west greenland tourism

Western Greenland

• 2 Understand
• 3.1 By plane
• 4 Get around
• 9 Stay safe

Western Greenland ( Greenlandic : Kitaa , Danish : Vestgrønland ) is a region of Greenland . Home to the capital, Nuuk , this is the part of Greenland that you would probably think of if you've only seen the stereotypical picture. Large icebergs can be seen floating in the ocean with dogsled trips from one small settlement to another. In these settlements, fish and sharkmeat are often hanging outside small colorful houses along with the constant barking of dogs in the background.

• 64.175 -51.738889 1 Nuuk (Danish: Godthåb) – Capital of Greenland
• 68.709722 -52.869444 2 Aasiaat (Danish: Egedesminde)
• 69.216667 -51.1 3 Ilulissat (Danish: Jacobshavn)
• 67.008611 -50.689167 4 Kangerlussuaq (Danish: Søndre Strømfjord, English: Sondrestrom)
• 69.344444 -51.002778 6 Oqaatsut (Danish: Rodebay)
• 68.820144 -51.193242 8 Qasigiannguit
• 66.938889 -53.672222 9 Sisimiut (Danish: Holsteinsborg)
• 70.674722 -52.126389 10 Uummannaq (Danish: Umanak)

The trans-oceanic service to Greenland either lands at Kangerlussuaq , Narsarsuaq (the only two airports in the country which can accept anything larger than a turboprop), or the capital Nuuk from Iceland and Canada with smaller planes in the summer.

Kangerlussaq is the main hub with daily flights year-around. The other international flights are seasonal.

From Kangerlussaq, you can reach any other city or settlement in the country, through Air Greenland's domestic network.

Read the Greenland page for more information.

There is no road system between settlements. The easiest way to get around Greenland is by plane, particularly Air Greenland . Within Western Greenland, there are airports at Aasiaat, Ilulissat, Kangerlussuaq, Maniitsoq, Nuuk, Paamiut, Qaarsut and Sisimiut. Air Greenland also operates helicopter flights to smaller settlements.

In the summer, Arctic Umiaq Line passenger ships provide service to destinations between Narsarsuaq and Uummannaq along the west coast. Diskoline passenger ships provide service to settlements around Ilulissat.

Suaasat is their national dish. A soup usually made out of rice, onions, bayleaf, seal, or whale, reindeer, or sea-birds.

Petrified Greenland shark is also eaten. It is not as popular as it is in Iceland, and is an acquired taste. The Icelandic name of the dish is Hákarl.

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Things to see & do in Greenland by month

12 real reasons why you should visit greenland by month..

So Greenland’s on your bucket list for this year – or perhaps even the year after – but when is the best time to visit Greenland and what are useful things to know before going? What are things to do in Greenland in winter as opposed to summer?

In order to help you make your decision, visitgreenland.com editor Tanny Por has hand-picked 12 reasons why this polar wonderscape is so special at particular times of the year. Month-by-month recommendations of where to go & why to visit Greenland, enjoy!

RETURN OF THE SUN

Mean temperatures in January : -24°C (-11°F) to -5°C (23°F)

The thick cloak of polar darkness is still flung over much of Greenland, and January is a time of waiting for the return of the sun . Winter solstice, and Greenland’s winter darkness is magical in its own way. Although the sun has not risen for months in the northernmost parts of the country, light can be found in the moon reflecting on the thick snow, the stars twinkling in the sky, and the northern lights dancing in the heavens. 

On the day of its first rising, communities above the Arctic Circle gather together at their town’s vantage point to watch the sun peep above the horizon. There is no set event, but sometimes people will gather and sing songs together as they watch the sun return. It’s an occurrence rarely experienced and hard to imagine by the outside world.

WELLNESS X SNOW

Mean temperatures in February: -25°C (-13°F) to -6°C (21 °F)

As February brings more light to the day, you will notice that people stay out longer. It’s great that Greenlandic wellness options are becoming more accessible because a snowstorm in Greenland would not cancel the event, only add a layer to it!

Nuuk offers a white backcountry experience during this time – one can consider outdoor activities such as alpine and cross-country skiing, randonnée and snowshoeing with stunning vistas! After a day out in the wild, head to the swimming pool for a soak in the hot tub. Magnificent views guarantee a true Greenland spa experience. 

Snowmobiling is an adrenaline pumping sport which is second nature to locals in Sisimiut . Take a tour with an operator, and then return to town and try Hotel Sisimiut’s Arctic Spa offering, complete with sauna and wilderness baths. 

Another option is on the other side of the country with Tasiilaq tours , where a snowmobile will pull a mobile sauna to a beautiful location. When you are too hot, you can roll in the snow to cool down!

CULTURE IN NATURE

Mean temperatures in March : -24°C (-11°F) to -4°C (25°F)

March is a fine time to try traditional nature activities such as dog sledding and ice fishing which have both been a way of life for thousands of years. It’s actually still a common mode of transport in Greenland and the local fishing industry is an economic lifeline for the country presently.  

There is no better way of feeling the raw power of Greenland’s nature than on a traditional wooden sled. You can dogsled anywhere above the Arctic Circle and in East Greenland, but a lesser known place that stands out in the winter is the northerly town of Uummannaq . Here you can experience small-town living with 1400 residents, and slow your heartbeat down even further by ice fishing. Think of nothing else as you pull up fishing lines of up to 300 metres in spectacularly white, barren surroundings. Your cheeks will grow red from the exertion of working the line laden with the most delicious fish species in Greenland: halibut, redfish or even catfish.   

Another popular experience is sleeping at igloo lodge greenland . The tradition of building ice igloos (actually adopted from the Canadian Inuit) is now available for tourists visiting Ilulissat in the coldest months of the year. If you’re lucky when staying at the Greenlandic igloo, the northern lights will shimmer across the sky.

LIGHT AND SOUND

Mean temperatures in April : -15°C (5°F) to 1°C (34°F)

April will be one of your last chances to bask under the northern lights until winter comes again! Due to its positioning at 67°N and its inland positioning, Kangerlussuaq is one of the best places on Earth to see the night sky light show. You will find that many nights will be clear and cloudless! During the day, do some activities related to the Greenland Ice Sheet – it’s the only place in the country where you can reach it by road.

For music lovers, combine the northern lights with Arctic Sounds Festival in Sisimiut, a burgeoning music festival, which showcases artists from Nordic countries and Inuit Nunangat from Canada.

April is not too late or too early to fulfil your winter wishes.

Continues further down the page…

Package Tours

Arctic Hiking and Expeditions

Trek from Karale to Tasiilaq Fjord in East Greenland

Enjoy the serenity of the Karale fjord where occasional cracks in the glacier break the silence. Extraordinary landscape and unique nature.

Greenland Tours

Beyond the North

8 days to remote Liverpool Land incl. dog sledding expedition incl. flights

Nomad Greenland

4-Day Inuit Culture, Icebergs & Whales in Saqqaq

Serene retreat in Arctic fishing village to disconnect, explore icebergs, Northern Lights, and stunning landscapes.

Ilulissat to Saqqaq: 6 Days of Arctic Magic

Embrace Arctic enchantment with colossal icebergs, breathtaking landscapes, and the rich tapestry of Inuit culture.

Mean temperatures in May : -6°C (21°F) to 6°C (43°F)

May is the perfect time for heliskiing – and Greenland is one of the few places left on earth where you can fly down sheer white slopes all by yourself! 

Greenland helicopter skiing enthusiasts say that the mountains near Maniitsoq (Arctic Circle) and Ammassalik (East Greenland) are pristine places to be dropped by the aircraft on an untouched snowy peak. Ski down dramatic mountain slopes of up to 2000 metres, that end directly in an iceberg-filled sea. Much terrain can only be accessible in the summer by boat due to the packed ice.

NATIONAL DAY UNDER THE MIDNIGHT SUN

Mean temperatures in June : 3°C (37°F) to 10°C (50°F)

Visiting Greenland in June is splendidly bright – the midnight sun is already in full swing up in North Greenland – and there’s lots you can do during summer such as kayaking, stand up paddling, hiking, whale watching and iceberg harvesting. 

For a special cultural experience, consider the colourful celebrations of National Day on the 21st of June. Many arrangements are held outside on Greenland’s summer solstice (the longest day of the year). 

In Nuuk, most activity is centred around Nuutoqaq, the Colonial Harbour. There will be live entertainment, folk dancing, and a locally-inspired barbeque. The day is usually kicked off with cannons shooting and choirs singing. For cultural buffs who really want to immerse themselves into society, this one’s for you.

FISHING PARADISE

Mean temperatures in July : 6°C (43°F) to 11°C (52°F)

July is fishing season! Greenland is the best place for non-fishy people to try their hands at catching a scaly specimen – you won’t get a better chance for success anywhere else in the world. Go with an operator on a sailing trip and try your luck fishing off a boat. If you’re lucky, you might catch 5 in 10 minutes! 

Many fishermen who come to Greenland love the thrill of fly fishing the fiercely strong Arctic char. Getting to the river that you want to fish in is part of the adventure as it is a relatively firm, beautiful landscape with little vegetation. When you need to quench your thirst, drink the fresh water running from the glacier. Specialised fishing camps are located on the Greenlandic west coast in South Greenland, Nuuk and Destination Arctic Circle. 

Meanwhile, the locals of Greenland also get kicks out of trying to fish resting Arctic Char with their hands only.

VILLAGE LIFE IN THE SOUTH

Mean temperatures in August : 5°C (41°F) to 10°C (50°F)

What is the reason for Greenland’s name? The answer lies down South ! August turns lush and green in South Greenland , a destination with both gorgeously striking and varied nature and small communities to explore. Check out the well preserved Norse Ruins left by Icelandic vikings and visit remote sheep farms overlooking icebergs, both reasons why the region has UNESCO World Heritage status . 

For the more active tourists, it is possible to hike from one community to another with a backpack. Mix up your sleeping arrangements by bringing your own tent, getting hosted by sheep farmers (and eating delicious homemade food), or staying in the hostels and hotels in the bigger towns. There is also the option of getting transfers by boat if you would prefer to have a more relaxed holiday. There are so many things to do in Greenland in August.

Listen Live to Underwater Sounds of Disko Bay!

A new hydrophone station in Disko Bay, Greenland, allows listeners to experience the rich underwater soundscape live through https://diskolive.com/sounds-underwater . This initiative is part of the Disko Live! research project, aimed at connecting science with society by studying the sounds of Arctic marine life, icebergs cracking, and ‘modern’ sounds like ships sailing by. Data gathered will be used to communicate findings on climate change and modernisation impacts.

