Hike

ICEFJORD TREK GREENLAND

Sermelik Fjord, nestled in the East Coast of Greenland, is a stunning natural wonder characterised by its dramatic landscapes. Surrounded by towering cliffs and glacial formations, the fjord offers a breathtaking vista of icy blue waters reflecting the rugged terrain. This remote location is not only a haven for outdoor lovers but also an important ecological area, home to various marine life, including seals and seabirds.

from: 427.350 kr.

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    SeasonJuly-Sept
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    Duration8 days
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    DifficultyModerate fitness

Tour Overview

Join us on an unforgettable trek in the Sermilik fjord on the East Coast of Greenland. A journey into the heart of untouched wilderness, which has become so rare in our modern day society. We will immerse ourselves in the serenity of the area, resetting our nervous system and enjoy slowing down in this fascinating setting.
The fjord is the home of one of the fastest moving glaciers in the world, the Helheim glacier. It calves icebergs of all shapes and sizes into the ocean at a speed of approximately 60 m per day. Contributing to what can be claimed to be one of the most spectacular sceneries on the planet. The constrast of steep and pointy mountains with the serenety of icebergs floating on the ocean is mind blowing. We claim this to be one of the most interesting treks in Greenland.

In addition to days of hiking, we will sail into the village Kumiiuut, the WW2 airport at Ikatek and to the front of the Knud Rasmusen glacier in the Karale fjord. It is kind of mandatory to view the land from a boat on the sea, to get a different perspective. And our sailing destinations are all a must see.

At the end of each day, you will be able to enjoy the calm, quiet vibes of the Arctic. Attending to your own simple needs only. A luxury nowadays, unknown to most.
This trek is operated by our hand picked, highly trusted friends at Arctic Hiking. Exploring Greenland with them is like looking at Mona Lisa with Leonardo Da Vinci.

Detailed information

Below are details about the tour. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Fitness level: Moderate, comfortable to move 250-300m in elevation per hour over 5-7 hours.
Experience level: Advanced beginner, some prior experience but lacking confidence in the discipline.

It‘s a client‘s full responsibility to meet the physical fitness level requirements of their trip. If clients are not physically fit for their tour they may be dismissed from the tour at their own expense.

Group tour (5-12 participants)
427.350 kr. per person.

For a private booking, please contact us

Day 1: Keflavík – Kulusuk
Departure from Keflavík airport to Kulusuk at 17:30. Arrival 18:15 local time in
Kulusuk. The guide meets the group at the airport. Everyone puts their luggage on a
quad trailer and then the group walks together to the village which takes approx. 30
min.
Night in a local house, hostel dormitory style.

Day 2: Tiniteqilaq – Sermilik Icefjord
In the morning, we go shopping for supplies before leaving Kulusuk. We then start
our journey by sailing along Ammassalik Island and its sharp peaks. Then onwards
through the Ikaasa strait where steep mountains tower on both sides. Eventually we
arrive in Tiniteqilaq, a tiny village at the opening of the Sermiliq Icefjord. After shortly
exploring the village, the guide leads us through rugged landscape up to a 410m
(1345ft) summit with stunning views of the Greenland Icecap. Sermilik fjord is in full
view with its vast amounts of Icebergs surrounded by amazing mountains. Our hike
continues until arrival at our first campsite in a small fjord late in the afternoon.
Approx 5 hours walk.

Day 3:The Narrow fjord
We start the day by climbing the rugged slopes up to 538m (1765ft) where we find
ourselves at another extraordinary viewpoint. After enjoying the sight of Sermilik and
its unreal Icebergs we descend towards Amitsivattiva, where we put up camp for the
night. Here we are, nestled in the narrowest fjord imaginable. It’s only a couple of
hundred meters across but over 4km long.
Approx 5-6 hours walk.

Day 4: Sapulik bay
In the morning, we load a luggage boat before continuing our journey on a rocky
path along a mesmerizing bluegreen lake. At the end of it, we cross a river, flowing
from a nearby outlet glacier into the lake. As we continue scaling the lake banks we
come across another river which we follow into a small bay called Sapulik. We go on
along the shores of Sapulik until we arrive at its narrowest part, at the opening to the
Sermilik fjord. Breathtaking view of the Greenland ice cap and the Icebergs on the
fjord await us and here we put up our camp. There is even a chance of seeing a
whale.
Approx 6-7 hours walk.

Day 5: Sermilk fjord coast to Nuuk peninsula
We aim to the north as we walk along the coast. Sometimes it is also appropriate to head
up on the hills above the shore. Crack in an iceberg breaking and an occasional
Ringed Plover are among the very few things likely to break the silence in this place.
We come to a small bay where icebergs often get stranded, some of them the size of
a family car. We continue to a larger bay where we must wade across a river, which
is regenerative for body & mind. In the afternoon we arrive at a Nuuk peninsula
where we put up our camp.
Approx 6-7 hours walk.

