Winter at the Ilulissat Icefjord – A Once-in-a-Lifetime Arctic 8-day Journey. Experience Northern lights, dogsledding, and see towering icebergs.
Discover the magic of winter in Ilulissat, home to the breathtaking Ilulissat Icefjord. Stand face-to-face with towering icebergs, explore frozen Arctic landscapes, and experience one of the world’s best destinations for the Northern Lights.
This carefully curated winter package combines authentic Arctic adventures, cultural encounters, and unforgettable natural wonders in the heart of Greenland.
Experience the real Arctic winter. See possible departure and book your Ilulissat adventure today!
Activities
Boat Tour
Dogsledding
Greenlandic Culture
Iceberg Views
Northern Lights
Attractions
Disko Bay
Diskobugt
Dog Sled
Ilulissat Icefjord
Sermermiut
Day 1
Arriving in Ilulissat
You will start your trip in Copenhagen, Denmark, at the international airport, where you will board a direct flight from Denmark to Ilulissat, Greenland.
Upon arrival in Ilulissat, you will be welcomed at the airport and transferred to your hotel, ideally situated with breathtaking views of Disko Bay. After check-in, join an informative welcome meeting with one of our local guides, who will introduce you to Ilulissat, its fascinating culture, and the unforgettable experiences awaiting you in Greenland.
During the briefing, you'll receive practical travel information, insider tips, any pre-booked excursions will be confirmed.
This relaxed first day is the perfect introduction to the wonders of Ilulissat and the spectacular landscapes of Disko Bay, setting the stage for an unforgettable Greenland holiday.
Flight times (local time)
Direct flight Copenhagen – Ilulissat with departures at 9:45 am
Please note that departure times are subject to change.
Day 2
Walk to Sermemriut settlement
After breakfast at the hotel, you will join a guided hike to Sermermiut, an ancient Inuit settlement located just 1.5 km (1 mile) south of Ilulissat on the edge of the spectacular Ilulissat Icefjord. For more than 4,000 years, different Inuit cultures lived here, leaving behind traces of Greenland's rich history.
As you walk through this stunning Arctic landscape, your local guide will share stories of traditional Inuit life, hunting practices, and survival in the far north before European contact. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of the Icefjord and its majestic icebergs, making this excursion a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.
Day 3
Icefjord sailing and Northern lights tour
Experience two of Greenland’s most unforgettable highlights. Join a scenic boat cruise through the Ilulissat Icefjord, where massive icebergs drift through the bay. Sail among towering formations of ice, illuminated by the unique Arctic light, and witness the breathtaking beauty of this UNESCO-listed landscape.
In the evening, venture beyond the town on a Northern Lights tour. Away from artificial light, you'll have the best chance to see the magical aurora borealis dancing across the Arctic sky.
Please note the Northern Lights tour operates only in clear weather conditions. If the tour cannot be conducted due to cloud cover, we will attempt to reschedule it for another evening.
Day 4
Ilulissat on your own
A visit to the Ilulissat Icefjord Centre is highly recommended on your free day in Ilulissat. Located at the edge of the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, the centre offers a fascinating introduction to Greenland’s glaciers, Arctic culture, and climate change.
Through the exhibition The Tale of Ice, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how ice has shaped both the landscape and local life over thousands of years. The modern architecture, inspired by a snowy owl in flight, is also a highlight in itself.
Opened in 2021, the centre was designed by renowned Danish architect Dorte Mandrup, whose striking building was inspired by the graceful form of a snowy owl in flight. A visit here is the perfect complement to exploring the Ilulissat Icefjord, offering valuable insights into one of Greenland’s most iconic destinations.
Day 5
Ilulissat on your own or an optional Igloo lodge stay
Escape into the heart of Greenland’s winter wilderness with an unforgettable overnight stay at the Igloo Lodge, a unique retreat set far from the lights of Ilulissat. Surrounded by pristine Arctic landscapes, this is your chance to experience a night unlike any other and, with a little luck, watch the Northern Lights illuminate the sky above.
The lodge consists of five handcrafted igloos, each accommodating two guests. Inside, you'll find insulated sleeping arrangements with warm expedition-grade sleeping bags and soft reindeer hides for added comfort. A nearby heated cabin provides a cozy place to relax, enjoy meals, and access basic facilities.
Your adventure begins with a scenic journey into the backcountry, travelling approximately one hour through Greenland’s spectacular winter terrain before reaching the lodge. The experience includes lunch, afternoon refreshments, dinner, an overnight stay, breakfast, and transportation back to Ilulissat the following morning.
