HIKING AND KAYAKING IN GREENLAND

Transcription

1 HIKING AND KAYAKING IN GREENLAND JUNE 14-23, 2019 TRIP SUMMARY HIGHLIGHTS Being immersed in Greenland's wild remote beauty on foot and by boat Navigating among icebergs in kayak and RIB boat Learning about Viking history and current Inuit culture Walking on a glacier and learning how glaciers are formed and seeing how they retreat Experiencing almost constant daylight as we are close to the Arctic Circle at midsummer Phone: Outside the US: Fax: info@goodadventure.com

2 TRIP AT A GLANCE Dates: June 14-23, 2019 Location: South Greenland Cost: $3, Activities: Multisport Arrive: Arrive Keflavik, Iceland anytime on June 14 Depart: If you are flying home, plan a flight out of Keflavik anytime on June 23 TRIP OVERVIEW Greenland is the least populated, wildest country in the world. Most of it is covered by a huge ice cap and the population of 56,000 clings to the green fringe along the coast. It is spectacularly beautiful: soaring mountains tower over fjords choked with blue-tinged icebergs, sheep graze in deep green meadows, Viking ruins remind us of the population that survived here for 400 years, and Inuit farms and tiny towns are testaments to the people who have carved out a living here for over 4500 years. We'll spend time camped across from a huge glacier, listening to its creaks and groans and exploring a small part on crampons. We'll hike to the top of a mountain from where we can look across to Inlandis, the ice cap. We'll kayak in a bay off of Sermilik Fjord among icebergs that come off the huge Egaloruutsit glacier. We'll learn about Viking and Inuit history and shelter. This trip offers a rare combination of experiencing Greenland's wilderness and still having shelter if the weather turns. Maximum group size: 11 RATING This trip is suitable for women with prior outdoor experience, endurance, enjoyment of very rustic conditions, the ability to stay active for 3 to 5 hours a day, and a very flexible approach to travel. A rating of 3 requires aerobic conditioning, such as walking vigorously up hills, jogging, cross country skiing or stair stepping for minutes at least 4 times a week. Rating: 1 2 [3] 4 5. WHAT'S INCLUDED One English-speaking guide and an Adventures in Good Company leader 9 nights accommodation as described Round trip airfare between Iceland and Greenland All meals from dinner on the 14th through breakfast on the 23rd with the exception of one lunch and dinner Transfer from Reykjavik hotel to airport for flight to Greenland Transfer by RIB boats and warm insulated jackets for the transfers Kayaks and group camping equipment Not included: airfare to Iceland, transfer to the Reykjavik hotel, alcoholic beverages, sleeping bag and pad (can be rented), 1 lunch and dinner, guide gratuities, mandatory travel insurance, unexpected expenses as a result of weather conditions (including difficulties or cancellations due to ice or weather conditions) or flight or boat delays

