ADVENTURE BREAKS Glacier Camp and Helicopter. Helicopter. 4-5 days Getaways from Iceland to the Land of Inuit

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4-5 days Getaways from Iceland to the Land of Inuit We propose the most complete adventure break in Greenland.

navigation close to some of the largest glacier fronts in south Greenland, unique crampon excursion into the

.. And be one with nature in an overnight in our spectacular wilderness Qaleraliq Camp.

A different country, unique and until very recently, isolated from Western customs and lifestyles.

second-largest polar ice cap in the world, just behind Antarctica.

1 ADVENTURE BREAKS Glacier Camp and Helicopter. Helicopter. 4-5 days Getaways from Iceland to the Land of Inuit We propose the most complete adventure break in Greenland. Exploring the icebergs filled fiords with our adventurous RIB boats, helicopter flight with spectacular views, navigation close to some of the largest glacier fronts in south Greenland, unique crampon excursion into the inland ice and kayaking opportunities among icebergs... And be one with nature in an overnight in our spectacular wilderness Qaleraliq Camp. A magic place surrounded by glaciers, ice and sand. A different country, unique and until very recently, isolated from Western customs and lifestyles. Discover iceberg-covered seas and the paradoxes of a country called "Green Land" which, nevertheless, has the second-largest polar ice cap in the world, just behind Antarctica. In just few days you will gain first-hand knowledge of the home of the Inuits, the history of the Vikings first settlers and Erik the Red legend, its most beautiful valleys, the most impressive glaciers and its waters dotted with blue-tinged ice. Greenland is deeply connected to the past and excited about the future. This is one of the few places in the world where you can hear and experience the wildlife. With us, you will have the chance to be part of Greenland remarkable Inuit Culture and Wild Nature. 1

2 JOURNEY HIGHLIGHTS Navigation in our adventurous RIB boats through a sea filled with icebergs, in front of Qaleraliq glacier one of the longest glacier fronts in south Greenland. A unique excursion with crampons, guided through labyrinthine crevasses, drains and ice caves in one of the oldest ice fields in the planet. A truly exclusive trip in Greenland, only comparable to that in Patagonia s Perito Moreno. Helicopter trip (regular flight), with unforgettable overview of the Fjords system and the Inland Ice Cap. Overnight in the Qaleraliq Glacier Camp, a tent camp located in the most magical spot in south Greenland, a sandy beach situated in front of the ice cap. A truly unique experience. Visiting the towns of Narsaq, and several Inuit settlements (Narsarsuaq, Qassiarsuk and Tasiusaq). In Greenland, a settlement with more than one thousand inhabitants is considered town. Witnessing the northern lights, the Dance of the Sky, from one of the world s most special areas. Having first-hand experience of the dramatic progress of climate change in Southern Greenland, an area which offers a rare glimpse of the effects of global warming: glacier withdrawal, increase in the amount of ice that has broken of the glaciers, forest and new vegetation sprouting in terrain which for centuries could not sustain plant life Sighting of local fauna such as eagles, caribou, foxes and arctic hares, or whales and seals when the journey takes us to the sea. Opportunity to observe the Arctic flora in an ecosystem that is still wild. Opportunity to enjoy an impressive kayak excursion, surrounded by icebergs Cultural exchange with locals. Visiting the ruins of Brattahlid, the most important archaeological treasures in the South of Greenland. Sampling of a good part of the Inuit diet, such as meat from seals, whales, caribou, anmmassat... 2

