Solo Photography Expedition to Ilulissat

Last Day Musings in Ilulissat

As my Greenland adventure draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey I’ve undertaken in Ilulissat. This solo photography expedition has been nothing short of transformative, offering a unique blend of Arctic landscapes, cultural immersion, and personal reflection. I'm sitting here at the Hotel Hvide Falk, enjoying a final cup of coffee and letting the memories of the past nine days wash over me.


Discover comfort at Hotel Hvide Falk, a pet-friendly haven in the heart of Ilulissat, with easy access to stunning Arctic landscapes and local attractions.
My final day in Ilulissat was a quiet one, a gentle transition back to reality after days filled with awe-inspiring sights and exhilarating experiences. I started the day with breakfast at Hotel Hvide Falk. The breakfast buffet was wonderful, and I enjoyed the traditional European continental breakfast. The views from the restaurant were amazing, overlooking the harbor. I took my time savoring the moment, watching the town slowly come to life.
After breakfast, I decided to take one last stroll through the town. Ilulissat has a charm that’s hard to describe – a blend of colorful houses, the scent of the sea, and the constant presence of icebergs in the distance. I wandered past the Knud Rasmussen Museum, thinking about the great explorer and his connection to this place. I also visited the harbor, watching the local fishermen preparing their boats for the day's work. It’s a scene that feels both timeless and deeply connected to the Arctic environment.

For lunch, I opted for the Hotel Hvide Falk Café. It was comforting to have familiar surroundings as I prepared to leave. I enjoyed a simple meal, reflecting on the culinary experiences I've had here, from Greenlandic cuisine with a Thai touch to savoring the freshest Arctic ingredients.

In the afternoon, I revisited some of my favorite spots in town, wanting to soak in the atmosphere one last time. I walked along the boardwalk to the Ilulissat Icefjord, marveling at the gigantic icebergs. The Icefjord is a dynamic ice sculpture gallery. The light was soft, casting a magical glow over the ice. I sat there for a long time, simply observing the ever-changing landscape. It felt like a fitting farewell to this incredible place.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are the ones that leave you speechless, filled with a sense of wonder that lingers long after you've departed.

As the day progressed, I took some time to journal and organize my photographs. Going through the images, I was struck by the sheer variety of landscapes I'd encountered – from the serene beauty of the icebergs to the rugged coastline and the colorful charm of Ilulissat itself. Each photograph tells a story, a moment in time captured in this unique corner of the world.

For my final dinner, I chose the Hotel Hvide Falk Restaurant. I wanted to end my trip with a memorable meal. I decided to try a Greenlandic dish, savoring the local flavors and reflecting on the culinary journey I've experienced here. The staff was friendly and attentive, making the evening even more special.

Back in my room, I packed my bags, ensuring all my camera equipment was safely stored. It’s always a bittersweet moment – the anticipation of returning home mixed with the sadness of leaving a place that has captured my heart. I made sure my warm clothing, hiking boots, portable charger, and reusable water bottle were all packed. I also made a mental note to not forget extra memory cards and sunscreen on my next adventure.

Before drifting off to sleep, I spent some time looking through the photos I’d taken throughout the trip. Each image brought back vivid memories: the thrill of capturing the perfect shot of a calving iceberg, the quiet solitude of hiking through the Arctic wilderness, and the warmth of connecting with the local culture. It’s a journey I know I’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Staying at Hotel Hvide Falk has been a great experience. The staff was excellent. The hotel is centrally located, with great views of the bay. It has a cozy and comfortable atmosphere. The free airport transfer was seamless. I would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Ilulissat.

As I prepare to leave Ilulissat, I can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. Greenland has a way of getting under your skin, of leaving an indelible mark on your soul. It’s a place of raw beauty, of untamed wilderness, and of profound silence. It’s a place that reminds you of the power and fragility of nature, and of the importance of preserving it for future generations.

Tomorrow, I’ll be heading back to Reykjavik and then on to Calgary. The journey home will be long, but I’ll be carrying with me a treasure trove of memories and photographs. I know that this is not a goodbye to Greenland, but rather a “see you later.” I have a feeling I’ll be drawn back to this magical place again someday.

This solo trip has reinforced my love for adventure and nature-based experiences. It has also given me a deeper appreciation for the importance of sustainable travel practices. As a freelance photographer, I feel a responsibility to capture the beauty of our planet and to share it with others in a way that inspires them to protect it.

I’m excited to return to Canmore and share my stories with Liam. I know he’ll be eager to hear all about my adventures and to see the photographs I’ve captured. And who knows, maybe one day we’ll come back to Greenland together.

For now, it’s time to say farewell to the ice. Thank you, Ilulissat, for an unforgettable journey.

Until next time, keep exploring and keep capturing the beauty of our world.