Discover the dramatic landscapes and cultural treasures of the Arctic and Nordic regions on this carefully designed 16-day private tour of Greenland, Iceland, and Norway. With a private driver-guide, you’ll explore massive glaciers, ancient villages, volcanic landscapes, and serene fjords, all at your own pace. This journey combines the wildness of Greenland, the wonder of Iceland, and the charm of Norway into one seamless luxury experience.
16-Day Private Tour Itinerary
Our tour designers have created a sample itinerary below to give you an idea of what to expect on a private tour. The itinerary can be customized to your exact preferences, so you only visit the attractions that are important to you.
Destinations on Your 16-Day Greenland, Iceland & Norway Private Tour
Day 1: Kangerlussuaq – Welcome Briefing, Tundra Lodge Check-In & Musk Ox Safari
Day 2: Kangerlussuaq – Greenland Ice Sheet Hike at Point 660 & Russell Glacier Excursion
Day 3: Ilulissat – Scenic Flight, Icefjord Hotel Arrival & Historic Town Walking Tour
Day 4: Ilulissat – Private Icefjord Boat Cruise & Sermermiut Valley Hike
Day 5: Ilulissat – Sled Dog Experience & Kayaking Among Icebergs in Disko Bay
Day 6: Reykjavík – Arrival in Iceland, Harpa & Hallgrímskirkja Evening City Walk
Day 7: Golden Circle – Þingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area & Gullfoss Waterfall
Day 8: Reykjavík – National Museum, Whale Watching Cruise & Optional Sky Lagoon Visit
Day 11: Oslo – Arrival in Norway, Vigeland Park & Viking Ship Museum
Day 12: Oslo – Akershus Fortress, Fram or Kon-Tiki Museum & Oslofjord Cruise
Day 13: Oslo to Flåm – Scenic Hardangervidda Drive, Borgund Stave Church & Fjord Arrival
Day 14: Flåm – Nærøyfjord Cruise, Undredal Village Visit & Brekkefossen Waterfall Hike
Day 15: Flåm to Bergen – Flåm Railway or Mountain Drive, Voss Cultural Stop & Mount Fløyen Viewpoint
Day 16: Bergen – Bryggen Walking Tour, Rosenkrantz Tower Visit & Departure Transfer
Day 1: Arrival in Kangerlussuaq – Gateway to the Ice Cap
Arrival & Welcome Briefing
Upon your arrival in Kangerlussuaq, your private guide will greet you at the airport and help with your luggage before escorting you to your accommodation, nestled near the edge of the Greenlandic tundra. After settling in, your guide will review the tour itinerary, discuss safety measures for Arctic travel, and provide background on Kangerlussuaq’s unique setting, which was once a U.S. military base but is now a remote town serving as Greenland’s main air gateway.
Evening Musk Ox Safari
In the evening, set out in a luxury vehicle for a guided musk ox safari through the vast open tundra. This region is one of the best places in Greenland to observe these shaggy, prehistoric-looking animals in their natural habitat. As you travel through gravel tracks and open plains, your guide will help you spot wildlife and explain how musk oxen have adapted to extreme Arctic conditions. Keep your camera ready, as you may also see arctic hares, reindeer, and even snowy owls or gyrfalcons soaring overhead.
Day 2: Kangerlussuaq – Greenland Ice Sheet Experience
Glacier Hike at Point 660
After breakfast, head on a full-day adventure to one of Greenland’s most iconic landmarks, the edge of the Greenland Ice Sheet at Point 660. You’ll journey along the Ice Road, a scenic route that climbs through a stark and beautiful tundra landscape, following glacial rivers and rocky moraines. Upon arrival at Point 660, your guide will help you gear up with crampons and trekking poles. Then, step directly onto the ice sheet for a guided hike across this immense frozen expanse. As you walk, marvel at the ever-changing patterns of the ice, sun-sculpted ridges, deep blue meltwater pools, and narrow crevasses. Learn about the ancient origins of the ice, how it moves, and its critical role in global climate systems. The experience of walking on the Greenland Ice Sheet is both humbling and unforgettable.
Russell Glacier Excursion
In the afternoon, continue to the nearby Russell Glacier, an awe-inspiring wall of ice that towers over the glacial plain. This actively calving glacier is famous for its blue color and sheer cliffs of compressed ice. Walk along a trail to a safe viewpoint, where you may hear the cracking and groaning of the ice and see chunks breaking off into the river below. Your guide will explain how glaciers have shaped Greenland’s landscape. Return to your accommodation in the early evening with a deeper appreciation for Greenland’s glacial environment.