3 DAYLY ITINERARY 5 DAYS. Day 1: Narsarsuaq and Narsaq city: Flight Reykjavik (domestic airport) / Copenhagen Narsarsuaq Reception at the airport and meeting information. Transfer in RIB boat through Tunulliarfik Fjord (Eriksfjord), usually covered by icebergs, to Narsaq Narsaq is the third most populated city in South Greenland, with about 1500 inhabitants. Our guide will accompany you visiting the local market, fur shops, hunters harbour, the Greenlandic museum Time off to walk around the city, where we will discover the beauty of its colourful buildings and the awe-inspiring landscapes. You can enjoy a drink with the local people and discover the modern Inuit s way of life. Accommodation at Hotel Narsaq. Twin / Double room with private facilities. Day 2: Qaleraliq glacier Camp RIB boat navigation along glacier fronts. Walk on ice with crampons. In the morning, we will set off for Qaleraliq camp, navigating with our RIB boats towards the Inland Ice. We will arrive to a cosy, enchanting camp set on a sandy beach, which contrasts with a spectacular view of two glacier fronts from Qaleraliq s glacier. Once we arrive, we will set off for the ice: Glacier fronts and excursion on ice We will navigate along the glacier fronts on a zodiac boat, admiring the beauty of their vertical ice walls and numerous icebergs as we approach them along their more than 10 kilometres descent to the sea. From there we will start the ice excursion. An impressive trek using crampons (organised to be suitable for all travellers) on one of the oldest masses of ice in the planet. We will explore its crevasses, drains, caves, seracs, and other ice formations, which give an incredible, labyrinthine quality to this glacier. An expert mountain guide, a specialist in Glacier Science, will be in charge to make sure we are provided with the appropriate equipment, and to ensure the safety of the group during the trip. He will share with us his knowledge about the special characteristics of the glaciers in the South of Greenland. A unique experience, exciting and original, surprising both first-time comers and those used to the peculiarities of the glacier world. You will enjoy one of the most impressive sights and one of the best excursions in all Greenland. Picnic lunch in the ice or at the camp depending conditions. Return to Qaleraliq Camp. We will stay at the camp, allowing our senses to enjoy the unbelievable views and the thunderclap roar of the icefall from seracs. A magic place combining a sandy beach with the surrounding glaciers. A place to admire and experience the pure Greenlandic wilderness at its best. 3

4 Dinner at the camp. Accommodation in domo tents. Day 3: Helicopter Narsaq Narsarsuaq / Glacier View Point After enjoying breakfast in front of the glaciers, and take short time to explore the surroundings of the camp; return by boat to Narsaq. We will be surprised by enormous icebergs falling off from the Eqaloruutsit Glacier and floating throw all the Sermilik Fjord. Sometimes, they are blocking the access to Narsaq ports. Impressive helicopter* trip over the fjord system of South Greenland. Whatever the route, a helicopter trip in South Greenland is a really unforgettable experience. You will enjoy the fascinating composition of the Fjords and the fantastic view of the Inland Ice. Greenland is a special land where moving from one town/city to another, is possible only by air or by sea. * The helicopter flight operates as regular line between Narsaq and Narsarsuaq. Reception at the harbour and transfer to the Hotel, for check-in. Excursion: at late afternoon, hike to the Glacier View Point. It takes almost one hour from Narsarsuaq Hotel and allows great views of the Fjord, the plain of Narsarsuaq and the Kiattut Glacier. Free time to visit and walk around in the area. Accommodation at Hotel Narsarsuaq. Twin / Double room with private facilities. Day 4:. Boat to Qassiarsuk. Visit of Erik the Red Ruins and reconstructions. 4x4 trip to Tasiusaq, the Icebergs Bay. Optional Kayak among icebergs. Transfer in RIB boat through Tunulliarfik Fjord (Eriksfjord), usually covered by icebergs, to Qassiarsuk. Visit of the church ruins and the settlement of Eric the Red comprising the old Brattahlid, capital of Viking Greenland, and where Erik the Red settled in 985. Walk through the village of about 50 inhabitants, mostly farmers. Lunch at the Leif Eriksson Hostel whose denomination refers to the explorer Erik s son. Leif made the first colonization trip to the American continent in the year 1000 and started from this same place: Brattahlid. Excursion: In the afternoon, 4x4 trip to the beautiful Tasiusaq farm where seven people live in notable isolation near to Sermilik fjord. This fjord is almost always blocked by the ice and icebergs coming from Eqaloruutsit glacier. Optional: Kayak excursion in the Iceberg Bay a 2 hour sea kayaking trip for beginners among icebergs and ice in one of the safest and best place in the whole of Greenland. Return by boat to Narsarsuaq and accommodation at Hotel Narsarsuaq. Twin / Double room with private facilities. 4

