In the hidden sanctuary of narwhals and living ice
In September, as summer fades from the Far North, we embark on an exceptional expedition from Kullorsuaq to Melville Bay.
This largely unexplored bay is a sanctuary where some of the largest icebergs in the Northern Hemisphere gather. It is one of the few places in the world where the ice cap flows directly into the sea, forming glacier fronts of breathtaking beauty and power.
A refuge for narwhals, bears, belugas, and sometimes polar sharks, an ancient cradle ofInuit civilizations, and the site of many forgotten explorations, Melville Bay is also a place of memory and mystery.
We will set off with the hunters of Kullorsuaq, aboard their small boats and traditional kayaks that they make themselves. We will slowly make our way between the icebergs, from one narwhal crossing point to another, and explore the
wild islands in search of the remains of ancient camps. We will camp in traditional canvas tents and live off the fruits of hunting, fishing, and gathering.
We will try to spot narwhals and learn to see this landscape as the Greenlanders see it, populated by invisible forces, ancient stories, Qivitoq, and buried memories.
From Upernavik we fly over breathtaking scenery, iceberg-filled fjords and a handful of villages to reach the small community of Kullorsuaq.
From here, we'll take a small boat toMelville Bay. We'll each take 2 kayaks, as this is the only means of travel permitted in Melville Bay Park, and allows us to approach the narwhals in silence.
We'll spend 2 to 3 nights in traditional tents.
During your stay, temperatures will fluctuate between 5° and -5°.In Kullorsuaq, we'll provide you with all the equipment you need for your activities:
Guardians of an ancestral tradition, the people of Kullorsuaq spend most of their lives navigating the ice floes by sled, or the fjords by boat and kayak.They derive their livelihood from fishing and hunting, with immense respect for their nurturing environment.
They do us the honor of accepting us into their midst, allowing us to share some very special moments in their lives. They will set the pace for this unique mission and give us access to their world, their customs and their know-how.
To bring you this authentic experience, Nicolas Dubreuil will be your guide and interpreter, allowing you to communicate with them.
An expedition to Northern Greenland is a physical, moral and financial commitment.
In these regions, there's no room for improvisation or approximation. Everyone's comfort and safety depend on the quality and level of organization.
This expedition can accommodate up to 6 travelers. You'll experience this traditional way of life at first hand.
We take care of :
As this is a real expedition and not a tourist trip, the extreme conditions, the state of the ice and the pack ice as well as the material and technical hazards may influence the course of the expedition. The program and activities may be modified and adapted according to all these.