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Greenland Tours From Iceland

Go on a Greenland package tour during your holiday in Iceland. We organize trips to Greenland from Iceland with itineraries that will take you from small villages to stunning fjords. Visiting Greenland fits perfectly into your trip to Iceland. Flights to Greenland depart from Reykjavik Domestic Airport and flight time is 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the tour you choose. Fly to Greenland and meet local people, enjoy hiking or a winter adventure.

Ilulissat for 3 Days – West Greenland Holiday

South greenland hiking paradise for 5 days, holidays to greenland for 4 days – east greenland, iceland greenland tour for 12 days, history and heritage for 5 days – south greenland, ilulissat winter adventure for 4 days.

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Ilulissat for 2 days – west greenland holiday.

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Short Breaks

Choose from the following Greenland Short Breaks which include tours from one to three days.  All tours originate from Reykjavik and include airfare to and from Iceland. All overnight tours include accommodation and more. Click on a tour for more information.  These short break tours are an excellent way to experience the majesty and magic of Greenland in a shorter period of time.

Iceberg Spectacle - GRL227

Explore a charming Inuit town on a guided sightseeing tour and spend a full day on the most amazing boat excursion to an impressive glacier or through huge icebergs to the Sermilik Icefjord.

Price from: 293000 ISK

Glacier and inuit village - grl225.

2 day tour to Kulusuk in east Greenland. Enjoy the peace and quiet of the untouched nature and explore Kulusuk’s more traditional attractions.

Price from: 213486 ISK

Icebergs and whales - grl201.

A 3 day self guided tour to Ilulissat in the Disko Bay. Enjoy hiking along the amazing UNESCO protected Kangia Icefjord filled with floating icebergs of all shapes and sizes and go on a guided Whale watching boat tour. Accommodation in a 3 star hotel.

Price from: 313000 ISK

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Greenland Day Trip from Iceland: Is it Worth It?

There are only two ways to fly to Greenland—that icy remote country that many of us jet over but few of us land in, that monster of the Mercator projection.  You can fly there from Copenhagen, Denmark, or from Reykjavik, Iceland. So, if you’re in Iceland, it’s natural to consider popping up to Greenland (it’s just a two-hour flight) for a glimpse. After my husband surprised me with a trip to Iceland last week, he surprised me all over again a couple of days later with a day trip to Greenland.

Air Iceland runs a daily eight-hour tour where you leave Reykjavik at 10:15 am for Kulusuk, Greenland, landing back in Reykjavik at 6:15 pm. You spend four hours in the air and only four on the ground in Greenland, but that’s enough to get a taste of East Greenland’s scenery and the local way of life.

It’s expensive, though: The tour price is $800. That includes airfare and the guide in Kulusuk but does not include the reservation fee for airline seats (I paid $11 to reserve a window seat on both flights); taxi fare between your hotel and Reykjavik Airport, 1.2 miles from the city center (I paid $26 roundtrip); lunch (I bought a sandwich at RKV pre-security and two bottles of water post-security; fellow tour members wished they had); the $40 boat ride in Kulusuk from the town marina back to the airport (this photogenic icebergs-and-glaciers boat ride was not part of the Air Iceland tour but was a highlight of the day); or the tip for the guide.

In the end, this day trip easily cost $900. Was it worth it? Well, here were the biggest pros and cons:

The cons: The Air Iceland tour was bare bones. It did not include most of the professional niceties or advance instructions that are par for the course on trips designed by my WOW travel specialists . There is no tour vehicle in Kulusuk; you walk the 1.8 miles from the airport into town. No lunch is included, nor are you told ahead of time where and how to get lunch. None of these things bothered me (I mention them because they might bother you), but what did disappoint me is that we did not get to interact with any locals, aside from our guide, the curator in Kulusuk’s museum, and the cashier in Kulusuk’s one store. I felt very much like the tourist I was. In my mind, I kept comparing this experience to the week I spent in the tiny town of Point Hope, in remote Arctic Alaska. That trip was far more interesting and enjoyable because I got to know the local people—tribal elders, whale hunters, schoolteachers, students, artisans, the pastor and his wife, and storytellers galore. In Kulusuk the only person we got to know was our guide. Then again, I’m comparing a week-long trip to a four-hour one.

The pros: We couldn’t have asked for better weather: It was sunny and clear, which I was told is the summertime norm in Kulusuk. And we lucked out with our charismatic guide, 25-year-old Massanti Riel, who grew up nearby in Greenland, lives in Kulusuk in the summertime, and works for Icelandic Mountain Guides (the tour firm used locally by Air Iceland). Massanti and I are now Facebook friends, and you can spot him in the boat-ride video below (he’s the one in a hat).

Hopefully these photos and videos from my day in Greenland will help those of you who are Iceland-bound determine whether such an excursion would be worth the price tag for you. In my case, my husband made that determination for me. I would never have splurged like this on my own…but, in the end, I’m glad I can say I’ve been to Greenland.

If you have questions about the trip, feel free to ask me in the comments.

#Kulusuk #Greenland, pop. 250 A photo posted by Wendy Perrin (@wendyperrin) on Jul 17, 2015 at 12:29pm PDT

Not all houses here have running water, but you can get it from the town tap. #Kulusuk #Greenland A photo posted by Wendy Perrin (@wendyperrin) on Jul 17, 2015 at 1:23pm PDT

  Boats can access this part of the world only 5 months of the year. #Kulusuk #Greenland   A photo posted by Wendy Perrin (@wendyperrin) on Jul 17, 2015 at 4:36pm PDT

These boots are made for dogsledding. (That’s an attempted quip/allusion to the Nancy Sinatra song “These Boots Are Made for Walkin’.” Actually, these boots are used for special occasions.) #Kulusuk Museum, #Greenland A photo posted by Wendy Perrin (@wendyperrin) on Jul 18, 2015 at 6:39am PDT

In the museum, tools made from animal bones and driftwood. Most of the men in the community hunt and fish for a living. They hunt whales (in a kayak, with a harpoon) and seals and polar bears (mainly from boats). It takes about three whales (narwhals of 3 to 5 meters, not counting the horn) to feed a family all winter. #Kulusuk #Greenland A photo posted by Wendy Perrin (@wendyperrin) on Jul 18, 2015 at 6:14am PDT

The town of #Kulusuk in #Greenland is only about 100 years old. The #church (which is the spiffiest building in town) was built from the remains of a Danish sailing ship that ran aground here 100 years ago. A photo posted by Wendy Perrin (@wendyperrin) on Jul 17, 2015 at 1:04pm PDT

  #Greenland   A photo posted by Wendy Perrin (@wendyperrin) on Jul 18, 2015 at 7:50am PDT

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FhURXqlQ7rY

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Greenland is on my bucket list. Did you get your passport stamped? I want that Inuit passport stamp bad!

so it is worth the money for the excursion frpm iceland? is that all? = the museum and boat ride?

Do you know if this 1 day tour still exists with Iceland Air? Their site did no allow me to select any dates. Thanks for all your good information!

Sweet! What kind of plane were you on to Greenland?

Hi Johnny! A Fokker 50.

Wow! Another one for the wander list!! What a treat to get to go there!

How exciting! I adore Greenland, and after my visit a couple years ago I felt it is one of the most underrated places I’ve ever been. My trip was a bit different, in that I was onboard an expedition ship and was able to spend a bit more time exploring the impressive fjords, appreciating the magnificent ice, and watching for whales as we traveled from point to point. Since we had a charter flight back to Ottawa, it was surreal to be walking on the Greenland ice cap one day and back at home in Seattle the next! While I generally prefer time for more in-depth exploration, my take on a one-day trip from Iceland is GO FOR IT! Whether you experience Greenland for a day or for a week, it’s worth it!

I’m with you, Shelley. A small expedition ship hugging the coastline, stopping in settlements that would otherwise be very hard to access, sounds like a smart way to see Greenland.

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Greenland Tours & Cruises from Iceland

Add a trip to Greenland to your Iceland holiday and double your Arctic experience! For the best Greenland tours from Iceland, look to the local travel experts at Nordic Visitor.

Expert tips for Greenland tours from Iceland

Are you looking for bucket list worthy tours including spotting icebergs and learning about new cultures? You could add an extra wow factor to your itinerary by combining a trip to Iceland with a tour to Greenland .

Imagine sailing between the floating ice at Iceland’s Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and then repeating the experience among even bigger icebergs at  Greenland’s UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord.  Beside the bragging rights, you’ll also get to witness ancient volcanoes, hot springs, waterfalls, and more.

Nordic Visitor makes it simple for you to combine a tour of Iceland with a trip to Greenland. Our Icelandic staff is well versed in crafting combo tours of both islands. Located in Reykjavík, we handle all your local arrangements, from your accommodation to flight reservation to Greenland from Reykjavík.

Ready to plan your Arctic island tour? Continue reading below for ideas for tours to Greenland from Iceland.

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Visit Iceland & Greenland in one trip

These combo packages are specially designed to showcase the amazing natural attractions of Iceland and Greenland. We take care of your accommodations, Iceland-Greenland flights and more.

The Islands of Fire & Ice - Iceland & Greenland

Explore iceland before hopping over to greenland.

From Reykjavik city breaks to road trips along the Ring Road, there’s plenty of summer adventures to be had in Iceland! All itineraries can be customised with extra nights, day tours and -- of course -- side trips to Greenland on request.

Iceland Full Circle Classic

Natural wonders of iceland, the ring road & snæfellsnes.

South & West Iceland Classic

Iceland complete classic, add a greenland stopover to your iceland trip.

Need some more ideas about Greenland tours from Iceland? Check out these popular trips to Greenland, which we can build into a custom multi-destination holiday for you.

Above the Arctic Circle

Icefjord adventure, local travel agency.

As a travel agency with offices in Reykjavík, Edinburgh, Stockholm and Lucerne, Nordic Visitor knows how to make the most of your time in Europe. Choose from a variety of carefully curated tours that include must-see attractions as well as lesser-known highlights.

You can also make customisations to your itinerary by adding extra nights, optional activities, or upgrades to your tour. Or ask your personal travel consultant for advice and they will tailor your itinerary. This way you get a travel experience that is perfectly suited to you. 

Your dedicated travel consultant will arrange all the local details for you. You get accommodation, activities, transport, and other services included in your package. If you need to rework your itinerary, we’ll handle it for you so you can relax and look forward to your getaway.

Different ways you can experience Iceland

We have tours for all varieties of travel styles and interests. See our options for exploring Iceland below.

Multi-Day Tours

Guided small groups, privately guided, northern lights packages, self-drive winter, best seller, what is the best way to add a greenland trip to an iceland holiday.

