
Practical information:
• Walking information: The last 1,5 km is on a wooden boardwalk. Short steepish rock sections toward the end.
• Wheelchair accessible: Not suitable for wheelchair users after the end of the boardwalk – until then possible.
• Language: English.
Qaanaaq - Traditional Skin Workshop Learn about the Qaanaaq tradition of processing animal skins to make clothing in a hands-on workshop.
Meet local artisans
Using animal skins to make warm clothing which withstands the Arctic elements is still an important part of life in Qaanaaq. During this workshop, you’ll meet local artisans who’ll show you traditional Inuit methods to process the animal skins and various sewing techniques. You’ll also get to try your hand at making your own souvenir. Materials and tools are provided.
Duration: 2 hours
Difficulty: Level 1 — Easy
Booking code: G-NAQ2
Highlights:
• Get unique insight into Qaanaaq culture through an intimate and practical workshop.
• Learn traditional ways of processing animal skins to create warm clothing with local artisans.
• Join the local craftspeople and make a souvenir to take home.
Practical information:
• Included: Materials and tools, souvenir.
• Remarks/requirements: This is an intimate experience with local artisans who may not speak English. An interpreter will be present.
• Walking or Activity information: Involves limited physical activity. Some walking on unpaved terrain.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Ilulissat - Boat trip to the ice fjord Ilulissat is renowned for its breathtakingly beautiful ice fjord - best experienced by boat. Get close to nature and experience the ice that leaves visitors speechless in wonder.
Cruise among ice sculptures
The ice sculpture gallery waiting for you in Ilulissat Icefjord is breathtakingly beautiful. On a boat trip, take a closer look at these majestic ice giants. The icebergs come from Sermeq Kujalleq, also known as the Jacobshavn Glacier.
Duration: 1h00
Difficulty: Level 1 — Easy
Booking code: G-ILU1
Highlights:
• Experience Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Encounter an utterly amazing natural phenomenon
• Hear the roar of a calving glacier
• See the myriad shapes, sizes and hues of ice
Practical information:
• Language: English
• Included: Coffee/tea
• Walking information: In and out of the excursion boat
• Not suitable for wheelchair users
• Maximum participants: 48
Ilulissat – Oqaatsut, Hike & Icefjord Cruise Discover Greenland’s raw beauty with hiking, a remote village visit, and icefjord cruising.
A scenic boat shuttle takes you to the peaceful settlement of Oqaatsut. From here, set out on a guided 2–3 km hike through the backcountry with gentle hills, panoramic viewpoints, and Arctic tundra serenity.
Enjoy a traditional Greenlandic lunch in the village before returning to Ilulissat by boat for a breathtaking cruise into the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO-listed natural wonder and one of Greenland’s most iconic sights.
*While we're excited to share the unique flavours of this region with you, it’s important to note that allergy awareness and hygiene standards can vary widely across the world. The local community providing food for this tour may not be as familiar with allergy concerns or preparation standards as suppliers in your home country or the expert chefs onboard our ships. As a precaution, we advise anyone with a severe food allergy to contact a member of the onboard Expedition Team before booking this excursion.
Duration: 6 hours
Difficulty: Level 3 — Active
Booking code: GLJAV-OP16
Highlights:
• Visit the atmospheric coastal settlement of Oqaatsut.
• Hike through the beautiful backcountry.
• Enjoy a traditional Greenlandic lunch at a local restaurant.
• Witness the spectacular Ilulissat Icefjord up close.
Practical information:
• Included: Lunch
• Remarks/requirements: Guests should wear sturdy hiking boots. Any dietary restrictions must be reported to HX at least 14 days prior to the start of the voyage.
• Walking or activity information: 2–3 km over hilly, uneven terrain
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: Danish, English
Itilleq - Discover Itilleq Connect with Greenlandic life in Itilleq, from warm welcomes and soccer to stories and kaffemik.
Welcome to Itilleq
Visit the colorful village of Itilleq, just north of the Arctic Circle, for a rare cultural exchange.
