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A four-hour experience to the panoramic summit above Nuuk
Just behind Nuuk, the mountain Quassussuaq, known locally as Lille Malene, rises sharply from the city. This guided four-hour experience follows the regular route to its summit, about 430 vertical metres up, for sweeping views over Nuuk Fjord, Sermitsiaq, and the open coastline. It's the city's signature peak: visible from everywhere downtown, climbable in half a day.
The pace is steady, the climbs are short and frequent, and the reward is a panorama that few cities can match. Sermitsiaq's crown sits across the fjord. On a clear day, the open Atlantic shows on one side and the inland mountains on the other.
Hot drink at the top, then back to town in your own pace. The descent is faster and easier than the climb, and most groups return to Nuuk with the sense of having seen the city in a way that walking the streets never quite delivers, top-down, framed, suddenly in proportion to the country around it.
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What our guests say
"Raw Arctic is incredible. If you are heading to Greenland, Raw Arctic this is your tour/adventure company! We hiked, biked, fished, boated, had an incredibly memorable lunch and learned so much while having tons of fun. Isak and Anita were top notch professionals and will take excellent care of you. 10/10"
Mica Diamond
United States
"Raw Arctic gave us absolutely amazing 10-days trip in Greenland. They’ve organised everything from the pick up at the airport through hunting, boat sailing, hiking, etc. They were also extremely helpful when our schedule got derailed because of unpredictable internal flights. They did it all with easiness, laughs, positive attitude and good energy. Special thanks to Isak and Salik for making this experience so flawless and unforgettable!"
Kinga Jaromin
Poland
A local route walked daily by the people of Nuuk, winding through rocky terrain alive with arctic flora in bloom.
A warm drink in hand, the city of Nuuk slowly emerging through the clouds below.
Your half-day on the mountain
What to expect
A four-hour guided experience up Quassussuaq, the peak just behind Nuuk that locals call Lille Malene. The regular route climbs about 430 metres to the summit for a wide view over Nuuk Fjord, Sermitsiaq, and the open coastline.
The pace is steady and the climbs are short and frequent rather than long and brutal. It suits fit walkers of all levels, and it is the city's signature half-day peak.
Itinerary
- Pick-up from the meeting point in the city and transfer to the trailhead.
- Guided ascent of Quassussuaq, also called Lille Malene, about 430 metres of climbing over steady ground.
- A hot drink at the summit with the panorama below, then the descent and transfer back to town.
What's included
- A local Raw Arctic guide, equipped for the route.
- Round-trip transfer between your hotel and the trailhead.
- Coffee or tea at the summit, plus all safety equipment.
The city's everyday mountain
Quassussuaq is better known to locals by its Danish name, Lille Malene, the little sister to Store Malene next door.
It is the peak that the Nuuk residents enjoys on a day off: close enough to start from town, steep enough to feel earned, and high enough at around 430 metres to lay the whole fjord out below you at the top.
Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about this tour — from key details to what you can expect during the experience. If you can’t find your answer here, we’re always here to help.
Autumn - what should I bring on this Quassussuaq mountain hike?
What to Bring – September / October / November (Autumn Conditions)
Autumn brings colder air, darker days, and more exposed conditions. There is usually little to no snow, but wind and temperature can make it feel significantly colder than summer.
We recommend bringing:
- Day backpack
- Hiking boots with good grip (waterproof recommended)
- Layered clothing system:
- Warm base layer (merino wool)
- Insulating mid layer (fleece or light insulated jacket)
- Windproof and waterproof outer shell
- Insulated jacket (down or synthetic)
- Warm hiking trousers
- Warm hat or beanie
- Gloves (preferably insulated or windproof)
- Neck gaiter or buff
- Water bottle (insulated if possible)
- Snacks or energy food
Spring - what should I bring on this Quassussuaq mountain hike?
What to bring – May (late spring / snow remaining)
In May, winter is slowly loosening its grip. Snow often remains on the upper slopes, and temperatures typically hover around 0–5°C.
We recommend bringing:
- Backpack
- Hiking boots with good ankle support (waterproof recommended)
- Layered clothing system:
- Base layer (merino wool or synthetic)
- Mid layer (fleece or breathable insulated layer)
- Outer layer (windproof and waterproof jacket)
- Insulated jacket (light down or synthetic)
- Hiking trousers (water-resistant, with stretch)
- Warm hat or buff (for head and ears)
- Thin and thick gloves
- Sunglasses (snow glare can be strong)
- Sunscreen (reflection from snow increases exposure)
- Water bottle (minimum 1 liter)
- Snacks or light energy food
Meet our local guides
Aviaq Henningsen
Sailor & Guide
Aviaq is a Certified Arctic Adventure Guide from Ilulissat, known for her curiosity, deep local knowledge, and upbeat energy. Trained to guide on Targa boats with guests, she loves sharing Greenland’s backcountry.
Malinnguaq Egede
Hunting Guide & Sailor
Malinnguaq is a skilled sailor and guide with a passion for hunting and exploring nature. He shares the wilderness with guests through authentic experiences rooted in the sea, the land, and tradition.
Ivi Luna Olsen
Sailor & Guide
Always drawn to the Arctic backcountry, Ivi Luna loves exploring by boat, on skis, or on foot. As a Certified Arctic Adventure Guide, she combines genuine passion for nature with strong guiding standards.
Kimmernaq Isaksen
Sailor & Guide
Kimmernaq brings infectious energy and a permanent smile to every tour. A certified Arctic and Adventure guide, with a natural gift for guiding guests through Greenland's wilderness.
*Guides are subject to change
