Conquer the arctic: scale the majestic Mt. Gunnbjörn on a 5-day expedition
Are you dreaming of an Arctic adventure of a lifetime? This 5-day tour has you scaling the highest peak of the Arctic (3694 m/12120 ft). Mt. Gunnbjörn has been called the 8th continental peak due to its massive size, and it beckons climbers from around the world. On the east coast, where towering mountains rise from the Greenland icecap, the conditions are pristine and similar to those in Antarctica. There’s nothing quite like challenging yourself to climb in one of the most isolated areas of the north, with the fresh Arctic air and stark white snow. An experienced and qualified guide will lead the group, keeping participants safe and informed.
This is not a trek for a beginner as the hike is considered strenuous, and participants should have mountain climbing experience and be prepared to camp for four nights. Mt. Gunnbjörn is easily accessible on a ski plane from Iceland. Once in the Watkins Mountains, we set up a comfortable base camp at the foot of the mountain. To make the summit day more manageable, we establish one camp on the way to the summit. The climb can be done on snowshoes, with the last part done on crampons.
The tour starts with a meeting with the group and expedition leader the day before you depart to Greenland from Iceland. The leader will brief you on safety and inspect your gear. Please note there is a risk of delay of the flight from Greenland due to weather conditions, which must be considered when participants plan their flight out of Iceland. Book an open ticket!
On the morning of day one, the group will fly from Reykjavík’s domestic airport to Akureyri in north Iceland. From Akureyri, the group flies to Greenland, arriving in the afternoon. The group will make camp at the landing site or head higher up depending on weather conditions; the expedition leader will determine the best plan.
On days two to four, depending on weather conditions, the leader will determine the best time to attempt an ascent of Gunnbjörn. You will head out with the required equipment, including sledges, snowshoes and crampons. Along the way, you will get to admire the Arctic scenery, with the pristine white snow contrasting with the deep hues of the sky and ocean. The small group size gives a good sense of camaraderie as you experience the climbs together, sightsee, prepare meals and share base camp.
On day five, the group will fly back to Iceland, first landing in Akureyri, followed by a short domestic flight to Reykjavík, where the tour ends.
Please note that permits needed for the expedition are included in the price of the tour, as is evacuation insurance for all expedition members.
- Availability
- Spring & Summer
- Difficulty
- Extreme
- Duration
- 5 days
- Minimum age
- 18
- Accomodation
- Camping
TourID: EXPG65
Activity provider: Icelandic Mountain Guides by Icelandia
Need to know
Only suitable for people physically and psychologically prepared for a highly engaging experience. Expedition level. It often involves carrying your own gear.
Requirements
- See equipment list
- Flexible Cancellation
- No Booking Fees
Tour itinerary
What’s included and what to bring on this tour
It’s important to always be prepared for your next adventure in Iceland. See our list of what’s included, and what you should bring or add to your trip
Included
- Experienced and qualified guide
- Flight Reykjavik - Akureyri - Reykjavík
- Private chartered ski plane from Akureyri to the Watkins mountains and back
Not included
- Sleeping bag
Are you wondering about something?
If you're planning a trip to Iceland, it's important to be prepared with the right information. Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) to help you plan your trip
Some meeting points don't have traditional addresses as they are parking lots or or mountain base camps in remote areas or, but you can always find these locations on Google Maps and see directions on the map above.
Before we head to the glacier for the tour, we need to get everyone fitted with the equipment (protective overalls, helmets and goggles for snowmobile tours, crampons and harnesses for glacier hikes, dry suit for kayak touts, etc.). Some equipment needs to be adjusted to each person's, so people must arrive 30 minutes before so everyone is ready at the departure time.
We always recommend booking as soon as you are ready, especially if you have a strict travel schedule or a large group. Changing or cancelling your tour is easy and free of charge until 24 hours before departure by emailing us (info@mountainguides.is). Tours can also be purchased on the day of as long as spaces are available.