Greenland Travel Packages: Cruises, Tours & Itineraries | Complete Guide - Voyage Privé
Luxury holidays

Greenland travel packages


Table of contents

Greenland beckons adventurous travellers with its dramatic icebergs, pristine fjords and unique Inuit culture—a destination unlike any other on Earth. A well-curated Greenland travel package takes the complexity out of Arctic logistics, bundling flights, accommodation, expert-led excursions and unforgettable experiences into one seamless journey. Whether you seek expedition cruises through colossal ice formations, Northern Lights hunts under polar skies, or husky sledding across frozen landscapes, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to plan, compare and book your ultimate Arctic adventure. From the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord to the remote wilderness of Scoresby Sund, discover how to transform your polar dreams into reality with handpicked tours, practical advice and insider insights that ensure your Greenland holiday exceeds every expectation.

The most beautiful offers in Greenland

Discover Iceland and Greenland with Iceberg Cruise

This 8-night combined itinerary pairs the best of Reykjavik with Greenland's crown jewel, Ilulissat. Begin in Iceland's vibrant capital before flying to Ilulissat, where a spectacular 3-hour iceberg cruise through the UNESCO-listed fjord awaits. Experience thrilling husky sledding across frozen landscapes and optional Aurora hunts under Arctic skies. Upgrade to the premium Hotel Arctic for unparalleled iceberg views from your room. This package perfectly balances Iceland's geothermal wonders with Greenland's polar majesty, ideal for first-time Arctic explorers seeking variety and comfort. The seamless combination of two bucket-list destinations, the unforgettable iceberg cruise in Ilulissat Icefjord, and the chance to witness the Northern Lights dancing over Greenland's frozen wilderness make this an exceptional choice for discerning travellers.

Discover this offer

Arctic Express Cruise: Greenland's Northern Lights

Embark on a 10-day expedition-style voyage aboard the Ocean Nova, departing and returning to Reykjavik. This immersive cruise explores the remote Scoresby Sund, the world's largest fjord system, with daily Zodiac landings, guided Arctic hikes and wildlife spotting opportunities. Witness towering icebergs calving into crystalline waters and, with favourable conditions, the mesmerising Northern Lights illuminating the polar night. Expert naturalist guides enrich every landing with insights into Greenland's geology, wildlife and indigenous heritage. Full-board accommodation ensures comfort between thrilling expedition days. The expedition authenticity of Zodiac landings in Scoresby Sund, the expert-led exploration of one of Earth's most remote regions, and the magical possibility of Aurora viewing from the ship's deck create an unparalleled Arctic experience.

Discover this cruise

Greenland, Newfoundland and Labrador Cruise

For the ultimate Arctic odyssey, this extended expedition aboard MS Fram combines West Greenland's highlights with eastern Canada's rugged coastline. Explore Nuuk, Greenland's colourful capital, and Qassiarsuq's Norse heritage sites, then cross the Davis Strait to discover Newfoundland's dramatic fjords and historic settlements. Enjoy full-board ship accommodation, daily landings, naturalist-led excursions and the chance to soak in remote hot springs. This trans-Atlantic voyage suits seasoned travellers seeking a comprehensive polar experience spanning two continents and multiple cultures. The ambitious scope linking Greenland's Inuit culture with Viking heritage sites, the comfort and expertise of MS Fram, and the rare opportunity to explore both sides of the North Atlantic in one voyage deliver an exceptional journey.

Discover this expedition

Why visit Greenland: highlights and who it's for

Main natural attractions: fjords, icebergs and glaciers

Greenland's natural landscape is nothing short of otherworldly. The Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, produces some of the Northern Hemisphere's most spectacular icebergs—cathedral-sized sculptures of ancient ice drifting through cobalt waters. Scoresby Sund, the planet's largest fjord system, stretches over 350 kilometres, its sheer cliffs and glacial tongues creating a maze of frozen beauty. The Greenland Ice Sheet, covering 80% of the island, is the world's second-largest ice body, visible from many coastal settlements. Visitors witness calving glaciers—thunderous events where house-sized chunks crash into the sea—and navigate between icebergs on boat excursions. Summer brings the Midnight Sun, bathing fjords in golden light around the clock, whilst autumn and winter reveal the Aurora Borealis shimmering above snow-covered peaks.

