Destination
Duration
Price
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Iceland and Greenland Hiking and Kayak Expedition
Embark on an unforgettable Iceland to Greenland adventure tour combining world-class kayaking, hiking, and Arctic exploration. This multisport expedition begins in the remote hamlet of Ísafjörður, gateway to the stunning Hornstrandir Nature Reserve—Iceland’s most isolated and pristine wilderness. Over three days, we’ll hike dramatic coastal cliffs, paddle alongside rugged fjords, and spot wildlife such as Arctic foxes and nesting seabirds. The hiking and paddling in the Reserve is world class, and the area has a rich and interesting history.
We then set sail across the Denmark Strait for Greenland, a journey that normally takes about 30 hours, where towering, glacier-filled mountains rise straight from the sea. The crossing is typically smooth with the predominant winds coming at our stern.
The kayaking in Greenland is nothing short of epic, with endless options to paddle among icebergs, hike remote valleys, and visit traditional villages in the Ammassalik region. There are thousands of paddling and hiking options along our route and we’ll explore as many as possible during the expedition. We’ll finish the trip in the town of Kulusuk, which is part of the Ammassalik region. The area supports six traditional Greenlandic villages and we’ll visit up to three of them during our trip.
The Route
This is a true expedition-style journey—dynamic, immersive, and always forward-moving. We never retrace our steps, covering vast and varied terrain on this one-way Iceland to Greenland tour.
Our adventure begins at noon in the remote town of Ísafjörður, where we’ll gather on shore to get fitted with our kayaking gear, complete a thorough safety briefing, and familiarize ourselves with our expedition sailboat—our comfortable floating base for the next 11 days.
By early afternoon, we cast off into the wild beauty of the Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, Iceland’s most remote and unspoiled region. We’ll spend the next three days kayaking and hiking along its dramatic coastline, exploring secluded fjords and soaring bird cliffs before setting sail across the Denmark Strait.
Our first landfall in Greenland is at the spectacular Kangerdlugssuaq Fjord, where towering glacier-covered mountains rise from the sea. From there, we journey south, weaving through a stunning network of fjords, islands, and ancient landscapes, paddling and trekking as conditions allow.
After nearly two weeks of exploration, we conclude our voyage in the village of Kulusuk, the cultural heart of East Greenland. From here, we board a flight back to Reykjavík—taking with us memories of a once-in-a-lifetime Arctic experience.
Live life with no excuses, travel with no regret
Highlights
- A true Arctic expedition with exploration, adventure, and solitude
- 11 days onboard an expedition sailing yacht
- Whale watching opportunities, Arctic wildlife
- World class paddling and hiking opportunities
- Prolific bird life
- Paddling amongst icebergs
- Dramatic landscapes and scenery
- Unique culture and a rich history
- Sailing across the Denmark Strait
- Just 8 Guests
- Explore Iceland and Greenland during the same tour
Itinerary
We begin our adventure travel experience by meeting at Ísafjörður harbour at 10am, where your gear will be brought onboard and we’ll run through a thorough safety briefing. Around midday, we cast off from the harbour and sail toward Seyðisfjörður Fjord, a beautiful one-to-two-hour passage that sets the tone for the days of kayaking in Iceland ahead. Our anchorage for the evening will be at either Eyri or Folafótur, depending on conditions.
In the afternoon, we venture out for our first Iceland kayaking excursion or enjoy a relaxed shoreline walk. This area is rich with birdlife, offering chances to see puffins, black guillemots, whooper swans, eiders, fulmars, oystercatchers, plovers, snipes, redshanks, glaucous gulls, great black-backed gulls, arctic terns, pied wagtails, redwings, and many more species that thrive in this remote region. After exploring, we return to our sailboat BYR and settle in for our first night on board.
At anchorage. Dinner included.