Greenland has very limited international flight connections, so plan to start your journey in Iceland . From Europe and North America there are many airlines with flights to Keflavík International Airport in Iceland, which is just 45 minutes by car from Reykjavik. Then from Reykjavik Domestic Airport in Iceland you can fly direct to towns in southern and western Greenland, including the iceberg town of Ilulissat.

How long does it take to fly to Greenland from Iceland? From Reykjavik it’s just 3 hours and 20 minutes to Nuuk, Greenland’s capital city. When you consider that Greenland is the largest island in the world – and that Iceland and Greenland are both fairly remote – that’s not so long!

• Pack your bags! See the list of airlines that can get you to Iceland

Nordic Visitor’s Iceland tours generally start and end in Reykjavik, so we recommend spending the first leg of your trip in Iceland. On a multi-day tour with day trips , or on a self-drive tour around Iceland , you can start off by taking in the top attractions of Iceland. Make sure to include day tours or a drive with your rental car along Iceland’s south coast so you can visit the glacial sites that are comparable to Greenland.

• What can you do with all that ice? Check out these 7 ways you can experience glaciers in Iceland

Another advantage of starting your Arctic adventure in Iceland is the relaxing, convenient amenities available to you after an international flight. Soak off your jet lag in the Blue Lagoon , the famous geothermal spa surrounded by lava fields on Reykjanes Peninsula, close to Keflavik Airport.

Then spend some time in the Reykjavik city centre, sampling the variety of local and international cuisines. To get into adventure mode, take a day trip to the Golden Circle route , where you can visit iconic highlights like Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir hot springs and Þingvellir National Park.

• Why not drive the full circle about Iceland? See how long it takes to drive around the Ring Road

Short on time with your travel plans? You can just do a day trip to Greenland! From Reykjavik the flight to to the small village of Kulusuk in East Greenland is just 2 hours, and on an 8-hour day tour you’d have some time for hiking, checking out Greenlandic handicrafts and getting insights into Inuit culture and traditions.

When is the best time for Greenland tours from Iceland?

Iceland and Greenland both have extreme seasonal differences in daylight hours and weather conditions . So the attractions and activities you can enjoy will vary quite a bit by month, but especially so in Greenland.

In Iceland you can enjoy most of the famous attractions year-round, as most highlights are located just off the Ring Road, Iceland’s main highway. Of course, the pavements can get slippery in winter – and the daylights hours are short between November and January – but this is prime northern lights season in both countries. Furthermore, in Greenland the winter months – namely February to April – offer the best snow for dog sledding .

• Wondering about the best time to visit Iceland? Read our complete guide

Please note, however, that Greenland tours from Iceland in wintertime require a lot of flexibility with travel dates . Due to unpredictable and fast-changing winter weather conditions over both Greenland and Iceland, there’s a higher likelihood of flight cancellations in wintertime. That being said, we highly recommend the summer months, primarily June through August, for combining Iceland and Greenland in one holiday .

Summertime is, ironically, the best time for enjoying the ice in Greenland. With the nearly 24-hour daylight at this time of year, you’ll have plenty of time to watch huge icebergs floating off the coasts of small villages. And nothing beats the experience of getting close up to these massive chunks of ice on a guided boat tour, which is only possible in summer. You can even sail on the Ilulissat Icefjord, a World Heritage Site, under the midnight sun!

• What exactly is this midnight sun? Learn all about this Arctic summer phenomenon

Is the Greenland Ice Cap on your bucket list? As it covers about around 80% of the island’s landmass, It’s pretty hard to miss on a trip to Greenland! This massive glacier, the second largest ice sheet in the world, can be experienced via guided day tours in many of Nordic Visitor’s summer travel packages in Greenland.

If your heart is set on whale watching , then you’re in luck! Both destinations are rich in marine life, with June through August being the peak whale watching months in Iceland and Greenland. For a glimpse of minke, fin and humpback whales in Greenland, we recommend taking a whale watching day tour in the Nuuk Fjord from the city of Nuuk. Whale watching tours are also available from the harbours of Reykjavik and Húsavík in Iceland.

• A whale of a time! See what an icefjord cruise is like in Greenland

Nordic Visitor offers a wide range of tours in Iceland and Greenland that can be combined and customised to your liking, such as with extra nights and optional activities added to your itinerary.

What do our customers say?

The reviews speak for themselves. See what Nordic Visitor travellers said about their experience with us.

Excellent tour arrangements

We had two different countries in our tour package. Iceland and all the tour arrangements from Nordic Visitor were excellent. The quality of the hotel accommodation was very good. We would have liked to stay at small guest houses sometimes rather than the large hotels, but maybe they were not available. Our car hire experience was mostly good. Our holiday in Greenland was also very good, but there were a couple of things we wanted to pass on to you. Flying from Ilulissat to Nuuk, we didn't realise there were two flights with a change at Kangerlussuaq. It was the same when we flew to Narsarsuaq. We had to take another flight from Paamiut. That was ok but we didn't know and the notes didn't tell us!

Awe inspiring

A fabulous experience.

It was a fabulous experience and loved everything about Greenland, especially the Ilussiat Ice Fiord and sailing among the icebergs at midnight.  The local people were very friendly and welcoming.  The helicopter ride to the Ilulissat glacier was also a highlight and standing on the ice cap by the glacier was an unforgettable experience.

Wonderful to work with

Hotel Icefjord was great. We were given an unusually large room, with a small kitchen. We were pleased. Alexandra was wonderful to work with. She answered all my questions promptly, and was very helpful.

Greenland's Wild West

We booked the 5 day/4 night Greenland's wild west tour for mid-March 2013. Alexandra, our contact at Nordic Visitor, was incredibly helpful throughout the booking process and provided great information. Our trip to Ilulissat, Greenland and all activities and accommodations while there went off without a hitch and was an amazing experience we will never forget. Highly recommend!!!

Great experience

It was a great experience I would repeat and do more. Everyone was so helpful and kind.

We value Nordic Visitor's expertise

This our 4th tour with Nordic Visitor, and we value and appreciate NV's expertise in the local areas and ability to coordinate the various itineraries and facilities. The Greenland tour required a great deal of coordination; logistics for hikes, weather, transportation and lodging were challenging, and NV did a great job putting it all together. There is always room for improvement; as we said previously, it would have been nice to be able to speak directly with or to received detailed information from the local subject matter experts regarding the hikes and tours prior to the trip.

In September, hiking in Ice fiord area is wonderful. The area turned from green to reddish colours within two weeks. A lot of wild berries lied along the undulating hillside. On the far hillside, we saw the first snow and winter was round the corner.

Good service

You provide a good service to people like us who come from so far away and don't know how to get accommodation etc., and so we depend on your advice. We decided to go to Greenland because we saw a blog on your website written by Alexandra who had been there herself. We wanted to do what she had done. Alexandra had booked and organised a self drive holiday around Iceland for us in 2011 

Right in front of wonderful Disco bay

We had chosen the "quality" option for hotels, so we thought we'd be staying at the Arctic hotel in Ilulissat, but we were given the Icefiord hotel. In the end we concluded it was much better, since it's a small hotel, has its own charm, and is in an excellent position right in front of wonderful Disco bay. Everything worked out very well and Alexandra Thorisdottir took very good care of us!

Planning to go back next year

I received good practical information, hotel was very nice, friendly people, excellent food. My stay was too short, I´m planning to go back next year to see the West coast as recommended by Erla Sonja, and stay much longer.

Wonderful experience

Thank you for a wonderful experience. We are already working with our travel consultant to book a return trip to Greenland!

Professionalism

Truly memorable and treasured trip.

Because it was necessary to change the dates of the Extra Services (cultural walks/boat trips/etc) of our prepaid tour; we were not adequately dressed for the boat trip thru the icebergs. This was only due to time limitations after arriving from our Iceland flight. Otherwise, everything was wonderful; especially our beautiful view at Hotel Artic!!!!! Erlas Sonja was very nice to work with; we had no issues with any vouchers. Many thanks for making our adventure to Greenland a truly memorable and treasured trip. Our experience was a very positive one. Got your contact from an article in International Travel News written by someone we had met on a trip to Svalbard with several years earlier.

Wonderful support!

Nordic Visitor is a great tour agency. We first contacted them, Alexandria listened to what we wanted to do and arranged exactly what we wanted for our trip. They do a wonderful job of providing information, not only general information on the area but also you get a personalized itinerary and a cell phone to use. We did a ring road trip and a two day excursion to Greenland. We have traveled all over the world and I would recommend this agency to anyone planning a trip to the Nordic countries.

Everything went smoothly

Everything went smoothly from arrival to departure. Pre-arrival experience was good too once the payment went through.

Greatly appreciated!

I had a two day weather delay in Iceland getting to Greenland, and Dagny my travel consultant was fantastic! She made sure that I knew what was happening with the airline, helped to make arrangements with the hotel, and made great suggestions for things for me to do while waiting on a flight. The second day you even sent me to a massage, which was greatly appreciated! 

Best booked tour I've taken

The service from your company was extraordinary.  We appreciated all of the materials provided. All in all, this was the best booked tour I've taken anywhere in the world. Great job! 

Arranged everything very well

All excellent. Erla promptly answered my questions and arranged everything very well.

Greenland and Southern Iceland - July/Aug 2014

My wife and I did the 4 day Greenland trip to Ilulissat and then the South Iceland trip. They were flawless. Everything was as planned, the trip to Greenland was definitely the highlight. The self drive tour in Iceland was also great, no issues with any logistics. Recommend!!

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Home » Europe » Greenland » Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Greenland From Iceland

Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Greenland From Iceland

By Author Lance Longwell

Posted on Last updated: September 28, 2022

In researching our trip to Iceland, I heard that a day trip to Greenland from Reykjavik might be possible. Visiting Greenland? I was intrigued.

This brought up several other questions for me. How can you visit Greenland? Specifically, how do you get to Greenland? And who goes to Greenland anyway?

I immediately became captivated with the idea of visiting Greenland and I knew that we HAD to go. Convincing Laura that this was a good idea would be another story. Here’s everything we learned about trips to Greenland from Iceland.

How to Get to Greenland

Our first real decision was how to get there. We found some airlines offering day trips from Iceland to Greenland. Alternately, if we’re going, we could add a couple of days and really explore, however the trip was proving to be long enough with our limited vacation time. Most of our long discussions came down to whether we would like take the quick trip from Iceland to Greenland.

Once before, I wanted to do a day trip to somewhere crazy (from Spain to Gibraltar ). At the time, I was accused of just wanting to collect a passport stamp (which, since Greenland is a partially autonomous constituent country within the Kingdom of Denmark, it’s a Denmark stamp).

