Gems of West Greenland: Fjords, Icebergs and Culture
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of West Greenland with the "Gems of West Greenland: Fjords, Icebergs and Culture" expedition. Starting and ending in Reykjavik, Iceland, this adventure takes you deep into the heart of Greenland's stunning fjords and icy waters. Explore the majestic Uummannaq Fjord, cruise through the wildlife-rich Disko Bay, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Qeqqata. With expert-led presentations on Greenland's history, geology, and wildlife, you'll gain a deeper understanding of this remote region. Enjoy the comfort of a fully equipped expedition ship as your base, offering opportunities for hiking, paddling, and Zodiac cruising to remote areas. This expedition promises a unique blend of natural wonders and cultural experiences, making it a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 • Reykjavik, Iceland
Location: Reykjavik, Blue Lagoon
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Velkominn! Welcome to Iceland. Your adventure begins in Reykjavik, the capital and largest city in the country, backdropped by the Esjan mountain range. When you arrive, check in to your hotel and then enjoy a free day to explore the city at your own pace. Maybe visit the National or Saga Museum and learn about Iceland’s Viking history or stroll around the colourful homes in search of the perfect bar or brewery. If you have time, why not visit the famous Blue Lagoon spa near Grindavik village and snap a photo in the striking blue waters. ...more ...less
Day 2: Fly to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland and Embark
Location: Kangerlussuaq
Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning you’ll catch your charter flight to Kangerlussuaq, where you’ll board your vessel and begin your expedition. Get ready for a great adventure ahead! Expect a welcome and safety briefing from your Expedition Leader.
Day 3: At Sea
Location: Kangerlussuaq
Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
As we sail north along the west coast to our first area of exploration, your Expedition Team will prepare you for the adventures that lie ahead. Once activity and excursion briefings are completed, our education team will schedule presentations on the wildlife and fascinating history of Greenland, its geology, ecology and climate, and the incredible sights you will soon explore.
Day 4-6 • Uummanaq Fjord
Location: Uummannaq Fjord, Uummannaq, Qilakitsoq, Store Glacier
Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Uummannaq Fjord is the second-largest fjord system in Greenland surpassed only by Scoresbysund in east Greenland. On these itinerary days you will have the opportunity to become one of few people ever to explore this area in depth and travel beyond the predictable tourist destinations. The fjord is full of cultural and natural wonders. Potential excursions include visits to the town of Uummanaq, venturing into Qilakitsoq (the site where the famous Greenland Mummies were discovered) and excursions focused around Store Glacier and its immense discharge zone. You’ll embrace the expeditionary spirit as we pioneer new destinations within the labyrinth of valleys and channels in the depths of the fjord. Quark Expeditions’ core belief in working closely with local partners will enhance every experience as you explore alongside local experts. We’ll draw on our team’s collective knowledge and expertise to deliver incredible experiences.
Day 7-8 • Disko Bay
Location: Disko Bay, Illulissat, Sermeq Kujalleq (Jakobshavn Glacier)
Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Disko Bay Is a wide, southeastern inlet of Baffin Bay and is the largest open bay in western Greenland. Try to get out on deck as we navigate into this iconic bay where whales are often spotted. Disko Bay is full of exciting destinations for us to explore. We will almost certainly visit the community of Illulissat, which is situated at the head of outlet fjord for Sermeq Kujalleq (Jakobshavn Glacier) , known for discharging 35 billion tons of ice each year. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, the fjord is immensely beautiful and we will encourage you to explore it via one of the many marked hiking trails.
Day 9-10 • Qeqqata
Location: Sisimiut, Manitsoq, Innussuit Tasersuat, Eternity Fjord
Accommodation Name: Expedition Cruise Ship
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Qeqqata (meaning centre) municipality is Greenland’s second smallest administrative region. Situated in the middle of the country’s western coast, Qeqqata is home to almost 20% of Greenland’s populace, most of whom reside in Sisimiut and Manitsoq. During these two days your expedition team will work with our local partners to curate a balance of community and wilderness-focused activities. You will likely visit Sisimiut, where you can wonder through the open, air museum, participate in local tastings or join a hiking group to venture beyond the town limits along one of many incredible hiking trails on Sisimiut’s doorstep. This is where we will also offer the (paid) mountain biking activity. Further south, the areas surrounding Manitsoq are equally stunning. One of our favorite destinations in the area is the picturesque alpine lake of Innussuit Tasersuat, which we can hike and share a picnic with friends from Manitsoq. The fjord systems behind Manitsoq are deep and seldom visited. Our team will seek to take you beyond the ordinary and into these fjords for magical one-of-a-kind experiences, one of which is Eternity Fjord, which is home to the tallest mountains in all of West Greenland.
Day 11: Kangerlussuaq
Location: Kangerlussuaq
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, we disembark in Kangerlussuaq and transfer you to your charter flight to Toronto, Canada, where you’ll spend the night in your included hotel.
Day 12 • Reykjavik, Iceland
Location: Reykjavik
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, make your way to the Airport to catch your homeward flights, or spend more time exploring the fascinating city of Reykjavik, known for its many multicultural neighborhoods and attractions.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Expedition Ship (9 nights), comfortable hotel (2 nights) -
Meals
11 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners -
Expert Presentations
Learn from in-depth presentations run by your expert crew that reveal the fascinating history of Greenland and teach you more about the geology, climate, and wildlife of this region.