Disko Bay hosts a diverse range of marine species, including iconic bowhead whales, whose songs can currently be heard before they grow more and more silent in May - only to begin singing again in January when they arrive in Disko Bay again.

HIKING IN AUTUMN RED

Mean temperatures in September : -2°C (28°F) to 6°C (43°F)

This month is a perfect time to go hiking and sailing in the fjords of Greenland. You might still see some whales in the area, but you will definitely have the chance to go trekking in nature, picking herbs and berries. The northern lights begin to dance in all of their glory, and pesky mosquitoes who were buzzing around during early summer will have disappeared. What’s not to like about September? 

A gem of a place that has all of these things and more is Qeqertarsuaq , otherwise known as Disko Island. This geothermal island is galore with hiking opportunities to sparkling black beaches, hot springs, basalt columns and more. It is also an island filled with unique plant species and is a whale watching hotspot.

MARATHON & MUSK OX

Mean temperatures in October : -9°C (16°F) to 2°C (36°F)

As the light really begins to fade in October, energy is renewed via the ‘Coolest Marathon on Earth’ – the Polar Circle Marathon organised by Albatros in Kangerlussuaq. Obviously, this adventure marathon is for running enthusiasts. The twist is that you will race above the Arctic circle, just by the Greenland Ice Sheet, and potentially past musk ox and reindeer in the Arctic tundra.

October is also the last month where you can go musk ox hunting with an expert. A niche form of tourism, hunting enthusiasts can roam the Greenlandic tundra with locals who know the terrain contours inside and out. Musk ox and other trophy hunting trips are available with licensed operators all over the country, including in remote Ittoqqortoormiit where the Greenland musk ox stock stems from.

EXPLORE THE ARTS

Mean temperatures in November : -14°C (7°F) to -2°C (28°F)

The Dark Sky of Greenland is beautiful, especially during November. This month you can slow down completely! In the south, the sun still radiates the softest sunlight you can imagine. The gentle hues of sunset coaxed out by the sun are some of the most stunning imaginable, making it a photographer’s dream to capture. In the north, the sun has already set for the year, which makes November the perfect time to explore the arts indoors. 

November is also a great time to try out Tentsile camping under the stars. The ‘hovering’ tents offer a comfortable sleep and an opportunity to watch the Northern Lights dance over the snow-covered landscapes of Greenland. The Nuuk based provider Two Ravens offers an overnight stay in Tentsiles, with a one of a kind view over Nuuk and its backcountry.

CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

Mean temperatures in December : -20°C (-4°F) to -4°C (25°F)

December brings in the Christmas spirit and orange stars hanging in windows light up the streets. On the first Advent Santa Claus (who lives in Uummannaq) flies in by helicopter and the Christmas tree is lit all over Greenland. Small cozy Christmas fairs can be found throughout the towns.  

Tourists can celebrate New Years in Ilulissat – welcome the new year in with celebrations overlooking the gorgeous icefjord while eating delicious Greenlandic Christmas food. 

For the ski bunnies, the ski lifts usually open in December for alpine skiing. Cross country skiing is also a popular activity and it should be possible to hire or borrow equipment from operators or the ski clubs. In Nuuk, a new piste machine worth 2.8 million DKK was bought by Sisorarfiit Ski lift (website in Danish), to maintain the ski slopes and trails.

Finding the best time to go: Helpful Tips

Although the list above is not by all means comprehensive, we hope it provides you some Greenland travel advice that will point you in the right direction to choose a time of a year that suits you. To investigate more read the helpful hints below:

• Did you know? Air Greenland is flying all year round to Nuuk and Kangerlussuaq. Icelandair also flies to Greenland from Reykjavik.
• Want to find out what other festivals and events you can do each month? Check out the Greenland’s Events Calendar
• Interested in the changing amount of light in the different destinations? Check out Time and Date .
• Need more month by month inspiration? Check out rove.me .
• Got you interested? Start planning a trip to Greenland .

Article by Tanny Por

Tanny Por is Head of International Relations at Visit Greenland with responsibility for international market development, press and PR. She loves building and nurturing ideas and connections that will help to contribute to the sustainable tourism future of Greenland. Her favourite experience of Greenland is one winter in East Greenland where she saw purple northern lights overlooking the icefjord one completely silent evening!

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Greenland Travel Guide – An Overview of All Regions In Greenland

Professional photographer and writer who loves to explore remote and unusual places

There are plenty of reasons to visit Greenland and each region has something unique to offer. In this guide we will cover the reasons to visit Greenland with a break down region by region.

The Capital Region

Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, is the cultural center of the nation. Here you’ll find significant landmarks like the National Museum, National Theatre, Nuuk Art Museum, and Katuaq Cultural Centre. The city also has fantastic shopping opportunities, including a diverse range of local fashion, pottery, glassware, and artwork available for purchase. Located at the head of the world’s second-largest fjord system, Nuuk has access to an amazing wilderness in its surroundings. Towering thousand-meter peaks drop right into the fjord, fed by two remote glaciers at its far end. Various activities provide opportunities to explore the diverse facets of the fjord, including boat tours to glaciers and remote settlements, whale and puffin watching during summer, fishing for your own dinner, or stand up paddleboarding amongst icebergs. Alternatively, you can choose on-foot exploration, ranging from day hikes in the nearby mountains to week-long trekking tours. While Nuuk is the primary city, the Capital Region also encompasses the town of Paamiut, located 265 kilometers further south. Paamiut is known for its striking Norwegian-style church and is home to Greenland’s largest population of Sea Eagles.

Reasons to visit Greenland’s Capital Region:

• Culture: Being Greenland’s capital, Nuuk holds rich cultural heritage
• Shopping: Shop unique local goods, fashion, pottery, and more
• Boat Trips: Embark on a scenic sailing adventure between icebergs and glaciers in the Nuuk Icefjord
• Hiking: Explore a wide range of trails with varying difficulty levels
• Kayaking and Stand Up Paddleboarding: Navigate amongst icebergs and join migrating whales
• Remote Settlements: Explore the charming community of Kapisillit, the abandoned settlement of Kangeq, and savor exquisite cuisine at one of Greenland’s finest restaurants in Qooqqut
• Scenic Flights: Take a flight to land near the summit of the towering mountains or opt for a twilight flight over the fjord and city
• Wildlife Observation: Spot whales, puffins, reindeer/caribou, and witness sea eagles near Paamiut
• Winter Activities: Enjoy the winter wonderland with skiing, snowshoeing, and the chance to witness Northern Lights

Northeast Greenland National Park

The entire North-east quarter of Greenland forms the world’s largest national park. Established in 1974 and expanded in 1988 to its current size, it serves as a sanctuary for Arctic wildlife, including polar bears, walrus, and musk oxen. Only a few people ever visit the area as special permission from the Greenlandic Government is required. Although, boat trips along the coastline are offered and are increasingly gaining popularity.

Reasons to visit Northeast Greenland:

• Expedition Cruises: Embark on a small expedition ship to witness the remote, untamed coastline. Secret Atlas offer Expedition Micro Cruises with 12 guests to explore Northeast Greenland.
• Wildlife Observation: Spot polar bears, walrus, whales, and musk oxen.

East Greenland

In the Greenlandic language, East Greenland is known as “tunu” (back side), which only makes sense considering how vast and untamed this region is. With only two towns and a few smaller settlements, East Greenland is among the most remote inhabited places in the world. Consequently, its infrastructure tends to be less developed, offering visitors a glimpse into a more traditional way of life. It remains one of the only regions where Greenlandic Sled Dogs , unique and hardy creatures with a history of working alongside the Inuit for thousands of years, continue to play a vital role in daily life. For wildlife enthusiasts, East Greenland stands out as one of the best places to see polar bears in the country. The two primary towns in this region are approximately 800 kilometers apart. With a population of around 2000 people, Tasiilaq is the more significant of the two and acts as the logistical hub of East Greenland. It serves four smaller settlements and plays a big role in supporting tourism in the area. Further north lies Ittoqqortoormiit, which is accessible by plane from Akureyri in Iceland, and serves as the gateway to the scenic Scoresby Sund and the Greenland National Park. Scoresby Sund is the largest fjord system in the world and is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, featuring colossal icebergs, towering mountains, and pristine Arctic wilderness. Secret Atlas offers Micro Cruise Expeditions to this region. With only 12 guests onboard our ships, we provide an intimate, authentic and sustainable way to explore this remote and untamed part of the world.

Reasons to visit East Greenland:

• Expedition Cruises: Embark on a small expedition ship to explore Scoresby Sund, the longest fjord system on Earth with countless icebergs and jaw dropping landscapes. Secret Atlas offer Expedition Micro Cruises with 12 guests to explore East Greenland.
• Northern Lights: Scoresby Sund offers one of the best places on Eqarth to encounter the Northern Lights. Check out our Northern Lights Photo Tour with 12 guests.
• Off-Trail Hiking: Explore the vast and uncharted wilderness with off-trail hiking adventures
• Wildlife Observation: Spot polar bears year-round and whales during the summer
• Remote Settlements: Discover unique settlements like Tiniteqilaaq, Kuummiut, and Kulusuk, which is where the airport and an Inuit museum are located
• Kayaking: Paddle amongst icebergs and encounter whales during the summer
• Ice Caving: Venture into ice caves and experience glaciers from the inside
• Winter Activities: Enjoy the winter wonderland with dog sledding, snowmobile excursions, ice diving, snowshoeing, and heliskiing.

South Greenland

The southern tip of Greenland lies even further south than Iceland and therefore has a considerably milder climate compared to the rest of the country. It can be divided into two main regions. The Tasermiut Fjord area, centered around Nanortalik, is more similar to East Greenland and often considered as the westernmost extension of the East Coast. It is known for its striking, towering rock formations that attract climbers from all over the world. Surprisingly, it’s also home to Greenland’s only natural forest in Qinngua Valley. The remaining part of South Greenland is less rugged and forms Greenland’s limited “farm belt,” featuring rolling green hills used for large sheep farms. The farming tradition in this area was initiated by Eric the Red and his Vikings a thousand years ago and has persisted ever since. In 2017, this subarctic agricultural landscape, known as Kujataa , got listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Norse Viking Ruins such as Hvalsey, Igaliku, and Qassiarsuk are South Greenland’s primary tourist attractions, especially for history enthusiasts. Furthermore, a stay at a Greenlandic sheep farm is a popular choice among visitors, with Sillisit being a favorite. At this farm, they offer horseback riding excursions as one of their activities. Another popular farm to visit and explore is the experimental research station of Upernaviarsuk , where horticultural and farming techniques are tested for potential application in the harsh Arctic environment. Qaqortoq is the largest town in South Greenland and serves as the centre for tourism activities, including trips to the somewhat remote Uunnartoq hot springs. The historic centre of Qaqortoq boasts Greenland’s oldest fountain and the open-air Stone and Man exhibition as a standout attraction. Furthermore, most helicopter scenic flights around South Greenland depart from here. Narsarsuaq is an important settlement since its airport serves as the primary gateway to South Greenland. Both the airport and town were originally established as a United States airbase during WWII, a history well-documented in the town’s museum. In the surrounding area, there are a few marked hiking trails leading to mountains with stunning views of the town and nearby glaciers.