You’ll join locals in their homes for Kaffemik, step onto the dirt soccer pitch for a friendly match, and hear Jimmy Hymøller’s personal take on Greenlandic life, traditions, and wildlife. With just 100 residents, this fishing and hunting community offers a genuine look into everyday life in one of the world’s most remote landscapes.
Duration: 3h00
Difficulty: Level 1 — Easy
Booking code: INCL-ITI1
Highlights:
• Step inside local homes and experience authentic Greenlandic hospitality over Kaffemik.
• Play or cheer in a spirited soccer match on the village’s dirt pitch with locals and crew.
• Hear stories of Greenlandic life, wildlife and traditions from Jimmy Hymøller’s personal lecture.
• Connect with villagers through warm, genuine encounters in a remote Arctic community.
Practical information:
• Walking or Activity information: Involves limited physical activity. Approx. 200-300 yds of walking over gravel.
• Wheelchair accessible: Yes
• Language availability: English, Danish & Greenlandic
Qaanaaq - Visit a Local Home Enjoy a heartfelt welcome into a local home and get first-hand insight into Greenlandic culture.
A warm welcome
In a small group, you'll enjoy a visit to a private home. Over a hot drink, you'll hear local stories, gain insight into Qaanaaq culture, and learn about the history of the region.
Perhaps you'll meet one of the community's elders or watch a local photographer in action. You may even be introduced to relatives of the explorers who traveled to Siberia with Knud Rasmussen between 1921 and 1925.
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Difficulty: Level 1 — Easy
Booking code: G-NAQ3
Min. number: 6 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Experience the unique opportunity of being invited into a private home.
• Get to know the Qaanaaq community in an intimate setting.
• Listen to captivating stories from your host on the vibrant culture and history of the area.
Practical information:
• Included: Tea and coffee
• Remarks/requirements: This is an intimate experience with local people that may not be fluent in English. It's customary to remove outdoor shoes when entering a home.
• Walking and activity information: Involves limited physical activity. Some walking on unpaved terrain.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Qeqertarsuaq - Greenlandic Polka Join locals for an evening of traditional polka dancing, coffee, and warm Greenlandic hospitality.
An evening of dance
Step into the heart of Qeqertarsuaq’s cultural life with an invitation to dance the Greenlandic Polka, known locally as kalattuut. Hosted by the town’s own dance group, Kalattoortartut, this vibrant tradition offers more than music and movement. Share coffee, cake, and conversation with local residents in a setting that’s as warm as it is unforgettable.
*While we're excited to share the unique flavors of this region with you, it’s important to note that allergy awareness and hygiene standards can vary widely across the world. The local community providing food for this tour may not be as familiar with allergy concerns or preparation standards as suppliers in your home country or the expert chefs onboard our ships. As a precaution, we advise anyone with a severe food allergy to contact a member of the onboard Expedition Team before booking this excursion.
Duration: 1h00
Difficulty: Level 2 — Moderate
Booking code: INCL-JGO3
Min. number: 8 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Experience the Greenlandic Polka – lively, local, and full of joy.
• Meet the people of Qeqertarsuaq and hear their stories firsthand.
• Enjoy traditional Greenlandic hospitality with coffee and homemade cake.
• Try your hand (and feet) at a unique cultural tradition shared with pride.
Practical information:
• Included: Coffee, tea and cakes
• Remarks/requirements: Please wear good dancing shoes
• Walking or Activity information: Involves moderate physical activity on relatively level surfaces and gentle terrain. Approx. 450 yds of walking.
• Wheelchair accessible: Yes
• Language availability: English, Danish
Qeqertarsuaq - Meet & Greet: Greenlandic Sled Dogs Up Close Discover the tradition of dog sledding and the ways of life shaped by the ancient Greenlandic breed.
Meet Greenland’s iconic sled dogs
After a guided walk through the charming town of Qeqertarsuaq, you'll arrive at the dog sled area.