Day 3: Ilulissat – Icefjord Town
Scenic Flight to Ilulissat
This morning, transfer to the airport for a short domestic flight to Ilulissat, one of Greenland’s most picturesque and historically rich towns. As you fly over the vast expanse of tundra and coastline, enjoy aerial views of fjords, mountains, and icebergs drifting in the sea. Upon arrival, your guide will transfer you to a charming hotel located near the waterfront, with spectacular views of drifting icebergs in Disko Bay.
Ilulissat Walking Tour
In the afternoon, start with a guided walking tour of Ilulissat. Begin at the old harbor, where colorful fishing boats bob in the icy water and local fishermen unload their daily catch. Continue to Zion Church, a beautiful wooden church built in the late 18th century and still a focal point of local community life. Nearby, visit the Ilulissat Museum, housed in the birthplace of Knud Rasmussen, Greenland’s most famous polar explorer. The museum features fascinating exhibits on Inuit culture, early exploration, and the natural environment. Conclude your tour with a gentle walk along the elevated wooden boardwalk to a scenic viewpoint overlooking the UNESCO-listed Icefjord. As the sun begins to set, watch massive icebergs glowing in hues of gold and rose as they slowly drift out to sea.
Day 4: Ilulissat – Icefjord Adventures
Boat Cruise Through the Icefjord
Start your day with a private boat cruise through the Ilulissat Icefjord, one of the most photogenic locations in all of Greenland. Cruise between towering icebergs that have broken off from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier, one of the most productive glaciers in the Northern Hemisphere. Some of these floating giants rise over 50 meters above the surface! Your guide will explain how iceberg formation works, the speed at which the glacier advances, and the role of the Icefjord in Arctic marine ecosystems. Enjoy warm drinks onboard as you take in the surreal beauty of this frozen landscape.
Hike to Sermermiut Valley
In the afternoon, return to shore for a guided hike to the Sermermiut Valley. This protected site has been home to successive Inuit cultures for over 4,000 years. Follow a wooden boardwalk trail that winds through wildflower-dotted tundra and rocky hills to the edge of the fjord. Along the way, your guide will point out archaeological features and explain how early settlers managed to survive in this remote and challenging environment. At the final lookout, pause to take in the expansive views of the Icefjord below—a perfect blend of human history and natural grandeur.
Day 5: Ilulissat – Dogs & Kayaks
Sled Dog Experience
After breakfast, visit a working sled dog kennel just outside of Ilulissat. A sled dog experience is often one of our clients’ favorite activities on their private tour! Greenlandic sled dogs are a unique and ancient breed that has been used by Inuit hunters and travelers for generations. Meet the dogs and their mushers, and learn about daily routines, feeding, training, and the special bond between dog and driver. Your guide will explain the importance of sled dogs in Greenlandic culture and how they are still used in northern communities where snowmobiles have yet to replace traditional sleds. Depending on the season, you may see a demonstration or even participate in a training walk.
Kayaking in Disko Bay
Later in the day, gear up for an unforgettable kayaking excursion on the calm waters of Disko Bay. Accompanied by an experienced kayak guide and a safety boat, paddle between gently drifting icebergs, getting a close-up view of their otherworldly shapes and colors. Your guide will share stories of how early Inuit hunters mastered these same waters in seal-skin kayaks, navigating by feel and memory. With luck, you may spot seabirds, curious seals, or even whales in the distance. Return to shore feeling peaceful and exhilarated.
Day 6: Travel to Iceland – Reykjavík Arrival
Flight to Reykjavik via Keflavík
Say farewell to Greenland and transfer to Ilulissat Airport for your flight to Iceland via Keflavík International Airport. This journey offers one last look at Greenland’s icy coastlines before crossing the North Atlantic. Upon arrival in Iceland, your private driver will meet you and escort you to your hotel in central Reykjavík. Along the way, your guide will provide an introduction to Iceland’s volcanic landscape and the country’s rich Nordic culture.
Evening Walking Tour of Reykjavík
Once settled into your hotel, join your guide for a relaxed walking tour through downtown Reykjavík. Visit the iconic Hallgrímskirkja Church, inspired by basalt lava flows, and ride the elevator to the top for panoramic views over the city and surrounding mountains. Continue to the Harpa Concert Hall, a striking glass building on the waterfront that hosts cultural events and concerts. Stroll through the lively Old Harbour area, where fishing boats, whale-watching vessels, and seafood restaurants create a vibrant atmosphere. Your guide will share stories of Iceland’s Viking roots and modern cultural life.
