visit greenland on a budget

Out of Your Comfort Zone

The art of backpacking & adventures to get out of your comfort zone – tips and advice, 9 tips for visiting greenland on a budget – yes, it’s possible.

Last Updated on February 23, 2024 by Talita

Have a trip planned to Greenland? But wondering how to make the most of your visit while still sticking to your budget? Then read on for 9 money-saving tips for Greenland travel! 

Greenland easily ranks as one of my favorite places on the planet. 

Between its untamed, rugged environment….

…its boundless ice sheet stretching thousands of miles in all directions…

…and the lonely, remote beauty of its mountains, glaciers, and tundra landscape…. 

…there’s truly no other place in the world quite like it.  

I mean…just look at this! (The Ilulissat Icefjord)

But if you’ve done any sort of research on “how to plan a trip to Greenland,” then you’ve probably noticed one thing: Greenland travel does *not* come cheap. 

The reality is that with the high costs of flights, accommodation, and excursions, a trip to Greenland – no matter how spectacular – isn’t exactly easy on the wallet. 

Nevertheless, based on our experiences during two separate trips to Greenland, we found that there are a few steps you can take to ease some of those costs. 

Which brings us to the topic of today’s article with 9 tips for traveling to Greenland on a budget. 

But before we get there, I know you might be wondering… 

Table of Contents

• 1 How much does a trip to Greenland cost, anyway? 
• 3 9 tips for visiting Greenland on a budget 
• 5 Planning your next trip?

How much does a trip to Greenland cost, anyway? 

Of course, your final Greenland trip expenses will depend on the destinations you choose to visit, what activities you plan to take part in, and your travel dates. 

But to give you a ballpark of some of the “minimum” costs you can expect, I’ve listed out a breakdown of our personal trip costs below. 

Given that we tend to be pretty budget-conscious travelers, these costs are based on the cheapest options we could possibly find for our flights, accommodation, and the excursions/activities we wanted to do.

While there may be limited room for cost savings when it comes to your flights and accommodation (though you’ll find tips below for that!), you can certainly reduce your costs by cutting back on the number of excursions and activities you partake in. 

Though Greenland is expensive, it’s often worth splurging for certain excursions that let you visit incredible places like the ice sheet (which you won’t be able to visit on your own)

But as you can see in our list of trip costs below, we set aside a significant budget for paid tours, excursions, and activities in Greenland that we were unable to do independently. 

Since we were unsure if we’d be able to come to Greenland again (and since we’d already paid so much to get there!), we made the decision *not* to skip out on certain experiences just because they were more than what we’d usually spend.

So, we did our best to budget accordingly and save up in advance of our trip. But the choice of how much you spend on these types of activities is ultimately up to you! 

Without further ado, here’s that breakdown of our trip costs in Greenland (note that DKK stands for Danish Kroner, as Greenland is a Danish territory and uses the same currency):

• Roundtrip flight from Copenhagen to Ilulissat with an overnight layover each way in Kangerlussuaq = about 450 euros each (note that this is NOT the standard flight price; the average is closer to 700+ euros) 
• Accommodation at the Kangerlussuaq Youth Hostel for our overnight layover each way = 275 DKK per night in the cheapest dorm room available, plus 250 DKK for checking in outside the reception hours (yes, the fee for this is almost the same price as the room…it’s annoying, but our flight was late and we didn’t have a choice!) 
• Day trip to the ice sheet in Kangerlussuaq (which I would HIGHLY recommend if you have a long enough layover in Kangerlussuaq…see tip #5 in our article here for more on this) = 695-995 DKK, depending on the length of your tour  
• The cheapest possible accommodation we could find in Ilulissat (a homestay) = 1,000 DKK per night, divided between the two of us 
• 3-hour boat trip to the Ilulissat icefjord (a true must-do if you’re in Ilulissat!!): 695 DKK 
• 3-hour kayak trip among the icebergs in Ilulissat: 995 DKK 
• Full-day adventure starting in Ilulissat that included a boat trip, a hike to a waterfall, and a visit to a settlement: 1,450 DKK 
• Food: we only ate at the grocery store…so our costs were low enough here that we didn’t take notes of the final number 🙂 

