Ice Climbing and Mountaineering in Greenland 2024-2025

Greenland is home to one of the world's largest mountain ranges. The eastern part is the most mountainous area of the island, with some peaks seemingly rising straight out of the ocean. This is also where you'll find some of the world's steepest and highest walls. In winter, they are usually covered in snow and ice, which makes the climb even more extreme. However, if you're not into vertical climbs you'll still be able to find something among Greenland's numerous mountaineering routes.

Best Time for Ice Climbing and Mountaineering in Greenland

The most favorable period for ice climbing and mountaineering in Greenland is from December to May. During these months, the mountains have snow and ice cover, which offers climbers optimal conditions. However, you must be ready for tough weather, such as low temperatures and high winds, if you plan to climb during these months. Ice climbing and mountaineering are possible during the summer months, but this requires adequate preparation, tools, and skills different from those necessary during winter.

Places in Greenland for Ice Climbing and Mountaineering

Check out Uummannaq Bay and Upernavik with Greenland's most photographed mountain—the Heart Mountain, Schweizer Land near Tasiilaq, Tasermiut Fjord near Cape Farewell, the Watkins Range with some of the highest mountains of the island, and the Stauning Alps in the North Greenland National Park. And, of course, that's not nearly all, so time to get ready for an adventure.

There are no officially recognized guidebooks on how to approach a climb–let alone specific climbing routes in Greenland! In many ways, this does indeed make planning tougher while allowing climbers the great feeling of being true pioneers at any given site.

Stauning Alps

With many evident alpine peaks, up to nearly 9,842 ft (3,000 m) in height. Stauning Alps are one of the perfect spots to enjoy ice climbing. Stauning Alps is located in the North Greenland National Park, near the airstrips of Mestersvig and Constable Point. An expedition permit is required for access to the area.

Watkins Range

This part of Greenland has tall mountains, with Gunnbjørn Fjeld being the highest in the Arctic. It is behind the Blosseville Coast, and it is hard to get to because of rough land. Most people use ski planes from Iceland to go there. This place is known for its tough weather and nature, drawing adventurers and explorers who want to see wild areas. Even though it is far away, many people visit this mountain area, and you need a special permit to enter. For climbers and guests, it gives great chances for skiing, climbing, and exploring in a real Arctic setting.

Schweizer Land

Schweizer Land is a renowned climbing destination in East Greenland, particularly favored for its accessibility and natural beauty. Its proximity to the international airport in Kulusuk and the nearby town of Tasiilaq makes it easier to reach compared to other remote climbing areas in Greenland. Climbers are drawn to Schweizer Land for its diverse range of peaks and rock walls, offering an exciting variety of challenges for both mountaineering and technical climbing enthusiasts.

A key advantage of this region is that most of it lies within a permit-free zone, extending up to 93.5 mi (150 km) from Tasiilaq. This eliminates much of the bureaucracy often associated with Greenlandic expeditions and enables climbers to focus on exploring and tackling the numerous summits without added restrictions.

Uummannaq Bay and Upernavik

Recently, the climbing grounds around Nuussuaq Peninsula and Upernavik have come into renewed focus, especially among the world's elite of rock climbers. With its fantastic fjord systems and impressive granite walls, the area has become a very attractive destination for adventurous climbers.

While there is loose rock to be found near Upernavik, other areas boast solid and sound granite. Some of Greenland's most famous mountains, such as Uummannaq's Heart Mountain, have seen a number of new routes established upon it. It is also one of Greenland's most photographed peaks-a testament to its visual appeal alongside its climbing.

This is an area of outstanding natural beauty, accessible by water, with the possibility of new routes-a true Eldorado for climbing expeditions, luring professional aces and adventurous tourists alike to explore Greenland's virgin landscape.

Some of the Most Challenging Peaks to Climb in Greenland

Greenland presents some of the most challenging peaks and steep cliffs globally, a perfect destination for experienced climbers. Ulamertorsuaq, Nalumasortoq, and 'Big Walls' in the Tasermiut Fjord region top the list of the most daunting peaks in Greenland. Ice climbers need to have advanced skills such as rock climbing and ice climbing and must not be novices. In addition, Greenland offers many other mountains and peaks that are good for beginners and intermediate climbers.

Climbing in Greenland, whether focusing on ice climbing or mountaineering, presents a significant challenge that demands thorough preparation. The harsh environment and technical routes mean climbers must possess a strong understanding of rock and ice climbing techniques, crevasse rescue, and glacier navigation. Such knowledge is essential for tackling Greenland’s terrain safely.

Climbers must also demonstrate intermediate to advanced skills in mountaineering and have prior experience in challenging conditions. Beyond skill, excellent physical fitness is crucial to withstand Greenland's severe weather, high winds, and demanding climbs. The remote, rugged landscape often requires carrying heavy loads, enduring long approaches, and coping with extreme cold—all of which test a climber's stamina and resilience.

Ice Climbing and Mountaineering Trips Cost

Engaging in ice climbing and mountaineering in Greenland offers unparalleled experiences but requires careful financial planning. Here's a breakdown of the typical expenses involved:

East Greenland Ice Climbing Exploration

A 10-day trip is priced at $12,750 for 2 climbers with 2 guides, or $10,250 for 3 climbers with 2 guides. This includes guide fees, logistics in Tasiilaq, and round-trip helicopter transport from Kulusuk to Tasiilaq.

Ice Climbing & Ice Cave Tour in East Greenland

A 4-hour adventure costs approximately 2,800 DKK (around $420) per person, covering glacier hiking, ice climbing, and an ice cave visit.

Accommodation

Prices in Greenland can be high due to limited availability. Budget accommodations may start around $100 per night, while more comfortable options can exceed $200 per night.

Flights

Round-trip airfare to Kulusuk, Greenland, varies based on departure location and season. For instance, flights from Reykjavik, Iceland, to Kulusuk can range from $500 to $1,000.

Ice Climbing and Mountaineering Gear

For ice climbing and mountaineering in Greenland, specialized gear and equipment are a must-have. Crampons, ice axes, ropes, harnesses, carabiners, and an ice climbing tool are essential for your climb. You need to prepare and carry warm clothing, including jacket, pants, and gloves, suitable for the extreme cold temperatures experienced when climbing.

You will also need gear such as a sleeping bag, tent, stove, food, water filter, and first-aid kit. It's necessary to research and purchase high-quality equipment to ensure your comfort and safety during the climb. Some tours provide necessary equipment, but if not included, renting specialized gear can add to the overall cost.

Estimated Total Cost

Short Tours (e.g., 4-hour ice climbing): Approximately $1,500 to $2,000 per person, including flights, accommodation, and tour fees. Extended Expeditions (e.g., 10-day mountaineering): Roughly $15,000 to $20,000 per person, encompassing guided tour fees, travel, accommodation, and other expenses.

These estimates might change based on the group size, the season of travel, and individual preferences. Detailed pricing from tour operators would be best gotten in contact with them, including additional costs that are not provided for in the packages.