12-day adventure

Trek the East Coast of Greenland

Greenland

Kandoo Arctic

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£3,599

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Greenland
Trek the East Coast of Greenland

Code: GREC

12 days

Challenging

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Kandoo's view

Trek into one of the most isolated regions on earth. This beautifully wild landscape is a delicate balance of steep sided peaks that flow effortlessly into clear waters, where icebergs creak and groan a melodious tune. We spend 10 days immersing ourselves in the true beauty of Arctic summer, keeping our eyes peeled for the array of fauna, fox, hare and Humpback whales than inhabit this land. Wild camping beneath vast skies where the midnight sun reigns supreme, we spend time visiting local Inuit communities and discovering forgotten hunters cabins as we make our way along the secluded coastline. We marvel at the cathedrals of ice forging their way out of Sermilik and Peterson Fjords, broken away from Greenland's ice cap, before reaching the colourful village of Tasiilaq. Then take to the air or by boat for a different perspective on our return journey to Kulusuk.

Trip highlights

Wild camp in beautiful locations along the vast, wilderness of the East Coast
Catch glimpses of the sleek bodies of breaching whales as the cruise between the icebergs
Immerse yourself in traditional Inuit culture as you pass through local settlements
Cross fjords where enormous icebergs are continuously shifting and moulding

Experiences

Kandoo Arctic

Join us on an arctic expedition

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Itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to Kulusuk

This morning we meet the rest of our group at Reykjavik airport ready to catch our flight to Kulusuk. We embark on the scenic flight, watching the snow capped peaks of Greenland's ice cap come into view as we descend down to the tiny runway at Kulusuk Airport. We then board a small boat which takes us down the beautiful Ammassalik Fjord and up the narrower Ikaasatsivaq fjord to our first campsite. An epic introduction to the steep granite peaks that melt into the ocean in this remote part of the world. We set up camp in a sheltered spot looking out onto a bay filled with huge icebergs.

Please note: The flight will depart early in the morning on Day 1 so you will need to arrive in Reykjavik the night before. Information on how to get to the airport can be found in our "How to get there" section in Details.
- Transport: Flight
- Accomodation: Camping
- Meals included: Lunch / Dinner
Day 2

Ikaasatsivaq Fjord

This morning we begin our trek, heading along the steep sided glacial valley in which our camp is nestled. We discover the numerous waterfalls that cascade down looming rockfaces, their torrents increasing as the glaciers above begin to melt. Arctic vegetation paints a carpet of speckled colour across the lush grass of the valley floor and a short detour off the path brings us to a magnificent viewpoint of the web of fjords below. We then return to our camp, ready for dinner and spend a second evening marvelling at the bobbing icebergs as the float past.
- Hiking time: 5 hours
- Accomodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 3

Sermilik Ridges - Amitsvartivit

This morning we pack up camp and head on towards Amitsvartivit, through the grand landscapes of the East Coast. A short climb and we catch our first glimpse of the jigsaw of icebergs scattered across Sermilik Fjord, rolling and creaking as they navigate their way from the imposing ice cap out to open ocean. Traversing the ridges that line the Fjord we have panoramic views of this captivating landscape throughout the trek before returning to the shore to set up camp nestled in a sheltered corner of Amitsvartivit Fjord.
- Hiking time: 7 hours
- Accomodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 4

Amitsvartivit - Parmagaji

A new area awaits us today as we trace our way along a deep, glacial valley in which several fresh water lakes have formed. The high mountains stand proud across the skyline, marking our route until we reach our campsite on the edge of the Sermilik Fjord. Here, we set up camp for the next few days, a base from which we can explore the secret coves and crests of this magnificent coastline.
- Hiking time: 5 hours
- Accomodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Days 5 to 6

Sermilik Fjord

Around Parmagaji we're spoilt for choice, with a range of treks amongst stunning scenery available straight from camp. We spend the next couple of days exploring this incredibly wild location, discovering traditional hunter-trapper cabins that have occupied nomadic wanderers over the decades. We indulge in the delightful views of the ice sheet and herds of icebergs, catching glimpses of whale tails or fins cutting through the water around them if we're lucky. The end of each day sees the sun tease dusk but not quite disappear as daylight remains a constant in this northerly land.
- Hiking time: 6 hours
- Accomodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 7