And it went much that way this time. I’ll admit, that was part of it. But how often do you have the opportunity for visiting Greenland? We don’t have a lot of vacation time, and tacking the quick trip on to our time in Iceland just made sense (to me, anyway).

There’s really only two ways to get there. The first is to fly from Iceland to Greenland. There are flights to Greenland from Iceland (via Air Iceland Connect) and Denmark (via Air Greenland). However, there are still no direct air service from the United States.

So, if you’re wondering how to get to Greenland from the US, most people fly to Reyjavik with IcelandAir and then take an Air Iceland Connect flight on to either Nuuk or Kulusuk, which is actually kind of strange since Greenland is part of North America and you’d think you could fly direct.

The second option is that there are a number of cruise lines that are beginning to add the country to their sailings. Contrary to popular belief, there is no Iceland to Greenland ferry. The good news for travelers is getting to Greenland is getting easier every year with more travel options available.

We opted for a day trip offered by Air Iceland Connect. Yes, it is quite expensive – at about $525 per person, this would be an investment. Unfortunately, it was difficult to find detailed specifics about the Air Iceland Connect package. So, with a leap of faith, we booked the trip. [Note: Hearty travelers can overnight in Kulusuk at either of the hotel or hostel in town. Check current prices/options on accommodations here .]

Why Visit Greenland

My motives in this Greenland vacation were more about country collecting or getting that passport stamp. Before we left on the trip, the cover of National Geographic was about this island being Ground Zero for global warming . I wanted to see it for myself. Laura finally gave in.

We got up early and headed to the tiny Reykjavik city airport for the flight. The Air Iceland Connect flight from Reykjavik to the hamlet of Kulusuk took a little under two hours and covered a distance of just over 450 miles (725 kilometers).

Once in Greenland, we crossed through security and found the guide, a gent from Iceland who had lived in Greenland for some time. He originally came to the island as a sociologist to study the indigenous population and ended up seeing a money-making opportunity and stayed.

In Kulusuk, we walked from the airport down into the town, stopping at the cemetery ridge for a view of town. At about this time, the midges found us. These crazy little bugs are attracted to CO2 and fly into your mouth and up your nose. They made us miserable, but there was nothing we could do to keep them away. I wished we had had  netting to get the bugs out of our faces.

Kulusuk is a small village where all of the little buildings clinging to the rocks are painted in picturesque reds and greens and blues. It was very charming…from afar.

The locals in this part of the country have progressed rapidly. In just over 150 years, they have moved from tribal hunter/gathering in seal skins to driving ATVs and wearing North Face. But, like most native peoples, they have over 80% unemployment and an extremely high level of alcoholism.

When we were in Kulusuk on a Saturday, the few locals with a job had been paid the day before and the entire town was drunk – including some boys as young as about 10 or 12. Our guide explained that this was pretty typical right after pay day. It was quite sad. We wondered if this was typical for the entire 57,000 population of Greenland, or whether it was specific to this island.

Our first stop was the town’s all-purpose store. It carries everything from groceries to clothes to guns and ammunition. An unusual mish-mash of merchandise, but it gave us a glimpse into the sparse lifestyle of the people and was a strong reminder of how remote Kulusuk is.

There is one gift shop in town, which our guide opened up for us. The store sells exactly the same merchandise as the Kulusuk Gifts store in Reykjavik – t-shirts and expensive bone carvings. He then took us over to the brightly-colored church for a brief 10-15 minute history lesson on the island.

We then went into a woman’s house for a drum ceremony demonstration – it could have been really good, however, without providing any cultural context, it was just kind of weird. And somehow Laura got roped into participating.

Actually, that really sums up our trip. Our guide studied the local people for his degree and could have provided a really rich cultural discussion and been really informative. Instead, he seemed to be more focused on wanting to open the gift shop and sell things.

The most rewarding part of visiting Greenland was boarding the boats from the town of Kulusuk and taking them out into the bay and past some MASSIVE icebergs. That was very cool!

Yes, we got our Greenland passport stamp. Yes, we went to Greenland. And who goes there? It’s one of those places in the world that is very far off the beaten track and I’m glad we took this opportunity to go. But for cost of about $525 per person, we expected more. It was not the educational and enriching experience that we were hoping for, but I’m glad we did it.

That night, after our flight back to Iceland, we went out for dinner in Reykjavik. We had selected Argentine, one of the most popular restaurants in all of Iceland and one of the better steakhouses we’ve ever been to. The restaurant was excellent. However, the whole Greenland vs Iceland moment was a very odd juxtaposition. Here we were enjoying a fabulous meal after having spent much of the day with people who were really struggling.

Visiting Greenland was one of the most remarkable experiences of our lives, but it was both intellectually and emotionally challenging. Perhaps more than any other destination we’ve ever visited, our journey has stuck with us.

There are times I can still see the faces of some of the native children in Kulusuk. It is an island that is being rapidly transformed by climate change. But in many ways, the real change was within us. This trip changed us in ways we didn’t realize at the time.

Lance Longwell is a travel writer and photographer who has published Travel Addicts since 2008, making it one of the oldest travel blogs. He is a life-long traveler, having visited all 50 of the United States by the time he graduated high school. Lance has continued his adventures by visiting 70 countries on 5 continents – all in search of the world’s perfect sausage. He’s a passionate foodie and enjoys hot springs and cultural oddities. When he’s not traveling (or writing about travel), you’ll find him photographing his hometown of Philadelphia.

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Sunday 7th of January 2024

This sounds awesome! I'll be visiting Iceland in July and would love to add a day trip to Greenland! How did you book the tour in Greenland? Was there a specific website?

Lance Longwell

Sunday 14th of January 2024

They were offered by Air Iceland, which eventually became IcelandAir Connect. They ceased operations as an independent entity in 2021, and were absorbed into Iceland Air. The website for the Greenland flights is: https://www.icelandair.com/en-us/flights/flights-to-greenland. Use Keflavik (KEF) as your departure airport.

Michael ACE Blackburn

Wednesday 1st of February 2023

Interesting read. I’m watching a documentary on the Vikings from Scandinavia to Germany, Russia, Italy, France and UK … then one family sails to Iceland to settle. Later Canada. Sept 2002, I went to Iceland. In 4 days I had seen almost everything. The next day me & 5 others and our guide flew to Kulusuk. Your description was exactly the same as my trip, except 6 things. 1. I didn’t get to go on a boat 2. You didn’t mention the 5ft iron square with hooks. Townspeople would catch fish and hang it for anyone who wanted it. 3. Dogs were chained to the house. We’re told to stay away. The dogs were transportation, not pets 4. It took 45 mins to walk the dirt road into town. 5. In 2002 there were no hotels or Restaurants, so a day trip. 6. No gift shops in Reykjavik or in Kulusuk. The airport had one small t shirt that said KULUSUK and one XXLg GREENLAND sweatshirt. Still have them, still can’t wear them

Our guide half way to town, amongst the barren rolling landscape stops. Forgot to mention, IF we encounter a Polar Bear, Run, Run ! We all looked at each other and this woman next to me was smiling. I asked her why. She said, “I won’t be able to out run a Polar Bear, but I should be able to outrun everyone but you and the guide. I like my chances”

My Best Vacation … ever !

Richard Weil

Saturday 30th of July 2022

An old thread but very informative and will illustrated, thank you. I admit to being a country collector--122 and the 7 continents too--with some long trips to weird places (overland France to Nepal when things were calm enough in the Middle East, more recent visits to Andorra, Haiti, Albania, etc.). And my wife thinks I'm nuts that every time we get to a new port I jump off the cruise ship and look for that passport office. (Often find one for a stamp too.)

But for all that I agree that swooping in is both emotionally jarring for the visitor and does not do the locals justice. But if you treat them with respect (I try to learn a few local words first), study their history a bit, know about the local sights, and just gear into how things are done then you will learn something and do fine with the people. (I learned the latter in India where if you push then everything locks up. Take your time and things usually work.) What drives me nuts is people who just stay in a resort or expect things to be exactly like they are at home. One learns nothing and sees little.

On the other hand a lot of people are curious about the world. I teach college level geography and do a lot of ham radio, and in both these ways one finds much general interest about other places. And perhaps with so many people communicating online we're making a little progress that way too. So my thought is that if enough people travel without preconceptions, and meet enough folks from elsewhere, then it will be a better world. Keep on moving, friends.

Sunday 31st of July 2022

Richard, thanks so much for your thoughtful note. I agree that the world can teach us so much. And I really push back on the idea that there is only ONE right way to travel (and the stupid traveler vs tourist crap). Every needs to experience the world - sometimes we just do it differently. I dabbled in ham back in the 1980s and wished I would have stuck with it.

Tom Fletcher

Sunday 1st of May 2022

Great information. When I go there, it will be a multi-day trip. One day just allows you (as you said) to visit the gift shop and grocery store, see a few munities of music, and take a boat ride, but even that you got an experience.

Sunday 6th of February 2022

Thank you for the information. I stumbled on your story tonight while talking to my grandkids about the north pole. We will be in Iceland in June and is planning to go to Greenland.two says in Greenland sound like more than enough, should he leave on say two or go on to day three there? Thank you.

One day is plenty for Kulusuk (or a day and a night, fly back the second day). Two days would be good for Nuuk.

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Iceland, Greenland and Northwest Passage – Great Explorer Trail

31-day Grand Expedition Cruise from Iceland to the fjords of Greenland and Canada’s Northwest Passage in 2024/2025  

Greenland’s remote east coast 

The vast wilderness of Greenland’s rarely visited east coast is accessible by ship for only a few months of the year. From Reykjavík, we head to Scoresby Sund, an immense system of fjords and glaciers that fans out over 24,000 square miles. Soak up the beauty and silence, and look out for seals, whales and birds like Greenlandic Gyrfalcons. 

Following a legendary route 

Returning to Reykjavík, we’ll sail to Prince Christian Sound and explore the fjords and settlements of Greenland’s west coast, including the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord. We'll cruise the waterways of the Davis Strait and Baffin Bay, and just like the great explorers, we’ll attempt to navigate the channels of the Northwest Passage to Cambridge Bay. Your adventure ends in Edmonton . 

Cosmopolitan Reykjavík

11 August 2024

Discover Iceland's modern capital

Your Grand Expedition Cruise to Greenland and the Northwest Passage begins in Reykjavík, Iceland’s cosmopolitan capital.  

Packed full of art, culture and history, it’s well worth taking time to explore Reykjavík, either before or after your cruise.  