Day 6: Sun Gate and Qinertivaq fjord
Early morning we leave the Sermilik fjord and start our hike through a narrow valley.
It leads us to the Trout lake, a small lake surrounded by steep mountains and
glaciers rising to around 1850m (6000ft). The mountain view will hardly be described
with words. At Trout Lake, we turn northeast and cross yet another glacial river. On
the riverbanks, we can admire the national flower of Greenland, The Arctic River
Beauty. We continue to the Qinertivaq fjord where we put up our last camp.
Approx 8 hours walk.

Day 7: Kumiiuut and Knud Rasmussen
A day of sailing excursion to discover the village Kumiiuut, the WW2 airport at Ikatek
and the floating glacier front of Knud Rasmusen glacier in the Karale fjord. Fantastic
end to a great trek. After we arrive to Kulusuk we take a short walk around the village, visit a a local museum and prepare a farewell dinner together in our house.
Approx 2 hours walk.

Day 8: Kulusuk – Keflavik Airport
After breakfast, we take a walk through the village and into the hills that surround it.
Learn about the story of Cap Dan and its role in the Cold War and admire some of
the pristine nature of Kulusuk Island. We pack our things and put the bags on the
quad trailer before walking to the airport where we say goodbye.  At 19:00 we take
off towards Keflavik, arriving at 21:45 Iceland time.

All guests are advised to have travel insurance which includes SAR (Search and Rescue).
Asgard Beyond does not assume responsibility for accidents or death that can be
traced to the participant’s negligence, acts of third parties, or exterior circumstances
such as weather, natural occurrences, war, or other similar causes.

Arctic Hiking and Asgard Beyond reserves the right to alter tours and itineraries due to weather
conditions, drift ice or for other security reasons. Changes or cancellations of
programs at any time during a trip, can be made to ensure safety of clients and staff
of Arctic Hiking / Asgard Beyond.
No responsibility is accepted for losses, expenses due to delays, changes of flights,
or other services or because of strikes, accidents, sickness, damage, negligence,
weather, war, changes in schedules, or other similar causes.

Equipment

  • Backpack 30 – 40 L
  • Gore-Tex jacket
  • Gore-Tex pants
  • Soft Shell jacket (optional, some prefer to bring Gore-Tex only)
  • Soft Shell pants (optional, some prefer to bring Gore-Tex only)
  • Mid layer jacked (down or fiber)
  • Mid layer fleece jacket or a vest
  • First layer top (wool or synthetic)
  • First layer bottoms (wool or synthetic)
  • Hiking socks
  • Thin gloves
  • Thick gloves
  • Hat
  • Neck warmer
  • Headband

For the accommodation and camping

  • Extra pair of socks
  • Extra pair of first layer
  • Earplugs
  • Sleeping bag
  • Sleeping mat
  • Cash for food and drinks
  • Toothbrush, soap and other personal hygiene items

Other items

  • Sunglasses (cat 3-4)
  • Sunscreen SPF 50
  • Lipstick SPF 50
  • Headlamp
  • Water bottle 1 L
  • Thermos 0,5 L (Optional)
  • Band aids and blister kit
  • Power bank to charge personal devices
  • Snacks for the days

We recommend taking the most important equipment with you as cabin luggage
during your flight or carry the respective clothes/shoes on your body, notably trekking
boots and trousers, fleece shirt, warm and waterproof jacket, rain gear, functional
underwear, glasses, hat, gloves, and everything else you consider important. In case
of baggage loss, you are thus at least able to start the tour.
The luggage restrictions for the trip are 15 kg (33 lbs) per person + 6 kg (13 lbs)
hand luggage. We strongly recommend that you travel with a duffel bag and a 30-40
liter daypack.

Highlights of the tour are:

  • The Peaks around the Sungate and the Qinertivaq fjord
  • The “ice beaches” in Sermilik fjord
  • The incredible Iceberg view from the Tiniteqilaaq ridge
  • The floating glacier front of Knud Rasmusen glacier in the Karale fjord
  • What's included

    • Boat transfer from Kulusuk (Start of trek)
    • Boat transfer to Kumiiuut/ Ikatek / Karale /Kulusuk (End of trek)
    • Luggage transfer from camp to camp
    • All food (from dinner in Kulusuk on D1 to lunch in Kulusuk on D8)
    • Accommodation (Dormitory and Tents)
    • All camping and cooking gear
    • Safety equipment (Satellite phone, First Aid etc…)
    • Guiding and guides expenses

    What's not included

    • Flights to / from Greenland
    • Sleeping bags (can be rented)
    • Personal expenses
    • Alcoholic beverages
    • Travel and accident insurance

    Do you have any questions?

    Below are answers to some of the questions we get regarding the tour. If you do not find the answer do not hesitate to contact us

    • What happens to my booking if the weather or conditions are bad?

      In case it is not possible to operate the tour due to weather or conditions we try the following things:

      Move the tour to a different date if that works for you, change to a different activity if you agree on that. If none of the above is possible and we have to cancel the tour due to weather or poor conditions, we will refund you the tour.