Day 7: Golden Circle – Iceland’s Iconic Natural Landmarks
Þingvellir National Park
After breakfast, depart Reykjavík with your private guide for a full-day exploration of Iceland’s famed Golden Circle. Your first stop is Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates drift apart. Walk through Almannagjá Gorge with your guide, who will explain the geological processes that have shaped this dramatic rift valley. Discover how this site also served as the birthplace of Iceland’s national assembly in 930 AD. As you explore the mossy lava fields and crystal-clear waters of Silfra, your guide will point out hidden fissures, folklore tied to the landscape, and the enduring legacy of Icelandic democracy.
Geysir Geothermal Area
Continue to the Haukadalur Valley, filled with hissing steam vents and bubbling mud pots. Your guide will lead you through the geothermal field, timing your arrival at Strokkur just right to watch it erupt skyward every few minutes. Feel the heat rising from the earth and learn how Iceland’s geothermal energy is harnessed to power much of the country.
Gullfoss Waterfall
Next, visit Gullfoss (“Golden Falls”), a two-tiered waterfall that plunges into a deep canyon carved by glacial meltwater. Walk along the clifftop paths with your guide to feel the spray on your face and hear the thunderous sound of the falls. Your guide will explain how Gullfoss was once threatened by a hydroelectric project—and how the actions of one determined woman helped save it.
Fridheimar Greenhouse Experience
On your return, stop at Fridheimar, a family-run greenhouse that uses geothermal heat to grow tomatoes year-round. Tour the greenhouses with your guide, taste fresh tomato soup with homemade bread, and learn how Iceland’s volcanic environment supports surprisingly robust agriculture.
Day 8: Reykjavík – Culture, Whales & Hot Springs
National Museum of Iceland
Start the day with a private guided tour of the National Museum, where you’ll trace Iceland’s journey from settlement to independence. Your guide will interpret Viking-era artifacts, medieval manuscripts, and displays on folklore and daily life. This visit offers vital context for the landscapes you’ll explore during your trip.
Whale Watching Cruise from the Old Harbour
In the afternoon, head to Reykjavík’s harbor for a private or semi-private whale-watching cruise. Board a modern vessel with panoramic viewing decks and search the bay for minke whales, humpbacks, dolphins, and puffins. Your guide will join you on board, helping identify species and sharing tales of whaling, maritime trade, and Iceland’s conservation efforts.
Sky Lagoon Soak (Optional Upgrade)
Conclude your day with a visit to Sky Lagoon, one of Reykjavík’s newest luxury geothermal spas. Set on a cliffside overlooking the Atlantic, the lagoon features a warm infinity-edge pool, a sauna with ocean views, and a 7-step wellness ritual. Your guide will assist with check-in and provide tips to enhance the experience, then leave you to relax as the sun sets.
Day 9: South Coast – Waterfalls, Beaches & Glaciers
Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss Waterfalls
Depart Reykjavík with your guide along the Ring Road heading southeast. Your first stop is Seljalandsfoss, a tall, slender waterfall you can walk behind for an unforgettable photo. Learn about the volcanic and glacial forces that feed these falls, as well as local legends tied to them. Next, visit Skógafoss, one of Iceland’s most powerful waterfalls, known for the rainbows that appear in its mist. Climb the staircase to a viewing platform above the falls, where your guide will point out the source river and the surrounding highlands.
Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
Travel on to Reynisfjara, a dramatic black-sand beach flanked by basalt sea stacks and cliffs teeming with puffins (in the summer). Your guide will accompany you to the safest viewing areas and share insights into the myths of the trolls said to live in the sea stacks, as well as the strong currents that make the beach both beautiful and dangerous.
Optional Glacier Walk on Sólheimajökull
Add a short guided glacier hike on Sólheimajökull, a safe and accessible outlet glacier. Walk among ice ridges, crevasses, and meltwater channels. Learn how glaciers are monitored and how quickly they are retreating.
Day 10: Snæfellsnes Peninsula – Iceland in Miniature
Arnarstapi Coastal Cliffs
Begin your day on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature” for its diverse landscapes. Visit the fishing village of Arnarstapi, where basalt cliffs drop dramatically into the sea. Follow a cliffside trail with your guide, watching seabirds nest in the rock formations while hearing local tales of elves and sea monsters said to dwell here.
Snæfellsjökull National Park
Travel to the base of Snæfellsjökull Glacier, the snow-covered volcano immortalized by Jules Verne in Journey to the Center of the Earth. Weather permitting, take a short walk through lava fields or visit the Vatnshellir lava cave and learn how the lava tubes formed and share literary connections.
Kirkjufell & Kirkjufellsfoss
Finish the day at Kirkjufell, Iceland’s most photographed mountain. Enjoy a short walk to the picturesque Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall for an iconic photo. Learn about the mountain’s geology and why it has captured the imagination of artists and travelers for decades.