Today we sail into the remote and untouched Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, a region where nature has been left to flourish without interruption. The last full-time residents departed in 1952, leaving behind only a few summerhouses scattered across the landscape. With no roads and access only by boat, this part of Iceland feels wonderfully isolated. The vegetation is surprisingly vibrant—towering angelica, sometimes more than two meters high, grows right down to the shoreline, and the surrounding lowlands and slopes are carpeted with colourful wildflowers. It’s a stunning setting for both hiking and kayaking in Iceland.
In the morning, we set out for a relaxed paddle toward the historic ruins of the old whaling station. Here, Norwegian crews once produced nearly 12,000 barrels of whale oil between 1894 and 1915, before new laws protected whales in Icelandic waters. The site later became a herring processing plant operated by Icelandic companies until its final closure around 1940. Exploring these remnants adds a meaningful cultural layer to our Iceland kayaking journey through this remarkable coastline.
At anchorage. B • L • D
This morning we sail toward the far northern edge of the Hornstrandir reserve, a dramatically wild region defined by sheer cliffs crowded with thousands of nesting seabirds. It’s the perfect backdrop for another day of adventure travel, beginning with a morning session of kayaking in Iceland’s remote coastal waters. Later, we head ashore for an afternoon hike that offers a different angle on this rugged landscape. This area is one of the best places to spot Arctic foxes, and with luck we may observe them foraging for eggs or young chicks along the cliffs.
Both the kayaking and hiking give you contrasting perspectives of this isolated corner of Iceland before we shift our focus westward. In the evening, we prepare for our crossing toward Greenland, monitoring conditions and waiting for a favourable weather window to begin the next stage of our Iceland and Greenland kayaking journey.
At sea (weather dependent). Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
Today we continue our passage across the Denmark Strait, watching the open horizon gradually transform as the mountains of Greenland begin to rise in the distance during the afternoon. This stretch of water is known for drifting icebergs, so we maintain a careful lookout as our voyage carries us westward. Marine life is often active here, and it’s common to see dolphins or whales surfing along the bow wake as we make our way toward the Greenland coast.
At sea. B • L • D
Our voyage continues into the vast Kangerlugssuaq Fjord—meaning “big fjord”—one of the most dramatic coastal regions in East Greenland. We make our way to Suhaili Bugt, a sheltered anchorage with a legendary history. It was here that Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, the first person to complete a solo non-stop circumnavigation, and Sir Chris Bonington, one of Britain’s most renowned mountaineers, anchored their vessel Suhaili during their 1991 attempt to climb Cathedral Peak. This scenic and protected bay will serve as our base camp for the next few days.
Kangerlugssuaq offers exceptional opportunities for exploration, whether on foot or by kayak. We may paddle to the abandoned Skærgård Inuit settlement or journey through Uttendal Sound toward the iceberg-strewn entrance of Watkins Fjord. Hiking routes are equally impressive—Kræmer Island features rolling hills and vantage points with sweeping views of surrounding fjords, glaciers, and sheer mountain walls that define this wilderness.
This fjord system is considered one of the most impressive and untouched landscapes in all of Greenland. Just to the north rise the Lemon Mountains—among the country’s highest ranges—where compact alpine peaks soar up to 2,600 meters and remain largely unclimbed. Farther north and east, the Lindbergh Range stretches across the horizon, its jagged summits reaching 3,200 meters and overlooking the vast Greenland Ice Cap. To the west lie the Kangerlugssuaq Mountains, an immense region of granite and gneiss spires that also hosts numerous unclimbed summits. And to the northeast stand the Watkins Mountains, including Gunnbjørn Fjeld (3,693 m), the tallest mountain in the entire Arctic. Altogether, this region contains the ten highest peaks of the High Arctic—an extraordinary landscape still little known beyond the world of expedition travel.
At anchorage. B • L • D
Leaving Kangerlugssuaq Fjord behind, we turn south and begin our passage along one of Greenland’s most dramatic stretches of coastline. The British Admiralty Arctic Pilot famously describes this region—between Kap S.M. Jørgensen and Kap Deichmann, roughly 90 miles to the northeast—as “one of the most difficult in Greenland,” with mountains rising almost straight out of the water to form a towering natural barrier. Deep rifts slice through these walls, allowing active glaciers to spill ice into the sea, while scattered islets and hidden rocks add to the navigational challenge.