3 OUR ITINERARY Below is the proposed itinerary for the trip. As is true on any adventure travel trip, plans for any specific day may be modified due to weather considerations, unforeseen circumstances, and new opportunities. This is particularly true in Greenland where Nature is boss. DAY 1 JUNE 14, FRIDAY Arrive Reykjavik anytime today. Flights from North America typically arrive early in the morning and transportation into the city on dedicated buses is simple (we'll provide instructions in the Pre-departure document due out mid- December 2018). We'll meet as a group in the lobby of our hotel at 10 am and start getting to know each other. Your AGC guide will orient you to this beautiful compact and walkable city. The Visitor's Center is just next door to your hotel and your reception staff is also very helpful with suggestions of fun things to do. There will be some free time in the afternoon for you to either make any final preparations for heading to Greenland, or wander as you choose before we meet back as a group and go out for a Welcome Dinner together. Overnight in Reykjavik at Center Hotel Plaza or similar. D DAY 2 JUNE 15, SATURDAY Depending on the flight schedule, we may have free time to continue exploring Reykjavik (lunch is on your own) before departing for the airport. The landing strip is at Narsarsuaq, an old WWII US Army base. If the weather is clear, we'll see the mountains that will soon be surrounding us and the fjords we will be traveling by boat. We'll meet our local guide at the airport and transfer to the harbor where we get into the RIB (rigid inflatable boat) that we'll become familiar with over the next week. Navigating along the Tunulliarfik fjord among numerous icebergs, we set off for our home for the next three nights: Qaleraliq Glacier Camp, which is likely as remote and as quiet as you've ever experienced. Set up on a bluff overlooking the fjord and across to huge glaciers, it is an enchanting place. Overnight: Qaleraliq Glacier Camp B, D DAY 3 JUNE 16, SUNDAY Today we'll hike up along the stream that rushes down from Tasersuatsiaq Lake and supplies both our drinking and washing water. Our hike goes up through a glacial valley, scoured out centuries ago, and then up a lateral moraine to a vast dry plain. This was once part of the lake that we will shortly be hiking along, but the shrinking of the glaciers has resulted in a shrinking lake. Our path then becomes considerably rougher as we follow an uneven track up 1200 feet to the top of a small mountain with a commanding view of the Inlandis, the ice cap that covers almost all of Greenland, the lake below, and the fjord up which we traveled. We'll eat lunch here before returning by the same way. Caribou can often be seen here. We'll have free time when we return, to relax, walk along the beach, or perhaps wash off in the stream. Overnight: Qaleraliq Glacier Camp B, L, D

4 DAY 4 JUNE 17, MONDAY We've been watching and listening to the glacier across the bay and today we finally get to see it up close. The RIB boat will pick us up and transport us across the bay, looking at the different glacier fronts that were once all part of the same edge and admiring their vertical blue walls. As the glacier has receded, the fronts have become dramatically distinct. We'll land in a flat area and after a short walk we'll reach a barrel where helmets and crampons are stored. After we have put these on for our glacier walk, our guide will give us instruction in how to use them to walk up and down safely on the glacier, part of one of the oldest masses of ice on earth. We'll head up the glacier, seeing its crevasses, drains, caves, seracs, and other ice formations. Our expert mountain guide will explain how the glaciers are formed and the special characteristics of Greenland glaciers. It is truly a unique and magical experience. This will be our final night here and even the prospect of hot showers will not make us want to leave. Overnight: Qaleraliq Glacier Camp B, L, D DAY 5 JUNE 18, TUESDAY Leaving Glacier Camp behind, we're off to our next adventure. Our RIB takes us back down Tunulliarfik Fjord to Itilleq, more a name than an actual town. From here we walk over a high point on a dirt road called "The Path of the Kings" to the beautiful little village of Igaliku, a small Inuit settlement of not more than 40 people situated on another fjord. Regarded by some as the most beautiful settlement in Greenland, it is home to the remains of Gardar, the religious capital of Viking Greenland. We'll visit some of the ruins and a reconstructed church before retracing our steps, and then transported by RIB to the small town of Qassiarsuk. We'll spend tonight at the Qassiarsuk Hostel. B, L, D DAY 6 JUNE 19, WEDNESDAY This morning will start with a beautiful hike across to Tasiusaq, site of a one-family sheep farm and the launch point for our kayak expedition on Sermilik Fjord. After getting suited up, we'll start with some basic kayak instruction and packing up and stowing our gear in our kayaks. We'll be kayaking in a bay of Nordre Sermilik Fjord among icebergs that vary wildly in shape, size, and color. Both the bay itself and the main fjord are always filled with icebergs as they calve directly from Eqaloruutsit Glacier. This is an area in which the kayak is the only possible means of navigation at this time of the year, so we won't see any other boats. Or people. Our kayak is leisurely, allowing us time to take pictures, soak in the scenery, or sit and gaze in awe. In early evening we'll set up our tents on the shores of the fjord, really out in the middle of nowhere. Once camp is settled we'll go for a hike through the tundra, up to a viewpoint from where we can see the main part of the Fjord and the impressive Eqaloruutsit glacier. Overnight: Camping on the shores of the fjord. B, L, D