Day 11: Oslo – Arrival in Norway
Flight to Oslo & Airport Welcome
Transfer to Keflavík Airport for your flight to Oslo, where your Norwegian guide awaits you upon arrival. Enjoy a relaxing private transfer into the city, passing through suburban forests and fjord views en route to your centrally located hotel.
Vigeland Park
After lunch, visit the Vigeland Sculpture Park with your guide. Stroll among more than 200 sculptures by Gustav Vigeland that depict the cycle of human life. As you walk through the beautiful gardens, your guide will explain the deeper meaning behind the bronze and granite sculptures.
Day 12: Oslo – Fortress, Explorers & the Fjord
Akershus Fortress & Karl Johans Gate
On day 12, enjoy a guided tour of Akershus Fortress, Oslo’s medieval castle. Your guide will reveal the castle’s strategic importance through centuries of sieges and royal intrigue. Descend toward Karl Johans Gate for a guided city walk past Parliament, the National Theatre, and the Royal Palace.
Fram Museum & Kon-Tiki Museum
Begin with a tour of the Fram Museum, home to the iconic polar ship Fram, used by Amundsen and Nansen. You can walk through the ship and explore its cabins and engine room, still perfectly preserved to this day. One of the highlights of the museum is the “cold room,” maintained at sub-zero temperatures, around -10°C (14°F). It’s a powerful experience, allowing you to imagine the conditions explorers endured for months and years at a time.
Next is the Kon-Tiki Museum, which houses the famous balsa raft that Thor Heyerdahl sailed across the Pacific. Seeing this fragile-looking vessel up close, nearly untouched since it completed its 4,300-mile journey, your guide’s engaging stories of polar heroism or daring oceanic exploration will bring the museum vividly to life.
Private Oslofjord Cruise
End the day with a serene cruise through the Oslofjord aboard a traditional wooden boat or luxury yacht. Your guide will identify the islands, summer homes, and forts that dot the waterway while sharing stories of Oslo’s maritime heritage.
Day 13: Oslo to Flåm – Journey to the Fjords
Hardangervidda Scenic Drive & Borgund Stave Church
Depart Oslo for western Norway, crossing the dramatic Hardangervidda Plateau. Along the way, your guide will point out glacial lakes, ancient reindeer trails, and highland farms. Stop at Borgund Stave Church, one of Norway’s best-preserved wooden churches. Tour the dark, richly decorated interior as your guide explains the fusion of pagan and Christian symbols in its architecture.
Arrival in Flåm
Continue down the Lærdal valley to the village of Flåm, nestled beside the Aurlandsfjord. Check in to your fjordside hotel, where your guide will help you get settled and offer recommendations for evening walks or local dining.
Day 14: Flåm – Fjord Exploration
Nærøyfjord Cruise
Board a private or cruise through the Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its sheer cliffs and hidden waterfalls. Your guide will join you on deck to interpret the landscape, identify local farms, and recount the legends that echo through this narrow waterway.
Undredal Village Visit
Disembark in Undredal, a postcard-perfect village known for its goat cheese and tiny stave church. Visit a local creamery with your guide to sample cheeses and learn about life in remote fjord communities.
Brekkefossen Waterfall Hike
In the afternoon, hike with your guide to the Brekkefossen waterfall. The trail offers fantastic views over Flåm and the surrounding fjord, and your guide will point out local flora, farming terraces, and glacial features along the way.
Day 15: Flåm to Bergen – Coastal Transition
Flåm Railway or Scenic Drive
Depart Flåm via the Flåm Railway, one of the world’s steepest train lines, or continue by road through waterfalls and highland passes. Your guide will manage your route and stops, tailoring the day’s pace to your interests and preferences.
Voss Cultural Stop
Pause in Voss, a town known for its rich folk traditions and outdoor lifestyle. Enjoy lunch and perhaps visit a local stave church or handicrafts shop.
Arrival in Bergen & Mount Fløyen
Check in to your hotel in Bergen, then ride the Fløibanen funicular with your guide to Mount Fløyen. At the top, take in sweeping views over the city’s harbor, fjords, and distant sea.
Day 16: Bergen – Hanseatic Heritage & Departure
Bryggen Walking Tour
Start your final morning with a walking tour of Bryggen, Bergen’s historic Hanseatic Wharf. Wander through narrow wooden alleys with your guide as they recount tales of medieval merchants, fires, and maritime trade.
Rosenkrantz Tower & Fish Market
Visit the Rosenkrantz Tower, a fortified medieval residence, and stop at the lively fish market to see (or sample) local delicacies.
Departure Transfer
Your guide will drop you off at Bergen Airport for your flight home after an unforgettable journey through Greenland, Iceland, and Norway.
