About Ilimanaq Lodge
How to get to Ilimanaq - a boat trip through UNESCO
There are no roads from the surrounding towns to Ilimanaq - you get here by boat, and the experience starts the moment you leave Ilulissat.
The trip through the Ilulissat Icefjord is in a class of its own - we zigzag between some of the world's largest icebergs, and with a little luck we will encounter a whale or two before arriving at the small harbor in Ilimanaq. It is no coincidence that the area is on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
- We arrange boat shuttle when booking your stay.
- The trip lasts approximately 40 minutes depending on weather and ice conditions.
- Departure from Hotel Arctic in Ilulissat at 08:00, 10:00 or 16:00.
- Departure from Ilimanaq at 09:00, 11:00 or 17:00.
- We sail in small, fast boats with room for 12 passengers. There is the option of sitting both outdoors and indoors.
The Historic Houses
A few minutes' walk from the bungalows are two of Greenland's oldest houses, which today house the reception, conference room and Restaurant Egede.
The buildings belonged to the missionary Paul Egede, son of Hans Egede; he built the restaurant and ran the mission and trade from the old shop, which is now a reception and conference room.
The houses are listed and were carefully restored by Realdania By & Byg over three years before the opening of Ilimanaq Lodge: they were taken apart, repaired and put back together. The project received the Europa Nostra award. The original identity has been preserved with materials and colors - including original shop interior in the reception and a sail from a whaling ship in the restaurant's ceiling. Realdania is also behind Ilulissat Isfjordscenter. An obvious stop for anyone with an interest in history, architecture and interior design.
A pioneer project
Ilimanaq Lodge was built as a pioneer project within Greenlandic tourism.
The project is a collaboration between the municipality, Realdania and World of Greenland. The municipality has been responsible for improving infrastructural conditions, such as sewage, port conditions, waste station and path routes. Realdania has been responsible for the renovation of the Historic Houses. And World of Greenland has built 15 bungalows and is responsible for the operation of the lodge.
The purpose of the project is to contribute to the sustainable development of the settlement. Through tourism, where the starting point is the values of the place, we want to create fertile ground for sustainable jobs and development in Ilimanaq.
Good reasons to visit Ilimanaq Lodge
Calm and presence
There is peace and quiet in Ilimanaq. Here we are far away from the hustle and bustle of Ilulissat, and we dare to promise that your shoulders will sink as soon as you check in with us.
Wild nature
The boat trip from Ilulissat to Ilimanaq is an experience in itself. Here we pass the world-famous icebergs of Ilulissat Icefjord, which sets the mood for a magical stay.
Award-winning architecture
The lodge's restaurant and reception are located in some of the country's oldest houses, which are now part of Greenland's cultural heritage. The renovation of the historic houses has received the Europa Nostra Award.
Meet the locals
In Ilimanaq we live together with the local residents. You will meet them in the shop, on the paths in the village, or at the reception for a cup of coffee.
Greenlandic gastronomy
Ilimanaq Lodge has been among the leading restaurants in Greenland since its opening. The level is high, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the focus is on "local sourcing" and creative communication of the food culture here in Ilimanaq.
Expanded perspectives
A good trip not only provides lifelong memories and peace of mind, it also provides reflections on other people's ways of life and new perspectives on the world.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Ilimanaq Lodge?
Ilimanaq is a settlement south of Ilulissat, you get there by boat.
When you purchase the stay, the boat trip is included.
There are three daily departures from Ilulissat at 08:00, 10:00 and 16:00 and from Ilimanaq at 09:00, 11:00 and 17:00.
When booking a stay, you must inform us via email if you want specific departures.
Otherwise, you will be assigned a time and we will inform you via email.
Departure time may change due to weather, ice conditions or boat type. You will be informed of this, therefore it is important to provide contact information when booking.
Meeting time is 15 minutes before boat departure, meeting point is at Hotel Arctic.
I have limited mobility - can I visit Ilimanaq Lodge?
Upon arrival, you will need to climb stairs at the harbor, and there is approximately 400 meters of uneven road from the restaurant to the cabins.
The gangway is not handicap-friendly, and the stay is therefore not recommended for those with physical disabilities.
We recommend that you pack light. If you have more luggage to bring to Greenland, most hotels in Ilulissat will be able to store luggage for you.
How many days should I stay in Ilimanaq?
You decide how many nights you want to stay in Ilimanaq. With one night you can experience several tours and get an insight into both the settlement and the surrounding area. If you choose to stay for more nights, you will have a more relaxed experience, where you can enjoy the peace and take your time to explore without rushing.
Boat shuttle, restaurant, activities and lunch are not automatically included and must be purchased separately.
What should I bring when I visit Ilimanaq Lodge?
It is recommended that you pack as light as possible when going to Ilimanaq. You don't need much, but we recommend that you remember:
- Reasonable clothing and footwear
- Walking shoes or hiking boots if you want to hike
- Toiletries
- A book or other entertainment
Vi har ingen dress code – come as you are.
For the physical health of our employees, we only handle bags and suitcases up to 20 kg.
If you have more luggage to bring to Greenland, most hotels in Ilulissat will be able to store luggage for you.
What is included in my stay?
Round trip boat shuttle, meeting point at Hotel Arctic
Towels and sheets in the cabins.
Internet at the reception.
What should I do if I am delayed on my way to Ilulissat?
If you are delayed on the way to Ilulissat, please notify us of your delay as soon as possible by email or phone.
In any case, we will try to move your stay in Ilimanaq to another day, but there is no guarantee that this will be successful.
In the event that this is not successful, this is a matter between you and your travel insurance.
Since air traffic in Greenland is more unstable than in many other places, we strongly recommend that you have good travel insurance that covers losses due to flight delays.
What is the difference between Bungalow and Bungalow De Luxe?
All of our bungalows at Ilimanaq Lodge have the same shape and decor.
The primary difference between the Bungalow and the Bungalow De Luxe is the view, which is more panoramic in the De Luxe.
There is a sea view from all bungalows.
Can I bring children to Ilimanaq Lodge?
Children are welcome at Ilimanaq Lodge. Please note that there is no children's menu, high chairs, changing tables, etc.
Are there shops and cafes in Ilimanaq?
The only restaurant in Ilimanaq is Restaurant Egede, which both belong to Ilimanaq Lodge.
However, there is a small local supermarket where you can get most daily necessities.
Furthermore, the reception at Ilimanaq Lodge has a selection of drinks, snacks and delicious souvenirs.
How many days will I be at the lodge?
You decide for yourself how many nights you want to stay in Ilimanaq.
With one night's stay you get a great insight into both the village and the surrounding nature, and you can experience several trips.
Many of our guests choose to stay for several nights, this provides a more peaceful and complete experience where you can enjoy the area at your own pace, immerse yourself in the tranquility and learn more about life in a Greenlandic village.