5 DAY 7 JUNE 20, THURSDAY Today is much like yesterday, a leisurely kayak back down the bay, weaving our way around icebergs of all different sizes. Depending on ice, we may be able to get close to the area of Kangerdlua, which is blocked by ice year round. We'll return to Tasiusaq in the afternoon. Depending on our timing and the weather, we may have time to walk back along the road and/or get a ride in the gear truck to Qassiarsuk Hostel. Today is National Greenland Day and also Summer Solstice, and the day is long indeed. B, L, D DAY 8 JUNE 21, FRIDAY We'll get an early start today because it s our last full day in Greenland and we still have a lot to pack in! This morning we cross to Narsarsuaq on our RIB boat for a hike through Flower Valley, which was formed during an old glacial retreat; the consequent glacial sedimentation has made it the perfect place for flowers to grow and thus its name. We will walk until we can see Kiattut glacier and the landscape around it, with a superb panoramic view of the ice sheet and its Nunataks. This is probably one of the most beautiful hikes in Greenland and a full day it is! Tonight our dinner will offer Greenlandic specialties: seal, whale, musk ox, and fish. Overnight: Qassiarsuk Hostel B, L, D

6 DAY 9 JUNE 22, SATURDAY This morning we'll learn more about Viking history and culture as we walk through Qassiarsuk, the village of about 50 inhabitants where the hostel is located. Eric the Red settled here in 985 and founded the village of Brattahlid, which was the capital of Viking Greenland. They were mostly sheep farmers then and though the breed has changed, the Inuit people who live here still are (this area, including Narsaq, has more sheep farms than any other part of Greenland). During our walk we'll visit some Brattahlid reconstructions, including a replica of the original chapel and longhouse, as well as the original ruins from Erik the Red. Depending on flight schedules, we will visit the Qooroq Ice Fjord in late morning. Qooroq is one of the most active glaciers in southern Greenland and our boat will nose its way up this ice-choked fjord as far we can go. Surrounded by green leafy tundra and rocky-mountains, we are completely surrounded by this Polar landscape. As many icebergs as we've seen, this may still be the most amazing yet. We'll then return to Narsarsuaq by RIB boat. There will be some time to walk around the area and perhaps visit the local museum and cafe (dinner is not included tonight). Our flight to Keflavik will take us back over some of the area we've traveled through in the last week. And it's amazing just how much more civilized Iceland looks after a week in Greenland. Overnight: Aurora Star Airport Hotel or similar. B, L DAY 10 JUNE 23, SUNDAY You are free to leave anytime today. Our hotel is near the airport; but if you don't have a flight until later in the afternoon, you might consider taking the bus back into Reykjavik or perhaps relaxing at the nearby Blue Lagoon. B