Traveling through this section of the coast underscores the raw, powerful nature of East Greenland, and highlights why expedition-style journeys and Greenland kayaking adventures remain so compelling. Depending on ice conditions, we may anchor for the night or continue at sea.
At anchorage or at sea (ice dependent). B • L • D
As we continue southward, we take time to explore fresh stretches of coastline before making our way into the striking Nigertuluk Fjord. This secluded fjord features two impressive calving glaciers, a wide sandy beach, and a peaceful mountain lake tucked between rugged ridgelines. The combination of ice, shoreline, and alpine scenery creates an ideal setting for both hiking and kayaking—an adventure traveler’s dream.
Whether we’re paddling beneath towering glacier fronts or walking across quiet tundra toward the lake, Nigertuluk Fjord offers a full day of stunning views and immersive exploration.
At anchorage. B • L • D
Today we make our way across to the magnificent Kangertigtivatsiaq Fjord, one of East Greenland’s most visually striking inlets. Here, delicate hanging glaciers cling to steep mountainsides, while larger glaciers descend all the way to the water’s edge, creating a dramatic blend of ice and stone. At the far end of the fjord, a towering, pinnacled peak rises in the distance—Ingolfsfjeld—its cathedral-like profile earning comparisons to the silhouette of St. Paul’s Cathedral.
We continue deeper into the fjord to reach our anchorage at Storø, where we’ll settle in for the night surrounded by the quiet, icy grandeur of this remote landscape.
At anchorage. B • L • D
This morning we sail deeper into Sermiligaq Fjord, entering the breathtaking Ikasaq Sound. Along the way, we pause briefly at the abandoned World War II military site of Bluie East 2, a fascinating reminder of Greenland’s strategic history. From there, our journey continues toward Ammassalik Fjord, where we reach our anchorage near the village of Kulusuk in the afternoon.
The combination of fjord scenery, historic sites, and Greenland’s rugged coastal landscapes makes this a memorable day of both exploration and kayaking opportunities for those who wish to paddle along the sheltered waters.
At anchorage. B • L • D
Our adventure concludes as we go ashore to visit the village of Kulusuk. This charming settlement offers a glimpse into everyday life in East Greenland, with traditional houses, local culture, and stunning fjord views. Guests will depart from here to catch flights back to Iceland or continue their own independent explorations deeper into Greenland’s wild landscapes.
Breakfast is provided at the anchorage, with lunch offered for those departing later in the afternoon.
B = Breakfast
L = Lunch
D = Dinner
Accommodations
The Yacht
BYR is the perfect expedition boat for explore the wilds of the Arctic.
She’s a Dutch built, steel hulled ketch that is fully equipped and certified to sail anywhere in the world.
BYR is also a very comfortable home, able to house up to 12 guests (we limit it to 8). She’s an excellent mothership and provides the perfect level of comfort in which to explore some of the world’s most remote areas.
Yacht Specs
Length – 18.2m or 60ft
Breadth – 6m or 20ft
Draught – 2.5m
Number of Guest Cabins – 4
Number of Guest Bathrooms – 2
The Cabins
There are four guest cabins all located on the lower deck. There are two 2-man cabins with single beds and two 4-man cabins with singles beds. All cabins have central heating and are well ventilated. There is plenty of space to store gear as well as a couple 220 volt charging stations to keep your electronics topped up.
The Living Spaces
BYR features a large saloon with plenty of space for meals or for quiet relaxing time. The saloon contains a detailed library with lots of information about Greenland, Iceland and Arctic exploration.
There is also a heated pilot house which contains a lounge and table. The pilothouse allows guests to comfortably sit inside and get a fabulous view of the spectacular scenery as BYR cruises by.
For those happy to challenge the cold there is also plenty of open deck space to sit outside.
The Facilities
BYR features two heated bathrooms with a toilet and sink in each. There is also a large separate shower room, with hot water servicing all.