Cultural highlights: Inuit settlements, Nuuk and local traditions

Beyond its natural splendour, Greenland offers rich cultural encounters. Nuuk, the world's smallest capital, blends colourful Scandinavian-style houses with modern Greenlandic identity, home to the National Museum showcasing 4,500 years of Arctic human history, including remarkably preserved Inuit mummies. Smaller settlements like Ilulissat and Qassiarsuq provide intimate glimpses into contemporary Greenlandic life, where fishing and hunting traditions endure alongside modern amenities. Visitors can meet local artisans crafting intricate tupilak carvings, sample traditional foods like musk ox and Arctic char, and learn about the Inuit relationship with the harsh environment. Qassiarsuq's Norse ruins recall Erik the Red's Viking settlement a millennium ago, whilst community visits on expedition cruises offer respectful cultural exchange.

Who should travel to Greenland: activity levels and traveller profiles

Greenland travel packages cater to diverse traveller profiles, though all require some spirit of adventure. Expedition cruises suit active adults comfortable with Zodiac transfers and optional shore hikes, though most ships accommodate varying fitness levels with gentler landing options. Families with older children (8+) thrive on husky sledding and iceberg cruises, though very young children may find expedition schedules challenging. Photographers and wildlife enthusiasts relish the unique light conditions and opportunities to capture whales, seals and seabirds. Fly-and-stay packages based in Ilulissat appeal to those preferring hotel comfort with day excursions rather than shipboard life. Winter packages involving snowmobile trips or Northern Lights hunts demand tolerance for extreme cold, whilst summer cruises offer milder conditions suitable for most travellers.

Types of Greenland travel packages and sample itineraries

Cruise expeditions (Zodiac landings, multi-day fjord exploration)

Expedition cruises represent the quintessential Greenland experience, offering comprehensive exploration impossible by land. Vessels like Ocean Nova and MS Fram carry 100–300 passengers, combining comfortable cabins with ice-strengthened hulls and expert expedition teams. Typical 7–14 day itineraries depart from Reykjavik or Kangerlussuaq, navigating fjord systems with daily Zodiac landings at remote sites inaccessible to larger ships. Days follow an expedition rhythm: morning briefings, Zodiac cruises among icebergs, guided hikes across tundra, and evening recaps with naturalist presentations. Full-board dining, often featuring Arctic-inspired cuisine, and included excursions make budgeting straightforward. Expedition cruises suit travellers seeking immersion, variety and the camaraderie of like-minded adventurers, with the ship serving as a comfortable base whilst accessing Greenland's most spectacular corners.

Fly-and-stay + day excursions (Ilulissat base with iceberg cruises)

For those preferring hotel-based comfort, fly-and-stay packages centre on Ilulissat, Greenland's tourism hub and gateway to the iconic Icefjord. These span 3–7 nights, with flights from Reykjavik connecting to boutique hotels like Hotel Arctic, perched above Disko Bay with panoramic iceberg views. Daily excursions include the essential 2–3 hour iceberg cruise through Ilulissat Icefjord, where Sermeq Kujalleq glacier calves colossal bergs into the sea. Additional activities range from husky sledding across frozen bays to midnight sun hikes along the Sermermiut boardwalk, helicopter flights over the Ice Sheet, and cultural visits to museums and fish markets. This option suits families, those with limited time, or travellers who prefer returning to a fixed base each evening.

Combined packages (Iceland + Greenland: Reykjavik + Ilulissat options)

Combined Iceland-Greenland itineraries maximise value and variety, linking two bucket-list Arctic destinations in one journey. Typical 8–12 day packages begin with 3–5 nights exploring Iceland's Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, waterfalls and Reykjavik's vibrant culture, before flying to Greenland for iceberg cruises, husky sledding and polar experiences. This combination appeals to first-time Arctic visitors wanting diverse landscapes—Iceland's geothermal activity and accessible sights contrast beautifully with Greenland's remote, ice-dominated wilderness. Reykjavik serves as the primary international gateway, with Air Iceland Connect operating regular flights to Ilulissat and Nuuk, making the connection seamless. Combined packages suit time-conscious travellers, those seeking variety, and anyone wanting to compare two distinct Nordic cultures whilst often proving more economical than booking separately.

