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Tours
Small Group Tours

History and Heritage for 5 days - South Greenland

Follow in the footsteps of Eric the Red and visit South Greenland. Impressed by the green hillsides, this is where the Norse settler made his homestead in 982 AD. Today the area offers visitors a cultural experience with the stunning landscape serving as a beautiful backdrop. During this 5 day tour, you will visit sights such as the Hvalsey Church and the beautiful village of Igaliku. You will also have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and go on a boat tour in the Qooroq ice fjord. You can book this holiday package on its own or as an extension of one of our Iceland holidays. No guide is included on this tour. It is possible to hire a private guide for a fixed price. Please contact our travel agent for further information and a price quote. There will be an information meeting on arrival. You will be able to contact our local partner in Greenland from all places of accommodation.

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SEASON
Jun - Sep
travel style
Small Group Tours
Duration
5 Days / 4 Nights
Location
Greenland
accessibility
Not Recommended

The itinerary

This itinerary can be offered throughout the year (some adjustments might be required depending on travel dates).

Day 1: Arrival in South Greenland

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Today your South Greenland UNESCO holiday begins! At Reykjavík Domestic Airport you will board a flight to Narsarsuaq, Greenland. The flight takes about 3 hours and as you approach Greenland you will be welcomed with views over the Greenland ice cap. Upon arrival in Narsarsuaq a local representative will greet you for a short information meeting. Afterwards, transfer by boat to the colorful village of Qaqortoq where you will stay for the next two nights.

Attractions of the day
Flight from Reykjavik to Ilulissat
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Narsarsuaq
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Qaqortoq
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Day 2: Hvalsey Church & Free time in Qaqortoq

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Today you will visit the Hvalsey Church, which is situated in the fjord of Hvalsey (e. Whale Island). The boat ride to Hvalsey takes about 30 minutes. The church is in the region which the Norse named Eystribyggð or The Eastern Settlement. The old ruins of this former Viking Church are located on a verdant meadow, along with the ruins of an old farm. The church, with it’s high and thick stone walls, is the best-preserved structure from the Norse era in Greenland. The walls are up to 6 meters high and 1.5 meters thick. During your visit to Hvalsey Church, you will have plenty of time to walk around this historic site and explore the ruins in this peaceful countryside. After exploring the Hvalsey Church you will head back to Qaqortoq by boat and can enjoy some free time in this colorful town. Qaqortoq, formerly known as Julianehåb, is the largest town in South Greenland and the fourth largest town in Greenland. The area around Qaqortoq has been inhabited since prehistoric times. Beginning with the Saqqaq culture roughly 4,300 years ago, the area has had a continuous human presence. Those who would like to learn more about the town and life in Greenland should visit the Qaqortoq museum. The town is well known for it’s “Stone and Man” project, consisting of more than 30 sculptures that are carved into the granite bedrock by various artists. Visitors can enjoy a stroll though town to explore this artistic project. Also in Qaqortoq you’ll find Greenland’s oldest fountain which is located in the town square next to the harbor. Here visitors can sit and watch the hunters and fishermen selling the catch of the day at the nearby fish market.

Attractions of the day
Qaqortoq
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Hvalsey Church
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Day 3: The King’s Road to Igaliku

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After checking out of your accommodations it’s time to say goodbye to Qaqortoq and continue exploring South Greenland. You’ll be transferred by boat to the village of Itilleq. From there you will enjoy an easy 4 km hike to the village of Igaliku. You will hike along a road called the King’s Road, so named after the Danish King’s Frederik 9th visit in 1952. The village of Igaliku is best known for it’s ruins of Garðar, built by Norsemen around 1100 AD, which was once the religious heart of 12th century Norse Greenland. Igaliku, which name translates to “The Place Like a Pot” was founded in 1782 by the Norwegian merchant Anders Olsen and his Greelandic wife Tuperna. In modern times, Igaliku is a sheep farming settlement with about 27 year round inhabitants. The village offers visitors a cultural experience around the ruins of Garðar, but it is also a wonderful place to enjoy the outdoors. With many beautiful hiking trails in the area, guests can explore at will and admire the beautiful landscape that surrounds the village. You will stay overnight in Igaliku.

