Physical Requirements
At Nat Hab, we provide access to some of the most wondrous nature encounters the world has to offer. Many take place in destinations that are wild and remote, with varying physical demands and limited medical facilities. All trips may not be suitable for every traveler. In order to participate in this itinerary, travelers must comfortably and reliably be able to execute all physical requirements as noted below.
Level of Difficulty
- Moderate to Challenging
Trip Pace
7 locations in 14 days
Two scheduled flights
Travelers must be able to hike approximately 3 miles at a time and 3-5 miles over the course of a day, unassisted over rugged, uneven and off-trail terrain, with Day 4 in Iceland potentially reaching 7 miles total if fully participating
Hikes range from 1-4 miles each; travelers should expect 2-6 hours of physical activity daily
Terrain in Iceland includes pavement, boardwalks, rough lava, glacial ice and earthen trails that can be muddy, slippery, rocky and hilly
Terrain in Greenland is often unmarked and trailless, consisting of rocky boulder fields, loose stones, uneven and unstable tundra, hills, and small stream crossings
Travelers must be physically independent while hiking and sturdy on their feet to navigate uneven, slippery, and very rocky ground
Travelers must be able to maintain balance to get on and off Zodiac boats during wet and dry landings, often over large, slippery rocks or boulders
For hikes longer than 3 miles, shorter alternatives are sometimes available (depending on various safety and logistical considerations) but should not be relied upon as an alternative for those who do not meet the trip's physical requirements
Most hikes are at a leisurely pace with guided interpretation
Travel by 4x4 minibus (with river crossings), plane, helicopter (pending availability), boats and Zodiacs
Zodiac excursions can last 8–9 hours with prolonged exposure to cold, wind and rain in open boats
Not appropriate for travelers using wheelchairs, walkers or canes
Travelers must have good balance, mobility, and be in good physical health, not requiring continued assistance from the Expedition Leader(s)
Medical facilities in Greenland are very limited and may not be readily accessible in the event of an emergency
Temps in Iceland range from 30–70°F and can vary greatly day to day
Temps in East Greenland can range from low 30s to high 50s, with temperatures cooling down towards the end of August
Rain and wind are possible during this adventure
Below are example photos of walks and hikes from our Iceland & Greenland adventure.