Reasons to visit South Greenland:

• Norse Viking Ruins: Discover these distinct and historically significant sites
• Uunnartoq: Take a bath in Greenland’s only natural hot spring
• Hiking: Explore the surroundings of each settlement, embark on multi-day hikes, or venture into the Tasermiut Fjord on a guided hiking expedition
• Boat Trips: Set sail to witness the impressive glaciers or go fishing
• Kayaking: Explore the area from sea level and get up close with the icebergs
• Scenic Flights: Catch a flight to view glaciers, the hot springs, or the Viking Ruins from above
• Horse Riding in Sillisit
• Wildlife Observation: Spot whales during Summer 
• Farms: Visit the experimental farm of Upernaviarsuk or stay overnight at a Greenlandic sheep farm 
• Winter activities: Beyond scenic flights and the chance to witness Northern Lights, there is very little scheduled tourism in winter

Destination Arctic Circle

As the name implies, Destination Arctic Circle encompasses the region of West Greenland situated along the Arctic Circle. This region’s geography is diverse, ranging from spectacular jagged mountains near Maniitsoq to expansive, rolling Arctic tundra around Kangerlussuaq. In this area, you will also find another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aasivissuit-Nipisat , an Inuit hunting ground of significant historical importance. There are three main towns in this region. Kangerlussuaq, often considered Greenland’s gateway, is home to the country’s only commercial international airport with daily direct flights to and from Copenhagen in Denmark. Located at the end of a roughly 160km long fjord, it stands as Greenland’s only inland town. A roughly 30km gravel road offers direct access to the Greenland icecap, allowing visitors to stand before and view the impressive 60m high Russell Glacier from close up. It is also possible to hike onto the expansive ice sheet itself at Point 660. While in Kangerlussuaq, visitors can enjoy a dinner at one of Greenland’s finest restaurants, Roklubben, or venture out to spot musk oxen that inhabit the area. For those in search of a more extreme adventure, consider doing the Arctic Circle Hiking Trail which leads all the way to Sisimiut. Sisimiut, Greenland’s second-largest city, is known for hosting two major annual events: The Arctic Circle Race , often hailed as the world’s toughest cross-country ski race, and Arctic Sounds , a renowned music festival. The city has an extensive and beautiful backcountry that is easily accessible, making it a haven for hikers. The surrounding area offers numerous well-marked trails for day trips and the impressive 160km long Arctic Circle Hiking Trail to Kangerlussuaq. Those seeking comfort after a day of exploration can unwind at Hotel Sisimiut, which features an Arctic Spa and one of the country’s finest Traditional Greenlandic Buffets. Maniitsoq, situated further south and below the Arctic Circle, offers a distinct landscape within the region. With dramatic 2000m peaks dropping directly into the fjords and glaciers coming down nearly every valley, it stands as one of the most breathtaking landscapes on the West Coast of Greenland. This rugged terrain provides an exceptional setting for world-class heli-skiing and ski touring during the winter season. In the summer, exploring the Eternity Fjord and the serene Inussuit Tasersuat lake is a must in this region.

Reasons to visit Greenland’s Arctic Circle:

• Easy access to the Greenland Icecap and Russell Glacier
• Hiking: Sisimiut offers numerous options for day hikes and the Arctic Circle Hiking Trail that leads all the way to Kangerlussuaq
• Boat Trips: Embark on day sailings to explore the stunning fjords and glaciers
• Stand Up Paddleboarding in Sisimiut, Kayaking in Sisimiut and Maniitsoq
• Wildlife Observation: Enjoy whale watching during the summer in Sisimiut and Maniitsoq, encounter musk oxen and reindeer/caribou in Kangerlussuaq
• Remote Settlements: The picturesque abandoned settlement of Assaqutaq is an easy day trip from Sisimiut, the settlement of Kangaamiut serves as the gateway to the Eternity Fjord and is accessible from Maniitsoq
• Winter Activities: Enjoy the winter wonderland with dogsledding, snowmobile excursions, snowshoeing, skiing, and heliskiing in Maniitsoq, and a chance to see Northern Lights

North Greenland

While icebergs are a common sight throughout Greenland, North Greenland is the ultimate destination for those seeking truly colossal ice formations. This expansive region stretches from the Disko Bay area all the way up to the northernmost tip of Greenland, offering a diverse range of landscapes and experiences. Ilulissat, Greenland’s third-largest town, is renowned for the UNESCO Heritage listed Ilulissat Icefjord and is the most popular tourist destination in Greenland. And for good reason! The Icefjord is continuously fed by the most active glacier in the Northern Hemisphere, resulting in a mesmerizing display of icebergs in various shapes and sizes. Interestingly, the name Ilulissat itself translates to “iceberg” in the Greenlandic language, perfectly reflecting the town’s captivating natural feature. Boat trips and kayak excursions that take you amidst these icebergs are offered, and there are three marked hiking trails, all starting in town, that provide breathtaking panoramic views of the Icefjord. Furthermore, the highly active Eqi Glacier, located approximately two hours further north, is the best place to witness calving events in the region. During the summer season, the area is frequently visited by whales, particularly the playful Humpbacks. Disko Island is unique in Greenland as the only island of volcanic origin. From the black sand beaches of Qeqertarsuaq, the island’s main town, to the striking columns of black basalt and the impressive Lyngmark Glacier, this island is a haven for hiking enthusiasts. Aditionally, it’s the only place in Greenland where you can experience dogsledding during the summer season. Uummannaq, situated further north, derives its name from a distinctive heart-shaped mountain nearby. The town is nestled on a small island within the Uummannaq fjord, where enormous, freely drifting ice formations create a surreal landscape in the summer, and a frozen ice blanket with trapped icebergs forms during the winter. This exceptionally beautiful region is also were Greenland’s Qilakitsoq were discovered, the country’s oldest mummies. Uummannaq is surrounded by a significant number of glaciers, a strikingly vibrant yellow Arctic desert, and a scattering of small settlements – both active and abandoned. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in North Greenland, Uummannaq is one of the prime destinations to visit. Qaanaaq, Greenland’s northernmost town, is a remote settlement with a population of only 600. Accessibility is limited, and travel expenses can be relatively high. However, during the summer months, the town does offer excursions for visitors. For those seeking authentic Greenlandic experiences, Qaanaaq holds promise. The town has less infrastructure compared to other settlements, and its population largely consists of subsistence hunters and fishermen.

Reasons to visit North Greenland:

• Hiking: Explore the Ilulissat Icefjord, the unique geology of Disko Island, or venture off-trail in the far north of Greenland
• Boat Trips: Embark on a sailing tour to get up close with icebergs, or to see the calving Eqi Glacier
• Kayaking: Experience kayaking amongst colossal icebergs
• Scenic Flights: Take scenic flights to witness the UNSECO World Heritge listed Ilulissat Icefjord from above
• Wildlife Observation: Enjoy whale watching during the summer season
• Remote Settlements: Ilulissat provides easy access to Oqaatsut, a typical and traditional Greenlandic settlement, and Ilimanaq, wich offers luxury accommodation and an excellent restaurant within the settlement
• Winter Activities: Enjoy the winter wonderland with dogsledding, snowmobile excursions, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and the chance to see Northern Lights

Join Us On An Expedition Micro Cruise Or Photo Tour To Explore Greenland

• August → October

Greenland Travel Guides

Skiing From West to East Greenland

Explorer Mariano Curiel skis across Greenland, covering the world's harshest terrain, facing dangerous rivers and…

Discover all of Greenland's diverse regions with our comprehensive travel guide, highlighting the reasons to…

Northern Lights Photography – An Expert’s Guide with Top Tips

Join photographer Virgil Reglioni to capture the magic of the Northern Lights. Learn about camera…

Weather and Climate of Greenland & Best Time to Visit

Our guide provides information about Greenland's weather and climate conditions, along with tips on the…

Northern Lights in Greenland – Ultimate Viewing Guide & Top Tips

This guide provides you with all the info about when, where, and how to observe…

Scoresby Sund – A Guide to the World’s Biggest Fjord System

Are you interested in exploring Scoresby Sund in East Greenland? Check out our comprehensive guide…

The Ultimate Photographer’s Guide to West and East Greenland

Discover Greenland photography tips with expert photographer Chase Teron and learn to capture the different…

Animals of Greenland – The Ultimate Guide to Greenland’s Wildlife

Greenland is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including polar bears and narwhals. This…

A first-time guide to Greenland

Oct 10, 2023 • 6 min read

First time visiting Greenland? You're going to need a boat-load of tips to get your started Aningaaq R Carlsen / Visit Greenland

Greenland , the world’s largest island, is a country of wild extremes: uninhabitable wilderness at its core, and delightfully warm and charming people living in harmony with it. Climbers come to scale its spectacular sheer rock faces, scientists come to see what the melting ice can tell us of the planet’s future and many visitors come away with a whole new perspective on life.

There’s no question that the must-see attraction for everyone who visits Greenland is ‘big nature,’ from the black peaks that undulate on the horizon, to the great gray-blue ice sheet in the center of the island and the icebergs scattered in the sea around it. Muskox , arctic fox and polar bears roam around, and the northern lights dance in the sky above.

Inhabited since 2,500 BCE, with Viking colonies in the south from the 10th century, Greenland has developed a unique culture and set of beliefs based on its people’s strong relationship with the mountains, ice and sea that surrounds them. It’s impossible not to come away feeling awestruck by what nature can create.

When should I go to Greenland?

Greenland is a huge island with vast seasonal and geographical variations, and its weather can be unstable and unpredictable all year round. Be sure to take out travel insurance in the event of flight cancellations, and keep plans as loose as possible as schedules can change suddenly.