Combining Arctic nature, traditional winter accommodation, and exceptional stargazing opportunities, the Igloo Lodge offers one of the most memorable experiences available in Greenland.
Day 6
Free day in Ilulissat
On your free day in Ilulissat, we recommend exploring the town’s cultural highlights. Visit the Ilulissat Museum to learn about Greenlandic history, polar exploration, and life in the Arctic.
Continue to the Ilulissat Art Museum, where Greenlandic art reflects the landscapes, culture, and identity of the region. For a more hands-on experience, join a local crafts workshop and discover traditional Inuit techniques and handmade artistry.
Together, these visits offer a deeper understanding of Ilulissat beyond its stunning natural scenery, as well as shop for a perfect gift from Ilulissat!
Day 7
Dog Sledding Adventure in Ilulissat
Feel the excitement as a team of Greenlandic sled dogs pulls you across the pristine winter landscape surrounding Ilulissat. Dog sledding is more than an activity—it's a centuries-old way of life that has connected people, communities, and the Arctic wilderness for generations.
As you glide silently over snow-covered terrain, you'll experience Greenland much as local hunters and travelers once did. The only sounds are the rhythm of the sled runners and the eager dogs leading the way through the vast Arctic scenery.
Each sled is operated by a local musher and accommodates up to two guests. Solo travelers may share a sled with another participant. Because every dog team has its own pace, groups may naturally spread out along the route, adding to the feeling of adventure and exploration.
Please note that this excursion is not suitable for guests with neck or back problems or limited mobility. Minimum age: 12 years.
Day 8
After an unforgettable week in Ilulissat, it is now time to go home. We will arrive in Copenhagen, Denmark, late at night, 9:00 pm (21:00).
We advic eto plane your international flight at least one day after arrival in Denmark, as it is winter in artic can be unpredictable.
Flight times (local time)
Direct Ilulissat – Copenhagen with arrival in Copenhagen at 9:00 pm
Please note that departure times are subject to change.
Included
Return Flights Copenhagen–Ilulissat
Airport–hotel transfer in Ilulissat
7 nights at Hotel Arctic with a private bathroom
Breakfast
Welcome dinner at Hotel Arctic (drinks are not included)
Information meeting
44 lbs (20 kg) checked baggage and 17 lbs (8 kg) carry-on
Meal and beverages on flights Copenhagen–Ilulissat–Copenhagen
Sermermiut Walk (2 hours)
1,5 hours dog sledding tour
Boat tour to Ilulissat icefjord (2,5 hours )
Northern lights tour (1,5 hour)
Not included
Igloo lodge (1 night in an igloo (with the option to retreat to a heated cabin if needed).
Other meals
Travel insurance
Other day tours
What to bring
Warm winter wear. Ideally, you should dress in layers: at least one thermal underwear layer (top and bottom), activity layer (e.g. hiking pants and shirt), and insulation layer (e.g. fleece or down jacket). The outer layer must be proper winter gear which typically has lots of insulation and is windproof. Think ski jacket and pants if you come from a warmer climate.
Warm hat, thick windproof gloves, buff or scarf
Insulated winter boots
Sunglasses and sunscreen - snow is very bright and even the winter sun can cause sunburn
Camera with extra batteries (the cold drains the batteries faster)
Water bottle
Additional Information
Flight times (local time)
Direct flight Copenhagen – Ilulissat with departures at 9:45 am
Direct Ilulissat – Copenhagen with arrival in Copenhagen at 9:00 pm
Please note that departure times are subject to changes.
Travelers with reduced mobility and wheelchair users
This tour is not recommended for people with reduced mobility and wheelchair users. Please note that this advice is not based on medical knowledge, and ultimately it is your own responsibility to decide if a tour is the right tour for you.
Hotel Arctic
Greenland’s most famous hotel is the Hotel Arctic in Ilulissat. It is located with an incredible view over the town of Ilulissat, the Ice Fjord, and Disko Bay. Hotel Arctic is the world’s northernmost 4-star hotel and features a 5-star conference center. The hotel is located just outside the town, approximately a 15-minute walk from the town center (app. 1.5 km from the central intersection in town).
The hotel has two great restaurants and a large terrace outside which is the perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine while the sun shines its golden glow at midnight over the icebergs at Ilulissat Ice Fjord.
19 900 DKK
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