5 Day. 5 Hike in the flower valley. Flight Narsarsuaq Reykjavik: We reserve for our last day the most famous hike in south Greenland, the Flower Valley. An spectacular hike with sights of the Kiattut river and glacier. You will enjoy the spectacular view of this valley formed due to the retreat and the consequent glacial sedimentation with plenty of flowers. In our return to Narsarsuaq we can visit The Narsarsuaq Museum Blue West One is recommended to be visited as it reflects the town history from ancient times and specially its role in the Second World War. Time is enough to do that just before flight departure. Free time to visit and walk around in the area. Flight Narsarsuaq-Reykjavik (domestic airport) or Copenhagen ALTERNATIVE ITINERARY 4 DAYS Don t hesitate to contact us for a similar travel plan but taking only 4 days: Day 1: Flight arrival from Reykjavik. RIB boat transfer Narsarsuaq Narsaq and city walk Day 2: Qaleraliq glacier Camp, walk on ice with crampons RIB boat navigation among icebergs and along glacier fronts. And Overnight at Qaleraliq Glacier camp. Day 3: Helicopter Narsaq Narsarssuaq: Qassiarsuk. Erik The Red Ruins and 4x4 trip to Tasiusaq, the Icebergs Bay. Optional kayak excursion among icebergs. Day 4: Hike in the flower valley. Flight Narsarsuaq Reykjavik / Copenhagen: IMPORTANT: This itinerary is a unique journey, designed and organised by the tour operator. It keeps the adventure and discovery ingredients present in all our journeys. The route can be done as it is explained above or in different order. The order of the activities may not be exactly as planned in this outline. Greenland is the wildest country in the northern hemisphere, infrastructures are almost non-existent and logistics pose enormous challenges. Helicopters and boats can be delayed due to weather conditions, sea or ice conditions, or technical difficulties, and it therefore requires flexibility in the traveller for possible changes of plans. And some activities may be cancelled because of weather or ice conditions as locals say The weather is Boss in Greenland. 5

6 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PRICES 2015: 4 days ,75dkk (1.895 ) per person, from Reykjavik ,25dkk (2.065 ) per person, for open jaw flights Single room supplement: 1.571,95dkk (211 ) PRICES 2015: 5 days ,75dkk (2.195 ) per person from Reykjavik ,25dkk (2.365 ) per person, for open jaw flights Single room supplement: 2.018,95dkk (271 ) DATES 2015: 4 days. Every Saturday, from the 27 th of June until the 19 th of September (last departure) Every Monday, from the 03 rd of August until the 24 th of August (last departure) Departure from Reykjavik and return to Copenhagen or Reykjavik June: September: 27 th 30 th June July: 04 th 07 th July 11 th 14 th July 18 th 21 st July 25 th 28 th July August: 01 st 04 th August 03 rd 06 th August 08 th 11 th August 10 th 13 th August 15 th 18 th August 17 th 20 st August 22 nd 25 th August 24 th 27 th August 29 th August 01 st September 05 th 08 th September 12 th 15 th September 19 th 22 nd September 5 days. Every Tuesday, from the 23 rd of June until the 15 th of September (last departure) Every Thursday, from the 30 th of July until the 27 th of August (last departure) Departure from Reykjavik or Copenhagen, return to Reykjavik June 23 rd 27 th June July 30 th June 04 th July 07 th 11 th July 14 th 18 th July 21 st 25 th July 28 th July 01 st August August 30 th July 03 rd August 04 th 08 th August 06 th 10 th August 11 th 15 th August 13 th 17 th August 18 th 22 nd August 20 st 24 th August 25 th 29 th August 27 th 31 st August September 01 st 05 th September 08 th 12 th September 15 th 19 th September GROUP: 2 to 12 people 6

7 What is included: - Departure and return flights to Narsarsuaq - Transfers from the airport and hotel to the harbour, in Narsarsuaq and Narsaq. - Helicopter Narsaq Narsarssuaq. - Accommodation in hotels, in twin / double rooms, including breakfast - Accommodation and dinner in Qaleraliq Camp - Guides (English speaking) - Boat transfers and excursions in Greenland, as detailed in this program - 4x4 trip to Tasiusaq - Lunch in Qassiarsuk, Picnic in Qaleraliq - RIB boat travel equipment - Guided visit to Brattahlid reconstructions What is not included: - Airport taxes and issuing tickets fees (145 from Reykjavik / 170 for open jaw flight) - Accommodation, food and transfers in Reykjavik or Copenhagen - Lunch and dinner not mentioned in What is included - Travel insurance - Optional excursions*: Kayak excursion: 70 (minimum 2 participants) - Unexpected expenses as a result of weather conditions (including difficulties due to ice or weather conditions) or flight or boat delays - Any other aspect not listed in What is included NOTES ABOUT THE TRIP Level of the Trip and Physical Condition No special physical condition is necessary, more than being able to walk at a normal pace for 3-4 hours and have a good attitude for adventure. The journey is designed so that it is suitable for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities and goes hiking or trekking on a regular basis. No special physical condition is needed to participate. Guide-Coordinator: The trip will be coordinated by English-speaking guides* from the tour operator. All Excursions are guided. The guide s job is to point the group in the right direction, to ensure all travellers safety and to solve any possible problems that may arise along the itinerary, making changes or adjustments if necessary. * It s possible that different guides will be in charge of the group during the adventure stay. Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB boat) The navigation will be done in a RIB-boat a Rigid Inflatable Boat, The Adventure boat by definition. The RIB boat is an open boat fast flexible and very safe. A special jacket is provided for navigation. The RIB Boat allows the traveller to feel the elements and be one with them. 7

Helicopter flight The Helicopter is a regular helicopter linking Narsaq with Narsarssuaq. Therefore, conditions of the airline apply.

