
Guided hike on Ammassalik Island (Guided by Locals)
An unforgettable adventure in Greenland’s wild nature
Welcome to a unique opportunity to experience the breathtaking and untamed landscapes of Greenland in a safe and comfortable way. Our guided hike on Ammassalik Island will take you on a journey through one of the world’s most spectacular natural environments. Discover the stunning fjord landscapes, majestic mountain peaks, and the crystal-clear air — all elements that make this adventure truly exceptional.
Duration of the trip
This hike lasts three days, offering ample time to experience the magnificent landscapes of Ammassalik Island and its unique nature. The trip is designed to give hikers an authentic experience of Greenland’s rugged and untouched wilderness. It is ideal for moderately experienced hikers and families with middle aged to older children.
Day 1: Arrival and initial journey
On the first day of the trip, we will meet at the designated starting point, where you will be welcomed by our certified boat drivers and trekking guides from Mountain Leader School Tasiilaq. After a brief introduction and a review of the equipment and safety procedures, we begin our journey with a boat ride from the harbor in Tasiilaq to the opposite side of the fjord.
Here we disembark by the river behind the bird islands, and the hike begins with a moderate stage, where we move up through the mountains. We will make sure that everyone takes the time to enjoy the views of the fjord’s crystal-clear waters behind us. Our hike will take us through ravines and across low mountain peaks – where at times the nature closes in on us, and at other times reveals its infinity with stunning views toward
the steep 1,000-meter-high Imertivaq Qaqqartivaa — or Sofia’s Mountain — with snow on its peak. We will experience the river’s rush, running from the lake to the fjord, and the absolute stillness of the mountains. This stage of the hike ends by us setting up camp at the shore on the southwest side of Qorlortoq Lake. We will use the late afternoon to explore the camp’s surroundings – perhaps some would like a swim in the lake, while others may prefer to grab a fishing rod and try to catch fresh mountain trout (depending on the season). In the evening, we hope for calm and clear weather, allowing us to lose ourselves in the grandeur of the evening sky – and if we are lucky, we will even be blessed by sightings of the northern lights.
Day 2: Exploration of Lake Qorlortoq
On the second day of the trip, we will stay at the camp, and the group will set off on excursions depending on the group's interests. With our Level 1 certified Mountain Leader guides, we will navigate through rocky landscapes, cross rivers, and ascend smaller mountain peaks — always with safety as our priority. We might also go fish, or simply soak in the beauty of the surroundings. We will spend the day exploring the many opportunities for adventure, but the day's activities will absolutely include pauses at scenic spots where you can relax, enjoy lunch, and take photographs of the stunning nature. Our experienced guides will ensure that you all feel safe and well-informed about the route and the environment we move in. They will also educate you in the plant and wildlife of the area, which will help you recognize what to look for when exploring the Arctic landscape. We will spend the evening and night in camp, enjoying each other’s company as we share stories of the day’s adventures. After dinner, fatigue may set in, and the sleeping bags will call.
Day 3: The last leg and return to Tasiilaq
On the final day of the hike, we will once again journey through some of Ammassalik Island’s iconic landscapes. We will take time to appreciate the quiet beauty of the Arctic areas before heading back to the starting point. On the way back, we will tune our senses into the elements of nature and its wildlife and everyone will get the chance to use their newfound knowledge of the area – who will spot a ptarmigan first? Who can tell the difference between the calls of the Arctic fox and the long-tailed skua? Who will find the largest cluster of blueberries or the edible rose root or angelica? Upon reaching the endpoint, we will hold a brief closing ceremony where everyone will get the change to share their experiences and impressions from the trip. Afterward, we will say our goodbyes and ensure a safe return by boat to Tasiilaq.
This 3-day hike on Ammassalik Island
This offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Greenland’s wild
and untouched nature. With expert staffing, a carefully planned route, and a focus on safety and comfort, this
trip will be an experience you will remember forever.
Staffing
This hike is staffed with:
• 1 certified boat driver with a motorboat approved for passenger transport
• 2 Level 1 certified Mountain Trekking Guides (navigation, safety, and first aid)
Insurance
Expedition insurance for participants is not included in the trip. It is recommended that participants arrange
suitable travel and health insurance to cover any accidents or illnesses.
Equipment and clothing
Participants are expected to bring suitable clothing and hiking boots, appropriate for walking in rugged
terrain, i.e. with hard Vibram soles. It is also recommended that participants bring a medium-sized backpack,
a sleeping bag with a comfort temperature of -6°C, a sleeping pad with an R-value of 7, clothing based on
the 3-layer principle (warm base layers, wind and water-resistant outer layers), and good wool hiking socks.
All other equipment for the trip is provided.
Further information
The length of this trip is designed to include 5-8 hours of hiking per day, allowing participants time to rest
and enjoy the nature around them. Throughout the trip, guides will ensure that all participants are
comfortable and capable of completing the hike safely and with ease. They will also prioritize group safety and maintain an ongoing watch for polar bears.