Step into the icy Greenlandic world on this 12-day guided Arctic Circle Trail tour! We’ll backpack through the longest ice-free section of Greenland, encounter diverse fauna and marvel at stunning Arctic landscapes. From wild camping and hiking along the shores of the fjords to reaching famous landmarks like Point 660 and Russell Glacier, we’ll meet something else Greenland has to offer. Group gear is provided, while full board ensures you’re fueled for the journey ahead. Get ready to push your boundaries and create memories to last a lifetime.
Fly into Greenland, landing in Sisimiut (flights are not included)—the country’s third-largest town and the starting point of the Arctic Circle Trail. Once we’ve settled in, we pick up any last grocery supplies for the days ahead, explore the harbor, and get a feel for everyday life in this remote Arctic settlement before the trek begins.
Accommodation: Guesthouse, hotel, or hostel
Early bird gets the worm—our first stage takes us inland, from the port town of Sisimiut to the fjord at Kangerluarsuk Tulleq. The route climbs at a moderate pace and ends in a scenic spot with sweeping views, where we pitch our tents for the night.
Hiking: 22.5 km (14 mi)
Accommodation: Tent
We hike close along the fjord’s shore, crossing a river or two on our way to the Nerumaq hut, with wonderful, idyllic views the whole way. The one downside? Huge numbers of mosquitoes if the weather turns fair—a head net is absolutely essential here.
Hiking: 17 km (10.5 mi)
Accommodation: Hut
This stretch runs through boggy terrain where the ground can swallow a boot knee-deep in places. If we still have dry feet by evening, we’ll have made it through unscathed.
Hiking: 17.5 km (11 mi)
Accommodation: Tent or hut
Today’s stretch includes a serious river crossing, which we tackle in the morning to avoid too strong a current.
Hiking: 20.7 km (13 mi)
Accommodation: Tent or hut
We pass through a canoe center on this stretch, where—depending on the wind—we can decide to paddle part of the way instead of hiking it. Fair warning: the canoes aren’t always on the right side of the shore, and they’re fairly old and in rough shape.
Hiking: 12.6 km (8 mi)
Accommodation: Tent or hut
We keep hiking until we reach a beautiful lake. Along the way, we might run into deer and arctic foxes, and there’s a good chance of picking wild arctic berries for breakfast.
Hiking: 19.2 km (12 mi)
Accommodation: Tent or hut
This stage runs along a beautiful lake. We pass a canoe center partway through, where canoes are usually available as a quick, easy alternative to hiking if the weather cooperates. Once across, we pull the canoes back onto land before setting up base camp for the night.
Hiking: 21 km (13 mi)
Accommodation: Tent or hut
A stage that brings us back toward the trip’s first settlement. Along the way, we come across an abandoned hunter’s hut and a saltwater lake.
Hiking: 17 km (10.5 mi)
Accommodation: Tent or hut
We tread along a dusty dirt road that winds its way toward Kangerlussuaq, bringing us closer to the end of the expedition.
Hiking: 19 km (12 mi)
Accommodation: Tent or hut
We hike toward our destination with the Ice Cap in view—the sight at Point 660 is one of a kind and not to be missed. From here, land gives way to permanent ice stretching up to 2,900 km (1,800 mi) long and up to 1.5 km (1 mi) deep. If we’re short on time or energy for the long walk, a local bus can get us there instead. We camp tonight right at the edge of the glacier.
Hiking: 35 km (22 mi)
Accommodation: Tent
After a restful night with the glacier as our view, we hike back to Kangerlussuaq. Once we’re back in the village, we pack up, grab a local meal, and check in at the airport—our trip together comes to an end today.
Hiking: 35 km / 22 miles
Accommodation: Guesthouse, hotel, or hostel
Included:
Add-ons (pricing shown at checkout)
Not included:
In order to join this Arctic Circle trail tour, excellent fitness is required, as well as multi-day hiking and wild-camping experience. The most you’ll hike within a day is up to 35 km (22 mi).
This trek is fully self-sufficient—you’ll be carrying your own food supply for the trail, so be ready for a loaded pack. It’s not a walk in the park; expect the trail to test your endurance and adaptability as much as your legs.
Want to see what else is there in the area? Discover more Greenland hiking adventures here!
Clothing:
Equipment:
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
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While your guides have a strong track record of spotting wildlife like deer, arctic foxes, moose, and ptarmigans, encountering them is never a sure thing. In July and August, higher temperatures can lead to reduced wildlife activity, particularly among larger mammals. However, hiking on the Arctic Circle Trail—the area of musk oxen, increases your chances of wildlife encounters significantly. Sightings cannot be guaranteed, but your guides are skilled at navigating the terrain and maximizing opportunities to experience the stunning Greenland’s fauna.
Group sizes and pricing
Arctic Circle Trail tours can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
To get to Sisimiut, the starting point of your Arctic Circle Trail tour, most people fly into Kangerlussuaq Airport (SFJ) or Nuuk International Airport (GOH). From there, you can fly to Sisimiut Airport (JHS), only a few minutes drive from Sisimiut.
Alternative means of transportation can also be arranged. If you need assistance selecting the right flights, leave us a note at checkout and we will be happy to help!
Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet before exploring the harbor, whether that’s at the guide shop or a predetermined location.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.
Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.