Top activities and experiences to include in your trip

Iceberg & fjord cruises (what to expect, typical duration)

Iceberg and fjord cruises form the centrepiece of most Greenland travel packages, offering intimate encounters with the Arctic's frozen giants. In Ilulissat, 2–3 hour boat excursions navigate Disko Bay and the Icefjord mouth, weaving between icebergs ranging from car-sized chunks to structures rivalling office blocks, their sculpted forms glowing blue and white. Longer expedition cruises spend days exploring Scoresby Sund's intricate waterways, with Zodiac excursions allowing close approaches to calving glaciers and ice walls. Expect expert commentary on glaciology, wildlife spotting (whales, seals, seabirds) and photography opportunities in ever-changing light. Summer cruises benefit from the Midnight Sun's golden glow, whilst autumn offers early Aurora chances. These cruises reveal Greenland's scale and beauty in ways land-based viewing cannot match.

Northern Lights hunts and best viewing conditions

The Aurora Borealis transforms Greenland's winter and shoulder-season nights into celestial theatres of green, purple and crimson light. Prime viewing runs from late August through April, with peak activity in September–October and February–March. Ilulissat, Nuuk and ship-based locations far from light pollution offer excellent chances. Many packages include dedicated Northern Lights excursions—evening boat trips, snowmobile journeys to dark-sky sites, or deck viewing on expedition cruises. Success requires patience and flexibility—cloud cover can obscure displays, and Aurora activity is unpredictable. Guides monitor forecasts and wake passengers for significant events. Witnessing the Aurora dance above icebergs or fjords creates a uniquely Greenlandic experience, blending two of nature's most spectacular phenomena.

Dog sledding, snowmobile and other polar activities

Greenland's winter and spring months unlock thrilling polar activities. Husky sledding, deeply rooted in Inuit tradition, remains a highlight: teams of powerful Greenland dogs pull sleds across frozen fjords and sea ice, with experienced mushers guiding half-day or full-day excursions from Ilulissat and other settlements. Snowmobile safaris offer faster-paced exploration, accessing remote viewpoints, ice caves and glacier edges unreachable on foot. Additional activities include ice fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and polar plunges into Arctic waters. Summer alternatives include kayaking among icebergs, whale-watching excursions (humpback and minke whales frequent Disko Bay), and hiking across tundra carpeted with Arctic wildflowers. These activities transform Greenland from a visual spectacle into a fully immersive adventure, engaging all senses and creating lasting memories.

Practical info: logistics, visas, health and packing

How to reach Greenland: flights, charter transfers and connections

Reaching Greenland requires careful planning, as no direct flights operate from the UK. The standard route involves flying to Reykjavik, then connecting via Air Iceland Connect to Greenland's main airports: Kangerlussuaq, Ilulissat, or Nuuk. London–Reykjavik takes 3 hours with multiple daily flights; Reykjavik–Ilulissat adds another 2 hours. Some expedition cruises include charter flights from Kangerlussuaq to embarkation points, simplifying logistics. Copenhagen offers an alternative hub, with Air Greenland operating flights to Kangerlussuaq and Nuuk. Internal Greenland travel relies on small aircraft and helicopters—there are no roads between towns—so expect propeller planes and weight-restricted baggage. Weather can delay flights; build buffer days into tight schedules. Most Greenland travel packages include flight coordination, but independent travellers should book connections with generous layovers.

Visa, passport and health & insurance essentials

UK citizens do not require a visa for tourist visits to Greenland for stays up to 90 days. A passport valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates is essential. No mandatory vaccinations are required, but ensure routine immunisations are current. Greenland's healthcare facilities are limited outside Nuuk and Ilulissat, with serious cases requiring evacuation to Iceland or Denmark—comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation is non-negotiable. Verify your policy includes adventure activities like Zodiac cruising, husky sledding and snowmobiling, as standard policies may exclude these. Prescription medications should be carried in original packaging with a doctor's letter. Expedition cruise operators often require medical questionnaires and may mandate evacuation insurance; check requirements when booking.

