
Friday, July 24, 2026
1653 Kiinaasaq Race July 24 2026
1653 Kiinaasaq is an extreme race from Kapisillit to the summit of Nuuk’s highest mountain.
About This Race
Climb Nuuk’s Highest Peak
From the settlement of Kapisillit to the summit of Kiinaasaq at 1653 meters above sea level.
1653 Kiinaasaq Race is an Arctic mountain challenge through fjords, valleys, rocky terrain,
and steep mountain landscapes deep inside the Nuuk Fjord system.
Participants travel by boat from Nuuk to Kapisillit, where the adventure begins.
Choose between three different routes — from family-friendly hiking to extreme mountain
running.
Whether you want to reach the summit of Kiinaasaq, challenge yourself in mountain terrain,
or simply experience Greenlandic nature on foot, Kiinaasaq Race offers a route for every
level.
From Fjord to Summit
A true Arctic mountain challenge.
Kiinaasaq at a Glance
● Arctic Mountain Race
● Summit of Kiinaasaq — 1653 Meters
● Boat Transport Included
● Camp in Kapisillit
● Breakfast Included
● 42 KM Extreme Route
● 21 KM Challenge Route
● 21 KM Family Hike
● Mountain & Fjord Terrain
● Safety & Route Markings
● Small Participant Groups
Choose Your Route
Orange Route — 42 KM
Extreme Route
The Orange Route is the longest and most demanding route of the event.
Starting from Kapisillit, participants move through fjord terrain toward Neriunaq before
continuing the climb toward the summit of Kiinaasaq.
The route includes:
● Long mountain climbs
● Rocky terrain
● River crossings
● Steep sections
● Technical mountain trails
The final section toward the summit becomes more technical with larger rocks and uneven
terrain.
Participants must bring their own snacks, lunch food, and energy during the race.
Included
● Camp accommodation
● Boat transport
● Breakfast
● Food stations during the race
● Water, juice, fruit, chocolate, and sports drinks
● Route markings
● Satellite communication
Perfect for experienced runners looking for a serious Arctic mountain challenge.
Black Route — 21 KM
Challenge Route
The Black Route focuses on the climb toward the summit of Kiinaasaq.
Participants are transported by boat to the starting area near Neriunaq before beginning the
ascent toward the summit and returning along the same route.
This route is shorter than the Orange Route but still physically demanding with steep climbs
and rocky mountain terrain.
Participants must bring their own snacks, lunch food, and hydration.
Included
● Camp accommodation
● Boat transport
● Breakfast
● Food stations during the race
● Water, juice, fruit, chocolate, and sports drinks
● Route markings
● Satellite communication
Perfect for participants who want the summit experience without the full marathon distance.
Blue Route — 21 KM
Family Hike
Not everyone comes to Greenland to race.
The Blue Route is a relaxed hiking experience from Kapisillit to Neriunaq through the fjord
landscape.
The terrain is easier and mostly flat compared to the mountain routes, making it suitable for
families, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Participants can enjoy the Arctic nature, mountain views, and the atmosphere around the
Kiinaasaq Race event at a slower pace.
Participants must bring their own snacks, lunch food, and hydration.
Included
● Camp accommodation
● Boat transport
● Breakfast
● Food stations during the route
● Water, juice, fruit, and chocolate
● Route markings
● Satellite communication
Perfect for families, hikers, and participants looking for a scenic Arctic outdoor experience.
What’s Included
All participants receive:
● Boat transport between Nuuk and Kapisillit
● Camp accommodation
● Breakfast
● Food stations during the routes
● Route markings
● Satellite communication
● Safety support during the event
Food stations along the routes include water, juice, fruit, chocolate, and sports drinks.
Participants are responsible for their own snacks, lunch food, and personal equipment during
the race.
Practical Information
1653 Kiinaasaq Race takes place:
● 24–25 July 2026
Participants can choose between:
● Orange Route — 42 KM
● Black Route — 21 KM
● Blue Route — 21 KM Family Hike
The terrain includes:
● Mountain trails
● Fjord landscapes
● Rocky terrain
● River crossings
● Steep climbs
● Arctic weather conditions
Participants will receive detailed race and packing information before departure.
What to Bring
Mountain weather in Greenland can change quickly, so proper equipment is important.
Participants should bring:
● Trail running or hiking shoes
● Waterproof jacket and pants
● Warm layers
● Backpack
● Sleeping bag
● Sleeping mat
● Water bottles or hydration system
● Snacks and lunch food
● Energy bars or gels
● Extra clothing
● Hat and gloves
● Sunglasses
● Personal medication
● Power bank
● Personal hygiene items
A detailed packing list will be sent before the event.
Safety & Support
Participant safety is our highest priority.
The routes are marked throughout the course, and safety support is positioned at important
areas along the mountain routes.
Because parts of the route are remote with limited mobile coverage, satellite communication
is used for additional safety and emergency coordination.
Participants should be prepared for:
● Changing mountain weather
● Long distances
● Uneven terrain
● Rocky sections
● Physical climbs
Nature sets the rules in Greenland — and that is part of the Kiinaasaq experience.
Camp in Kapisillit
Participants stay in camp in Kapisillit before and after the race.
The camp atmosphere is an important part of the experience, where runners, hikers,
families, and visitors gather together surrounded by mountains and fjords.
After the race, participants can relax, share stories from the mountain, and enjoy the Arctic
surroundings together.
Want to Know More?
If you would like to know more about 1653 Kiinaasaq Race, feel free to contact us — we are
always happy to hear from you.
Follow us on social media for:
● Registration updates
● Event information
● Photos and videos
● Route updates
● Future Greenland Arctic Xplorers events
Follow us on:
● Instagram — Greenland Arctic Xplorers
● Facebook — Greenland Arctic Xplorers
From Fjord to Summit
Climb Nuuk’s Highest Peak
Gallery
Book This Race
Select your date and number of participants.