Tinitequilaq - Sermilik Icefjord - Peterson Fjord

This morning we dismantle our camp from the previous few days and board the boat which picks it's way through the floating mountains of ice in Sermilik Fjord, to the Inuit village of Tinitequilaq, home to a mere 150 inhabitants. Built out on a small peninsula, this isolated village boasts the brightly, coloured wooden houses that give Greenland it's undeniable charm. We stop in the village for a picnic lunch, before reboarding the boat and crossing the fjord to reach our camp spot in Peterson Fjord. As the captain weaves between the immense icebergs we keep our eyes peeled for playful seals, whales and dolphins that call the fjord home. Once again back onshore, we set up camp for the next three nights, in an ideal location overlooking the vast ice sheet.
- Transport: Boat
- Accomodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Days 8 to 9

Johan Peterson Fjord

Over the next couple of days, we discover the wild and isolated Johan Peterson Fjord on foot, sometimes close to the coast to observe the icebergs and marine life, sometimes from the summits to explore the surrounding glaciers. From the summits, the view is extraordinary; up the length of the fjord and out to the polar cap, stretching out into a vast, inhospitable desert of ice. We are suspended in a tranquil world, broken only by the breaching of whales passing in front of our camp.
- Hiking time: 5 hours
- Accomodation: Camping
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 10

Johan Peterson Fjord - Ikateq - Tasiilaq

After three magical days spent in Johan Peterson Fjord we reboard the boat and return East to reach Ikateq, an abandoned Inuit village, frozen in time. Stopping here to explore, if conditions allow, we then continue on to reach the colourful village of Tasilaaq, capital of the Angmassalik district. It is not uncommon during this journey to encounter humpback whales, as well as other species of the humpback family. In Tasiilaq, we check in to a local guesthouse and enjoy the comfort of a proper bed for the night.
- Transport: Boat
- Accomodation: Guesthouse
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 11

Tasiilaq - Valley of Flowers

This morning we spend time exploring the quaint settlement of Tasiilaq, before following a scenic path through the Valley of Flowers which lies behind the village. Here, spring flowers paint a carpet of colour across the luscious green grass, reflected in the still waters of the tarn that sits at the top of the valley. We return to Tasiilaq for another night in our comfortable guesthouse this evening.
- Hiking time: 4 hours
- Accomodation: Guesthouse
- Meals included: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Day 12

Tasiilaq - Kulusuk - Reykjavik

This morning we embark on a spectacular helicopter flight above the icebergs towards Kulusuk, where we then board our international flight for Iceland. On arrival in Reykjavik, we collect our bags a say goodbye to our group before heading off on our onwards travel.

Please note: Helicopter flight is subject to availability. Alternatively, the transfer will be made by boat.
- Transport: Helicopter, Boat
- Meals included: Breakfast
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Please note

The details in this programme are regularly updated but unforeseeable and unpredictable circumstances may result in inaccuracies. In order to provide the adventure which is best suited to your demands, the weather and the operational conditions, changes to the itinerary may be made. For safety reasons, we reserve the rights to interrupt your participation at any time if your technical level or fitness is deemed unsuitable or if you are seen as a danger to yourself or to those around you. Under no circumstances would this give rise to a refund or compensation.

Trip information

Difficulty

This adventure is rated as challenging due to the non-stop nature of the expedition.. You will be hiking in some of the most remote wilderness in the world, possibly in very cold and windy conditions. We will walk for up to 10 hours a day, sometimes off track on uneven and difficult terrain with height gains of up to 650m. Adverse weather conditions can also make hiking feel much more challenging. We would recommend heading out into your local hills in the months leading up to your trip to get used to being out on rough, mountainous terrain for 8-9 hours per day.

As well as hiking you will also be packing away and putting up tents, assisting with cooking and fetching water. There are no porters, cooks or waiters on this trip, you are part of the expedition and must do your share of the work. Although this makes the adventure more demanding, it also adds to the enormous sense of satisfaction and achievement at the end of your journey. As it never goes dark in Greenland in the summer months, some people may also find it difficult to sleep.

If you have any questions about your suitability for this trip or would like more specific information about what to expect, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Food & drink

This trip includes full board aside from your evening meal in Kulusuk on Day 13 and any meals in Reykjavik. We are proud of the varied, fresh and frankly delicious food we provide in such remote regions. Meals are based on a selection of local products and you will have the opportunity to try Greenlandic delicacies such as cod, arctic char and mussels.