Clothing and gear checklist for polar conditions

Packing for Greenland demands layering for extreme variability: temperatures range from -30°C (winter) to +15°C (summer), with fierce winds and sudden weather changes. The base layer should be thermal merino wool or synthetic wicking fabric. Mid-layers include fleece or down jackets for insulation. The outer shell must be waterproof and windproof—a quality parka and trousers are essential. Many expedition ships provide complimentary parkas; check inclusions. Footwear requires insulated, waterproof boots with excellent grip. Accessories are critical: warm hat, neck gaiter, insulated gloves, and UV-protective sunglasses. Sun cream and lip balm prevent burns even in cold conditions. Photography gear needs cold-weather protection; spare batteries drain quickly. A small daypack carries layers and essentials during excursions.

Greenland stands apart as one of Earth's last great wildernesses, where nature's raw power and beauty converge in unforgettable ways. From the thunderous spectacle of calving glaciers to the silent dance of the Aurora Borealis, every moment offers something extraordinary. A thoughtfully chosen Greenland travel package transforms this remote destination into an accessible, expertly guided adventure suited to your interests and comfort level. Whether you sail through Scoresby Sund aboard an expedition vessel, explore Ilulissat's iconic icebergs from a boutique hotel, or combine Iceland and Greenland in one remarkable journey, the memories you create will resonate for a lifetime. The Arctic awaits—are you ready to answer its call?

Greenland travel packages

Most Greenland travel packages bundle flights (often from Reykjavik), accommodation (ship cabins or hotels), meals (full-board on cruises, breakfast in hotels), and core excursions like iceberg cruises, Zodiac landings and guided hikes. Expedition cruises include expert naturalist guides, all landings, and onboard lectures. Fly-and-stay packages may include select activities, with optional extras bookable locally. Exclusions commonly include international flights to the departure city, travel insurance, alcoholic beverages, tips, and optional activities like helicopter tours or premium upgrades. Always review the detailed itinerary to understand inclusions.

For icebergs and accessible fjord cruising, visit June through September. July–August offers the warmest temperatures, the Midnight Sun, and peak iceberg calving in Ilulissat Icefjord. September brings autumn colours and the return of darkness, enabling early Northern Lights viewing. For Aurora-focused trips, late August through April is optimal, with September–October and February–March offering the best combination of dark skies and tolerable cold. Winter provides maximum Aurora chances but extreme cold suits only hardy adventurers. September offers the best of both worlds—icebergs, autumn tundra, and Aurora possibilities.

No, UK citizens do not require a visa for tourist visits to Greenland for stays up to 90 days. Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark but maintains separate entry rules from the Schengen Area. A passport valid for at least six months beyond your return date is required. If you transit through Iceland (the most common route), standard Schengen entry applies, but this is automatic for UK tourists. Always verify current requirements before travel and ensure your passport has blank pages for stamps.

Essential items include thermal base layers (merino wool or synthetic), insulating mid-layers (fleece, down jacket), waterproof and windproof outer shell (parka and trousers), insulated waterproof boots, warm hat, gloves (insulated plus waterproof over-mitts), neck gaiter, UV-protective sunglasses, and high-SPF sun cream. Many expedition cruises provide complimentary parkas and rubber boots for landings; confirm inclusions when booking. Add a daypack, binoculars, camera with spare batteries (cold drains power quickly), seasickness remedies, and any prescription medications with documentation. Layering is key—conditions vary between sunny deck moments and windy Zodiac rides.

A minimum of 5–7 days allows you to experience Greenland's core highlights: fly to Ilulissat, enjoy iceberg cruises, husky sledding, and cultural visits. For deeper exploration via expedition cruise, 10–14 days is ideal, enabling multi-day fjord navigation, numerous landings, wildlife encounters and Northern Lights opportunities. Extended voyages span 14+ days, combining Greenland with other Arctic regions. Factor in travel days (UK–Reykjavik–Greenland requires 1–2 days each way) and potential weather delays. Quality trumps quantity in the Arctic—a week of focused exploration often proves more rewarding than a rushed itinerary.

  1. Voyage Privé
  2. Luxury holidays
  3. Greenland travel packages