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Optional Tour Extension To Greenland
August 12 - 15, 2008

 

WHAT’S IN A NAME?

Greenlanders call the eastern stretch of their Island Country “Tunu,” meaning “land at the back.” A wide belt of icefields has made Eastern Greenland separate from not only the rest of the island but from most of the world. As a result, the first visitors came just 100 years ago and the lack of outside influence has made Tunu the true representation of authentic Greenland language and culture. Sparsely populated and thus free from the visual corruption of urban sprawl, Tunu feels like no other place on earth. This tour extension includes round-trip airfare from Iceland and a combination of exciting adventures on Ammassalik and Kulusuk islands.

Please be advised that all itinerary activities listed below are subject to weather-related revisions!


ITINERARY

Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Kulusuk Island Adventures

We say goodbye to the members of the group who have opted not to continue to Greenland this morning, then head to the airport for our flight to Greenland. The flight takes roughly two-hours, after which we land on Kulusuk Island on the eastern coast. East Greenland’s international airport is here, but it is a small airport with a gravel landing strip. It is also one of Greenland’s busiest airports with 3 - 5 daily arrivals and departures 6 days a week from Iceland’s Reykjavik Domestic Airport, and from West Greenland.
     Kulusuk Village is situated west of the entrance to Ammassalik Fjord. The village population is only about 350 Greenlanders! After hotel check-in, our guide escorts us on a 30-minute walk through the village, with stops to photograph the magnificent scenery and purchase hand-made craft articles. Weather permitting, we see a demonstration of kayak rowing or the ancient drum dance.
     The afternoon’s other activities include a 2-hour iceburg and glacier tour, and a 2-hour jeep safari in search of wildlife. A buffet dinner is included at our hotel.     (All Meals)

Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Ammassalik Island Adventures

After breakfast we take a short helicopter flight that brings us to Ammassalik island and the town of Tasilaq, the most populous center in this region. During the flight we may be able to enjoy views of huge glaciers and floating icebergs.
     Visitors rightfully call this place one of the most beautiful spots in all of Greenland, with the town set on a picturesque river that cuts it into two halves. Hiking along the water upstream brings us to the Valley of Flowers, a lush green depression overflowing with flowering plants and fluttering butterflies. The island is also a perfect spot for photographing Arctic scenery with awe-inspiring glaciers, peaks, and fjords. Overnight on Ammassalik Island.     (All Meals)

Thursday, August 14, 2008
Return to Iceland

We take the short hop by helicopter this morning from Ammassalik Island to Kulusuk Island, enjoying once again the magnificent views from the air. We connect with our 2-hour return flight to Iceland. Upon arrival in Reykjavik, we transfer to our original hotel, and the remainder of the day is at leisure.     (Breakfast)

Friday, August 15, 2008
Blue Lagoon / Departure

The morning is free to relax or sleep in after a night of revelry. We leave the hotel at noon and head to the amazing Blue Lagoon, to luxuriate in the volcanically-heated, mineral-rich waters. After a shower and time for a snack, we transfer to the Keflavik Airport in time to check in for our return flights to the United States.     (Breakfast)


ACCOMMODATIONS

Kulusuk:  Hotel Kulusuk is beautifully situated in the wild nature of East Greenland. Comfortable accommodation just a few minutes drive from Kulusuk Airport. 34 rooms with private bath/toilet, telephone and TV. Nice restaurant with a great view.

Ammassalik:  Hotel Angmagssalik is situated with a beautiful view over the town and the sea. The hotel has a restaurant, cafeteria, disco and conference rooms with AV equipment. The hotel has 15 double rooms, all of them with private bath/toilet.


Essentials from Iceland Tour Packing List:

____ Overnight bag or backpack. Plan to leave your luggage at the hotel in Reykjavik and bring just enough clothing for two nights in Greenland.

____ Waterproof hiking boots are the only shoes you need for this portion of the tour.

____ Gloves, hat, and rain gear essential

____ Warm coat

____ Two casual outfits comprised of layers, one for each day on Greenland


THE BOTTOM LINE
(Greenland extension prices per person)

Price:  $2,400 double occupancy

Private Room:  $150 extra. Like most European hotels, “single” rooms tend to be smaller than rooms occupied by two people (twin rooms). If you would like to book a Twin Room for Sole Use (TSU), the supplemental charge is $250 in addition to the double occupancy rate.

Deposit:  $200, added to the $500 deposit for Iceland

Remaining Balance:  $2,200 (double) / $2,350 (single) / $2,450 (TSU)
(Assumes $200 deposit has already been made)

Remaining Balance Due:  May 26, 2008
(Full payment required with reservation form if enrolling after this date.)

Included:  Two nights accommodations in Greenland plus one additional night in Iceland; round trip air transportation between Iceland and Greenland; helicopter transportation between islands in Greenland (subject to weather); all ground transportation within Greenland; fully-guided tours with services of English-speaking guide for all excursions, meals as indicated, all activities listed except those identified as “optional.”

Not Included:  Meals and optional activities not specifically listed in the itinerary; ground transportation for sightseeing on your own (taxis, local guides, etc.); tips to our drivers and guides; alcoholic beverages; insurance; laundry; telephone calls; faxes; or any other expenses of a personal nature.