Our trip total (per person) for a 6-day trip to Greenland including roundtrip flights from Copenhagen, two nights in Kangerlussuaq, three nights in Ilulissat, and a generous number of paid excursions and activities = 9,695 DKK (about 1,300 euros)  

It’s worth mentioning that we didn’t take any internal flights or other forms of domestic transportation (like the ferry) within Greenland. Domestic travel can be quite expensive, so do make sure to factor it into your budget if it’s part of your Greenland itinerary. 

And if you’re not in Europe , then make sure to factor in the cost of your flight to Copenhagen, as well. 

(P.S. If you’d like to see a bit more about the tours we did in Ilulissat that I mentioned above, take a look at our article here: 10 Things to Know Before Visiting Ilulissat ) 

All that said…let’s get on to the tips! 

9 tips for visiting Greenland on a budget 

   1. Book your trip as early as possible. 

There’s a reason that this is tip #1 in this article here and in my other article: 10 Things to Know Before Visiting Ilulissat, Greenland’s ‘City of Icebergs.’ 

And my reason is simple: it’s one of the most crucial pieces of advice I can give to anyone planning a trip to Greenland. 

No matter what you plan to do in Greenland, make sure you book early!

For one, you’re going to want to secure your bookings – for your flights, accommodation , and excursions – early so they don’t book out (which happens often if you’re visiting a place like Ilulissat during high season). 

But beyond that, booking early can really help you save on costs, especially when it comes to grabbing the more budget-friendly accommodation options before they sell out. 

To give you some context, we booked our most recent trip to Greenland (Ilulissat) 9 months in advance and still had trouble finding reasonably-priced accommodation. 

   2. Set flight alerts. 

Apart from accommodation, your second biggest expense will likely be your flight to Greenland, usually from Copenhagen via Air Greenland or from Iceland via Air Iceland (as of now, these are the only two airlines serving Greenland). 

Flying both to and within Greenland can get pricey

On average, roundtrip flights will cost you 600 or 700+ euros. 

However, our own trip to Greenland was initially inspired by an unexpected Google Flight alert notifying us of a Copenhagen-Ilulissat flight in mid-September for just 400 euros. 

We realized that we likely weren’t going to see a price like this again, so we jumped at the opportunity and got ourselves tickets ASAP. 

In other words, it is possible to find some flight deals to Greenland with a bit of patience and flexibility! 

   3. Consider visiting during Greenland’s “shoulder” season. 

Throughout Greenland, the peak travel season is during the summer months of June, July, and August. Predictably, this period is also one of the most expensive times of the year to travel to Greenland. 

Try visiting during Greenland’s “shoulder” season for a less crowded (and potentially cheaper) experience

To be fair, there are very compelling reasons to visit during the summer: more predictable weather, more reliable transportation, and the availability of most activities and excursions.

Personally, we weren’t interested in visiting during the “off” season because we knew transportation could get tricky and that the cold and limited daylight hours would make the activities we wanted to do impossible. 

However, we found mid to late September – just a few weeks after the peak season had ended – was just about perfect. 

Not only were we able to find a more affordable flight (which would be nearly impossible during the summer), but we were able to avoid most of the summer- and cruise-season crowds. Plus, our timing still allowed us to enjoy all the activities and excursions we had in mind, as most tour companies would be closing up shop in October. 

   4. Consider taking a Greenlandic cruise. 

Although we flew directly to Ilulissat for our most recent trip to Greenland…for our first trip to this stunning island, we actually went by cruise ship from Copenhagen! 

