Top Activities and Excursions in Greenland

What makes Greenland such a tempting destination is the sheer amount of unforgettable activities and excursions available. And it's unsurprising when you consider that it's largely uninhabited and untouched land of dramatic beauty and powerful forces. You can't visit Greenland without indulging in some outdoor adventure and here's some to get you inspired.

The Icebergs of Sermermiut

Take a trip to the mouth of the UNESCO-listed ice fjords of Sermermiut, one of the most active glaciers in Greenland. Transfer by road before enjoying an easy hike to a spectacular viewpoint. In the summer months you can see the traces of the old Inuit cultures that once solely populated Greenland. There's plenty of excellent photo opportunities as the fertile valley next to the ice fjord is decorated with colourful wildflowers. Hot drinks/light refreshments are included, dependent on the time of year.

Duration: 2-3 hours
Available from: Illulissat in winter and summer
Price: approx. USD $55 per person

Rodebay Hunter's Settlement

Travel by boat to the small settlement of Rodebay, known locally as Oqaatsut. The town's 40 or so inhabitants live in colourful houses dotted across the rocky terrain and are totally dependent on fishing and hunting. Lunch is included in this excursion and there will be time to stroll around the traditional village and perhaps talk to the locals. In the winter months, this tour can only operate when there is open water and a polar suit will be provided.

Duration: 6 hours
Available from: Illulissat in winter and summer
Price: approx. USD $200 per person

Northern Lights Night Rider

Head out into the arctic wilderness on board snow scooters in search for the spectacular Northern Lights. Witness a breathtaking sunset and soak up the wintry landscapes as you go. No previous experience required - the experienced local guide will teach you all you need to know to ride a snow scooter. Hot beverages included.

Duration: 2 hours
Available from: Ilulissat in winter
Price: approx. USD $250 per person

Snow Show Expedition

Don a pair of snow shoes for a walk along the Yellow Trail into the Sermermiut Valley. Along the way you'll enjoy unforgettable panoramic views of the valley and reach Disko Bay for more incredible views of the floating icebergs. No previous experience required - the local guide will teach you how to walk in the snow shoes.

Duration: 2 hours
Available from: Illulissat in winter
Price: approx. USD $115 per person

Dog Sledge Adventure

Greenland offers the most authentic dog sledging experiences you'll ever find and it's an unmissable highlight of any visit. You'll be taught how to ride before setting off into the arctic wilderness of snow-covered landscapes and dramatic ice fjords. Two passengers ride per sledge and a good level of physical fitness is required. The excursion can only be run when there is snow, generally between December and March. A polar suit is provided.

Duration: 2 hours
Available from: Ilulissat in winter
Price: approx. USD $140 per person

See our Top Travel Tips for more information on dog sledging in Greenland and what to expect.

The Calving Eqi Glacier

Witness one of Greenland's most impressive natural sights as chunks of ice dislodged from the face of the Eqi glacier and drop into the icy waters below. Travel by boat to the perfect viewing spot in front of the 5km-wide glacier and spend an hour there in hope of activity. It's a great spot for photo opportunities and you may also be lucky enough to see whales. Lunch is included.

Duration: 6-7 hours
Available from: Iulissat in summer
Price: approx. USD $360 per person

Read more about this unique experience at Rough Guides.

Fishing Tour

Sail out to the mouth of the Ilulissat ice fjord or Bredebugt for a fishing trip surrounded by incredible scenery. On this excursion you'll sail out to the day's prime fishing spot and enjoy the chance to reel in fish including cod, halibut and redfish. A packed lunch is provided.

Duration: 6 hours
Available from: Iulissat in summer
Price: approx. USD $180 per person

Whale Safari

Take a boat cruise out to Disko Bay in search of humpback whales. Migrating whales come to Greenland in the summer months to feed on small herring-like fish and as a protected species, these gentle giants are quite trusting of the boats. As with any wild animal, there are no guarantees but you'll most likely be able to spot them at close range. A packed lunch is included.

Duration: 5 hours
Available from: Iulissat in summer
Price: approx. USD $175 per person

Ice Fjord Photo Sightseeing

Take to the skies for an unforgettable view of the awe-inspiring ice fjords of Ilulissat. Flying in a 5-seat aircraft, the flight will take you over the outer fringes of Ilulissat town and the underwater moraine at the mouth of the ice fjord. Have that camera at the ready as window seats are guaranteed. The excursion runs with a minimum of 4 passengers.

Duration: at least 35 minutes
Available from: Iulissat in summer
Price: approx. USD $250 per person

Photo courtesy of the Greenland Tourism Board.

Hike on the Cecily Trail

Follow the coastal route from Ilulissat to Rodebay on this full-day hike along the popular Cecily trail. During the day you'll learn about the different Arctic plants that bring colour to the landscapes and pass icebergs floating in Disko Bay. A packed lunch will be provided and a good level of fitness is required to participate.

Duration: 8 hours
Available from: Iulissat in summer
Price: approx. USD $140 per person

Photo courtesy of the Greenland Tourism Board.