7 ADDITIONAL TRIP INFORMATION GETTING THERE You will be flying into Keflavik International (KEF) which is located approximately minutes from Reykjavik. From the airport, the easiest way to get into the city is the Flybus shuttle. Tickets can be purchased either on on board your flight to Iceland on Icelandic Air or Wow Airlines, or once you arrive at the Reykjavik airport. If you would like help with any travel plans, we recommend our travel agent Barbara Phillip barbara@scaneastwest.com or call (206) ACCOMMODATIONS In Reykjavik we'll stay in a 3-star hotel with ensuite bathrooms. In Greenland our accommodations are very basic. We'll spend the first three nights at Qaleraliq Glacier Camp with large geodesic domes - there are 4 people in two bunkbeds in each dome and there is also a larger one for cooking and meals. We'll sleep in roomy domed tents for the kayak portion; and in between we'll stay in hostels where we'll stay in rooms for 2 to 8 women, all of which share one bathroom with several shower stalls, basins, and toilet stalls. Availability of fresh fruit and vegetables is extremely limited. Vegetarian diets can be accommodated although there will fewer choices than you are accustomed to. People with vegan and gluten free diets will need to bring supplemental food. Everyone should consider bringing peanut butter and/or dried fruit. This is definitely not a trip for foodies! WEATHER In Greenland, "Nature is boss"! Greenlandic weather is VERY changeable and fickle. The weather that you wake up to in the morning may not be the weather you have all day. Always be ready for weather changes and always expect wind. You can expect temps to range from highs in the mid 50s to high 60s with lows in the high 40s to low 50s. Wind and when you are riding in the Rib boats among the icebergs can make these temperatures feel much cooler! Following the packing list is essential. TRAVEL INSURANCE WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND TRIP CANCELLATION/TRIP INTERRUPTION INSURANCE, WHICH COVERS YOUR COST IF YOU NEED TO CANCEL OR INTERRUPT YOUR TRIP for medical reasons, trip delay, lost baggage, and other unforeseen emergencies. Adventures in Good Company will send you information about travel insurance with your registration information, or you may purchase coverage through your own insurance company. In order to avoid disappointment and expense in the event that you must cancel your trip we strongly urge you to purchase some type of insurance coverage. You can also sign up for it online at Travelex Insurance. To get the best rates, use as your location number on the Get A Quote page.

8 PACKING LIST FOOTWEAR 1 pair mid-weight hiking boots 1 pair camp shoes (can be lightweight crocks, slippers or even flip flops no shoes in hostel) 1 pair comfortable shoes for travel and exploring in Reykjavik 2-3 pairs of hiking socks CLOTHING 1-2 pair comfortable synthetic long pants for hiking - zip-offs work well 2-3 synthetic or lightweight merino wool T-shirts long or short sleeved. If using short-sleeved shirts you can layer your long underwear under them. 1-2 pair lightweight long underwear top and bottoms 1 medium-weight wool/fleece sweater or heavy shirt 1 warm down/fleece jacket 1 rain waterproof jacket with hood AND waterproof rain pants waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex 1 warm hat 1 pair warm gloves or mittens 1 buff 1 wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap for rain/sun Underwear/nightwear EQUIPMENT/ESSENTIALS Passport and a photocopy of your passport 1 pair Trekking poles (strongly recommended) 1 daypack (see notes on packing list for recommended capacity) 1 Pack cover to waterproof your backpack Sleeping bag and pad, good to 15 degrees F (available for rent - AGC highly recommends taking advantage of this offer. Sleeping bag and pad rental is 30 Euros for the week and payable in Greenland. Hydration system and/or water bottles capacity for 2 Liters. If your main water system is a hydration system, please bring 1 water bottle for use at times other than hiking. 1 2 bandanas (very multi-useful) Sunglasses (must have!) and a croakie type holder Sunscreen and lip balm with at least SPF 30 Headnet for mosquitoes Towel (pack towels work well) and wash cloth Camp cup/bowl/spork TOILETRIES (small everything) Toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, hand sanitizer, shampoo, contact lens paraphernalia, sanitary supplies, personal wipes, 1 roll TP, several extra quart and gallon Ziploc bags Sunscreen and lip protection with sunblock of at least SPF 15 Personal first aid/patch kit - Band-Aids, 1 safety pin, moleskin, Compeed (or blister bandages), ibuprofen, any personal medications - see Notes on Packing List for specific recommendations. Please note: Individuals who have had or have the potential for a severe allergic reaction to insect stings, specific foods or medications must bring an epi-pen. Please consult your physician and tell your guide. OPTIONAL PERSONAL GEAR Watch/travel clock Earplugs and eye mask (for a good night s sleep!) Your favorite snack Camera, film/memory card, and extra batteries Small binoculars Sleeping bag and pad, good to 15 degrees F (can be rented opportunity will be sent via )