In that case, helicopter flight cannot be done in any other part of the trip.

It offers a bar, coffee shop, restaurant, bank, souvenir shop, etc. The rooms have private facilities, television, telephone, minibar, etc.

.. Lodging is in a double room with a bath. The price includes breakfast.

All rooms have a TV, mini bar and safe. There is also everything you need to make yourself a cozy cup of tea or coffee in your room.

Accommodation in Hotel Narsaq Could be changed in another hotel with similar services and characteristics.

8 Helicopter flight The Helicopter is a regular helicopter linking Narsaq with Narsarssuaq. Therefore, conditions of the airline apply. If by any reason the trip is cancelled or severely delayed, boat transfer may be considered. In that case, helicopter flight cannot be done in any other part of the trip. ACCOMMODATION Hotel Narsarsuaq This is the best hotel in southern Greenland, modern and well-equipped. It offers a bar, coffee shop, restaurant, bank, souvenir shop, etc. The rooms have private facilities, television, telephone, minibar, etc. The restaurant offers a varied buffet, in addition to all of the traditional products from Greenland, such as salmon, seal, whale, lamb... Lodging is in a double room with a bath. The price includes breakfast. Hotel Narsaq Breakfast and dinner are served daily in the hotel restaurant. Guests can enjoy drinks at the hotel bar in the evenings. All rooms have a TV, mini bar and safe. There is also everything you need to make yourself a cozy cup of tea or coffee in your room. Hotel rooms are cleaned daily. Lodging is in a twin / double room with a bath. The price includes breakfast. Accommodation in Hotel Narsaq Could be changed in another hotel with similar services and characteristics. Qaleraliq Adventure Glacier Camp Qaleraliq Glacier camp is the place where to breathe and feel the Greenlandic untouched wilderness, there are no construction in the place, a totally clean and no impact camp. Therefore basic but located in one of the most spectacular and beautiful spots of South Greenland. It has a big dining Domo room area cosy with tables and chairs; a Domo-kitchen with gas cooker, kitchen utensils. 8

9 Dinner and breakfast are served in the camp. Accommodation will be in 4 bedded basic but comfortable rooms of Domo loft. Sleeping in bunk beds using sleeping bags provided by the tour operator. Shared toilets outside the tent bucket type. The camp is located some 150 meters from the landing point, luggage has to be transported by the visitors, help might be possible but cannot be confirmed. It is recommended a light luggage just for the night. Main bag or suitcase can be left in the boat and will be placed in the hotel room in Narsaq next day. Accommodation at the Glacier camp will be done with sleeping bags that will be provided in the camp. Food will be served at the Domo mess tent, but camp rules imply that visitors wash their own dishes and glasses. Toilets bucket-type are situated 50 meters from the sleeping tents. Level and technical information Trekking Distance (km) Duration aprox. (h) Accumulated height (m) Maximum height (m) Type of terrain Glacier Trek Ice Communication Most mobile phones can be used in towns and many areas of the coast. Camps will have Iridium satellite phone and radio. Boats have special radio systems. Board It is included: - Breakfast everyday - Lunch at the Leif Eriksson Hostel the day of the visit to Qassiarsuk - Picnic on the excursion in Qaleraliq Glacier - Dinner at Qaleraliq Fjord Camp Dinners at hotels are not included in the price but could be arranged in situ in the Hotel. Northern Lights The northern lights are one of the most wonderful of nature s phenomena on our planet, a beautiful, delightful display of movement and light against the dark polar skies on clear, calm nights. It is usually possible to witness the aurora in winter. Late summer, however, especially from mid August, is the best time of the year to observe it in Southern Greenland, which 9

10 is famous for offering some of the best places to view this spectacular natural display. In July, there is more sunlight and therefore it is not so easy to see it. Fishing and Fruit picking Narsarsuaq and Qassiarsuk are very good areas to go fishing, especially for arctic salmon and cod. We do not provide fishing equipment. Therefore, we recommend you take it from your country or buy it at Qassiarsuk. Weather Weather in Greenland is very changeable. It is usually pleasant, but it is essential that you bring appropriate clothes for rainy weather. Temperatures are often more than 15ºC in July, and between 5ºC and 10ºC in August. Mid-August nights are sometimes very cold. In September, temperatures are usually between 5ºC to 8ºC during the day and may reach minus 5ºC at night. Cancellations Excursions can be cancelled because of bad weather or ice conditions. The tour operator will try to offer an alternative excursion if available. Or move the planned excursion to other day in order to do the full programme. In case it becomes impossible, no refund will be applicable. USEFUL INFORMATION FOR THE TRAVELLER Currency DKK: Danish crown. Aprox. 1 = 7,4508DKK. (in both Greenland and Denmark). Updated in September ISK: Islandic crown. Aprox. 1 = 154ISK. (in Iceland). Updated in September You can exchange euros at our Narsarsuaq office on your first day in Greenland and also at the Leif Eriksson Hostel. Pocket money Greenland is one of the most expensive countries in the world. We recommend travellers to bring approximately dkk ( euros). You can purchase gifts and handicrafts at our Narsarsuaq office or at the Leif Eriksson Hostel. Passport and visa regulations You must have a valid passport which expires no less than three months after your stay in Greenland. A visa is not necessary unless you come from a country where a visa is required to enter Denmark. Ask at the Danish Embassy in your home country to know about the specific requirements from your country. Vaccine You do not need to have any vaccinations for Greenland. 10

11 Language Kalaallisut, the Western Greenlandic language, is the main language in Greenland. It is spoken by people, which makes it the most important Inuit language in the world. Inuhumiutut is also spoken in the North, and Tunumiutut in the East Coast. Most people in Greenland speak some Danish, which is the second official language. Many speak English too, with various levels of fluency, especially young people. Greenlandic has an agglutinating structure. It belongs to the Inuit-Aleut family of languages, and it is spoken by people in different areas, from the Aleutian Islands up to the west coast in Greenland. It is of Asian origin, as is the Inuit race. The country Greenland is one of the most singular countries in the world: A huge island that holds a glacier measuring two million square kilometres in size, surrounded by a coastal mountainous belt, bathed by a sea which due to its Arctic climate remains frozen most part of the year. Some inhabitants, mostly Inuits depending on fishing, hunting and farming, live on the coast. Greenland is now semi-independent from Denmark. The most populated area is the west coast inhabitants live in Nuuk which is the capital of the country. Northern and Eastern Greenland are almost uninhabited. Transport Roads are almost non-existent, except in towns. The most common means of transport are therefore boats, planes or helicopters. GROUP EQUIPMENT PROVIDED BY THE TOUR OPERATOR COMMUNICATION The boats are equipped with a radio to be used at sea Mobile phone Delorme (satellite messenger) on guided excursions ORIENTATION Compass Maps PERSONAL EQUIPMENT PROVIDED BY THE TOUR OPERATOR BODY Polar Parka (to be worn on the RIB boat) Life jacket (to be worn on the RIB boat) CAMPING EQUIPMENT 11

12 Domo tents Camping stoves and cooking accessories, kitchen utensils, Plate Cup Cutlery set First-aid kit Sleeping bag. Mattress pad. RECOMMENDED PERSONAL EQUIPMENT NOT PROVIDED BY THE TOUR OPERATOR HEAD Fleece hat (or woolen) Sunglasses Buff Sun cream (we recommend strong protection against UVA rays) Lip balm (with sun block) Mosquito head net (recommended if you come before mid August. It can be purchased in Narsarsuaq. Please confirm first with the tour operators office). Peaked cap (to use with the mosquito net) BODY Waterproof jacket or rain cape A pair of light waterproof trousers Fleece jacket Thin fleece pullover 2 thermal t-shirts Thermal leggings Comfortable trousers (to wear during the treks) HANDS Waterproof gloves Fleece gloves FEET Waterproof trekking boots 2 pairs of trekking socks Flip flops or similar footwear (useful at hotel, but not essential) CAMPING EQUIPMENT Water bottle Toilet bag and accessories (please bring biodegradable products) OTHERS Backpack, suitcase or bag (where you must fit all your luggage for the trip). Small bag (for one-day excursions) 12

13 Hiking poles (optional). You may rent one at Narsarsuaq. Please contact first tour operators office to confirm. Note: This is not an exhaustive list. Please add toiletries, travelling clothes, personal medication, and any other item you may need. RESERVATIONS: A 40% deposit of the total price is needed to confirm the booking. The rest must be paid at least 45 days before departure. Otherwise the booking will be cancelled. Payment must be made by bank transfer only. The bank transfer document is legally equivalent to an invoice. 13

BEST ADVENTURE IN SOUTH GREENLAND Hiking, glacier trek, RIB boat navigation around the ice cap and the Tasermiut Mountains The Patagonia of the arctic

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