    • In how much advance should I book my tour with you?

      The short answer is: the longer the better. We have limited resources of guides and sometimes we are fully booked.
      For less technical tours like Glacier hiking, Glacier hiking and ice climbing, and alpine trekking tours we can usually accommodate you with a short notice. For more technical tours like Waterfall ice climbing, Rock climbing and alpine tours longer advance is better to secure a spot.
      Short notice can be 24 hours before departure and longer notice is at least two weeks before.

    • What is the best season for the activities you offer?

      The best season depends on what activity you choose. The appropriate season is stated at the top of each tour. To break it down:

      Glacier hikes and glacier ice climbing
      Available the whole year. This activity is not dependant on weather or conditions. The only time we have to cancel or post pone these activities is when the weather is really bad.

      Rock climbing and alpine rock climbing
      Rock climbing is a summer activity available May-October. This activity is highly weather dependant and not possible when the rock is wet or when it is raining. If you are interested in rock climbing outside of the season, it is possible if we have really good weather days. Please contact us for further information.

      Ski touring
      The best ski touring in the south-west part of Iceland is usually around spring time. The ski touring season is usually between Feb-May, however it is possible to ski outside the season if conditions are good or we ski the glaciers like on the tour “Ski touring Snæfellsjökull”. If you are interested to ski outside of the season please contact us for further information.

      Waterfall ice climbing and alpine winter climbing
      The main season is from late November to late March. Iceland has a maritime climate and temperatures fluctuate through out the season making this activity highly subject to weather and conditions. In case we have poor conditions for ice climbing we can always substitute the waterfall ice climbing with ice climbing on the glacier.

      Alpine trekking
      Snæfellsjökull can be climbed almost the whole year, appart from the darkest month of the year, December.
      Other bigger mountains like Eyjafjallajökull and Hvannadalshnúkur, the highest summit of Iceland, have the best conditions from early spring to late summer.

    • Do I need any prior experience to participate in your tours?

      Since all of our tours are private we are able to adjust the difficulty and and experience level needed for each tour. However, for some of your tours it is advisable that you have have some background in the activity:

      Glacier hiking and glacier ice climbing
      There is no prior experience needed for those tours

      Waterfall ice climbing
      It is possible to try waterfall ice climbing if you do not have any prior ice climbing experience. We would choose an easy climbing route with easy access. If you have never done ice climbing before it is worth looking into our Ice climbing and glacier hiking tour on Sólheimajökull.

      Ski touring
      For our ski touring tours you have to be a competent off-piste skier and able to ski down in various conditions.

      Rock and alpine climbing
      No prior experience is needed for single pitch rock climbing. For multi pitch climbing it is advisable that your climbing level is at 5.7-5.8 and you have to know how to belay a lead climber.

    • Can I request a tour that is not on your website?

      Yes, without a doubt. Private guiding is what Asgard is all about and if you can dream your adventure, we can make it happen. If you do not find your perfect adventure on our website, do not hesitate to get in touch at [email protected]!

      Examples of private tours we have done in the past:

      • Expedition planning and support
      • Cross country ski touring
      • Expedition and polar training
      • Private hiking, day tours and multi-day tours
      • Location management and safety on film projects
      • Private tours for photographers
      • Alpine trekking on glaciated summits
      • Multiday tours in Greenland
    • Do you offer pickup service?

      In general we only meet our guests on location, or car pool from a central location in Reykjvaík. However, if you do not have your own car and can not meet us on location please get in touch.

    Words from our guests

    The best part or our amazing adventure in Iceland

    Tony Ice climbing guest

    With Asgard tour guide Robert and group of strong and active girls we mountain skied the Silvretta Traverse, I give the Asgard my highest recommandation, great trip!

    Asa Thorsteinsdottir Silvretta traverse

    Brilliant tour!
    Well educated guide, good equipment and a nice small group. I would highly recommend it for anyone looking for a personalized trip 🙂
    Tip: ask the guide to tell you extra amount of stories and facts – they are wisdom fountains there for you to learn from

    Rakel J Ice climbing and glacier hiking

    Ferð mín með Asgard Beyond um Silvrettu leiðina var bara akkúrat það sem vantaði í líf mitt! Þetta var mín fyrsta ferð með leiðsögumanni, en ég hef áður farið á svipaðar slóðir sjálf. Það er alger game changer að leyfa fagmanni að taka ákvarðanir um leiðarval útfrá aðstæðum. Maður fær miklu meira úr ferðinni og þorir lengra út úr þægindarammanum. Ætla pottþétt í aðra ferð sem fyrst!

    Sara Axelsdóttir Ski touring guest
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    Our
    partners

    Arc’teryX

    Asgard guides wear Arcteryx gear because it is durable and keeps them warm and dry in challenging conditions.

    Fjallakofinn

    Fjallakofinn is an outdoor store in Reykjavík offering high quality outdoors products & a rental service.