Take a stroll along Laugavegur with its boutiques and outdoor shops, head to the striking Hallgrímskirkja church or fascinating Reykjavík Art Museum. Or why not join one of our optional Pre-Programmes.  

MS Fram awaits you in Reykjavík Harbour. Find your cabin, meet your Expedition Team and explore the ship –  your adventure has begun. 

12 August 2024

Crossing the Denmark Strait  

Today we sail to Greenland across the Denmark Strait. 

Your Expedition Team will explain the protocols of visiting wildlife habitats, and how we interact with the Indigenous Arctic communities respectfully.  

In the Science Center, you can learn more about Greenland's geology, or join one of our Citizen Science projects. Why not hit the gym or relax in the panoramic sauna before enjoying a delicious meal in one of our onboard restaurants. 

Scoresby Sund fjord system

13 August 2024 - 21 August 2024

Largest fjord system on Earth  

You’ll spend the next nine days exploring the vast wilderness of Scoresby Sund, the world’s largest fjord system. 

Cruising peacefully against a backdrop of looming mountains, blue icebergs and mirror-like waters, you’ll seek out wildlife like whales and Greenlandic Gyrfalcons. Making the most of the conditions, we pack in as many shore landings, nature walks, kayaking tours and wildlife sightings as possible.  

You’ll visit Ittoqqortoormiit – the most remote inhabited community in the Western Hemisphere, and if conditions allow, we’ll sail towards the ever-changing east Greenland Sea ice edge to scout for wildlife. 

If you want to do your bit, you can participate in Citizen Science projects that help preserve the region for future generations. 

Relax at sea

14 August 2024

Heading back to Iceland

After exploring the remote beauty of Greenland, we set our course back for Iceland. Spend the days at sea recapping your experiences with new friends, studying nature in the Science Center, listening to a lecture or two, or just relaxing on deck. Look out for the seabirds that follow our ship and keep an eye out for whales. 

 As you reflect on the first leg of your Grand Expedition Cruise, from witnessing the delicate ecology of the fjord systems to the ethereal elegance of the floating ice, east Greenland’s beauty is sure to have left its mark on you. 

Rest in Reykjavík

23 August 2024

Enjoy an outdoor spa experience at the Blue Lagoon  

Returning to Reykjavík, you’ll now have another opportunity to explore the delights you may have missed on your first visit. In this city of art and culture, there are plenty of galleries and museums to enjoy. Or if you simply wish to relax, why not take a trip to the famous Blue Lagoon.   

Enjoy an unforgettable outdoor spa experience as you relax the geothermally heated water that gets its iconic bright blue colour from silica and other minerals carried down from the volcanic landscape. As you soak, enjoy a drink and a chat with locals and fellow guests as you look forward to the next step on your adventure – west Greenland and the Northwest Passage! 

The Denmark Strait revisited

24 August 2024 - 25 August 2024

Heading towards Greenland and the Northwest Passage  

We sail to west Greenland across the Denmark Strait once again, the route taken by Erik the Red, supposedly the first European to have settled there.  

Get ready to explore the west coast of Greenland. Most Greenlanders live on the west side of their country, and you’ll be exploring some of the towns and settlements scattered along this coast – as well as its awe inspiring fjords, glaciers and mountains.  

Prince Christian Sound

26 August 2024

Breathtaking panoramas and abundant wildlife  

Description text   

We aim to explore the incredible waters of the 60-mile-long Prince Christian Sound today. Sharp-peaked granite mountains provide a stunning contrast to the bright white glaciers. Look out for icebergs and colourful houses in the village of Aappilattoq. 

Nature is abundant here. Keep an eye out for ringed and bearded seals resting on the ice, and Glaucous Gulls and Black Guillemots soaring above. You may even spot minke and humpback whales.  

If sea ice prevents us entering the sound, we'll head to craggy Cape Farewell, the southernmost point of Greenland. 

Exploring Kvanefjord

27 August 2024

Discover the glacial beauty of the west coast fjords   

Experience your first sight of Greenland’s sublime west coast fjords as we reach Kvanefjord in Sermersooq, meaning 'Place of Much Ice'.  

Have your camera ready for glistening icebergs and semi-submerged glacial ice – pure white with undertones of crystalline blue. These sculpted ice blocks are some of Arctic nature’s finest creations.  

Few people venture into this remote fjord, making it even more special to spend the day exploring here. The Expedition Team will select places to venture ashore and enjoy the beautiful scenery on a nature walk, or head out in boats to scout for wildlife.

Nuuk, Greenland's capital

28 August 2024

Experience Greenlandic culture, old and new, in Nuuk  

After several days exploring remote, varied landscapes, you'll cruise into Nuuk, Greenland’s colourful capital. With a population of 18,000, it has a striking mix of old and new buildings. 

Compare the old buildings – such as Hans Egede House and Nuuk Cathedral – with the ultra-modern architecture of the Parliament of Greenland building. 

Visit the national museum to gain fascinating insight into life here 500 years ago and see the six Qilakitsoq mummies. Or join a long nature walk through Paradise Valley and around Mt. Lille Malene. 

Spectacular Sisimiut

29 August 2024

Explore ancient traditions in Arctic Greenland  

We reach Sisimiut, Greenland’s second city. It sits in a spectacular location just 25 miles north of the Arctic Circle. This area has history spanning more than 4,500 years.  

Old traditions are alive and well here, and you can learn more about the ancient Saqqaq artifacts in the local museum.  

If you're looking for a special souvenir, pick up a scarf, hat or mittens made of qiviut, the inner wool of a musk ox, said to be 10 times warmer than sheep wool. Or why not explore the area by foot and stretch your legs on a hike. 

UNESCO-listed Ilulissat

30 August 2024

The town where you can see and hear the ice flow  

Our expedition cruise reaches Disko Bay – a haven for whales and seals. You’re in for a unique experience. Nestled in the magnificent Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Ilulissat. Against a backdrop of colourful houses is an ever-changing gallery of passing icebergs.  

Marvel at giant icebergs floating past in the deep blue waters as they take on different hues of white, grey and blue. With the help of the ship’s photographer, enthusiasts will be able to capture the nuances of these sculptures of nature. 

Crossing the Labrador Sea

31 August 2024 - 1 September 2024

Watch for wildlife and get involved in Citizen Science   

Leaving Greenland behind, our expedition cruise continues to Canada across the Labrador Sea. We'll enter the Davis Strait, named after English explorer John Davis, who led expeditions here in the 16th century. The Expedition Team will continue their onboard lectures on topics such as the wildlife of Northern Labrador, Inuit culture and the history of Arctic exploration.  

The strait is known for its abundance of seals, whales and cod. Why not take part in one of our Citizen Science programme projects, helping photograph and track whales, or observe the clouds to help scientists study our climate by contributing to the GLOBE Program. 

The Northwest Passage

2 September 2024 - 8 September 2024

Crossing a historical sea corridor through Canada's Arctic archipelago  

Like the pioneering explorers who've come before you, we won't have an exact itinerary as we attempt to sail our state-of-the-art ice-class ship from the Atlantic to the Pacific via this famed sea route. Stops might include Pond Inlet, Dundas Harbour, Fort Ross, Gjoa Haven, and Cambridge Bay.  

As we explore, we'll land at sites linked to early exploration history, visit Inuit communities, and look out for Arctic wildlife such as polar bears, whales, narwhals, seals and seabirds.  

You'll go small expedition boat cruising between ice floes, and go ashore to experience the pristine wilderness first hand. Your Expedition Team will adapt activities to ice and weather conditions, giving you the best experience possible.  

We’ll try to reach Pond Inlet and the Inuit community of Mittimatalik on Baffin Island. On Devon Island – the largest uninhabited island on Earth – we'll visit Dundas Harbour and learn about its Thule heritage. We may even pay our respects at the graves of three Franklin expedition team members on Beechey Island.  

We'll continue west to Fort Ross, a former Hudson Bay Trading post, before sailing to Gjoa Haven, where Roald Amundsen learned polar survival tips from the Netsilik Inuit people. If we are able to land here, we'll take a walking tour to learn more.

Wildlife of Cambridge Bay

9 September 2024

Wildlife and conservation in this fish-rich bay  

Our expedition cruise continues into wildlife-rich Cambridge Bay, where you'll disembark. Here, you might see Arctic char, musk oxen and caribou. You'll also find the Canadian High Arctic Research Station, an important centre for climate change research. 

Home to only 2,000 residents, Cambridge Bay is popular with fly-fishers, keen to net giant Arctic char or lake trout. Its local name 'Iqaluktuuttiaq' even means ‘a good fishing place’. 

Walk around and explore before we take our evening flight to  Edmonton . 

Explore Edmonton

10 September 2024

Enjoy the city of Edmonton before your flight home or extend your stay with our optional Post-programmes to learn more about this city and the surrounding area.  

• August 11 Aug

What’s included

Flights  .

• Flight in economy class from Cambridge Bay to Edmonton after the expedition cruise 

Transfers  

• Transfer from the ship to the airport in Cambridge Bay after the expedition cruise   
• Transfer from the airport to the hotel in Edmonton after the expedition cruise  

Hotel  

• Overnight in Edmonton after the expedition cruise, including breakfast  

Expedition Cruise 

• A stay in a cabin of your choice 
• Breakfast, lunch and dinner including beverages* in restaurant Aune  
• À la carte restaurant Lindstrøm included for suite guests 
• Complimentary tea and coffee 
• Complimentary Wi-Fi on board† 
• Complimentary reusable water bottle 
• English-speaking Expedition Team who organise and accompany activities on board and ashore 
• Range of included activities
• *House beer and wine, sodas, and mineral water
• †Please note there is very limited Wi-Fi and phone signal in the remote areas we travel to, and streaming is not supported. 

Onboard Activities 

• In-depth lectures and discussions hosted by experts on the Expedition Team 
• Full use of our Science Center, small library and advanced biological and geological equipment 
• Citizen Science Programme where you can assist with ongoing scientific research 
• Photography tips and techniques for capturing landscape and wildlife from our onboard professional photographer 
• Use of ship's hot tubs, panoramic sauna and indoor gym. 
• Informal gatherings with the crew for daily briefings 

Landing Activities 

• Escorted landings with small expedition boats 
• Loan of boots, trekking poles and all equipment for activities 
• Complimentary wind- and water-resistant expedition jacket 
• Expedition photographers on hand to assist you
• All planned activities are subject to weather and ice conditions 
• Excursions and activities are subject to change  
• Please make sure you meet  all entry and boarding requirements  
• No gratuities expected 

Not included in your voyage

• International flights 
• Travel insurance 
• Luggage handling 
• Optional shore excursions with our local partners 
• Optional small-group activities with our Expedition Team

The original Fram was the most famous explorer ship of its time, and the achievements of her expeditions are unparalleled. MS Fram brings on the heritage of the original Fram, using the most advanced technology to make her exceptionally well suited for expedition voyages in Polar Regions.

