MileHacker Logo
Tailored Itineraries

Tailored Itineraries

Greenland

-Hour Layover Highlights

Focus on the Ilulissat Icefjord and town center. This itinerary prioritizes iconic experiences.

Efficient transfers and pre-booked tours are helpful due to the packed schedule.

Activities & Timing

  • Afternoon arrival, transfer to accommodation.
  • Evening: Midnight Sun Icefjord cruise (summer) or Northern Lights tour (winter).
  • Next morning: Hike Sermermiut boardwalk, visit Ilulissat Museum.

Flexible Itinerary Options

Customize your stay from a quick visit to an extensive exploration.

Weekend Getaway 2-3 Days

This itinerary balances natural attractions with cultural insights.

Day-by-Day

  • Day 1: Arrival, Icefjord boat tour, dinner with views.
  • Day 2: Sermermiut Valley hike, then whale watching (summer) or dog sledding (winter).
  • Day 3: Town exploration, museum, souvenir shopping.
  • Day 3: Departure from airport.
Explore and book experiences on GetYourGuide.

One-Week Comprehensive

This itinerary gives an in-depth experience of Ilulissat and its immediate surroundings, including major activities.

Experiences

  • Eqi Glacier full-day boat tour for calving views.
  • Whale watching (summer) or longer dog sledding/snowmobiling (winter).
  • Day trip to Oqaatsut (Rodebay), a charming traditional village.

Two-Week In-Depth Exploration

This strategy combines a week in Ilulissat with explorations of other Greenlandic regions for diverse experiences.

Extension Options

  • Option 1: Fly to Nuuk (3-4 days) for capital city culture.
  • Option 1: Then Kangerlussuaq (2-3 days) for Ice Sheet exploration.
  • Option 2: Ferry to Disko Island (2-3 days) for unique basalt geology.
  • Option 3: Fly to South Greenland (3-4 days) for green landscapes, Viking ruins.

Interest-Based Routes

Tailor your itinerary to specific passions, from history to adventure or culinary delights.

Thematic Journeys

  • Historical: Ilulissat Museum, Sermermiut Valley, Ilimanaq.
  • Culinary: Restaurant Ulo, Brættet fish market, local dishes, Kaffemik.
  • Adventure: Icefjord cruises, hiking, whale watching, kayaking, dog sledding.
  • Family: Shorter cruises, Sermermiut boardwalk, whale watching, local playground.

Special Interest Journeys

Specific interests can guide an unique experience in Ilulissat.

Art & Architecture

Local craft shops for tupilaks, sealskin, bone carvings. Explore Ilimanaq's historical buildings.

Spiritual & Wellness

Serene Icefjord landscapes offer peace and connection with nature. Mindful hiking in expansive tundra.

Photography Focus

Capture Midnight Sun or Northern Lights. Frame majestic icebergs and village scenes.

Planning Note

Careful planning of domestic flights and accommodations across multiple locations is recommended for longer regional travel.

Budget-Friendly Travel

Adjust your trip to fit your financial comfort level, from backpacking to luxury.

Backpacker's Guide

Accommodation

Stay at hostels or guesthouses with communal kitchens (e.g., Ilulissat Guesthouse, Tupilak Hostel).

Food

Self-cater most meals by purchasing groceries from supermarkets (Pilersuisoq, Pisiffik).

Activities

Focus on free activities like hiking the Sermermiut boardwalk and trails. Choose one essential paid activity.

Mid-Range Traveler's Itinerary

  • Stay at comfortable guesthouses or mid-range hotels (e.g., Hotel Ilulissat, Hotel Icefiord).
  • Mix of self-catering and dining at local cafes and mid-range restaurants.
  • Include 2-3 main excursions: an Icefjord cruise, whale watching (summer) or a shorter dog sledding trip (winter).
  • Seek tours offering good value for money, comparing tour lengths and inclusions.
  • Consider souvenir purchases in moderation.
  • Use local taxi services when needed.

Luxury Experience Plan

  • Stay at Hotel Arctic or Hotel Icefiord, prioritizing rooms with stunning Icefjord views.
  • Dine at gourmet restaurants (e.g., Restaurant Ulo) for most meals.
  • Include all major excursions: a long Icefjord cruise, a private whale watching tour.
  • A helicopter tour, and an extended dog sledding or snowmobiling adventure.
  • Consider an overnight stay at Ilimanaq Lodge for an exclusive, eco-friendly luxury experience.
  • Enjoy personalized services and exclusive access where available.

Value-Focused Recommendations

Travel Timing

Travel in shoulder season (May, September, or October) for potentially lower prices on flights and accommodation compared to peak summer.

Advance Booking

Always book flights and accommodation well in advance to secure better rates.

Tour Selection

Opt for tours offering good value for money. Compare tour lengths and inclusions.

Financial Planning

Careful budgeting and pre-booking make your trip more affordable and enjoyable.

Seasonal Specialties

Each season has distinct highlights.

Summer June-August Highlights

Summer months offer continuous daylight and prime conditions for outdoor activities.

Summer Wonders

  • Midnight Sun: Enjoy 24 hours of daylight for extended exploration.
  • Whale Watching: Prime time for spotting whales in Disko Bay.
  • Hiking: Trails are clear of snow and ice.
  • Sailing Among Icebergs: Best conditions for boat tours.
Summer is peak season with activity.

Winter November-April Highlights

Winter transforms the landscape into a snowy wonderland, ideal for unique Arctic experiences.

Winter Wonders

  • Northern Lights: Best chance to witness the aurora borealis.
  • Dog Sledding: Exhilarating activities across the frozen landscape.
  • Snowmobiling: Guided tours for exploring snowy terrains.
  • Dramatic Snowy Landscapes: Town and fjord transform into a white wonderland.

Off-Season Exploration Strategies

Visiting outside peak times can offer unique advantages and a different perspective.

Preparation

  • Be prepared for colder, darker weather in late autumn and winter.
  • Verify opening hours and tour availability, as some operators reduce services.
  • Pack appropriately for the season and sudden changes.

Experience

  • Embrace the unique quietness and solitude that the off-season gives.
  • Build flexibility into your itinerary due to potential weather-related travel disruptions.
  • Experience Greenland National Day (June 21) with local celebrations.

Festival & Event Visits

Greenland offers cultural events, specifically its National Day, which enrich a visit.

Cultural Immersion

  • Greenland National Day (June 21) sees local celebrations.
  • Witness traditional costumes.
  • Enjoy local music and drum dancing.
  • Experience unique community gatherings.

Special Interest Tours

Specific tour offerings complement seasonal experiences.

Tour Types

  • Photography tours for Northern Lights or Midnight Sun.
  • Expedition cruises exploring remote fjords.
  • Winter adventure tours beyond dog sledding.
  • Fishing or hunting tours with local guides.

Important Weather Note

Temperature Drops

Even in summer, temperatures drop quickly, and wind makes it feel colder.

Layering is

Always carry an extra layer of clothing, regardless of the season, for comfort.

Weather Readiness

Be prepared for sudden weather changes. Flexibility in plans is always helpful in the Arctic.