Each day will start with a hearty breakfast accompanied by plenty of tea and coffee. You will prepare your own picnic lunch for the day from a buffet style array of options - everyday there will definitely be sandwiches, hot drinks and cakes among other ingredients. Each evening meal will be three courses- we try to offer fresh fruit and vegetables everyday but this is not always possible in the remote wilderness of Greenland!

Your help in the kitchen is expected and much appreciated, particularly in the evenings. Cooking is most enjoyable when the whole group work as a team to prepare dinner, it creates a pleasant atmosphere as we reflect on the days adventures together.

Please let us know about any dietary requirements when you book the trip and we will work with you to cater for your needs.

Accommodation

On this trip we will spend 2 nights in guesthouse accommodaton in Tasiilaq and 9 nights camping.

Whilst camping we will provide a 3 man dome tent per two people and inflatable sleeping mats per person. These are good quality Simond tents that are designed to withstand the extreme weather experienced in Greenland. There will also be a dining tent for taking meals and for use as a communal space, tables, stools and eating utensils are all provided. As well as hiking you will also be packing away and putting up tents, assisting with cooking, loading and unloading the support boat and fetching water. There are no porters, cooks or waiters on this trip, you are part of the expedition and must do your share of the work. Although this makes the adventure more demanding, it also adds to the enormous sense of satisfaction and achievement at the end of your journey.

You will generally be washing using rivers or streams whilst on the trek. In Tinitequilaq, there is a public shower that is available to use for 10 DKK.

In guesthouse accommodation, you will be in dormitories of between 4 and 12 people with shared bathroom facilities.

Your guesthouse accommodation will have flushing toilets. Whilst camping, the toilet situation will be a little less luxurious. It is a case of finding somewhere hidden, away from camp or the path and digging a hole. We can guarantee it will be the most scenic, exciting toilet break you've ever had! Please remember to bring toilet roll and a lighter to burn it after use.

Transport

On this trip our transportation is very much dependant upon the weather conditions. We will travel by boat for the majority of our transfers along the fjords and bays of Eastern Greenland. Please be aware that the boats we use are fishing boats and don't always have a cabin to sit in, for some journeys you may be required to stay outside. On Day 13, the helicopter flight is subject to availability and weather conditions, if it is not possible we will make this journey by boat. Throughout the trek, a support boat will also carry our equipment between camps so we don't have to carry it.

Luggage

You will need a 70-90L soft duffel or rucksack as your main luggage for this trip. This must not exceed 15kg to stay in accordance with the flight requirements. During the expedition, your luggage will be transported via our support boat. We recommend packing all of your clothes in plastic bags or dry bags within your main bag as an extra precaution so that they stay dry. Your sleeping bag will also need to be packed into your main luggage. We recommend bringing a spare plastic bag to also ensure this has extra waterproofing.

Please bring a small rucksack 20-30L to use as a day bag. You can bring this as hand luggage on the aeroplane. You will carry your lunch, sun cream, water, spare layers and any personal medication with you each day in this bag.

How do I get there?

You will need to meet the rest of your group at Reykjavik airport in the Departures area on Day 1 of your itinerary. Reykjavik's international airport is called Keflavik (KEF) and is located 48km outside the city. The journey from the city to the airport will take around 45mins. Reykjavik's city airport is used for domestic flights only.

You will need to be at the airport by 8am on the morning of Day 1 so you will need to arrive into Reykjavik the night before. A national shuttle bus called Flybus runs from Reykjavik to Keflavik airport. Tickets cost £20 / $27 and you can either buy a ticket beforehand on the Flybus website or once you've landed in Iceland at the Flybus desk in the arrivals terminal. If you choose the Flybus+ option you can also choose to be picked up from your hotel for an additional fee. If you choose this option please be ready to depart from your hotel 30 minutes before your chosen time. Please choose your pick up time for 3-4 hours before your plane departure. This should give you enough time to meet your group, get through the airport and onto your flight in good time. You can also get on at any of the numerous Flybus stops if you don't wish to pay for the additional Flybus+ option.

On arrival at the airport, after entering through the Departures doors, please look out for a member of our team, they will be holding a large “KANDOO” sign.

