Join Environmentalist David Hatch on this exclusive program to Ilulissat, Greenland. This isolated Arctic country is home to giant icebergs, colourful villages, and spectacular scenery. You will have the opportunity to discover first-hand the environmental and geographical issues of our changing climate while immersing yourself in the unique culture of this region.
Ilulissat means "Icebergs" in Greenlandic, and the town boasts a beautiful location at the mouth of the 56 kilometer long icefjord. The outstanding fjord is filled with enormous icebergs from the most productive glacier in the northern hemisphere, Sermeq Kujalleq. In 2004 the Ilulissat Icefjord was admitted onto UNESCO's World Heritage List.
Day 1: Depart Copenhagen and arrive in Ilulissat, Greenland. Check in to the first-class Hotel Arctic for your seven-night stay. A group welcome dinner is planned for this evening; sample traditional Greenlandic cuisine. (D)
Day 2: This morning you will join a guided walk of Ilulissat (Jakobshavn), the third largest town in Greenland with over 4500 inhabitants. You will learn about the history and culture in the community, with opportunities to visit fishermen at the harbour and hunters at their trading post "Brædtet". Explore the church where the famous polar explorer, Knud Rasmussen, was born. Discover the modern lifestyle is this unique town, surrounded by striking nature and giant icebergs.
This afternoon provides the opportunity to visit with an owner of a dog sled team and learn the way of life using this traditional mode of transportation. The harness and sled will be demonstrated and you will see, and most of all hear, the howling of 20 hungry dogs!
Enjoy a delightful midnight cruise this evening among the giant icebergs floating in the bay. (B)
Day 3: A full day boat excursion to the Eqi glacier is planned for today. Very few places in Greenland are known to be as beautiful as the Eqi glacier, which forms a fjord approximately 80 km north of Ilulissat. By boat it is possible to see pieces of ice break off at the edge of the glacier - the crashes are enormous and the sight of the ice falling into the water is truly impressive! Lunch will be served onboard. (B, L)
Day 4: The day is free to explore the community, visit local shops and enjoy the view of the bay. This afternoon's optional excursion is a helicopter tour to the Ilulissat glacier with a half hour ground stop. David Hatch will host an environmental discussion this evening. Discover the effects of climatic change in Greenland, and learn about the changing weather patterns in this arctic country. (B)
Day 5: Embark on an easy hike in the region. The beautiful icebergs of Ilulissat set the scenery for the abandoned settlement Sermermiut, situated one and a half kilometres south of the city. Different Inuit cultures have lived here throughout the last 4000 years, and today you can find artifacts that witness their presence. Learn the history and customs of the Greenlanders prior to the European’s arrival. (B)
Day 6: An excursion to the settlement of Oqaatsut is arranged today. Sail approximately 15 km north of Ilulissat. This remote region, known as Rodebay, is home to only forty-five inhabitants. Indulge in lunch at the local restaurant, a building that dates back to colonial times. Your guide will take this opportunity to open a discussion on the environment and ecology of Greenland. (B,L)
Day 7: Today's optional excursions include a demanding Long-Fjord hike, whale watching tour, or long-line fishing. For those looking for a more demanding day, a five-hour guided hike to the Icefjord is available. Learn about the flora, fauna, and geology in the region. A group farewell dinner is planned for tonight at the Hotel Arctic. (B,D)
Day 8: Transfer to the airport for return flight to Copenhagen. (B)
Group size is based on a minimum of 10 passengers