Read more about MS Fram

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Eastern Greenland & Iceland Expedition

• Fully Guided
• Ocean Cruise

• Introduction
• Day 1 Reykjavík, Iceland
• Day 2 Isafjördur
• Day 3 Ittoqqortoormitt, Greenland
• Day 4 Kong Oscar Fjord
• Day 5 Kaiser Franz Joseph Fjord
• Day 6 Scoresbysund
• Day 7 Scoresbysund
• Day 8 Scoresbysund
• Day 9 Grundarfjörður, Iceland
• Day 10 Reykjavík

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Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Scenic luxury cruises & tours ship.

Reviews About This Operator

• Tour Operator Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours 4.3
• Jan · 7th January 2023 Accomodation was just as amazibgbut what made it special was our tour manager Cathy. She went out of her way to help,... Show more

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• Wednesday 14 Aug, 2024 Friday 23 Aug, 2024 English Multiple Room Types Scenic Eclipse €27,620 Confirm Dates Hold space for 48h

Frequently Asked Questions

We are there for you! If you have any questions about this tour, then please don't hesitate to contact us 24/7 and we will get back to you latest within 2 hours!

Got a question about this tour?

Reach out to our travel experts.

Good to Know

• Currencies kr Danish Krone Greenland kr Iceland Krona Iceland

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, K.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Greenland. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Tuberculosis - Recommended for Greenland. Ideally 3 months before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Greenland. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 17th August 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 17th August 2024, a minimum payment of €500 is required to confirm your booking with Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 95 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• The following cards are accepted for "Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Iceland Tour & Vacation Packages

Greenland’s the icy one; Iceland’s the green one. But remember this: they don’t call part of it the Golden Circle for nothing.

Calling all nature lovers, adventure seekers and fearless travelers. Iceland may be cold, but that’s the point—you’ll get to see all the glaciers, geysers and geothermal wonders you can handle. Discover a land of natural color: hues of azure at the  Blue Lagoon  and the icy Jokulsarlon, shades of green on the rolling hills framing Skogafoss and the striking black sand beaches that hug the coast. Not to mention the magical aurora borealis  that dance across the sky! From uncovering Viking tales and bathing in steamy springs to cruising past icebergs and exploring quirky farm towns,  Iceland  is island life like no other.

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Iceland Discovery

Six Days in Iceland

Articles of Iceland

Why 2024 is the best year to see the northern lights

How the Icelandic hot dog became an international icon 

Iceland’s Folklore: 4 mythical creatures that make the scenery come alive

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6 of the best hikes in Iceland

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We also travel to

Iceland at a glance, capital city.

Reykjavik (population approximately 123,000)

Approximately 372,520

(GMT) Monrovia, Reykjavik

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type C (European 2-pin) Type F (German 2-pin, side clip earth)

Learn more about Iceland

Culture and customs.

Similar to many other parts of Europe , Iceland has rules in place to help preserve its culture and geographic isolation is also a factor in developing and preserving the country’s cultural qualities. Independence, self-sufficiency and a strong work ethic – traits that allowed this northern island to flourish in challenging conditions – continue to be highly valued today.

Icelandic culture and customs are full of myths and legends, many with a connection to Christian and pagan values. Folk tales of elves, gnomes, fairies and trolls still circulate, and whether or not the locals continue telling these to unlock the secrets of the past, or simply in jest, they’re definitely worth listening to. But when news outlets report on road plans being changed to avoid disrupting an elfin church, it’s easy to believe that this unusual country and its magical landscapes are a product of what lies ‘hidden’ in its mysterious depths.

Today, Iceland is a highly modern and progressive society. It is consistently rated as having the smallest gender pay gap and strong LGBTQIA+ rights representation in the parliament and media. It’s also one of the greenest countries in the world, with almost all energy coming from renewable resources such as hydropower and geothermal.

Read more about Iceland's History and Folklore

History and government

Pre-modern history.

This island nation was settled by Vikings in the ninth century, with much of the early literature recognizing Norse sailor Ingolfur Arnason as the first settler of Iceland, founding Reykjavik in AD874 along with his wife and brother. Icelanders remain proud to this day of their Viking heritage. The Icelandic language, for example, is so similar to the Old Norse spoken during Viking times that Icelanders can still read and understand the original Icelandic sagas.

A book of settlements titled Landnamabok, compiled in the 12th century, documents the names and other details of nearly 400 original settlers of Iceland who arrived in the ninth and tenth centuries. The document tells of a Norse Viking called Floki who sailed to Iceland for fishing and farming, however, due to his livestock not surviving in the conditions, had to return to his home in Norway. After heading up a mountain and looking over a fjord full of sea ice, he named this land Iceland.

In AD930, an Icelandic General Assembly was established and was deemed a Christian settlement less than a century later. Settlers and slaves brought to Iceland by Scandinavians were of Irish and Norse descent, and although some still debate which communities influenced the identity we now know to be Icelandic, the first distinctive text documenting ‘Icelandic-ness’ is said to be a rule book of sorts – the First Grammatical Treatise.

20th century and today

After long periods under Norwegian and Danish rule, Iceland was recognized as a sovereign state in 1918. On 17 June 1944, Iceland became an independent republic. It has a multi-party parliamentary system and a written constitution. The parliament is still called Althingi after its medieval General Assembly.

Many of Iceland’s major industries stem from its location and surrounding natural resources. Tourism aside, fishing and seafood products make up much of the country’s exports and employ a majority of the workforce along with agriculture and farming. Recent investment in greenhouses and geothermal energy has seen Iceland become increasingly self-sufficient, growing products that usually do not fare well in icy climates, such as potatoes, tomatoes and potted plants. Other food is imported along with many consumer goods.

Eating and drinking

Flanked by the ocean and inhabited by almost twice the amount of sheep as humans, Iceland understandably boasts a cuisine dominated by seafood and local lamb.

The country’s diet relies on plenty of potatoes and lamb, but seafood trumps all – sourced fresh year-round from the waters of the North Atlantic and Arctic and prepared in a variety of ways. Be sure to try Hardfiskur – a salty fish jerky, best enjoyed buttered.

Sheep and cows are free-range and fed chemical-free diets, making lamb and dairy products exceptionally good here. One of the best ways to enjoy the produce on offer is to warm yourself up from the inside out with a hearty meat soup: a mixture of lamb, root vegetables, herbs, and rice.

Skyr, a popular yogurt that is technically a cheese, is also a must-try in all its variety of flavors. Eat it like the locals do at any time of the day – for breakfast, as a snack, as a dipping sauce, in drink form (called drykkur), or as a dessert topping.

Surprisingly, hot dogs are Iceland’s most iconic fast food. Widely available, a hot dog is probably the cheapest meal you’ll have in Iceland. Order one with all the toppings – sweet mustard, ketchup, raw onions, deep-fried onions, and aioli.

Rye bread (also known as rugbraud) and butter is a common side to most meals in Iceland, but the preferred way of cooking the loaves are quite unique. Traditionally, the bread is buried near a natural hot spring, sprinkled with sugar, and left to gently steam for up to 24 hours. The end result is dense, cake-like bread that has a slightly sweet taste. Enjoy it with a traditional Icelandic soup, smoked lamb, or, of course, fish.

Name a food and chances are Icelanders have tried to add licorice to it. Black licorice is beloved by locals and found in a wide range of desserts and candy bars. During your time here, head to Valdis in Reykjavik to test out a cone filled with salted black licorice ice cream. Even if the weather’s cold, the ice cream joints will be open!

The weird and wacky

Icelanders have a reputation for serving up some of the most unusual food in the world – boiled sheep’s head, fermented shark known as harkarl, ram testicles and smoked puffin to name a few. Although the country’s isolation and harsh winters once meant these foods were eaten out of necessity, today most of these ‘delicacies’ are only prepared to shock tourists. Try if you dare, but we suggest sticking to the common foods that locals eat.

Alcohol can be expensive in Iceland and is best bought at the duty-free shop. Although forms of prohibition existed until 1989, alcohol is now widely available all over the country in state-run liquor stores. If you’re feeling brave, try the local brew, Brennivin – a potent, traditional caraway-flavored schnapps nicknamed ‘black death’.

Read more about what to eat in Iceland

Read more about what to drink in Iceland

Iceland travel highlights

1. explore reykjavik.

Iceland's capital city is totally beguiling, surrounded by volcanic peaks and boasting a vibrant art and nightlife scene. Browse the city’s galleries, explore the colorful street art, dine on fresh lox (traditionally cured salmon),   or cycle to the striking cathedral of Hallgrimskirkja – trying to say that after a tipple or two of Brennivin (Iceland's signature spirit) might be tricky! Get stuck into Icelandic culture on our 6 day Northern Lights Escape .

2. Discover the Golden Circle

The Golden Circle is the holy trinity of southern Iceland. This 186-mile (300 km) route is brimming with natural wonders that showcase why so many travelers fall under Iceland's spell. Marvel at the layered cascades of Gullfoss Waterfall, explore the dramatic rift valley in Thingvellir National Park and witness the unpredictable eruptions in Geysir Geothermal Area. Marvel at breathtaking natural landscapes on our 5 day Iceland Express tour.

3. Cruise along Jokulsarlon

It's impossible not to be amazed by the sheer size and beauty of Jokulsarlon, Iceland’s famous glacial lagoon. Enjoy a boat tour along the icy waters where you'll cruise past towering glaciers and witness icebergs of all shapes, sizes and shades of blue drifting into the Atlantic Ocean. Cool down on our 8 day Iceland Discovery tour.

4. Experience life in Akureyri

Soak up the charm of this northern port city – the second-largest city in Iceland. Better described as a big town with lots of character, you'll be won over by its quaint turf homes, rich history and folklore, and the imposing Mount Súlur that looms over the town. Akureyri is also an ideal Northern Lights viewing location between September and April. Explore the streets of Akureyri on our 9 day Premium Iceland tour.

5. Be wowed by Westfjords

Venture off course to the unspoiled, untamed reaches of the Westfjords – without the big crowds. This is a land where mountains meet the sea most dramatically, where waterfalls tumble down into the inky fjords and puffins live along the towering cliffs. If you’re lucky and conditions allow, we might cruise along Látrabjarg (Europe’s largest bird cliff) to see puffins, razorbills, guillemots and more. Adventure through the Westfjords on our 14 day East Greenland and Iceland Northern Lights tour.