Flights to Reykjavik

From the UK, there are direct flights to Keflavik from London Heathrow (LHR) with British Airways and Icelandair. Easy Jet also offer direct flights from London Luton (LTN), Manchester (MAN) and Edinburgh (EDI). The flight time is roughly 3 hours depending on which airport you depart from.

For those traveling from the USA, Icelandair have direct flights from New York (JFK), Boston (BOS), Washington (IAD) and Seattle (SEA). Delta offer convenient flights via New York from San Francisco (SFO), Los Angeles (LAX), Phoenix (PHX) and Atlanta (ATL).

Budget & change

The currency is the Danish Krone (DKK).

The last available money exchange point on this trip is at Reykjavik airport, so we would recommend exchanging money before you are due to travel.

In Tasiilaq, there is an ATM where you can withdraw money and most places will accept most common credit or debit cards as a form of payment. We would still recommend carrying some cash to avoid disappointment when card facilities are not available. Please budget for drinks, tips, personal expenses and any meals not included in your trip. Expect to pay at least 200DKK (£23/$30) for a meal.

Tips

Tipping customs vary all over the world and can be very confusing when travelling to a new country. Tipping in Greenland is always appreciated, however it is not obligatory and should be left to the discretion of each individual. If you are satisfied with your guide’s services we recommend a tip between 250-350 DKK per person (equivalent to £30-40 per person). On the other hand, if you receive bad service or have not been treated well, you would not be expected to tip at all.

Formalities & health

Passport

Most travellers will require a passport valid for at least 6 months after your return date. It is your responsibility to confirm your specific requirements and please be aware that proof of onward travel may be required.

Visa

Travelling to Greenland is visa free for up to 90 days, for UK and US citizens

Vaccinations

No vaccinations are required.

Insurance

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are fully and adequately insured for the duration of your trip. Please ensure that all activities, excursions and destinations in your itinerary are included in your travel insurance policy, in addition to your regular cover for cancellation and medical expenses. We ask that you keep a copy of your policy summary (containing policy number and the emergency contact number for your insurer) in your day sack at all times, so that we can access this information should we need to contact the insurer on your behalf.

Medication

Your guide carries a first aid kit at all times but we recommend you carry the following items: - Painkillers - Sunscreen for lips and skin - Moisturising cream (for sunburn) - Elastic bandage, regular bandages and Blister bandages - Sanitary products

Equipment & clothing

Equipment supplied by Kandoo Adventures

3 man dome tent per 2 people
Sleeping mat per person
Dining tent with tables, stools and eating utensils

Clothing to bring

Walking boots
Waterproof and windproof hard shell jacket and trousers
Warm hat and gloves
Sun hat
Warm jumpers
Thermal base layers (top and leggings)
Fleece or soft shell jacket
Suitable underwear, t-shirts and walking trousers
Warm socks
Warm pyjamas, towel, toiletries
Sunglasses with high UV protection
Swimming costume/shorts (if you want to dip in the freezing ocean)

Equipment to bring

Sleeping bag with a minimum comfort rating of 0°C
Water bottle / thermos
Head torch with spare batteries
Daypack 20L to 30L
Duffel bag 70L to 90L or similar flexible bag for your main luggage. Not a suitcase.
Camera
Insect repellant
Mosquito net
Comfortable shoes / clothes for the evenings
Walking poles
Wet wipes
Plastic bags for wet/dirty clothing

Dates & prices

From	To	Price	Availability	Book	Enquire
11/07/2025	24/07/2025	£3,599 $4,675	Available	Book now	Enquire now
25/07/2025	07/08/2025	£3,599 $4,675	Available	Book now	Enquire now
22/08/2025	04/09/2025	£3,599 $4,675	Available	Book now	Enquire now

Want to ask us a question or book a private trip? Don't hesitate to contact us!

Price includes

Return flight Reykjavik - Kulusuk
Air taxes
Boat, land and air transfers (except airport transfers in Reykjavik)
Accommodation (except in Reykjavik)
Full board, unless otherwise stated
Supervision by an English speaking local guide
Camping equipment including tent, mattress, mess tent, cooking utensils and stools

Price does not include

Flights to Reykjavik
Visas (if necessary)
Travel Insurance
Single supplement to be requested upon booking (this is not available in all locations)
Personal expenses
Drinks