Attractions of the day
King's Road Hike
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Igaliku
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Garðar Ruins
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Day 4: Qassiarsuk

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After what has hopefully been a wonderful visit to Igaliku, it’s time to move on to the village of Qassiarsuk. Transport by boat to Qassiarsuk, also known as Brattahlid. This is the place where Eric the Red settled in 982. The Norse ruins in Qassiarsuk are well preserved, and during your free time in the area you can for example visit the Brattahlid open air museum (admission not included). You can also walk up to the stature of Eric the Red, which towers over the village. Enjoy free time in Qassiarsuk, afterwards transfer by boat to Narsarsuaq in the late afternoon. After arrival you can for example enjoy a hike up to Signal hill, for beautiful views over the area. You will stay overnight in Narsarsuaq.

Attractions of the day
Narsarsuaq
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Brattahlid Open Air Museum
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Qassiarsuk
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Day 5: Qooroq Ice Fjord & Departure

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Your time in South Greenland is coming to an end, but first it’s time for one last adventure. In the morning you will go on a boat trip to the Qooroq ice fjord. Here you will sail among the giant icebergs, which will appear in all colors, sizes and shapes. When the glacier is in view, the boat engine will be stopped and you can enjoy the silence and a drink chilled with ice from the icebergs. After the tour you will return to Narsarsuaq. Before your flight you can enjoy some free time in Narsarsuaq where you can for example enjoy a late lunch or visit the local museum. It’s then time to say goodbye to Greenland, hopefully with many great memories and stories to share. You’ll land at Reykjavík Domestic Airport in the evening.

Attractions of the day
Narsarsuaq
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Qooroq Ice Fjörd
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Flight from Narsarsuaq to Reykjavík
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What's included in the tour

Included

Return flight from Reykjavík Domestic Airport to Narsarsuaq

4 nights accommodation (Budget or Comfort) with continental breakfast

Luggage transport

All boat transfers

Boat tour on the Qooroq icefjord

Travel documents

24-hour emergency service

Taxes & service fee

Not included

Flights to/from Iceland (from abroad)

Airport transfers to and from Reykjavík Domestic Airport

Meals & drinks at restaurants apart from what’s stated in the itinerary

Personal travel insurance

Discover local activities and adventures

Let your personal travel consultant know what other activities catch your eye and we’ll add them to your custom-made trip itinerary.

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Unwind in the perfect accommodations

We handpick accommodations to ensure memorable stays for every type of traveler.

Comfort

Experience a higher level of comfort with our carefully selected comfort accommodations, each offering private facilities including a shower and toilet for your convenience and privacy. These lodges fall under the 3-star hotel category, providing a perfect blend of quality and value. Most properties boast an on-site restaurant where you can enjoy a variety of meals without needing to venture far. In Reykjavik, all comfort accommodations are ideally situated in central locations, giving you easy access to the city’s main attractions, shopping districts, and vibrant cultural spots. This category represents a significant upgrade in both comfort and service compared to budget options, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a cozy yet affordable stay. To make your mornings hassle-free, a delicious breakfast is included with your stay.

Quality

Our quality accommodations feature spacious private rooms with en-suite bathrooms, offering the choice of a relaxing bath or a refreshing shower, along with a private toilet to ensure maximum comfort and privacy. These rooms represent the best available lodging options, found within prestigious 4-star hotels or the finest, highest-quality lodges across each region. In Reykjavik, all quality accommodations are centrally located, placing you within easy reach of the city’s key attractions, shopping areas, and vibrant dining and cultural scenes. These accommodations provide an elevated experience with superior comfort, thoughtful amenities, and attentive service designed to make your stay truly memorable. To enhance your visit, a complimentary breakfast is included each morning, helping you start your day well-nourished and ready to explore.

Luxury

Our luxury accommodations feature exquisite suites and premium rooms within top-tier lodges and resorts, offering an elegant and sophisticated ambiance. Designed with refined decor and upscale touches, these accommodations provide a seamless blend of style, comfort, and exclusivity. Personalized services cater to your every need, ensuring a truly indulgent and tailored experience. In Reykjavik, all luxury accommodations are centrally located, placing you at the heart of the city’s vibrant cultural scene, fine dining, shopping, and key attractions. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat or an immersive urban experience, these upscale lodgings deliver the perfect base. Classy, elegant, and supremely comfortable, our luxury options strive to provide a first-class stay marked by exceptional amenities, impeccable service, and attention to detail. Every aspect is carefully crafted to make your visit not just memorable, but extraordinary.

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