10 days of hiking through Arctic nature & villages | East Greenland

Keflavik Airport - Kulsuk

The journey starts with an evening flight from Keflavik Airport in Iceland at 17:30 (5:30 pm) to Kulusuk. The journey, lasting approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes on a small aircraft with 35 to 65 seats, culminates in a landing at Kulusuk around 18:15 local time.

After a local assists with baggage retrieval, a short 40 min walk leads to the village. Nestled on an island surrounded by islands and mountain peaks, Kulusuk is home to approximately 250 people, many engaged in hunting and fishing. Enjoy dinner and spend the night in a traditional local house with hut-style accommodation.

Discovery of Kulusuk Island

The following day starts with an exploration of the scenic landscape of Kulusuk Island. Ascend a hill affording extraordinary westward views of abundant icebergs and drift ice in the ocean. Witness the vibrant green hues of a mountain lake before reaching the coast to marvel at the cliffs and rock formations. A 6 to 7-hour walk concludes with another night in the same house as the previous one.

Kuummiit

A morning boat transfer, approximately 1 hour in duration, transports you to Kuummiit, the northernmost village in the Ammassalik region. Set against high, steep granite mountains, Kuummiit offers an impressive backdrop. After settling into local hut-style accommodation, an afternoon walk through the village and along the shore awaits. Enjoy a fabulous view across the fjord to alpine-like peaks. Spend the night in a local house.

Mount Qeqqit Qaqqartivaat

Today, get ready for the ascent of Qeqqit Qaqqartivaat, the Kuummiit mountain, standing at almost 1100 meters. The 6 to 7-hour trek involves climbing ridges with breathtaking views of the Dunu or Tunu fjord, surrounded by steep mountains. The summit provides a panoramic view of mountains, glaciers, fjords, and valleys. Spend the night in the same house as the previous one.

Kuummiit – Tiniteqilaaq

Today, you will sail from Kuummiit to Tiniteqilaaq through the Ikaasatsivaq strait, characterized by towering granite peaks. Arrive at Tiniteqilaq on the edge of the Sermilik ice fjord. After settling in a comfortable house, embark on a refreshing walk to enjoy the fantastic view. The day involves 1,5 hours of sailing one way and 4 hours of walking, with the night in Tiniteqilaq.

The Sermilik and the rocky ridge above Tiniteqilaq

Embark on a day hike, including a loop to a small river where the national flower, Niviarsiaq, may be found. Ascend a long ridge to a 420-meter high point for a 360° view over the Sermilik fjord. Return to Tiniteqilaq in the afternoon after a 6 to 7-hour walk with an ascent of 420 meters.

Sermilikvejen, across Ammassalik to Tasilaq

In the early morning, a short boat transfer takes you to the Golden Beach, marking the start of a trail climbing hills to the east. Traverse lakes and reach the Tasilaq fjord, ultimately arriving in Tasilaq, the largest town in East Greenland. Spend the night in a guesthouse after a 6 to 7-hour walk with an ascent of 350 meters.

Somandsfjeldet / Qaqqartivakajik

Climb Sailors Mountain (679m) behind the town, enjoying a spectacular view. Descend into a valley on the north side, passing a lake to reach the Flower valley with arctic plants in bloom. Return to Tasilaq and spend the night in the same guesthouse after a 5-6-hour walk with an ascent of 650 meters.

Tasilaq

Morning walk over the hills above Tasilaq to a nearby lake. Enjoy a free afternoon in Tasilaq, with options to visit the local museum, handcraft store, or explore the harbor. In the afternoon, take a boat transfer to Kulusuk (1 hour) and stay in the same house as at the trip's beginning. A 3-hour walk is included.

Kulusuk - Keflavik Airport