Greenland Crossing 2026

ONE OF POLAR ADVENTURE'S GREATEST CHALLENGES

A 30 day, 540-kilometer journey across Greenland's vast ice sheet, pushing physical and mental boundaries to inspire others to pursue their own extraordinary goals.  
May 2026.

What is the Expedition?

First completed by the celebrated Arctic adventurer Fridtjof Nansen in 1888, crossing Greenland's vast ice sheet remains one of polar exploration's greatest achievements. While modern equipment has evolved, the fundamental challenge endures - this is an expedition that will test human limits in one of Earth's most unforgiving environments.
Along with reaching the North and South Poles, the Greenland crossing forms part of the iconic Polar Trilogy - three journeys that represent the pinnacle of polar achievement. This 540-kilometer traverse pushes explorers to their physical and mental limits, demanding exceptional endurance, unwavering determination, and the ability to persevere through extreme conditions.

From the technical challenges of navigating vast ice sheets to enduring brutal Arctic weather, each day presents new tests of human capability. The journey combines raw adventure with profound personal growth, offering unique perspectives on human potential and resilience.

Important Note: This expedition is entirely non-profit in nature. 100% of all donations raised will go directly towards funding the Greenland 2025 expedition costs. This is about pushing boundaries and inspiring others, not financial gain.

The Raw Truth

Why this journey matters

There's a difference between existing and truly living. Like many who seem to thrive on adventure, I battle with inner demons and mental health challenges that can make even ordinary days feel overwhelming. When I stand on Greenland's ice sheet, facing one of polar exploration's ultimate challenges, I'll be choosing life in its fullest form - embracing the raw, the real, the terrifying, and the extraordinary. I experienced this profound clarity during my time on Svalbard's ice, where the stark beauty and brutal challenge awakened something in me that changed everything. Sometimes, the greatest battles aren't with the elements, but with the darkness within.

This crossing isn't just another adventure or an escape. It's a declaration that memories matter more than comfort, that stories are worth more than safety, and that our greatest achievements often lie on the other side of our deepest fears. Through careful preparation and unwavering commitment, I'm not just planning an expedition - I'm crafting memories that will fuel inspiration for years to come, while keeping those internal shadows at bay through purposeful challenge.

Every brutal day on the ice, every moment of doubt overcome, every small victory against both the elements and inner turbulence becomes part of a larger narrative about what's possible when we dare to truly live. These aren't just my stories to keep; they're experiences to share, lessons to teach, and inspiration to ignite similar courage in others who might be fighting their own battles, visible or invisible.

Through my coaching and guided adventures, I've seen how authentic stories of challenge and triumph can transform lives. This journey will deepen that impact immeasurably. When I speak about pushing boundaries and facing fears, it won't be from theory but from the bone-deep knowledge of what it means to pursue something that terrifies and excites in equal measure, and how that pursuit can light the way through darker times.

We get one life. One chance to create memories that matter, to inspire others, to show what's possible. The Greenland crossing isn't just about reaching the other side - it's about embracing every aspect of being alive, about choosing the path of greatest resistance because that's where the most profound stories are written and where the mind finds its clearest purpose.

This is my choice to live fully, to create memories worth sharing, and to inspire others to write their own extraordinary stories. 

Join me in making it possible.

When and Where?

This Greenland crossing will take place between May 5 and June 5, 2026
(exact dates may shift slightly due to weather and logistics).
The Journey

- Starting Point: Kangerlussuaq, West Greenland

- Destination: Tasiilaq, East Greenland

- Distance: 540 kilometers

- Duration: 25-28 days on the ice

Funding Timeline

To make this expedition possible, I will need to secure:

- Deposits Paid: USD 3,000

- Donations Received: USD 7,500

- Fund Still Required: USD 4,000

- Fundraising Deadline: September 2025

This advance timeline is crucial for detailed planning, equipment procurement, and logistics coordination. Polar expeditions require extensive preparation - from specialized gear and permits to physical training and safety protocols. In the Arctic, thorough preparation isn't just important; it's essential for success and safety.

Expedition Map

How Will It Happen?

Working with established Arctic logistics partners, this expedition combines detailed planning with proven safety protocols.

Every aspect - from equipment transport to emergency procedures - is managed by experienced polar operations teams who understand the unique challenges of Greenland's ice sheet.

Preparation and Launch

- Arrival in Copenhagen, then flight to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland

- Final equipment checks and supply preparation

- Team briefing and last-minute logistics

- Forward-staging of clean clothing to Tasiilaq

The Ice Sheet Journey

- Initial ascent from Point 660 to the ice sheet

- Early days navigating exposed ice with crampons

- Progression through the lower icefall's undulating terrain

- Eastward travel toward DYE II radar station

- Rest and resupply at the historic DYE II facility

- Crossing the vast plateau at altitude

- Final descent through the eastern icefall

Journey's End

- Navigation through coastal moraines

- Sea-ice traverse to Isortoq

- Helicopter transfer to Tasiilaq

- Expedition conclusion and team departure

Daily Opetations

Each day follows a structured routine designed for safety and efficiency:

- Regular weather monitoring

- Team health checks

- Equipment maintenance

- Progress tracking

- Communications schedule

Why Your Support Matters

This Greenland crossing represents more than a personal challenge - it embodies the core of what I do as a mindset & performance coach and expedition leader.

From Arctic ice to executive boardrooms, my mission is to push boundaries and show what's possible when we dare to step beyond our comfort zones.

 

Creating Ripples of Impact

Through this expedition:

  • I'll gather raw, real-world experiences that enhance my coaching practice
  • Share insights that bridge extreme adventure with everyday challenges
  • Demonstrate how lessons from the Arctic apply to personal and professional growth
  • Inspire others to pursue their own adventures, whether that's starting a business, planning an expedition, or tackling a personal challenge

 

Beyond Personal Achievement

Your support creates multiple waves of impact:

  • 100% of donations directly fund the Greenland crossing
  • Additional funds support charitable initiatives in humanitarian welfare, healthcare, education, and animal welfare
  • Through media partnerships, we'll share the journey to inspire others
  • The experiences and insights will become part of my coaching toolkit, helping future clients push their own boundaries

 

From Ice to Inspiration

Whether you're considering your first adventure, seeking professional transformation, or dreaming of your own "impossible" goal, this expedition will provide real-time insights and proof that with proper preparation and mindset, extraordinary achievements are possible.

Support The 2025 Greenland Crossing

The expedition requires USD 17,500 in total funding, with an initial USD 3,000 needed to secure participation and USD 14,500 by September 2025.

Making It Possible

The total expedition cost is USD 17,500, broken down into:

  • Initial commitment: USD 3,000
  • Remaining balance: USD 14,500 (needed by September 2024)

Your support directly funds critical expedition elements.

Logistics and Operations

- Air transportation (Copenhagen-Greenland)

- Local transport and ice access

- Safety backup and support services

- Food and supply caching

Support and Services

- Professional guides and safety team

- Weather monitoring and routing

- Emergency response coverage

- Permits and insurance

Equipment & Gear

- Specialized Arctic clothing systems

- Navigation and safety equipment

- Communication devices

- Camping and survival gear

Additional Impact

Any funds raised beyond the expedition costs will be donated to our charity partner, supporting:

- Humanitarian welfare

- Healthcare initiatives

- Educational programs

- Animal welfare projects

The Journey Continues

  • USD 9,860 raised ✓ 
  • Expedition secured ✓ 
  • Next goal: Full funding by November 2025 
  • Beyond that: Every extra dollar supports charitable initiatives

I am also deeply grateful for several offline donations that made the March 2025 Svalbard Expedition possible, as it will provide essential ice training and expedition preparation time.

Full Transparency

100% of donations go directly to expedition costs. This is a non-profit venture with no personal financial gain - every single dollar contributed helps make this journey possible and supports its mission to inspire others.

More Than An Expedition

Your support doesn't just put boots on ice - it helps create a story of possibility. From training grounds to Greenland's vast ice sheet, every step of this journey will show others what's possible when we dare to chase extraordinary dreams. Through dedicated media partnerships and ongoing documentation, your contribution helps create content and insights that inspire others to pursue their own seemingly impossible goals.

Building Legacy

Beyond the crossing itself, this expedition aims to:

  • Inspire others to chase their "white whale" dreams
  • Create real conversations about mental health and resilience
  • Show that extraordinary achievements start with single steps
  • Give back through charitable initiatives once goals are met

Thank You

To those who've already joined this journey - your belief in this mission has been humbling. You're not just funding an expedition; you're part of a bigger story about human potential, perseverance, and the power of community.

Together, we're proving that when we support each other's dreams, we create ripples of inspiration that reach far beyond the ice.

Gerry van der Walt - Arctic Expedition - Mindset & Performance Coach

Image Gallery

More than just preparation photos - this gallery chronicles years of Arctic immersion through hosting Svalbard expeditions, testing cutting-edge polar equipment, winter training missions, and crucial skill-building journeys. From leading others through the polar wilderness to personal training milestones, these images document the complete journey toward the Greenland crossing.