9 NOTES ON PACKING NOTE: Everything you bring (what s listed on this packing list) should fit into one large duffle bag. For convenience, you are welcome to pack in your regular wheeled luggage but bring a non-wheeled duffle to use while in Greenland. You can leave your wheeled luggage with anything extra at the office in Narsarsuaq before boarding your RIB boat. Space on RIB boats is limited and you will also be hauling your duffle bag up and down the rocky shore. You need to be able to carry it by yourself. Please bring everything on the list and limit your additions. You will also be given a large insulated jacket to keep you warm during RIB Boat transfers. Footwear: Well-fitting, sturdy boots or trail shoes are very important to your safety and enjoyment. If you plan to buy new boots, break them in by wearing them around town and taking some short hikes before your trip. For general hiking, lightweight or midweight cordura or leather boots with a Vibram sole work well. If you have weak ankles or are recovering from an ankle injury, get boots that come above the ankle you ll find that this will give you more support in uneven or slippery terrain. Remember to waterproof your boots before the trip. Even boots billed as waterproof need to be treated with a waterproofing product. In regard to hostel life : No shoes are allowed inside the hostel. Please bring a lightweight shoe for use inside only. This can be crocks, slippers, or even flip flops. The nice thing about flip flops they are also a good shower shoe. Daypacks: You will need a daypack that is large enough to hold the following items: 1 2 liters of water, rain gear, lunch/snacks (for the day), warm layer (fleece pullover or vest), lightweight gloves, warm hat and any other desired personal items such as camera, journal, etc. We recommend a daypack with a capacity of between 1800 and 2200 cubic inches and preferably with a hip belt, padded shoulder straps and lifters. Please note: A fanny-pack is not large enough to hold all of the items you will need for the day. Clothing: The clothing listed on the packing list has been chosen for your specific trip conditions and for its versatility for layering. NO COTTON for your active wear! It should all be made from synthetic/synthetic blends, down/down blends or wool/wool blends. Layering is the most practical and efficient method of insulating the body. Several layers of varied weight materials provide better insulation than one thick Layer of clothing. Also, adding or subtracting layers allows you to adjust to the temperature at your particular level of activity. You will be given a large insulated jacket to keep you warm during RIB Boat transfers. Hydration: If you use a hydration system for your primary water system, please also bring 1 water bottle for camping and kayaking. Rain Gear: You will need a parka or jacket made of a coated nylon or a waterproof/breathable fabric like Gore-tex, HellyTech, Membrane, H2No, or Ultrex. Be sure it keeps water out. Before making this important purchase, be sure that it fits you properly. It should be large enough to fit over all your layers. In particular, the hood needs to be effective. It should shield your face from the rain and turn with your head. Movement of your arms must not interfere with the hood. Put on your daypack; can you still raise your arms? Your wind/rain pants should be comfortable, allow enough room for your layers, and permit free movement of your legs (for example, can you crouch comfortably?). Partial or full-length leg zippers are useful for easily putting your pants on over your boots. An inexpensive plastic poncho will both leak and tear easily and is not recommended. Personal First Aid Kit: The days you spend in Greenland will be very remote with no opportunity to run to the corner market. Be sure to think carefully about what you bring in your first aid kit as well as over the counter personal medication. Recommendations for first aide and personal medications include the following: blister or foot remedies like moleskin, Compeed, blister bandages, or similar, a small role of duct tape (always useful!), remedies for respiratory ailments, stomach ailments, sore muscles or joints. Talking with your personal physician and/or local travel clinic in regard to medications is also recommended. The guides will have a first aid kit but having what you know works well for you is the best idea.

10 Trekking Poles: Trekking poles are highly recommended for this trip. Trekking poles contribute to your safety by improving your balance and stability, and to your health by saving stress on your hips and knees. If you are not familiar with trekking poles, read this blog post that addresses the most commonly asked questions: