The Icefjord Midnight Marathon is one of the most unusual marathons on Earth — you run in Greenland at night under full daylight from the midnight sun, surrounded by glaciers and icebergs.
Quick facts
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Date | May 30, 2026 |
| Location | Ilulissat |
| Distances | Marathon (42.2 km) & Half Marathon (21.1 km) |
| Start time | Marathon starts around 21:00 |
| Surface | Rocky trails, gravel, asphalt, wooden paths |
| Terrain | Mixed road + trail |
| Midnight sun | The sun never fully sets |
| Famous for | UNESCO Icefjord scenery & Arctic atmosphere |
This is not a fast PR marathon!!!
It’s more of an expedition-style race:
- uneven rocky trails
- cold coastal air
- constant daylight at midnight
- remote Arctic logistics
- dramatic scenery everywhere
Difficulty level
I’d classify it as:
- Fitness: moderate-to-hard
- Technicality: moderate
- Weather challenge: moderate
- Mental experience: unforgettable
Main challenges:
- rocky footing
- colder temperatures than standard marathons
- wind exposure
- late-night body-clock disruption
- travel fatigue
Typical temperatures are cool, often around 0–8°C at race time.
Travel logistics
This is the biggest part people underestimate.
You usually fly:
- Into Copenhagen
- Then to Kangerlussuaq
- Then domestic flight to Ilulissat
Weather delays in Greenland are common, so experienced runners recommend:
- arriving at least 2–3 days early
- not booking tight return flights
- building buffer days into your itinerary
Accommodation
Popular official options include:
- Hotel Ilulissat
- Hotel Hvide Falk
- Hotel Icefiord
The start/finish is near Hotel Hvide Falk.
Entry cost
This is an expensive bucket-list race.
Typical total cost:
- race package: often €3000+
- flights to Greenland
- Arctic accommodation
- meals/excursions
Accommodation
Popular official options include:
The start/finish is near Hotel Hvide Falk
Would you like to run and enjoy in wild Greenland nature? 🙂
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