For snow, dog sledding and the northern lights, the best time to visit is from late September to May.

If you are keen to do adventure sports like hiking, climbing or kayaking, the Greenlandic summer is more suitable. This period, from May to September, promises more hours of daylight.

Where should I go in Greenland ?

Getting around Greenland is complicated (see below). The best advice is to choose one region to explore, or two at most, and spend a week there. This allows you to see the key natural sights and animals without feeling rushed, meet local people (who can be reticent), and have the flexibility to adapt if plans change due to bad weather.

As an example, you could choose to stay in the Ilulissat ice fjord region, where there are options for hiking, whale watching, exploring Disko Bay and perhaps the ice cap over the course of a week. If you want to follow the Arctic Circle Trail , again, that’s a one-to-two-week trip. Factor in that you’ll likely need to fly via Denmark or Iceland, potentially adding a night to the trip in either direction. And as mentioned, there may be unexpected events due to the weather.

Is it easy to get in and around Greenland?

In early 2025, an extension to Nuuk airport will allow larger planes to land in Greenland, making it easier to reach from international destinations. Until the new runways open, flights to Greenland go via Reykjavik and Copenhagen into the country’s international airports, Nuuk, Kangerslussuaq and Ilulissat. Kulusuk and Narsarsuaq are also entry points from Reykjavik. 

Greenland is large and largely without roads. To travel between towns, Air Greenland flies to those with runways and runs helicopters to others. From April to December, the Arctic Umiaq Line runs coastal ferries from Qaqortoq in the south to Ilulissat in the north, with stops along the way. The full journey takes 4.5 days. Other ferries and coastal boats run up the west coast and across South Greenland in summer.

Within towns there are buses, taxis and cars, and you can also walk. It is advisable to book far in advance to secure a place (and for the best rates), and to have clear transport plans when you arrive in Greenland.

Top things to do in Greenland

Be awed by nature and humbled by culture. For the nature part, take a boat from Ilulissat, Nuuk or Qaqortoq and spend a day cruising the ice fjords, marveling at immense blue, white and gray icebergs and encountering all kinds of sea life from humpback whales to dolphins. Hike in the mountains surrounding the small town of Narsarsuaq and admire the ice sheet – you can even camp overnight on it at Camp Ice Cap near Kangerlussuaq.

Then immerse yourself in local culture and discover how people in Greenland really live. Experience the warmth of community and the power of history in a kaffemik, a local coffee morning, in Nuuk or Qaqortoq, or book into a wilderness camp and try Greenlandic glamping, with a side of fishing and foraging, for a true back-to-nature immersion in the country’s outdoors-driven lifestyle.

My favorite thing to do in Greenland

Nature watching in Greenland is off-the-chart amazing. You could spend all day cruising between icebergs and comparing their shapes and colors – and then there’s the wildlife. To see a sliver of a whale's back slip out of the water while you’re on a boat on the way to another town is sensational. The day I saw a polar bear climb a remote coastal cliff and disappear over a ridge remains one of the most memorable days of my life. These sights are framed by seas studded with icebergs, clear blue skies, uninhabited land and dark, jagged mountains, creating the most powerful punch of natural drama I’ve ever seen.

How much money do I need?

Greenland is not a cheap destination, but you can do it on a budget. Flight deals can be found outside the main summer season – a tip is to sign up to Air Greenland’s newsletter. As a general guide, a bed in a youth hostel in Nuuk will cost from around £100 per night, while a hotel will be around £200 per night. Luxury wilderness experiences typically cost at least £250 per night.

In terms of domestic transport, it is typically cheaper to take a boat rather than fly or take a helicopter. Booking in advance can also save money, but what you save in money you lose in time.

Greenland’s food is expensive – expect to spend around £25 for an evening meal in a restaurant – because so much of it has to be flown in. Save money by eating as locally as much as possible and cutting back on greens. A locally brewed beer might cost around £8 for a pint, while a coffee costs around £6. Bring a reusable water bottle as all Greenlandic water is drinkable.

Bring lots of layers, no matter the season

As mentioned, Greenland’s weather is highly changeable all year round, so pack with that in mind. Bring woolen layers, hiking boots, gloves, sunscreen, sunglasses and a snood at the very least. Hiking in jeans and city-style trainers is not recommended.

The northern lights can be seen throughout the year

Typically, northern lights season in Greenland runs from September until April, but check with the region you plan to visit to be sure. It’s possible to see the lights all year round, depending on where in Greenland you are, but you need a dark, cloudless night. The midnight sun takes over from June to July in the Arctic Circle region and April to August in more northerly locations, and then you will experience barely any darkness.

Greenlandic is the official language

Greenlanders speak Greenlandic; Danish is also used and many people, particularly in major hubs, speak English.

Staying safe in Greenland

Weather is one of the key risks in the country, so stay aware of the forecast, carry a GPS with you and know how to use a map. Tell someone where you are going before you set off. Wildlife risks can include polar bears and rabid arctic foxes. Calving icebergs can cause tsunamis and be fatal for those on boats. Travel insurance that covers all the activities you might do in Greenland is a must.

Etiquette notes

Note that the word Eskimo is considered an inappropriate term; Inuit is preferred.

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East Greenland – Where Internet Fades, but the Connection Deepens.

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Itineraries

Embracing the arctic wilderness: a discovery of ittoqqortoormiit’s fjords and fauna, unveiling the summer charm of east greenland: a 7-day itinerary through ammassalik area, an ode to east greenland’s beauty and contrasts – a mesmerizing three-day summer trip in tasiilaq.

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East-Greenlandic Adventures

Need inspiration? Explore our articles for unforgettable adventures in East Greenland.

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Welcome to our Arctic way of life! Visit Nuuk is your gateway to discovering the heart of Greenland’s capital city, Nuuk. On this page, you can find everything from portraits of local cultural figures, hiking guides to our unique hinterland, and insider tips from locals.

Interested in local culture learning a few words in greenlandic can help you feel more connected. our local tips section offers insider advice from nuuk residents, helping you navigate the city like a local. experience authentic arctic adventures—from kayaking in ice fjords to deep-sea fishing—all guided by passionate local providers in nuuk..

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Facts about Greenland

Want to learn interesting facts about Greenland? Why is it called Greenland for example, when 80% of the country is covered by a white ice sheet?

Worth knowing about Greenland

The Greenlanders call their own country Inuit Nunaat or Kalaallit Nunaat, meaning Land of the People or Land of the Greenlanders, respectively.

Greenland is a vast country with big contrasts and it is the worlds largest island. One of the fun facts about Greenland is that even though it is the worlds largest island, it also has one of the smallest populations.

If you are considering a trip to Greenland, it is good to have some basic knowledge, as it differs a lot from other countries and places in the world. Actually, it is hard to compare it with anything else.

Five important themes

• The Greenlandic population
• The Greenlandic Society
• Transportation

Facts about Greenland geography

How big is Greenland? Greenland is the world’s largest island, with a size of 2.175.600 square kilometers. That area is larger than the following countries combined: France, Germany, Spain, United Kingdom, Italy, Greece, Switzerland, and Belgium.

9 facts about Greenland geography If you’re doing a quiz and get a question about Greenland, here are a few good facts to memorize.

• From north to south Greenland is 2,670 kilometers
• From east to west, there is 1,050 kilometers
• The closest country is Canada only 26 kilometers away
• Greenland’s highest point is Gunnbjorn’s Mountain, 3,733 meters
• Greenland’s southernmost point is Cape Farewell
• Greenland’s northernmost point on the mainland is Cape Morris Jessup
• Greenland’s westernmost point is Cape Alexander
• Greenland’s easternmost point is called Nordostrundingen
• Greenland is actually situated east, west, south and north of Iceland.

It is an interesting thought that Greenlands southernmost point lies on the same latitude as Oslo in Norway, while the westernmost point lies on the same longitude as New York. The northernmost point is Cape Morris Jessup, located only 740 km from the North Pole. There are also two small islands north of this, the Coffee Club and Oodaaq Island. However, they are very small so usually the distance to the North Pole is measured by the distance from the mainland.

How big is the Greenlandic Ice Sheet?

Approximately 80% of Greenland is permanently covered in ice. The Ice Sheet is covering the middle of the huge island and it is the world’s largest glacier, it is several kilometers thick and, in some places, it is so heavy that it has pushed part of the mainland below sea level.

4 crazy facts about the Greenlandic Ice Sheet

• It covers 1.8 million square kilometers
• It has a volume of 2.85 million cubic kilometers
• The Greenlandic Ice Sheet holds approximately 7% of all the fresh water reserves on Earth
• At its thickest point, The Greenlandic Ice Sheet is 3,500 meters.

Read more about the Greenlandic Ice Sheet.

What is Greenlands time zone?

Greenland spans three time zones when you include the Thule Air Base. As visitors or tourists, most of the time you only need to relate to one time zone as central Greenland is using GMT-3 (Greenwich Mean Time minus 3 hours). Thereby being four hours behind CET (Central European Time) and two hours ahead of EST (Eastern Standard Time, e.g. New York City).

In the town of Ittoqqortoormiit on the far east coast, they use GMT -2 and at Thule Air Base they use GMT-4).

Read more about the time difference between Greenland and Denmark.

Facts about the population of Greenland

If we were to give you one single fact about the population it would be this: The Greenlandic people is a warm people. When travelers who have been to Greenland are asked to name their greatest experiences, meeting the warm and welcoming locals often rank very high.

How many people live in Greenland?

You will find one of the world’s smallest populations in Greenland. Only about 56,500 people live here and most residents were born in Greenland. About 11% of the population comes from Denmark and other countries. The population growth is stagnant.

Where do the Greenlanders live?

Seeing that 80% of Greenland is covered by ice, where do the Greenlanders live then? The answer is, obviously, that they live along the coasts. The ice-free areas are about 410,500 square kilometers. This corresponds to the size of Norway.

Almost all of the population is located in South Greenland and West Greenland, while only about 10 % live in the Eastern and Northern parts of Greenland. Living conditions and supply options are simply easier in the south and west than in the east and north. In turn, many live a more aboriginal hunting life in the north and east.

The majority of the population lives in towns. There are about 48,000 inhabitants in the 16 towns and the other 8,500 people live in the countrys 54 settlements.

Greenlands capital, Nuuk, is located in West Greenland and is by far the largest town with its 16,500 residents. The other major towns are Sisimiut, Ilulissat and Qaqortoq. The second largest town is Sisimiut with about 5,500 inhabitants. The rest of the towns have between 1,000 to 4,500 inhabitants.