The view of Greenland’s spectacular Prince Christian Sound from our cruise ship

And truthfully? The reason we chose to travel this way is because we stumbled upon a great deal that was by far the cheapest way for us to travel to Greenland. After all, the price we paid for the cruise included:

• Roundtrip transportation to Greenland from Copenhagen 
• Transportation between several destinations within Greenland (Nuuk, Qaqortoq, and Ilulissat). Given the absence of roads between coastal towns as Greenland is some 80% ice, domestic transportation in Greenland can be quite difficult and expensive…so this was a pretty significant perk!  
• Accommodation for the entire duration of our trip 
• All our meals 
• 3 bonus stops in Iceland for us to enjoy along the way 🙂 

So, if you come across any Greenlandic cruises that pique your interest…I’ll leave it up to you to do the math and see how the final costs stack up! 

(It’s worth mentioning that, unfortunately, our cruise ship couldn’t dock in Ilulissat as there was too much ice in the bay. We still had a great time on our cruise and this only led us to return to Ilulissat for another spectacular trip…but do keep in mind that surprises like this are part of the adventure in a place like Greenland!) 

   5. Skip the restaurants and eat at the grocery store. 

As a Danish territory, you’ll find Danish prices (or higher) when eating out in Greenland. 

Eating at the grocery store can save you a lot while in Greenland

Thankfully, we found that every town’s “big” supermarket would have a generous supply of fresh, pre-prepared, and budget-friendly meals (5 euros or less) that we ate instead. 

(Note that you can also reduce meal costs by staying in accommodations with free breakfast or when participating in full-day excursions that include lunch, which most will.)  

   6. Consider “alternative” forms of accommodation, like the hostel in Kangerlussuaq or a homestay in Ilulissat.

Unfortunately, budget accommodation options are quite limited throughout Greenland. 

While there used to be a hostel in Ilulissat, I believe that Kangerlussuaq – a town that will likely be your point of entry into Greenland as it houses the island’s largest airport – is currently the only town with a hostel. (Meaning Kangalussuaq may very well be the cheapest option for accommodation in all of Greenland as a result!) 

So if you’re on a budget and have an overnight layover in Kangerlussuaq (something we highly recommend…and which you can read more about in tip #5 in our article here!), then definitely take a look at the Kangerlussuaq Youth Hostel here . 

Note that you’ll have to email the hostel directly to reserve your bed. And that they are *very* strict about charging you the fee if you arrive for check-in beyond the normal reception times.  

In Ilulissat, we managed to find a homestay option on Agoda. But those are few and far between (and still cost us $150 per night). 

Occasionally, you can find camping options. But they are limited and are still priced quite high, particularly if you have to rent gear that can withstand the Arctic conditions. 

   7. Don’t forget to enjoy the free hiking trails. 

While there are tons of amazing paid excursions and activities in Greenland (such as visiting the ice sheet or kayaking among icebergs), if you’re on a budget, it’s worth exploring some nearby hiking trails for a day of cost-free adventure. 

Hiking around Lake Taserqua in Qaqortoq

Although you can hike just about anywhere in Greenland, here are some of the trails we did ourselves and enjoyed: 

• Ilulissat: take a peek at our article here for details on the must-do hikes in Ilulissat 
• Nuuk: Quassussuaq hill behind the airport (you’ll hike directly under the ski lift…so you really can’t miss it!) 
• Qaqortoq: the Lake Tasersuaq trail, just a short walk from the town center 

Note: weather conditions in Greenland can change quickly, so make sure you’re prepared. Thankfully, all the trails listed above are near towns and very easy to follow, so no extensive preparations are needed. 

   8. If you’re comfortable, think about including some independent multi-day hiking and camping adventures. 

If you have your own gear, are confident in your fitness level, and are well-prepared for the challenges of the Greenlandic wilderness, then an independent hiking/camping adventure could be a budget-friendly way to explore.  

It’s not hard to get views like this all to yourself in Greenland

However, I want to emphasize that you need to be very confident in your abilities before setting off, given Greenland’s incredibly harsh, isolated, and rapidly-changing environmental and weather conditions. 

