Pingu - Straight to the Summit

A short but difficult route up Pingu with a fantastic 360 degree view from the top

Photo – Aningaaq R. Carlsen, Visit Greenland

The route that leads from Kapisillit pretty much directly to the top of Pingu is a short but difficult trip that will, once you reach the top, reward you with a fantastic 360 degree view of Kapisillit Kangerluat (the fjord), Kinaasaq (the highest point in Nuup Kangerlua), Kangersuneq (the Ice Fjord), Nikku (mountain top), and the area behind Pingu. This is the route that the locals call their “evening stroll”.

Path Type:

There and back

Marking:

Blue

Time:

1–2½ hours

Distance:

3.7 km

Coordinates:

N 64° 25’ 57’’ - E -50° 16’ 23’’ (start)

Difficulty level:

Demanding

Highest point:

490 m

Elevation gain:

450 m up and down

Altitude profile:

Overview of the route.

The first marker can be found on the path immediately after the churchyard. Follow the markers from the churchyard up to the plateau above the churchyard, crossing the “football pitch”. The route ascends steadily from here. The route is relatively easy to follow, as the summit is always in sight. There are a few areas of loose rocks of varying sizes.

The blue markers will unite with the yellow markers approx. 50 m from the end point. The route does not go all the way to the summit itself, but ends at a cairn on the north-western end of the plateau. You will here be rewarded with a fantastic 360 degree view across Kapisillit Kangerluat; Kinaasaq, the highest point of Nuup Kangerlua; Kangersuneq; Nikku; and the hinterland lakes.

The return route is back the way you came.

Notable landmarks, scenic viewpoints and more.

  • Kapisillit Kangerluat (the fjord) 
  • Kinaasaq (the highest point in Nuup Kangerlua)
  • Kangersuneq (the Ice Fjord)
  • Nikku (mountain top)
  • The area behind Pingu

Best times to hike and seasonal conditions.

This route should only ever be attempted during periods without any snow or ice, as the gradients can in places be dangerous in icy conditions.

How to get to the starting point.

Kapisillit is a small settlement located about 50 kilometres northeast of Nuuk, deep in the fjord. Currently, approximately 40 people reside here year-round. No roads connect Kapisillit and Nuuk; you therefore have to go by boat or helicopter

  • Boat: You can charter a boat from one of the local boat operators – find the list here. Tour Operators in Nuuk – Explore Nuuk with Expert Guides. Alternatively, you can opt for Diskoline, the local transport service company, also known as Disko Line. Diskoline offers regular service between Kapisillit and Nuuk, with more departures during the summer than in the winter.  The trip typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on the weather and conditions.
  • Helicopter: Another option is to take a helicopter from Nuuk to Kapisillit. This is a faster but more expensive option. Helicopter services can provide a scenic way to reach Kapisillit. Air Greenland charter can arrange for your transportation Air Greenland Charter — Arctic Excursions
  • If you are going with a local guide as part of a package, they will most likely have arranged for your transportation.

The starting point is by the cemetery. The walk from the harbour is approximately. 400 meters. When you get off the ferry, take the first path on your right and walk uphill, keeping to the left when the path splits.

Connecting trails or extending your hike.

This route can be combined with the Pingu Circular route or the Pingu Summit Route – long route.

Availability of drinking water along the trail.

There is no water to be found on the route, so fill your water bottles before setting off.

Essential precautions and recommendations.

  • All passage is at your own risk
  • Do not go alone and make sure you have notified someone about your route and when you expect to be back 
  • Do not rely on cellphone reception on trail
  • Bring a device to call for help
  • Refill water in any stream
  • Follow the weather – respect and react to changes 
  • The weather can change quickly – bring an extra warm layer and a wind/waterproof jacket
  • Be careful of slippery and unstable surfaces 
  • Bring a colorful garment to wear in case you need a rescue
  • It is not possible to purchase any food or snacks on the way – so please bring your own
  • In the summer, we recommend you bring sun cream, a mosquito net, and a cap or the like.

Guidelines for responsible hiking.

You are a guest in nature – leave nothing but footprints

  • Follow the marked trails
  • Cary out all your trash – but not the rocks and flowers
  • Do not build new cairns or make changes to existing ones. 
  • No fires and be careful with cigarettes
  • Do not disturb the wildlife
  • Respect and enjoy the tranquillity of nature

As part of protecting the environment in the area, we promote the 7 principles of Leave No Trace:
The 7 Principles – Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics (lnt.org)

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