The Greenlandic language

Greenland is called Kalaallit Nunaat in Greenlandic, which translates to the ‘Land of the Greenlanders’. It also sometimes go by the name Inuit Nunaat, which means ‘Land of the People’.

The mother tongue and official language in Greenland is Greenlandic with Danish functioning as a second language. Danish is a relatively new language in a Greenlandic context. It came to Greenland when it Christianized in the early 18th century. The Danish language has become widely used, especially in an administrative context and in some of the larger cities.

Many Greenlanders speak Danish and English, particularly in the tourism industry. You cannot assume that everyone does, but then you can get far with gestures and smiles and maybe get some help from people around you.

Greenlandic, Kalaallisut, is closely related to the language spoken by Inuit in Canada and in Alaska. In Greenland, there are three main dialects – one in the north, one in the east and finally the West dialect which forms the basis for the Greenlandic orthography.

The most important words to tourists

Greenlandic is a language often based on idioms and it is also a difficult language. Greenlanders like it if you try to speak their language and if they laugh at you then it is only meant affectionately. Greenlanders like to have fun.

• ”Qujanaq” means “thank you”
• ”Ajunngilaq” means “it’s ok”
• ”Immaqa” means “maybe”
• ”Aluu” means “hello”
• ”Baj” means “bye”

As a visitor, you should especially notice the word “immaqa”. In Greenland, many things depend on the weather, which is why Greenlanders have learned that planning is always subject to “immaqa”. When this happens, take a deep breath and accept the fact that you cannot take control of everything about the tour.

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Immigration to greenland.

Immigration has occurred in waves. Overall, we speak of four waves, namely three waves of Inuit descent from the west and then the European immigration from the east.

Saqqaq, Dorset and the Thule Cultures

Approximately 4,500 years ago, the first Inuit came to the country, the so-called Saqqaq Culture. The Dorset Culture also came from the west approximately 2,000 years later. Large parts of the current Greenlandic population are descendants of the Thule Culture, who came to the country about 1,000 years ago.

The first two immigrations of Inuit were paleo-Eskimos who had their primary life on the tundra, hunting for caribou, musk oxen, etc. The people of the Thule Culture were neo-Eskimos who based their lives on catching marine animals.

Almost simultaneously with the arrival of the Thule people, the Norse came to Greenland from Iceland and settled in the fertile Southern parts of the country. Through their 500 years in Greenland, the Norse were making farms all the way from the South and up to the Nuuk Fjord. The Norse were the first non-Inuit who came are settled down here. It was also the Norse people, spearheaded by Norwegian Viking Erik the Red, who gave Greenland its name, because they wanted other Norse people to settle here.

Sermermiut in the Disco Bay on the shore of Ilulissat Icefjord is one of the most visited places in Greenland. The view of Ilulissat Icefjord and the proximity to the town makes it a popular destination. Sermermiut has been a settlement for many Inuit cultures through more than 4,000 years. With an expert at your side, you can still see the remains of some of the settlements.

Greenland as a Danish Colony

In 1721, the Danish-Norwegian priest Hans Egede came to Greenland and made it a Danish colony. He christened the Greenlandic population and today the country is a Lutheran-based society. Greenland is no longer a Danish colony, but ties with Denmark remains tight, both formal and informal.

The Greenlandic society

Throughout the past 80-100 years, Greenland has gone through big changes in relation to governance, but luckily all the changes have happened peacefully.

Facts about Greenland governance in recent times

• 1721-1953: Danish Colony
• 1953-1979: County-like status
• 1979: Home Rule
• 2009: Self Governance

Governance in Greenland today Greenland is now a parliamentary democracy within the Kingdom of Denmark (along with the Faroe Islands). They achieved Home Rule in 1979 which gave its population more influence on their own lives. In 2009, Home Rule extended to Self Governance, ensuring an even greater degree of autonomy – also in relation to international affairs.

They are not part of Denmarks membership of the EU but through the commonwealth with Denmark it has a close cooperation with the EU.

Self Governance in Greenland is represented by an elected parliament of 31 members. The Parliament is called Inatsisartut in Greenlandic.

The members of Inatsisartut chose The Cabinet which corresponds to a government. The cabinet consists of 7-10 Ministers. The Cabinet is called Naalakkersuisut in Greenlandic.

The Greenlandic National Day The National Day in Greenland is June 21st, and the national anthem is called Nunarput, which translates to “Our Country”. The National Day is celebrated across the country with coffee, cake and, in many places, a big buffet. Many Greenlanders put on their national costume and attend a flag parade through town. If you happen to be there, go. It’s a great experience to be there and celebrate the National Day.

Currency in Greenland The currency used is Danish kroner. There have been Greenlandic banknotes and coins with the same value as the Danish kroner but production of these stopped in the late 1960s.

In most towns, you can use credit cards. In the settlements, it is a good idea to bring Danish cash. Foreign credit cards can be used in most stores in major towns but not in all shops. Especially the smaller ones are reluctant to take foreign cards due to high handling fees.

Read more about currency and payment cards in Greenland.

Industry in Greenland Fishing remains the largest industry and is the country’s biggest source of income, with approximately 85% of total exports. Mainly it is shrimp and halibut that are being exported.

Besides fishing, a major source of income in Greenland is the so-called block grant from Denmark. Tourism, mining, crafts, handicrafts, small shipyards and service industries are other sectors that complement the country’s revenue. Much emphasis is on increasing revenue from tourism and mining.

In 2012, the gross domestic product was estimated to be 13.8 billion DKK. Living standards are generally high, but to outsiders the living standards in some settlements would appear – and is – low by modern standards. The settlements are often located far away from everything and providing them with goods can be difficult at times – it can also be problematic to get a job there. In return, the settlements can often provide a stress-free life you will not find elsewhere.

Transportation in Greenland

Imagine a country where there are no roads between towns. You can’t just take a bus or your car to the nearest town. There just aren’t any roads between towns, therefore the infrastructure is based on air and sea traffic.

How do I get to Greenland?

There are two ways to get to Greenland: You go by plane from Iceland or Denmark or arrive with one of the many cruise ships. There are no passenger ferries going to Greenland.

Read more about flights to Greenland.

How do I travel domestically in Greenland?

When you are traveling from one place to another in this great country, you do so either by plane, helicopter or with a coastal ship. To and from small settlements you can usually go with smaller tourist boats. However, they do not sail very often so make sure to plan ahead.

To many people, understanding the infrastructure is difficult and a lot of people also question the high costs of transportation for both international and domestic travel. Domestically, it is only possible to fly by smaller planes or helicopters as the airports are to small to handle the bigger planes that operate elsewhere in the world.

Domestic flights take up to 40 passengers at the most, and some towns and settlements can only be reached by helicopter. This can bring the maximum of passengers down to five in the small helicopters. This is the conditions people live under in Greenland. On top of this, add the Arctic climate and its implications on flying.

Read more about the 5 most used means of transportation in Greenland.

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Sailing in greenland.

The Greenlandic shipping company Arctic Umiaq Line ensures passenger traffic between the towns of Qaqortoq in South Greenland to Ilulissat in the North. Smaller ships take care of local transportation in the different regions.

Arctic Umiaq Line sails along the west coast with the coastal ship Sarfaq Ittuk. Sarfaq means “current” and in this case “ocean current”. Ittuk (pronounced Edook) refers to the sound of the old ships of yore.

The Greenlandic word “Umiaq” means “women’s boat” and in former times, the women’s boat was used to transport family, wives and children from place to place.

Among visitors and tourists, traveling with the coastal ship is very popular.

Read more about the coastal ship.

Tourism in Greenland

People travel as never seen before. Global tourism is growing and interest in Arctic destinations is increasing. We experience that very much at Greenland Travel.

The number of tourists is also increasing and, in 2015, there were more tourists visiting Greenland than there were inhabitants. Approx. 68,000 people from around the world visited Greenland in this period.

This is why Greenland is a popular destination

Although tourism in Greenland is growing, we are not talking about mass tourism. When traveling to Greenland, you quickly get the feeling of experiencing something unique and unspoiled. You can stand somewhere looking at giant icebergs and not see another person for miles around. The nature is so huge that even though tourism is growing, mass tourism is not found.

As a destination, Greenland has received many accolades in recent years. It was on Lonely Planet’s Top 10 List of Best Travel in 2016 and on National Geographic Traveler’s Top 20 “Best Trips 2016”.

To us here at Greenland Travel who have traveled to and lived in Greenland for many years, this is not exactly news. However, we are rejoicing because it shows that it is becoming increasingly popular and recognized internationally as a unique travel destination.

The 5most popular things to do in Greenland

Greenland offers many beautiful places to see and things you can experience. You have probably seen photos of the Ice Sheet, dog sledding, giant icebergs and the magical northern lights. When we ask our visitors, five experiences come up as the most popular.

• Dog sledding
• Northern lights
• Whale watching
• Icebergs and icesheets
• The Culture

These 5 experiences are sometimes referred to as “The Big Arctic Five” .

Read more about popular things to do in Greenland.

If you want to travel to Greenland, we recommend that you visit the page where we list all of our  tours to Greenland.

14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Greenland

Written by Andrew Birbeck Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Greenland, an autonomous nation within the Kingdom of Denmark , can truly be said to be a world apart. Icebergs and glaciers are the most famous of Greenland's natural attractions, and the Ilulissat Ice-fjord in Disko Bay is a popular place to visit if you want to see the colossal shapes of blue and white float on an azure sea.

Green mountains with beautiful wildflowers, breathtaking fjords, precipitous cliffs, hot springs, and crystal-clear skies perfect for viewing the northern lights are all waiting to be discovered. Seals and whales flourish in the sea, and impressive animals like polar bears and reindeer roam the land.

Nature isn't all Greenland has to offer tourists, though. The nation's weather and isolation have helped preserve evidence of cultures long past, allowing tourists to visit sites like a 2,000-year-old Eskimo village and several Norse Viking settlements.

Because of the unique topography, there are virtually no roads between towns, so if you want to explore, it will be by boat, airplane, sled, or snowmobile. In fact, you'll find that some of the best things to do in Greenland are active ones — dogsledding, snowmobiling, hiking, walking on the ice cap, and traveling its waters by boat.

Explore this fascinating land with the help of our list of the top attractions and things to do in Greenland.