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Exploration of Uummannaq Fjord
Be one of the few people to explore the Uummannaq Fjord, the second-largest fjord in Greenland, and traverse the winding valleys and channels that intertwine within the depths of the awe-inspiring fjord system.
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Disko Bay Cruise
Cruise the waters surrounding Disko Bay and keep your eyes peeled for the marine life that might like to join you, with opportunities to hike, paddle, and cruise on Zodiacs to remote areas like Sermeq Kujalleq (Jakobshavn Glacier) or Torsukatak Fjords.
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Cultural Interaction in Qeqqata
Get to know the locals and the local wildlife while exploring the region of Qeqqata in the middle of Greenland’s western coast, with potential visits to Sisimiut and participation in local tastings or hiking groups.
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Fully Equipped Ship
Our fully equipped ship will act as your home away from home, providing access to some of the most remote parts of the rugged Greenland coastline.
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Transport
Transport includes ship, Zodiac, and plane.
What's Not Included
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Kayaking
Kayaking is available to book on all Arctic voyages except on Icebreakers and incurs an additional cost. Spaces are limited and must be booked prior to departure.
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Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is offered as a paid activity in Sisimiut.
Transport
- Ship , Zodiac , plane
Accommodation
- Expedition Ship (9 nights), comfortable hotel (2 nights)
Important Information
- This trip starts and finishes in Reykjavik, Iceland
- In 2025 this trip is onboard the Ultramarine ship
- In 2026 this trip is onboard the Ocean Explorer ship.
- Your voyage is operated by our polar partner, Quark Expeditions. All accommodation and transfer arrangements as listed in the itinerary are also operated by Quark Expeditions or their local representatives.
- BOOKING CONDITIONS
- To confirm your reservation, a deposit of 25% (unless indicated otherwise at time of booking) of the total invoice amount is required at time of booking. Balances are due 120 days prior to departure.
- Please refer to the "Booking terms and conditions" page on our website for all Quark Expedition terms and conditions. https://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-intrepid/booking-conditions
- ADVENTURE OPTIONS
- Kayaking is available to book on all Arctic voyages except on Icebreakers. Kayaking must be booked prior to departure and incurs an additional cost. Spaces are limited so please enquire at time of booking. Some previous, recent experience is essential. Hiking is also offered on some itineraries at no additional cost and does not need to be pre-booked. See the itinerary for Adventure options available on this voyage.
Mode of Transport
Travel through the stunning landscapes of Greenland and Iceland via ship, Zodiac, and plane, ensuring a seamless and adventurous journey across fjords, icebergs, and cultural sites.
Accommodation
Enjoy 9 nights aboard a fully equipped expedition ship, offering a comfortable and relaxing environment as you explore the rugged Greenland coastline. Additionally, spend 2 nights in a comfortable hotel, providing a cozy retreat before and after your adventure.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife might we encounter during the tour?
During the tour, you might encounter various marine life, including whales, especially when cruising the waters surrounding Disko Bay.
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What activities are available in Uummannaq Fjord?
In Uummannaq Fjord, you will have the opportunity to explore cultural and natural wonders, visit the town of Uummannaq, venture into Qilakitsoq, and focus on excursions around Store Glacier. The tour also emphasizes working closely with local partners to enhance the experience. ...more ...less
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What can we expect to see in Disko Bay?
In Disko Bay, you can expect to see the community of Illulissat and the Sermeq Kujalleq (Jakobshavn Glacier), which is known for discharging 35 billion tons of ice each year. The area is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers marked hiking trails for exploration.
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What kind of activities are planned in the Qeqqata region?
In the Qeqqata region, activities include visiting Sisimiut to explore the open-air museum, participate in local tastings, and join hiking groups. There is also an option for a paid mountain biking activity. The area around Manitsoq offers stunning fjord systems and the picturesque alpine lake of Innussuit Tasersuat for hiking and picnicking. ...more ...less
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What is the accommodation like during the tour?
The accommodation during the tour includes staying on an expedition ship for 9 nights and in a comfortable hotel for 2 nights.
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What transportation methods are used during the tour?
The tour utilizes a ship, Zodiac, and plane for transportation.
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Are there any additional adventure options available on this tour?
Kayaking is available to book on all Arctic voyages except on Icebreakers, and it must be booked prior to departure with an additional cost. Hiking is also offered on some itineraries at no additional cost and does not need to be pre-booked.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
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Sunday - Thursday
Aug 17, 2025 - Aug 28, 2025Friday - Tuesday
Sep 04, 2026 - Sep 15, 2026Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Gems of West Greenland: Fjords, Icebergs and Culture
12 Days Starting and ending in Reykjavík, Iceland
Visiting: Reykjavik, Blue Lagoon, Kangerlussuaq, Uummannaq Fjord, Uummannaq, Qilakitsoq, Store Glacier, Disko Bay, Illulissat, Sermeq Kujalleq (Jakobshavn Glacier), Disko Bugt, Sisimiut, Manitsoq, Innussuit Tasersuat, Eternity Fjord, Qeqqata Municipality ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BQMWG
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 138
Age range:
8-99