6. Bathe in the Blue Lagoon

There's no need to worry about being cold all the time in Iceland when you can slip into the famous Blue Lagoon just out of Reykjavik. Surrounded by black volcanic rock, a soak in the mineral-rich, milk-blue waters of this geothermal spa is the perfect way to relax and unwind after a big day of walking. 

Geography and environment

Iceland possesses some of the world’s most incredible natural wonders and unique landscapes. From active volcanoes to vast ice fields, bubbling hot springs and enormous glaciers, these dramatic contrasts have earned Iceland the nickname of the ‘Land of Fire and Ice’.

Many of these geological features are products of geographical location – on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates intersect and their movements away from each other create volcanic activity. The country is covered by moss-carpeted lava fields, soaring fjords, incredible waterfalls and dramatic geysers, all of which add to Iceland’s otherworldly look.

The country is also the perfect spot to see the Northern Lights. From September to March, you’ll have the best chance to view this spectacular natural light show when the skies are clear and auroral activity is high. But don’t let that stop you from visiting in other seasons – Iceland’s natural wonders are truly year-round attractions.

Top 4 natural phenomena of Iceland

1. Northern Lights

The Northern Hemisphere's Aurora Borealis has captivated and intrigued travelers for years. Any winter tour of Iceland absolutely must include a chance to see the Northern Lights. This natural light display that runs along magnetic fields often brings hypnotic green, yellow and red shades to the night sky in Iceland from September to March. As one of nature's most magnificent triumphs, this is one unforgettable spectacle.

2. Gullfoss

Otherwise known as Golden Falls, this spectacular three-tiered waterfall drops suddenly into a deep cavern. The falls are surrounded by lush, green countryside, and the rainbows created by the mist and spray provide brilliant photo opportunities.

3. Lake Myvatn

This part of northern Iceland was born from volcanic eruptions millions of years ago and continues to be shaped by volcanic activity to this day. The combination of strange lava formations, thermal caves and a sprawling lake dotted with craters and rising rocks makes for an eerie yet beautiful landscape.

4. Jokulsarlon

Literally translating to ‘glacial river lagoon’, this monumental glacier lake is the largest in Iceland. Featuring a parade of large and small blue icebergs floating on and under the pure, icy water, this lagoon is so beautiful that it has been used as a backdrop for Hollywood films, a set for reality television shows and in a starring role on a postage stamp!

Iceland is notorious for being an expensive destination. Travelling on a budget here is difficult but can be done. Head to Bonus – Iceland’s discount grocery store – so you can cook rather than eat out for each meal. The duty-free store at Keflavik International Airport is the best place to pick up a bottle of Icelandic alcohol such as Brennivin liquor, Reyka vodka or Viking Gold beer for a fraction of the price you’d find elsewhere. It’s also a good idea to travel as a group, as operators can get better rates than a single traveler at hotels and restaurants, plus they know all the local hotspots.

If you’d like to take home Icelandic local specialties, Reykjavik is the best place to shop. Some of the country’s coolest retailers can be found on Laugavegur, one of the oldest shopping streets. Here you can browse clothing from quirky local designers alongside traditional lambswool sweaters, as well as tourist shops selling plastic Viking hats and puffin magnets. For smaller boutiques selling local art, head to Skolavordustigur.

Festival and events

Despite the long and dark winters, Icelanders are among the happiest people in the world. Why? One reason is that they understand the importance of getting together and having a good time, even if it’s pitch black outside. There are many celebrations to join in on throughout the year, but here are a few to look out for:

Winter Lights Festival

Every year, buildings around Reykjavik light up at night to celebrate both the winter world and the growing light after a long period of darkness. The Winter Lights Festival uses many public buildings and all major museums and thermal pools to illuminate the city with lighting designs and art installations as a way to get people thawed out after a long winter.

This annual mid-winter feast in January or February is one of Iceland’s oldest festivals, dating back to Viking days. Fearless eaters can find restaurants in Reykjavik offering special Thorrablot dinners of boiled sheep’s head, rotten shark’s meat, and cured ram testicles. If you can, try to snag an invitation to a local’s house, where celebrations tend to be more festive and involve lots of singing, dancing, and drinking.

Viking Festival

Modern-day Vikings in traditional garb flock to Hafnarfjorour each June for a festival Leif Erikson would approve of. Swordfights, archery, axe throwing, a traditional market, concerts, and a proper Viking feast are all part of the festivities.

National Day

1944 marks the year that Iceland became a republic after an overwhelming majority of the citizens voted for independence. The deciding referendum took place between May 20 and 23 that year; however, Iceland’s National day is celebrated on June 17th – the birthday of the man who originally led the movement in the late 19th century, Jon Sigurdsson. There are parades all around the country, usually with brass bands and marching horses. Music food, fireworks, and street parties – you get it, they’re a patriotic bunch.

Dalvik Fiskidagurinn Mikli (The Great Fish Day)

Each August, the northern fishing village of Dalvik invites you to a free, all-you-can-eat fish and seafood buffet – held for no reason other than to get people together over a delicious meal. You might come for the free food, but you’ll stay for the company.

Read more about festivals in Iceland

Further reading

For inspiring stories to prepare you for your Iceland adventure, check out these books:

• Independent People   – Halldor Laxness
• Jar City   – Arnaldur Indridason
• The Little Book of Tourists in Iceland   – Alda Sigmundsdottir
• Waking Up in Iceland   – Paul Sullivan
• The Tricking of Freya   – Christina Sunley
• Viking Age Iceland   – Jesse L Bycock
• The Far Traveler: Voyages of a Viking Woman   – Nancy Marie Brown
• Burial Rites   – Hannah Kent
• The Book of Settlements: Landnamabok   – Herman Palsson (trans.)

Discover more about visiting Iceland from our travel experts in our Complete Guide to Iceland.

Similar destinations

We have a variety of similar destinations, trips and routes that you could consider! Tie another trip into your holiday, or, see how we can help you get from A to B. We have tours departing from a variety of locations around Iceland. The options below may be of interest:

Tours to Reykjavik 

Northern Lights Tours

Iceland or Greenland

Iceland travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

When is the best time to visit Iceland?

Deciding what you want to see in Iceland will give you a better idea of when is the best time to travel. Wanting to get active around the countryside and see waterfalls and wildlife? The warmer spring and summer months are probably ideal. Prefer to soak in the geothermal lagoons and get a chance to see the Northern Lights? Well, likely the cooler months – with their longer nights – are best for you.

Spring and summer are considered optimal times to visit Iceland if green landscapes and balmy days are your thing. The early spring months bring warmer days, while summer offers long daylight hours with only short nights. In the summer season, July and August are the warmest months and the busiest time for tourists.

In September, tourism tends to slow down as the weather becomes unpredictable and the countryside is usually less accessible. However, there are plenty of attractions for the off-peak traveler, including the beauty of fall colors and, of course, the awe-inspiring Northern Lights.

As you might expect, winters in Iceland can be challenging. During late December there are about four-and-a-half hours of daylight and it's often cloudy. In January, there are on average three sunny days in Reykjavík, with temperatures hovering around freezing point, often with chilling winds.

Do I need a visa to travel to Iceland?

Iceland is a member of the Schengen Convention, which means that if you travel to an EU member country or countries, like Iceland, for a total of less than 90 days, a visa is not required. Citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the US, the UK and other member countries of the EU and Schengen area are included under this arrangement. Other countries do require a visa to visit Iceland, including citizens of South Africa.

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveler. Entry requirements can change at any time, so it's important that you check for the latest information. Please visit the relevant consular website of the country or countries you’re visiting for detailed and up-to-date visa information specific to your country of origin. Check the Essential Trip Information section of your tour itinerary for more information.

Is tipping customary in Iceland?

Tipping isn't expected in Iceland. Hotels, restaurants and cafes already include a service fee and consumption taxes (VAT) in the bill, so tipping extra isn't necessary. However, feel free to leave a small amount if your experience has been particularly good, especially for assistance provided by drivers, tour leaders or service workers.

What is the internet access like in Iceland?

Travelers will be able to access the internet in cybercafes and at wi-fi hotspots in Iceland's cities and large towns. Rural and remote areas may have less internet access, so be prepared when traveling away from the city.

Most accommodation and eateries in Iceland offer wi-fi access, which is usually free to use with a code. If you wish to stay connected for the majority of your trip, it may be wise to purchase a prepaid SIM card with a data package.

Many Icelandic libraries and tourist information offices have shared computers for public internet access if you are without a device to connect to wi-fi. Sometimes a small fee is charged for this service.

Can I use my cell phone while in Iceland?

Travelers can use their cell phones in Iceland's main cities and towns, though remote and isolated areas may have inferior cell reception.

If you wish to stay connected for the majority of your trip, it may be wise to purchase a prepaid SIM card for the duration of your journey. This will likely be the cheapest way to use your phone in Iceland.

For EU citizens, depending on who you have your phone plan with, you may be able to use your current SIM in Iceland – your service provider will be able to provide more details.

Global roaming can also be activated, but check with your service provider to find out about any fees you may incur, as sometimes this can be expensive.

What are the toilets like in Iceland?

Modern, flushable toilets are the standard in Iceland.

In terms of public toilets, Reykjavik and other major towns and cities have some, but along highways and at many tourist destinations – especially campgrounds and natural attractions – there is a lack of facilities. Expect to pay a small fee when visiting public toilets and, in busy months, expect queues in main tourist areas.

There have been recent occurrences of tourists resorting to other means in remote places and near tourist sites. We recommend being prepared and talking to your group leader if you have any concerns.

What will it cost for a…?

Iceland's unit of currency is the krona. Here's what you can expect to pay for a:

• Hotdog = ISK 400-600
• Glass of beer = ISK 1,100-1,500
• Simple lunch at a cafe = ISK 2,100-3.700
• Dinner in a restaurant = ISK 2.600-4.200

Can I drink the water in Iceland?

Tap water is considered safe to drink in Iceland unless marked otherwise. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Fill a reusable water bottle or canteen with filtered water instead.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Iceland?

Credit cards are widely accepted in Iceland and are used frequently by locals to pay for just about anything. Paying with a credit card at shops, guesthouses, supermarkets, restaurants, cafes, and on taxi rides shouldn't present a problem. Iceland is almost a cashless society, so cards are the best option; however, a lot of payments will require your four-digit PIN, so be sure to know this before you leave home.

What is ATM access like in Iceland?

ATMs are usually easy to find in Iceland's cities and villages and generally accept most foreign cards.