See also: Where to Stay in Greenland

1. Ilulissat Ice-fjord

2. whale watching, 3. nuuk and the greenland national museum, 4. the northern lights (aurora borealis), 5. uunartoq hot springs, 6. qaqortoq museum, 7. viking ruins, 8. sermermiut eskimo settlement, 9. exploring by boat and ferries, 10. dogsledding and snowmobile tours, 11. tasiilaq, east greenland, 12. walking on the ice cap from kangerlussuaq, 13. katuaq cultural center, 14. nuuk art museum (nuuk kunstmuseum), where to stay in greenland for sightseeing.

Justifiably Greenland's most visited area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004, this amazing berg-strewn section of coast in Disko Bay is where huge glaciers "calve," an expression meaning that icebergs break off from the glaciers and float out into the coastal waters.

This is the perfect place to visit, if you're lucky enough to get the timing right, to witness this awe-inspiring natural spectacle. Unlike other ice fjords in Greenland, it can be watched from land.

The immense glacier Sermeq Kujalleq , more than five kilometers wide and one kilometer thick, feeds into the bay and flows at a rate of about 25 meters (82 feet) a day. Be prepared for stunning vistas and nature at its most majestic. Disko Bay is also notable for its historic significance; it's the site of Norse Explorer Erik the Red's 985 CE settlement.

While in Ilulissat, stop to see the collection of Greenland landscapes in the Emanuel A Petersen Art Museum.

Read More: Best Winter Holidays with Snow

One of the top things to do for visitors in Greenland is to experience an up-close encounter with whales. Most of the fjords melt by May, so June and July are usually the best months for cruising among icebergs and whale watching along the breathtaking coastline.

Tours usually depart from towns such as Qeqertarsuaq, Nuuk, and Aasiaat and are offered by operators like Disko Line . Typical encounters are with humpback, minke, and fin whales, but occasionally also blue whales, killer whales, narwhals, beluga whales, sperm whales, and pilot whales. Patience is required but richly rewarded.

Nuuk, the capital and administrative center of Greenland, has a population of around 16,000 and is especially popular with visitors thanks to the Greenland National Museum . Its collections of hunting equipment, kayaks, carvings, and Viking finds paint a vivid picture of life here from the earliest times.

The 500-year-old mummies of women and children (discovered in 1978) are so well preserved that some of the facial tattoos and various colors of the clothing material are still recognizable. The museum also hosts regular exhibitions of geology and the arts.

Nuuk is the departure point for tours of the Godthåb Fjord, one of Greenland's most beautiful regions, and the atmospheric buildings of the old colonial harbor are well worth seeing.

Address : Hans Egedes Vej 8, Nuuk

The northern lights are often referred to as "the biggest light show on earth," and during your visit to Greenland, you shouldn't miss this incredible natural spectacle. If you're planning to visit for the sole purpose of seeing the aurora borealis, then make sure you travel in winter.

There's a good chance of seeing the northern lights anytime between November and March, although December through February are the best months because the nights are clearer. The Northern Lights are visible across Greenland. Qaqortoq (south), Ittoqqortoormiit (east), and Kangerlussuaq (west) provide the best views.

Hot springs are found throughout Greenland, but on the uninhabited island of Uunartoq, the springs are the perfect temperature for bathing. Here, three naturally heated springs merge into a small pool, where you can immerse yourself surrounded by icebergs and stunning mountain peaks.

Uunartoq is a short boat ride from the town of Ilulissat . There are literally thousands of springs elsewhere in Greenland, most notably on Disko Island, whilst on the easterly side of the country there are around a hundred more.

Qaqortoq is a rock-bound fishing village of brightly painted houses climbing a hillside above the harbor. Set in an 1804 building that was once the Julianehåb colony manager's house, the Qaqortoq Museum displays artifacts from the Dorset, Thule, and Norse cultures, each with its separate exhibits and interpretation.

Norse history is especially well-represented with artifacts that include harpoons and kayaks, along with an authentic replica of a peat hut. There is also a replica umiac, a traditional Greenland boat.

On the top floor are the beautifully reconstructed "Blue Room" and "Red Room," where the explorer Knud Rasmussen and aviator Charles Lindbergh respectively stayed. Lindbergh was here when he was scouting sites for a Pan Am stopover airport.

Address: Torvevej B 29 3920, Qaqortoq, Greenland

Among the most popular things to see in southern Greenland are the remnants of Eric the Red's thousand-year-old Norse colonies. At their peak, it's estimated that something around 5,000 Norsemen lived throughout Greenland. Why the settlements died out remains a mystery.

A visit to the sites of the ruins is a fascinating journey back in time into the lives of these hardy hunter-gatherers. There are several Viking ruins found in the region including the Hvalsey Fjord Church (the oldest in Greenland and highly recommended) and Brattahlid near the town of Qassiarsuk (a 20-minute boat ride from Narsarsuaq international airport).

Roughly two kilometers from the town of Ilulissat, you'll find this ancient Eskimo settlement, first excavated at the beginning of the 20th century, which has some of the best-preserved remnants of indigenous Eskimo cultures in the Arctic. The ancient village is abandoned, but you can still see artifacts from the inhabitants who lived here more than 2,000 years ago.

To get to Sermermiut by foot takes roughly an hour. From the center of Ilulissat, walk south to the old Heliport and then follow the boardwalk a further 1.2 kilometers south to the shore of the Icefjord. Finds from the site are displayed in the Ilulissat Museum .

Whether you take a short afternoon cruise among the icebergs to a glacier or a multi-day cruise into the bays and fjords, boats are the best way to get a look at most parts of Greenland. Most of these mighty walls of ice are visible only from the sea, and boats are such a vital part of Greenland life that wherever you go there will be opportunities for sea excursions.

Small excursion boats have the advantage of no set itinerary, so in addition to the icebergs and glaciers, you may see waterfalls and wildlife, like an eagle guarding her nest. You can also find tour operators like Blue Ice Explorer in Narsarsuaq that offer custom tours to suit your interests and your schedule.

You can also take a longer multi-day cruise to see more of Greenland's wonders or get a feel for local life by joining Greenlanders on one of the many ferries that ply the small coastal ports. The Arctic Umiaq Line operates ferries that are the local transport, so unlike the cruises designed especially for tourists, these ferries give you a chance to meet and mingle with Greenlanders.

Without a doubt, exploring the wild landscape is one of the top things to do in Greenland, and the best way to experience the country's unique natural environment when snow is on the ground is on a tour by dogsled or a snowmobile excursion.

Naturally, the winter months are the time for dogsled tours and snowmobile trips. Some of the most popular areas to explore are Disko Bay , Tasiusaq Fjord , Qaanaaq , and Thule . You'll find numerous tour operators all over Greenland offering trips to suit different budgets.

Although it has just 2,000 inhabitants, Tasiilaq is the largest town in East Greenland. It lies on the island of Ammassalik, about 100 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle. Set amid breathtaking scenery on a fjord surrounded by soaring mountains and bisected by a small river, Tasiilaq should be high up on any visitor's agenda.

The Flower Valley behind the town is a popular place to visit for short or long hikes. Popular winter activities are skiing trips and dog-sled tours. In summer, activities include hiking, climbing, helicopter rides over the ice sheet and glaciers, sea kayaking between icebergs on the fjord, whale watching, and fishing. As Tasiilaq remains one of the most isolated settlements on Earth, expect an experience like no other.

Kangerlussuaq is a small town of about 500 people that has two reasons for a visit: it's the favorite starting point for hiking the 200-kilometer (124-mile) Arctic Circle Trail and it has the closest access to the Greenland ice sheet. You can book a half-day tour to the ice sheet, which is only about 30 kilometers away, and once there, walk on its surface.

This is one of the few places the ice cap can be reached without a helicopter. It's like no other experience-ice stretching to the horizon, cut by blue rivers of meltwater. Hikers looking for something shorter and less demanding than the Arctic Circle Trail can climb the nearby Sugarloaf Mountain for sweeping views that include the ice cap.

The Katuaq Cultural Center is located in Nuuk, housed in a beautiful modern building that was designed to emulate the movements of the northern lights. For tourists, the highlights of this attraction are its art exhibits and variety of live performances.

Visual arts exhibits change every one to two months and highlight the work of Greenland creators, both well-known and emerging artists. Performances include not only musical and theatrical productions, but also comedy shows and lecture series.

The center also has a very nice restaurant that features international food made with locally sourced ingredients.

Address: Imaneq 21, 3900 Nuuk

The Nuuk Art Museum began as the private collection of Svend and Helene Junge, which represented their love of all things Greenland. The collection includes paintings of Greenland and works by those who lived and stayed here, as well as a variety of craft-art pieces.

Tourists interested in local handcrafts can see the process of traditional Greenlandic costume-making up close at the Kittat Economusée , also located in Nuuk. It is a working museum, giving visitors the opportunity to watch as the skins are prepared, designs are drafted, and the art form is implemented. Visitors can also touch and examine the work and can purchase items made on-site.

Address: Kissarneqqortuunnguaq 5, 3900 Nuuk

Hotels in Illulissat:

• The closest to posh you're likely to find in Greenland, Hotel Arctic Ilulissat bills itself as "the world's most northerly 4-star hotel." Views from rooms facing the bay are stunning, and breakfast is free, as are rides to the airport and the hourly shuttle into town.
• Conveniently located in the town center, the mid-range Hotel Icefiord sits right on the edge of Disko Bay. All rooms face the bay for views of the icebergs drifting past. The restaurant is popular, and breakfast is included, along with airport transportation.

Guesthouses in Nuuk:

• Right on the water, with beautiful views from the rooms, Eagle View is a boutique guesthouse with a well-equipped kitchen, lounge area, and baths shared by guests.
• Guest rooms are spacious and cheerful. Greenland Escape is close to the airport, and about a 20-minute walk or a taxi ride from the center of town, Rooms have a modern, minimalist décor, and the guest kitchen and baths are shared.

Hotels Elsewhere in Greenland:

• Popular with hikers and visitors seeking outdoor experiences, Kangerlussuaq is not a place to find luxury resorts, but you'll be comfortable in the small rooms of the Old Camp , a hostel-style lodge where guests can make their own breakfasts in the kitchen.
• Perched high above the colorful village of Tasiilaq, in East Greenland, the Angmagssalik Hotel has stunning views of mountains across a bay filled with ice. The hotel has a restaurant, and breakfast is included in the rate.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Where to Go from Greenland: Most visitors flying here from North America connect to Greenland through Reykjavik , the capital of Iceland and the closest international airport to Greenland. A stopover here gives you a chance to explore the tourist attractions of Iceland .