Dates & Rates
July 30 – August 8
Prices from
What's Included
- 10 nights on the sailing yacht
- All meals from dinner on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 11
- Expedition kayaks, paddles, lifejackets, skirts, drysuits and safety equipment
- Professional kayak and hiking guides
- Sailing instruction
Not Included
- Flights
- Airport transfers
- Accommodation in Kulusuk or Ísafjörður
- Alcoholic beverages
- Travel insurance
Weather
Iceland is a land of very mixed weather. Usually the spring and summer brings higher pressure and settled weather but can be everything from calm and warm sunny days to cold and horizontal rain and fog! July is the warmest month and 10C is the average temperature in the west, but it can reach 20 to 25C. May, June and July are the driest months, each seeing on average about 50mm of rain and generally light to moderate winds.
In Eastern Greenland, June, July and August are the warmest months in the region although the temps are highly variable. It rarely dips below 5C and can get as warm as 15C. The average temperature in July is 10C. High pressure normally dominates, we can expect sunny weather with occasional fog and light winds.
Trip Map
Pictures & Videos
FAQs
Iceland and Greenland experience very different weather patterns.
Iceland is a land of very mixed weather. Usually the spring and summer brings higher pressure and settled weather but be prepared from everything from dead calm and warm sunny days to cold and horizontal rain and fog! July is the warmest month and 10C is the average temperature in the west, but it can reach 20- 25C. May, June and July are the driest months, each seeing on average of about 50mm of rain and generally light to moderate winds.
In Eastern Greenland, June, July and August are the warmest months in the region although the temps are highly variable. It rarely dips below 5C and can get as warm as 15C. The average temperature in July is 10C. Rain is rare during the summer and the wind is normally light.
No, we will take measures to stay away from these beautiful animals and view them from a safe distance if spotted. All guides are trained in polar bear protocols. They all carry a gun and although we have never had to shoot a polar bear all guides are trained to do so if required.
There is very limited mobile coverage once we leave port in Iceland. The one exception is reasonable but expensive phone service in the villages of Greenland. For emergencies there is an internet and satellite phone service onboard the yacht.
Yes, the boat has multiple 220 volt outlets. There are plenty of opportunities to charge your electronics.
The food is excellent.
Meals are hearty and made with local produce and ingredients as much as possible. Arctic char (similar to salmon), cod and lamb are commonly the ingredients used for dinners, quite often followed by berries and rhubarb pies for dessert.
We are happy to cater for vegetarians and other special dietary requirements. Please let us know at the time of booking. It’s a good idea to bring along some of your own dietary substitutes if you have a specialist diet.
Kayakers should be of an intermediate standard and have paddled before on outings up to 20km in length. You do not have to be an expert or know how to roll but should have an adventurous spirit and recognise that the weather will influence greatly what we can and can’t do. This is cold water kayaking and should not be your first paddling experience.
Yes, we provide everyone with high quality drysuits at no additional cost.
Citizens from most western countries are not required to obtain a visa to enter Iceland or Greenland. However, it’s always best to check the latest requirements.
Icelandic is the official language of Iceland. It’s a north Germanic language whose grammar is comparable to Latin or Ancient Greek. Most citizens of Iceland speak fluent English.
The language of east Greenland is Greenlandic, but it’s substantially different from that of west Greenland both in its pronunciation and its vocabulary.
Greenland’s first foreign language is Danish and the second is English. Approximately 3,500 people in the world speak East Greenlandic. In school the children of east Greenland have to learn West Greenlandic (which is the official language) Danish and English.
Participation in any trip is subject to each participant reading and signing our Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, Assumption of Risks and Indemnity Agreement and any additional waivers that are trip specific (the “Waiver(s)”). If the Waiver(s) are not completed, participation in the trip will not be permitted. PLEASE READ THE WAIVER(S) CAREFULLY! By signing, you will waive or give up certain legal rights, including the right to sue for negligence, breach of contract, or breach of any Occupiers Liability Act or claim compensation following an accident.
The Waivers are provided for review and completion at the time of booking. A sample of our Waiver can be reviewed here.
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