What public holidays are celebrated in Iceland?

• 1 Jan: New Year's Day
• Mar/Apr: Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Monday*
• 1 May: Labur Day
• May/Jun: Ascension Day*
• May/Jun: Whit Sunday and Whit Monday*
• 17 Jun: National Day
• First Monday in August Commerce Day*
• 24 Dec: Christmas Eve
• 25 Dec: Christmas Day
• 26 Dec: Boxing Day
• 31 Dec: New Year's Eve

*Please note, Iceland public holidays may vary.

What is the weather like in Iceland?

Iceland’s temperatures are cool and do vary throughout the year. In winter months, minimum temperatures plummet to below freezing. In Reykjavik, summer temperatures average at around 52°F, while winter maximums are approximately 32°F. Rainfall is quite consistent throughout the year; between 25–50 mm per month, with most days experiencing some rainfall.

Is it safe to travel to Iceland?

Iceland is a very safe country to travel to and is one of the safest countries in the world.

Is Iceland safe for LGBTQIA+ travellers?

The people of Iceland have an open and accepting attitude to LGBTQIA+ communities, and Iceland is considered one of the world’s most LGBTQIA+ friendly countries. Since 2006, same-sex couples have had equal access to adoption and IVF, and in 2010 the Icelandic Parliament made a unanimous decision to define marriage as between two individuals. As might be expected in a small country, however, the gay scene is quite low-key, even in Reykjavik.

In 2012, more legislation was passed to formalize the name and identity-changing process for the needs of trans and genderqueer individuals. There is still a way to go to achieve full equality, but Iceland is, in many regards, leading the way globally.

For more detailed and up-to-date advice, we recommend visiting Equaldex or ILGA before you travel and reading more about the LGBTQIA+ culture in Iceland .

If you are traveling solo on an Intrepid group tour, you will share accommodation with a passenger of the same gender as per your passport information. If you don’t identify with the gender assigned on your passport, please let us know at the time of booking and we’ll arrange the rooming configuration accordingly. A single supplement is available on some tours for travellers who do not wish to share a room.

Is Iceland accessible for travelers with disabilities?

Intrepid is committed to making travel widely accessible, regardless of ability or disability. That’s why we do our best to help as many people see the world as possible, regardless of any physical or mental limitations they might have. We’re always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them towards the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

Because of its remote location and size, Iceland can prove difficult when it comes to accessibility for individuals with mobility issues. Some of the main sights, such as the Blue Lagoon, are wheelchair accessible, but many of the natural attractions have unpaved paths and unsteady terrain. Iceland has a dedicated information center,  Thekkingarmidstod Sjalfsbjorg , that provides up-to-date information on accessibility and accessible facilities in Iceland, as well as other related information.

If you do live with a visual, hearing, or other impairment, let your booking agent or group leader know early on so they’re aware and suitable arrangements can be made. As a general rule, knowing some common words in the local language, carrying a written itinerary with you, and taking to the streets in a group, rather than solo, can help make your travel experience the best it can be.

What to wear in Iceland

In summer, Iceland experiences cool but mild weather throughout the country, with maximum temperatures averaging around 55°F. It’s still important, however, to pack some warm clothing at this time, as temperatures at night can drop quite dramatically. In winter, some days barely reach over 32°F, so preparing for this is crucial. It can be wet and windy, and roads may be iced over, so thermal gear, a waterproof jacket and pants and sturdy walking boots are all highly recommended.

How do I stay safe and healthy while traveling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before traveling?

Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How will I be traveling around Iceland?

Intrepid believes half the fun of experiencing a new country is getting there, and getting around once there! Where possible, Intrepid uses local transport options and traditional modes of transport – which usually have less of an environmental impact, support small local operators and are much more fun.

Depending on what trip you're on in Iceland, you may find yourself traveling by:

All-terrain Unimog

To see all of Iceland, you’ll need some heavy-duty transport. This super-sized van will take you on glacier visits to admire these almighty ice caps up close.

Amphibian boat

Part truck, part boat, all adventure ­– cruise the Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon in a small group aboard one of these vessels, on land and lake.

What is it like traveling on a small group tour?

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or you’re about to embark on your first trip, traveling can be as intimidating as it is exciting. That's the beauty of a small group tour. From handling the logistics and organizing amazing cultural activities to local leaders who know each destination like the back of their hand (like which street has the best markets and where to get the most authentic food), traveling on a small group tour with Intrepid will give you unforgettable travel experiences without the hassle that comes with exploring a new place. Plus, you'll have ready-made friends to share the journey with. All you have to do is turn up with a healthy sense of adventure and we’ll take care of the rest.

Does my Intrepid trip include airfare?

While our Intrepid trips include many modes of transport, from tuk-tuks to overland vehicles, bullet trains and feluccas, airfare to and from your home country is not included in your tour package.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners, Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilize school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

Iceland is open for travel: check volcano updates here

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Day Tours in Iceland

Guided adventure trips & excursions in iceland.

We have an excellent selection of full or half day tours departing from Reykjavík, and many other locations around the country. These great value day tours and outdoor Iceland activities are designed to discover the best attractions around the country.

ABOUT ICELAND EXCURSIONS & DAY TOURS

We offer tours of varying lengths and difficulty , suitable for different ages. Whatever you have in mind for your time in Iceland, we will have the perfect tour for you. If you have any questions about our activities, please do not hesitate to contact us. Check out our tour selection to see more about duration and pick-up possibilities.

Can’t find what you're looking for? Customize your very own private tour with us to experience Iceland your own way.

We also offer meet-on-location and self-drive tour packages.

WHICH ACTIVITY OR EXCURSION IS RIGHT FOR ME?

Looking for a stress-free way to explore Iceland's stunning landscapes and cultural treasures? Our day tours are the perfect solution! With efficient itineraries designed to make the most of your limited time, you can choose from a wide variety of excursions, from quick half-day tours to full-day iconic sightseeing and exciting activities like snorkeling or glacier hiking. 

Our knowledgeable guides will enhance your overall experience, providing context, stories, and insider tips.

Departures are available from various towns, including Reykjavik and Akureyri.

Staying in the capital? If you're craving a taste of the extraordinary in a short time, explore our excursions from Reykjavik .

Interested in iconic sights? Take on our classic Golden Circle Tours , featuring mesmerizing landscapes and rich cultural stops.

Craving a mix of experiences? Opt for our versatile Combo Tours , blending different aspects of Iceland's beauty in one seamless journey

Want a more active adventure? Browse our range of popular activities in Iceland , including thrilling glacier hikes, snowmobiling, and more. 

Have a free afternoon? If you're looking for unique experiences as the day unfolds, explore our Afternoon Tours .

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How to travel to Greenland from the US

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Published: 18/12/2023

Reading time: 5 minutes

If you live in the United States and are considering a vacation to Greenland, you have come to the right place.

In this guide, we will provide insights on traveling from the US to Greenland, address common Q&As, share valuable travel tips for your stay in Greenland, and suggest various things to do in Greenland for you to enjoy. Happy exploring!

Flying to Greenland from the US

You can fly to Greenland through two main gateways: Denmark and Iceland . Specifically, if you are traveling from the US, choosing a direct flight to Iceland is a more convenient choice compared to making a detour through Denmark before reaching Greenland. 

Below is a list of locations in the US and Canada where Icelandair has flight connections: Flights from the US to Greenland: Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Detroit, Minneapolis, New York, Orlando, Pittsburgh, Portland, Raleigh-Durham, Seattle, and Washington D.C Flights from Canada to Greenland: Halifax, Toronto, and Vancouver

From Iceland, you can fly to four destinations in Greenland and those are Nuuk (West Greenland), Ilulissat (West Greenland), Kulusuk (East Greenland), and Narsarsuaq (South Greenland). Later in this guide, we will delve into details about these locations.

Below, you find some of the common questions and answers related to traveling to Greenland from the US.

How much does it cost to fly to Greenland from the US?

Prices vary, so it is advisable to check Icelandair’s website for insights into the average costs of flights to Greenland. This will help you plan your budget effectively for this extraordinary journey.

How long time does it take to fly to Greenland from the US?

The duration of a flight from the US to Greenland can vary depending on factors such as the departure city (the US is a big country!), the specific destination in Greenland, layovers, and the flight route. 

Nonetheless, Icelandair provides flights from the US to Greenland with a layover in Iceland. As an example, the flight duration from New York to Iceland is around six hours. From there, the distance is approximately 745 miles, and the flight time from Iceland to Greenland is around 2-3 hours.

Examples of tours from Iceland to Greenland

Land of Icebergs | 4 Days | Disko Bay

The Ultimate Greenland trip from South to North | 15 Days

Kayak & Ice Hike | 8 Days | South Greenland

Best Of Ilulissat | 5 days | Disko Bay

How to travel domestically in greenland.

Traveling around domestically in Greenland typically involves a combination of transportation modes due to the country’s unique geography and scattered settlements. 

Air Greenland operates domestic flights, connecting various towns and cities. Additionally, in certain locations, helicopters become a necessary mode of transportation. Along the coastline, ferries seamlessly link different towns, providing travelers with scenic views of the picturesque shoreline.

How much luggage can I bring in the flight?

You might assume that packing extensively is necessary when traveling to a big frozen island. But how much can you bring with you?

Discover the luggage policies and receive helpful tips to ensure a hassle-free experience when traveling to Greenland. Here, you can read the luggage policies from Icelandair and Air Greenland .

Are there any special travel and visa requirements?

United States citizens are required to obtain a visa in advance. To apply for the visa, you must go through a Greenland diplomatic mission or one of its authorized visa agents outside Greenland. The processing of this visa can be done by visiting the Embassy in your country.

What currency does Greenland use?

The official currency in Greenland is the Danish Kroner (DKK), although some souvenir shops may accept foreign currency in notes. It is advisable to carry cash in DKK, especially when visiting small towns and settlements.

Most major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, Eurocard, Diners, and American Express, are accepted at ATMs.

Is it safe to travel to Greenland?

Greenland stands out as a secure destination for tourists. Thanks to its small population and hospitable locals, you can expect a warm and friendly welcome during your visit.