More Arctic Regions to Explore: If glaciers, icebergs, Arctic landscapes, and the midnight sun fascinate you, then you'll enjoy the fjord-cut coastline of the Kenai Peninsula and 700-square-mile Harding Icefield, south of Anchorage in the US state of Alaska . You might also like to explore the Arctic reaches of northern Finland .

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Death Valley will hit 130 degrees and could break world record amid blistering heat wave

California’s Death Valley could reach a scorching 130 degrees next week and come close to breaking its blistering world record as parts of the West, Southwest and Mid-Atlantic are under an extreme heat wave expected to intensify this weekend.

The temperature at Death Valley National Park, which stretches between eastern California and Nevada, will reach highs around 130 degrees at Furnace Creek, Sunday night through Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service forecast . Furnace Creek, in Inyo County, California, is home to the headquarters for the national park.

The sweltering heat could creep close to the world’s record highest temperature of 134 degrees marked at Greenland Ranch in Death Valley on July 10, 1913, according to the National Weather Service office in Las Vegas . 

The weather service's Las Vegas office said Friday's high temperature at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center was 127, a new record for July 5.

An excessive heat warning is in effect through Wednesday at the park and Las Vegas Valley, and temperatures are expected to be 12 to 14 degrees above the seasonal average. 

“This heat is very dangerous. Yes, the Mojave Desert gets hot. But this heat will be record-breaking,” NWS Las Vegas warned. 

On its web page, Death Valley National Park warned visitors to "minimize time outside in heat."

The hot weather has already fueled wildfires in California . 

On Friday, nearly half the nation's population — more than 158 million people — was under a heat advisory or excessive heat warning, according to the weather service.

Temperatures reached at least 111 in Las Vegas; 106 in Tucson, Arizona; 100 along the border in Del Rio, Texas; 108 in Stockton, California, in the Central Valley east of San Francisco; and 99 in Portland, Oregon.

Kingman, Arizona set a new high mark for the date when the reading reached 109, the weather service said. Barstow, California reached its warmest low temperature after sunrise Friday, when the thermometer settled at 85, it said.

High temperatures in the 80s to 100s were expected across the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic, and locations such as Atlanta delivered. That city recorded 94 degrees, but forecasters said the heat index, which includes a "feels like" temperature range usually attributed to humidity, would likely end up in the 100- to 107-degree range. A heat advisory was in effect through sundown.

Saturday will likely be the hottest day of the stretch with highs into the 110s common across California outside coastal areas and naturally cooler higher elevations, the National Weather Service said. However, locally higher temperatures into the 120s are possible in the Desert Southwest.

"It is imperative to stay hydrated, out of direct sunlight, and in buildings with sufficient air-conditioning when possible. It is also equally as important to check on the safety of vulnerable friends, family, and neighbors," the weather service said.

More than 50 cities from the Pacific Northwest to Arizona are expected to break record highs through Wednesday. Las Vegas may come close to breaking its all-time high of 117 degrees for five straight days next week from Sunday to Thursday. 

Forecasters blamed a slow-moving high-pressure dome that's headed from the coast of Northern California to Nevada and the Colorado River Valley. A separate high-pressure dome existed above the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic, with similar effects. A cooler patch of air between the domes could produce some rain in the Ohio and Tennessee valleys overnight, federal forecasters said.

Breaking News Reporter

Dennis Romero is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital. 

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Travel + Leisure Readers’ 15 Favorite Resorts in the West of 2024

The West isn’t so wild when your home base is one of the luxurious winners of the 2024 "World’s Best Awards" survey.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

How Voting Works

What readers loved, the full list.

The American West may be wild, but it also has a luxurious side. After some time spent exploring the landscapes that have made the region iconic, you’ll be treated to cozy beds, warm service, and amenities that complement the day’s adventure — at least at these 2024 World’s Best Awards winners. The western U.S. resorts most touted by Travel + Leisure readers are concentrated in the Pacific Northwest, with a few outliers in New Mexico, Nevada, and Alaska.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Over 186,000 T+L readers completed the 2024 survey. A total of more than 700,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, inn, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically rated on the criteria below:

• Rooms/facilities

For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses.

Courtesy of Salish Lodge

Readers reviewing resorts in the West couldn’t get enough of those with an added something — be it an indoor-outdoor spa with private hot springs, championship golf, or an elevated take on the casino. Oregon was the big winner, with four properties on the list — including the family-friendly Brasada Ranch (No. 3), which has its own golf course, a herd of horses, and stand-alone cabins and bungalows.

Across the border in Idaho, guests raved about Shore Lodge (No. 8) in McCall, recognizing it as “a home away from home” and a great place for a romantic lakefront getaway. Up north, in Alaska, the Alyeska Resort (No. 14) opened an outdoor Nordic spa that complements the downhill skiing that’s synonymous with the area.

“The brand-new outdoor spa is amazing and a destination unto itself. The Alyeska Resort property is gorgeous, reflecting the Japanese influence in the architecture and room styles,” said one reader. Plus, you can ski directly to the property.

Salish Lodge & Spa: Snoqualmie, Washington

The setting of Salish Lodge & Spa is second to none. It’s perched directly above the 268-foot Snoqualmie Falls, one of the state’s most popular attractions. Beyond its magnificent backdrop — which includes thick, green forest land and mountain peaks — the property has an award-winning spa and a restaurant with big picture windows overlooking the falls and the river below it.

The rooms — all 86 of them — are designed to be a cozy mountain retreat, with feather bedding and an in-room gas fireplace. Some are outfitted with oversized soaking tubs and patios or balconies that provide guests with a personal Snoqualmie Falls overlook.

One T+L reader called it “truly an experience and an amazing stay! Everything about the stay was wonderful from the moment you walk on to the property to when they open the doors for you, it was a mesmerizing time. I have recommended this place to everyone I know. The people who work there are amazing and everyone is so kind and polite.”

The Salish Lodge & Spa was No. 4 on the World’s Best Awards list in 2023 and No. 13 in 2022 .

1. Salish Lodge & Spa : Snoqualmie, Washington

Reader Score: 94.12

2. Edgewood Tahoe Resort : Stateline, Nevada

Reader Score: 93.26

3. Brasada Ranch : Bend, Oregon

Reader Score: 92.30

4. Bishop's Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection : Santa Fe, New Mexico

Reader Score: 92.00

5. The Allison Inn & Spa : Newberg, Oregon

Reader Score: 89.87

6. Cedarbrook Lodge : Seattle, Washington

Reader Score: 89.18

7. Green Valley Ranch, Resort Spa & Casino : Henderson, Nevada

Reader Score: 89.07

8. Shore Lodge : McCall, Idaho

Reader Score: 88.96

9. (tie) Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino : Incline Village, Nevada

Reader Score: 88.87

9. (tie) Salishan Coastal Lodge by SCP Hotels : Gleneden Beach, Oregon

11. The Coeur d'Alene Golf & Spa Resort : Coeur d'Alene, Idaho

Reader Score: 87.68

12. Sunriver Resort : Sunriver, Oregon

Reader Score: 87.64

13. Taos Inn : Taos, New Mexico

Reader Score: 86.00

14. Alyeska Resort : Girdwood, Alaska

Reader Score: 85.26

15. Denali Backcountry Lodge : Healy, Alaska

Reader Score: 85.07

Related Articles

Greenland Tours & Vacations

About 4,500 years ago, early man migrated thousands of perilous miles from Canada into Greenland.

And when they got there and saw the ice-covered mountains, glaciers and resident polar bears, they stopped and said ‘Yep, this looks like the spot.’ And who can blame them? It may be cold, but the unfenced wilderness of the world’s biggest (and least populated) island is worth wearing a scarf 11 months of the year for. Although technically still part of Denmark , Greenland is now self-governing and has a proud Inuit culture. And with no crowds, little crime and only a few roads to break up the endless ice flow, it’s easy to see the appeal (just don’t forget that scarf).

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4 trips that will get you to Greenland sooner than you think

Iceland or Greenland? Which country should be next on your travel list? 

Why Greenland might just be the next big destination for adventurers

Greenland at a glance

Capital city.

Greenlandic, Danish

(GMT-03:00) Greenland

CALLING CODE

Electricity.

Type K (Danish 3-pin)

Learn more about Greenland

Best time to visit greenland.

Generally the summer months of June, July and August are the time to see Greenland, but it does depend what you’re looking for. At midyear the country isn’t as chilly as it can be (temperatures can rise as high as a sweltering 15°C…) and you’ll get to experience the phenomenon of the midnight sun. Of course, if it’s the night lights of the aurora borealis you’re after, the time to go is definitely October through to March, when temperatures can plummet to well below freezing. Pack accordingly.

Geography and environment

When 84 per cent of your country is covered in the world’s largest ice sheet (and the rest is classed as permafrost), geography may seem kind of self-explanatory. But Greenland’s coastal fringes are where most of the magic happens. Plunging fjords, rocky promontories, trundling glaciers calving off into the Labrador Sea. Most of the settlements along the western coast are colourful wooden houses painted every colour of the rainbow. Towns and settlements are virtually cut-off from each other (roads are very rare in Greenland), so most trade and movement is done by sea and air.

Top 5 wildlife experiences in Greenland

1. humpback whale.

Humpback whales migrate to the cooler waters of the Arctic to feed each year. It’s a mammoth journey, often spanning thousands of kilometres (and all at travelling just a few kilometres per hour). That’s probably why humpbacks like to blow off a bit of steam in Greenland. Around Aasiaat, Qeqertarsuaq and Sisimiut between April and November it’s not an uncommon sight to see a 30-tonne humpback leaping clear out of the water.

In the Middle Ages, Inuits and Norse tribesmen would trade narwhal horns for fabulous sums (they were the marine equivalent of a unicorn). Thankfully the horn trade is over and these beautiful toothed whales can swim and eat in peace. They’re usually found in Melville Bay and around Qaanaaq, where their spiralling three-metre tusk can be seen poking through the surface of the water.

3. Polar bear

This is the world’s largest land predator, and the chances of seeing one increase when you’re on the water. Cruising along the coast of west or north-east Greenland is your best shot at spotting one of these creatures, but don’t hold your breath – they can be quite aloof. But the good news is that if they are out there, they are quite easy to see due to their off-white fur standing out against the snow-white ice.

4. Arctic fox

Technically there are two types of Arctic fox in Greenland – the classic white and the blue. Both species change colour depending on the season in order to blend in with the rocky landscape and the polar ice sheet. Arctic foxes live on an almost exclusive diet of lemmings – so when lemming populations drop, so do the number of foxes. Thankfully numbers are strong, and the Arctic fox isn’t a threatened species.