With icebergs drifting in the distance, meet the pure Greenlandic sled dog – a powerful Arctic breed vital to survival and travel in the north. See the specialized equipment used for navigating the vast icy landscapes and learn firsthand how Greenlanders prepare for their winter journeys and care for sled dogs in the extreme Arctic climate.
Duration: 2h00
Difficulty: Level 2 — Moderate
Booking code: G-JG06
Min. number: 8 traveller(s)
Highlights:
• Learn how sled dogs have shaped Arctic life, guided by an experienced local.
• Meet Greenlandic sled dogs up close and understand their role in winter survival.
• See handmade dog sled gear and learn how it’s crafted for life on the ice.
• Take in the panoramic ocean views as icebergs drift silently by.
Practical information:
• Walking or Activity information: Involves moderate physical activity on relatively level surfaces and gentle terrain. Approx. 850 yds of walking on the road, plus 30 yds of rough, rocky ground on the way to the dogs.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: English
Ummannaq – Hike to Santa’s House Enjoy an invigorating hike to Santa’s house, nestled between the impressive Uummannaq Mountain.
Set out on a scenic hike from Uummannaq with a local guide, taking in stunning views of the Uummannaq Fjord and nearby peaks. The walk ends at a charming red hut built in traditional Greenlandic style, said in Danish and Greenlandic tradition to be Santa’s true Arctic home.
Whether you’re chasing legend, scenery, or a little Far North holiday spirit, this hike showcases Greenland’s unique charm.
Duration: 3h00
Difficulty: Level 4 — Challenging
Booking code: GLUDM-OP01
Highlights:
• Scenic hike from Uummannaq with views of the fjord and surrounding peaks
• Visit a traditional red Greenlandic hut at the end of the trail
• Learn the legend of Santa’s true Arctic home rooted in local tradition
• Enjoy a blend of folklore, landscape, and Far North holiday spirit
Practical information:
• Remarks/requirements: Dress according to the weather and wear sturdy hiking boots. Bring a water bottle. Mosquito nets and insect repellent are necessary in July and August.
• Extras: Camera, any necessary medicines.
• Walking or Activity information: Approx. 5–6 km hike. The trail has loose rocks and steep sections. In some areas, you may need to climb up or down using both hands.
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: Danish, English
Ilulissat – Ilimanaq Settlement & Icefjord Cruise Culture, tradition, and epic scenery in one unforgettable Greenland experience.
Set off by boat to the picturesque village of Ilimanaq where your local guide takes you past colourful houses, sharing stories of its history and community life. Be welcomed into a local home for a traditional kaffemik sharing a light lunch, coffee, cake, and a warm conversation. Afterwards you may chose to join a short tundra hike or simply stay back and relax. The journey continues with a cruise through the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its towering icebergs and dramatic landscape. With a complimentary drink in hand, take in this moment of pure Arctic magic.
*While we're excited to share the unique flavours of this region with you, it’s important to note that allergy awareness and hygiene standards can vary widely across the world. The local community providing food for this tour may not be as familiar with allergy concerns or preparation standards as suppliers in your home country or the expert chefs onboard our ships. As a precaution, we advise anyone with a severe food allergy to contact a member of the onboard Expedition Team before booking this excursion.
Duration: 5 hours
Difficulty: Level 3 — Active
Booking code: GLJAV-OP17
Highlights:
• Visit the remote Ilimanaq settlement with guided cultural walking tour.
• Be invited into a local home for an authentic Greenlandic kaffemik.
• Cruise the Ilulissat Icefjord and admire spectacular UNESCO-listed icebergs.
• Small group experience – max 11 guests for a personal, relaxed journey.
Practical information:
• Included: Kaffemik (coffee, tea, and cake) and a drink on the icefjord cruise
• Remarks/requirements: Guests should wear flat, comfortable walking shoes
• Walking or Activity information: 1–2 km walking in the settlement over gravel, bumpy, and uneven terrain
• Wheelchair accessible: No
• Language availability: Danish, English