Arriving in Greenland

As mentioned, Icelandair flies to Nuuk, Ilulissat, Narsarsuaq, and Kulusuk. To be more familiar with those places, you can read our Ultimate Travel Guides to Nuuk, Ilulissat, Tasiilaq (Kulusuk), and our article about South Greenland (Narsarsuaq):

• The Ultimate Travel Guide to Nuuk
• The Ultimate Travel Guide to Ilulissat
• The Ultimate Travel Guide to Tasiilaq (Kulusuk)  
• South Greenland | What to do & where to go (Narsarsuaq)

Travel tips in Greenland

Preparing for a trip to Greenland may involve a bit more complexity than other vacation destinations. Nevertheless, we have gathered a few valuable tips that are worth considering before your journey to Greenland:

• Due to frequent weather-related delays, it is a good idea to add some extra time when planning your flights. Especially if you have scheduled some tour activities, consider adding a few extra days at both ends of your trip. The saying “ You have never been in Greenland if you have not had a flight delayed ” is popular for a reason!
• Securing bookings in advance is advisable, especially during high seasons, as there may be limited availability for tickets, tours, and accommodations.
• Several apps can enhance your vacation experience in terms of weather updates, northern lights visibility, maps, and much more. Explore our guide on useful tools for traveling in Greenland to make the most of your journey.
• Make sure to bring an adapter as Greenland utilizes the Standard European Plug (230 V) with 2 prongs for its electrical outlets. Having one on hand will ensure you can use all your electronic devices.

Unlock the key to dressing comfortably for an Arctic holiday by mastering the art of layering. Read our guide on how to dress optimally, ensuring you fully enjoy your Greenland vacation – regardless of the season!

For additional travel tips, you can explore our comprehensive Ultimate Travel Guide to Greenland which covers a wide range of topics.

Vacation Packages in Greenland

Consider convenient vacation packages to make the most of your Greenlandic experience. Tailor your trip to include the activities and destinations that resonate with your interests.

If you are looking for day tours in Greenland, click here . 

We hope this guide has been helpful, and you now feel prepared to plan your vacation to Greenland from the US.

Qujanaq ( thanks in Greenlandic) for reading along and see you in Greenland!

Read more articles from Guide to Greenland

Northern Lights Explorer | South Greenland

Heart of Greenland | The Capital Nuuk

Ice, Big Walls & Hot Spring | South Greenland Explorer

Amazing 4 Days | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Highlights of Iceland & Ilulissat, West Greenland | 8 Days

Winter adventure package | Kangerlussuaq & Sisimiut

Biking, hiking & kayaking | South Greenland

10 days of hiking through Arctic nature & villages | East Greenland

Tasiilaq Winter World | 8 Days | East Greenland

Kayak & Ice Hike | 15 Days | South Greenland

Hike and Kayaking | South Greenland

3 Day Glacier Adventure | Kangerlussuaq

5 Day Ilulissat Explorer | Disko Bay

Highlights of South Greenland | 8 Days

Nature Adventure | South Greenland

Land of Erik the Red | Igaliku & Narsarsuaq | South Greenland

Tasermiut Fjord Kayaking | South Greenland

Northern Lights Tour | 3-Day Vacation Package | Nuuk | Greenland

Choose your own Winter Adventure | Ilulissat | 4 Days

Wonders of Greenland | South Greenland

First-time traveler to Greenland and the Arctic?

Ilulissat Icefjord Centre – Kangiata Illorsua

Ultimate Travel Guide to Kangerlussuaq

Book These 10 Best Iceland Tours To Uncover The Wonders Of The Land Of Fire And Ice

I celand is a magical destination that can be life-changing. From the incredible colors of the Northern Lights illuminating the night sky milky blue waters of the Blue Lagoon, there is no shortage of memorable experiences to enjoy here. The Land of Fire and Ice is full of natural wonders that can be discovered as part of a guided tour. Whether travelers are driving the Icelandic Ring Road or basing themselves in cozy hostels in Reykjavík for day trips, these are some of the top sights and tours to experience.

South Coast Full Day Tour

Go beyond the capital city of Iceland with this full-day tour of Iceland’s south coast from the capital, Reykjavík . Top attractions that the tour visits include the famous waterfalls of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, Reynisfjara black sand beach, and Sólheimajökull glacier. Travelers can also spot puffins and glimpse Eyjafjallajökull Volcano during the excursion. Transportation is included, but travelers should bring cash for buying lunch and snacks throughout the day since meals are not part of the ticket price for this tour.

• Tour: South Coast Full Day Tour by Minibus from Reykjavik
• Cost: From $112.00
• Duration: 10 hours
• What’s Included: Wi-Fi on the bus, hotel pick up and drop off, and an Icelandic treat.

Book this tour

Golden Circle Day Trip From Reykjavík

The Golden Circle is a must-do day trip from Reykjavík when visiting Iceland. The tour encompasses three natural wonders of Iceland which are the Gullfoss Waterfall, Strokkur at Geysir, and Thingvellir National Park. The full-day tour includes bus transportation from a hotel in Reykjavík and allows travelers time at each stop to appreciate the incredible scenery, take photos, and ask the tour guide questions. Meals are not included in this full-day tour, so budget cash accordingly for lunch and snacks at stops along the way.

• Tour: Golden Circle Classic Day Trip from Reykjavik
• Cost: From $79.30
• Duration: 7 hours
• What’s Included: Professional tour guide, bus transfer, Wi-Fi on board

Related: Midnight Sun And Hot Springs: 10 Best Places To Relax In Iceland

Snorkeling Between Continents

Iceland offers the unique opportunity to swim between two continents at the Silfra Fissure. This waterway occurs where the North American and European tectonic plates meet and is located inside beautiful Thingvellir National Park. Travelers can show up ready for an adventure with no prep work on their part. All necessary gear is provided to stay warm and dry while swimming and snorkeling in this cold waterway. The views of the clear blue water from below are exceptional and are captured through GoPro photos during the tour. There is no additional fee to receive these photos.

• Tour: Snorkeling Between Continents in Silfra with Photos Included
• Cost: From $168.79
• Duration: 3 hours
• What’s Included: Professional English-speaking Guide, snorkeling tour in Silfra Fissure, GoPro photos from the tour, help from a Certified PADI dive / Dive-master, drysuit, snorkeling equipment, hot drinks, and cookies

Local Foodie Adventure

Enjoying the local cuisine is one of the best ways to learn about a destination, so why not take a food tour while in Reykjavík? This tour allows travelers to sample food from a variety of eateries and food trucks in the city, tasting an array of traditional Icelandic foods. Guests will try Icelandic street food, homemade ice cream, and the famous Icelandic hot dogs. The small group tour is limited to 12 people to ensure a personalized experience that allows travelers to ask questions.

• Tour: Reykjavik Food Walk - Local Foodie Adventure in Iceland
• Cost: $119.00
• What’s Included: Tour guide, 4–5 stops, 8+ dishes to try

Related: Discovering The Unusual: Top 10 Weird Foods To Eat In Iceland

Blue Lagoon Ticket And Transport

The Blue Lagoon is a staple for travelers visiting Iceland. The hot, inviting mineral water is an otherworldly shade of blue, and the in-water bar is a fun feature of the experience. Relaxing here for a full day is worthwhile, especially for the tour price. Book in advance to avoid disappointment since this attraction is so popular among tourists. The package allows travelers to book the Comfort or Premium ticket for the Blue Lagoon and add a bus transfer if necessary. The Comfort ticket includes a towel, one beverage, and a silica face mask, while the Premium ticket also includes a bathrobe and algae face mask.

• Tour: Blue Lagoon Ticket with Optional Transportation
• Cost: From $169.43
• What’s Included: Bus transfer, Premium or Comfort Entrance Ticket

Lake Myvatn, Hot-Springs & Godafoss Waterfall Tour

Travelers who find themselves in northern Iceland in Akureyri have a whole new set of attractions to explore in this part of the country. The half-day tour includes a chance to soak in the Myvatn hot springs and view the incredible cascades of Godafoss waterfall. The tour also stops at the craters of Skútustaðir and the lave fields of Dimmuborgir. The tour ticket price also includes a packed lunch. This is a great opportunity to explore the northern highlights of Iceland in a single day.

• Tour: Lake Myvatn, Hot-Springs & Godafoss Waterfall Tour from Akureyri
• Cost: From $154.00
• Duration: 6 hours
• What’s Included: Transportation and Wi-Fi on the bus

Whale Watching Tour From Reykjavík

Whale watching is a top thing to do in Iceland, so travelers can embark on this exciting adventure to look for majestic creatures off the coast of Reykjavík. The peak season for whale watching is from June to August. While companies can never guarantee that travelers will spot whales while on the tour, the success rates for this tour is extremely high, with 95% success during the summer months and 80% success in the winter. Guests are provided with the necessary gear to remain warm and comfortable on board the ship in every season.

• Tour: The Original Classic Whale Watching from Reykjavik
• Cost: From $87.00
• What’s Included: Live guide, overalls, raincoats, blankets, admission to Wildlife Exhibition, free Wi-Fi on board

Related: 10 Best Iceland Hotels That Showcase The Charms Of The Land Of Fire And Ice

Icelandic Horse Back Riding Tour

The Icelandic Horse is a unique creature that is the only horse breed in Iceland. Among their many interesting and unique traits is the ability to perform one or two additional gaits: Tolt and, sometimes, pace. Riding through the Icelandic countryside on horseback is a magical experience that will stay with travelers for a lifetime. Before getting on the horse, guests of the tour are fitted with helmets for safety and briefed on how to ride. The tour is suitable for all levels of experience.

• Tour : Icelandic Horseback Riding Tour from Reykjavik
• Cost: From $118.94
• Duration: 2 hours
• What’s Included: Helmet, boots, rain gear, tea or coffee

Hike Inside A Volcano

See the inside of Iceland’s dormant Thrihnukagigur volcano on this small group tour that is limited to a maximum of 18 guests. The tour is led by an expert travel guide and takes guests to the Blue Mountains of Iceland where they will journey inside the volcano to see the geological remnants of an eruption that took place 4,000 years ago. Hotel pick-up and drop-off is included as part of the package price.

• Tour: Inside the Volcano: Small Group Thrihnukagigur Hike and Tour from Reykjavik
• Cost: From $367.02
• Duration: 5 to 6 hours
• What’s Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, helmet, harness, and safety equipment, light refreshments

Northern Lights Sightseeing Tour

Seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland is a bucket-list activity and travelers can do their best to have this experience by booking a guided tour. There is never a guarantee of seeing the lights, but they are best seen from November to March when skies are dark and days are short. The tour takes travelers outside the city, away from light pollution, to improve the chances of spotting the phenomena. Guests also enjoy delicious homemade hot chocolate made from real Icelandic chocolate to help keep warm.

• Tour: #1 Northern Lights tour in Iceland from Reykjavik with PRO photos
• Cost: From $141.60
• Duration: 4 hours
• What’s Included: Professional local driver and guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, Wi-Fi on board, cinnamon buns, wool blanket, professional photos