5. White-tailed eagle

Don’t forget to look up every now and then: Greenland has a huge and colourful variety of birdlife. The biggest and most striking bird is the white-tailed eagle (known as the nattoralik in Greenlandic). You’ll usually find them circling along the west coast down to Cape Farewell, hoping to find a cod, char or smaller sea bird to stoop. These birds are as rare as they are beautiful, and are officially a protected species in Greenland.

Greenland travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa in Greenland?

Australia: No - not required Belgium: No - not required Canada: No - not required Germany: No - not required Ireland: No - not required Netherlands: No - not required New Zealand: No - not required South Africa: Yes - required in advance Switzerland: No - not required United Kingdom: No - not required USA: No - not required

Is tipping customary in Greenland?

Not really. For restaurants and hotels, a service charge is usually included in the bill. Tipping won’t be expected, but it is sure to be appreciated when offered.

What is internet access like in Greenland?

You can thank undersea optic cables running from Europe for Greenland’s great internet connectivity. Around 93 per cent of the population has access to the web. And it’s highly likely your accommodation will have Wi-Fi.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone in Greenland?

You sure can. There’s only one phone provider in Greenland, TELE Greenland, but most villages will have good 3G coverage. Note that data roaming charges are international (as Greenland is technically outside the EU) and much higher than usual.

What are the toilets like in Greenland?

Most Greenland villages and cities have modern and fully functional flush toilets, which are widely available.

Can I drink the water in Greenland?

Tap water is safe to drink throughout Greenland. You can even drink the water in the rivers and lakes – nothing better than pure glacial melt water.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Greenland?

Major credit cards will be accepted at most restaurants, hotels and shops. Major supermarkets will also give cash out, but if you’re venturing into the smaller settlements, carry cash as a backup (card readers are often broken).

What is ATM access like in Greenland?

ATM access is good in the major towns and settlements, but most holes-in-the-wall will close at about 6pm. You can also withdraw money in banks and post offices.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

How do I stay safe and healthy while travelling?

From Australia?

Go to: Smart Traveller

From Canada?

Go to:  Canada Travel Information

From the UK?

Go to:  UK Foreign Travel Advice

From New Zealand?

Go to:  Safe Travel

From the US?

Go to:  US Department of State

The World Health Organisation also provides useful health information.

Does my trip support The Intrepid Foundation?

Yes, all Intrepid trips support the Intrepid Foundation. Trips to this country directly support our global Intrepid Foundation partners Eden Reforestation Projects and World Bicycle Relief. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Eden Reforestation Projects

Eden Reforestation Projects are helping to mitigate climate change by restoring forests worldwide; they also hire locally and create job opportunities within vulnerable communities. Donations from our trips support restoration across planting sites in 10 countries around the globe. Find out more or make a donation World Bicycle Relief

World Bicycle Relief provides people in low-income communities with bicycles to mobilise school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas – giving them access to vital education, healthcare, and income. Donations help provide Buffalo Bicycles – specifically designed to withstand the rugged terrain and harsh environment of rural regions – to those who need them most. Find out more or make a donation

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Greenland Vacation Packages

Find your next big adventure in Greenland here! At the left, choose months , activities , and destinations . You can also choose duration and difficulty .

This is an easy way to compare prices and book the exact Greenland vacation package that suits you

Showing 1–24 of 61 results

Spend a night in a real Igloo | Ilulissat

Glamping at Camp Kangiusaq | Nuuk | West Greenland

A long weekend in the Arctic to remember | 5 days | Ilulissat

Dog sledding expedition | Kangerlussuaq to Sisimiut | West Greenland

8 Days of Spring In The Arctic | West Greenland & Disko Bay

Highlights of the Arctic winter in 5 days | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

Arctic Wilderness Expedition | 11 days | East Greenland

Midnight Sun Exploration | 8 Days | Arctic Circle & Disko Bay

UNESCO 5 days package | South Greenland

Land of Icebergs | 4 Days | Disko Bay

East Greenland Photo Exploration | Tasiilaq

East Greenland Adventure | 6 Days

Autumn Holidays at the Ice Sheet | 5 days | Kangerlussuaq | West Greenland

8 Days Of The Inland Ice Sheet, Midnight Sun & Icebergs | West Greenland & Disko Bay

Multi-day Dogsledding from Tasiilaq | East Greenland

Kayak & Ice Hike | 8 Days | South Greenland

Best Of Ilulissat | 5 days | Disko Bay

Kayak & Ice Hike | 15 Days | South Greenland

Northern Lights Tour | 3-Day Vacation Package | Nuuk | Greenland

Ice, Big Walls & Hot Spring | South Greenland Explorer

Amazing 4 Days | Ilulissat | Disko Bay

5 Day Ilulissat Explorer | Disko Bay

Snowshoeing and Backcountry Sleepover | Nuuk

10 days of hiking through Arctic nature & villages | East Greenland

More about greenland vacation packages.

Are you interested in a Greenland vacation package? Whether you are off for an active vacation, a family trip, or an all-inclusive holiday, these vacation packages ensure you will get a well-planned, affordable, and adventurous vacation in Greenland that you will never forget.

Below, you can find answers to questions which is related to our vacation packages in Greenland.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a greenland vacation package cost.

The prices vary a lot in terms of your activities and destinations. Take into account that the cheapest tours may only include flights and accommodation and a few experiences, so when you add more day trips, the cost is more or less the same as buying a more expensive package tour from the start. You can filter in the price above to the right. In this way, you can easily find a vacation package in Greenland that match your budget.

If I am not able to travel, can I then cancel my vacation package?

You can read more in our Terms and Conditions page: https://guidetogreenland.com/terms-conditions/

Why buy a package tour instead of a bundle of day tours?

If you buy a package tour to Greenland, everything is planned and taken care of, so it is much easier and more convenient for you.

Can I plan a tour myself?

You can buy your flights, accommodation and day trips yourself, but make sure that all dates fit and that there is space on the trips. It is a pity to have reached Disco Bay, and then not be able to go out to e.g. a whale watching tour or iceberg tour!

How far in advance should I book my Greenland vacation package?

We advise you to book your vacation package at least 3 months in advance. The best would be booking your holidays 6 months or more in advance as availability in Greenland is really limited and change quickly. Furthermore, when you book some months in advance, you have a lot of time to prepare for your big Arctic adventure!

For how long do I have to wait on answers on the packages on request?

We will do our best to answer you as fast as possible.

Does any vacation packages start from Iceland?

Yes, we have vacation packages in Greenland with a starting point from Reykjavik, Iceland.

What should I know before booking a Greenland vacation package?

All vacation packages in Greenland start either from Copenhagen, Denmark, or Reykjavik, Iceland. During summer, a few start from Billund in Denmark. You should be aware of which activities your vacation package includes since some of them can vary in difficulty. Moreover, Greenland quickly sells out in the high season, and the overall supply is less than the demand during the high season.

What airlines are flying to Greenland?

Air Greenland and Icelandair.

What is the difference between a vacation package and a multi-days tour?

A vacation package in Greenland includes flights whereas multi-days tours does not.

Is Greenland a good vacation spot for long tours?

If you ask us, Greenland is the best vacation spot for long tours! Greenland is a remote and mindful destination with untouched mountains and fjords. Once you are here, most people want to stay longer and enjoy nature and the unique quietness. Moreover, there are so many amazing places in Greenland from West to East and North to South. With a long tour, you have the opportunity to visit more than one place.

What does a vacation package in Greenland include?

It includes flights, accommodation, sometimes meals, guides, and activities. You can find all information on what is included in each package in the tab ‘included’.

What should I pack before traveling to Greenland on a vacation package?

It really depends on where you are going, what you are going to do, and what seasons - and of course for how long. You can read our guides to what to bring when going to Greenland here: https://guidetogreenland.com/about-greenland/travel-information/best-clothing-to-pack-for-a-trip-to-arctic-greenland/

What will the modes of transport be for the big portions of my Greenland tour?

Since Greenland does not really have any roads, the majority of transport will be by airplane and ferry. However, sometimes even a helicopter, a dog sled, or a snowmobile all depending on your vacation package!

What size would the group be if my tour to Greenland is fully booked?

The size of groups varies from each package - normally between 6 to 12 people. But a vacation package is not necessarily the same as a group tour. You can purchase a package where you and your spouse are the only ones attending.

Are there travel packages in all of East, West, North, and South Greenland?

Yes, we have vacation packages all over Greenland. From South to North and from East to West. You can filter by ‘destination’.

Are there vacation packages only for outdoor experiences?

Yes, we also offer outdoor packages for the extremes. You can book hiking, kayaking, biking, and ice hiking vacation packages in Greenland.

Are there vacation packages in Greenland in all seasons?

You can go all year round to Greenland. You can find the perfect vacation package in your preferred time of year by filtering in 'Available months'.

Do vacation packages include insurance?

No, you should purchase insurance separately - and be sure it covers Greenland!

Is it necessary to have insurance while traveling in Greenland?

It is required for some of the package tours. But we will always advise you to have insurance while traveling in Greenland.

Do you do tailor-made vacation packages?

No. However, if you are a group of 6 and more please contact us by email. We might be able to help you!

Is my vacation package booking confirmed after payment?

No, you will need to wait until it is confirmed by one of the Guide to Greenland experts.

Do you need to book connecting flights to Greenland by yourself?

Yes, you need to book flights from your home country as you need to get to Copenhagen or Reykjavik. We advise you to have your connection flight at least one day before and one day after your Greenland tour.

How long is the flight to Greenland?

It depends on where in Greenland you are flying. Usually, the flight from Denmark is approximately 4 to 4,5 hours. From Iceland to Greenland it could be from 2 hours (if you fly to East Greenland) to 3 hours.

When do I need to be at the airport before my Greenland flight?

We advise you to be in the airport at least 2-3 hours before.

When will I receive the tickets and the final itinerary for my trip?

At the latest 2 weeks before the trip.

Do I need to pay for my vacation package at once or I can separate payments?

Due to the limited supply and huge demands, we need to have all payments at once.

Can extra charges appear after booking a package tour?

Yes, but not very often. There could be an extra charge if flight prices change due to energy prices rising or similar. If standard rooms are occupied and the only option is to stay in an upgraded room, we may also charge more. We will inform you about that right away.

Can my itinerary be changed after the booking?

Yes, your itinerary can change. You will still go on all included tours but the days of the tours can change due to availability and weather conditions can also adjust your final itinerary.