   9. If you’re looking to travel between coastal destinations, take a look at the weekly public ferry. 

As I mentioned above, traveling within Greenland can be as much of a challenge as reaching Greenland in the first place. 

With the majority of Greenland covered in ice and no road connections between coastal towns, your choices are limited to flying or taking a boat (assuming the fjords are frozen over yet!). 

Unsurprisingly, domestic flights within Greenland are often quite expensive. However, there is one passenger ferry that provides an alternative. 

The ferry, known as Sarfaq Ittuk, is operated by Arctic Umiaq Line and makes stops in 12 locations along Greenland’s western coast. 

Greenland’s Sarfuq Ittuk ferry (photo courtesy of Visit Greenland )

I haven’t taken the ferry myself, but you can find more information about the ferry, including stops, schedules, and ticketing, here. 

I do want to point out that the ferry service is still pretty costly and only runs once a week. But if you plan to travel extensively within Greenland, then it may be worth comparing the cost of the flights and seeing if the ferry could be cheaper overall. Plus, it would be a beautiful (and unique) way to travel! 

And that’s it! 

Do you have any other questions about visiting Greenland on a budget (or just visiting Greenland in general)? Or have you already been and have any tips to add? 

Let us know in the comments area below and we’ll get back to you! 

Planning your next trip?

 Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, our article with The 6 Best and Cheapest Websites to Find & Reserve Accommodation can help you out. You’ll also find some promotions and discount codes .

 Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at our page with 16 Tips to Save on Flights where you’ll also find the 4 best websites to buy your plane tickets. 

And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then surely our page with The 5 Best and Cheapest Websites to Compare and Rent Cars Around the World will help you choose the best rental car and find a good deal.

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Next stop….The DMZ, South Korea

• Travel Planning Guide

Greenland Travel Budget - Visit Greenland on a Budget or Travel in Style

• Greenland Costs

• Is Greenland Expensive?
• How much does a trip to Greenland cost?
• Greenland Tour Prices
• The Best Adventure Tours to Greenland
• The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in Greenland
• The Best Tours for Seniors to Greenland
• How much does it cost to travel to Greenland? (Average Daily Cost)
• Greenland trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

How much do package tours cost in Greenland?

Is greenland expensive to visit.

• How much do I need for a trip to Greenland?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to Greenland?

You should plan to spend around $253 (kr1,775) per day on your vacation in Greenland. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $71 (kr500) on meals
• $51 (kr357) on local transportation
• $278 (kr1,947) on hotels

A one week trip to Greenland for two people costs, on average, $3,544 (kr24,845) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 253 kr 1,775
• One Week Per person $ 1,772 kr 12,422
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 3,544 kr 24,845
• One Month Per person $ 7,594 kr 53,239
• One Week For a couple $ 3,544 kr 24,845
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 7,088 kr 49,690
• One Month For a couple $ 15,189 kr 106,478

Are You an Experienced Traveler?

Help other travelers! Answer a quick question about your past travels. Click here: let's do it!

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Greenland cost?

A one week trip to Greenland usually costs around $1,772 (kr12,422) for one person and $3,544 (kr24,845) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Greenland on average costs around $3,544 (kr24,845) for one person and $7,088 (kr49,690) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Greenland will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Greenland on average costs around $7,594 (kr53,239) for one person and $15,189 (kr106,478) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in Greenland is $611 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.

• Wonders of Greenland (from Iceland) 8 Days - 4 Destinations $ 2,923
• Disko Bay (Including Flights: Copenhagen – Kangerlussuaq - Iceland/Copenhagen) 8 Days - 7 Destinations $ 9,590

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Greenland is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.

Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Greenland is somewhat more expensive compared to the other countries. It is in the top 25% of countries in Europe for its travel costs. While a few countries in the region are more expensive, Greenland is more expensive than most.

For more details, see Is Greenland Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Greenland?

The average Greenland trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Greenland travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in Greenland

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Greenland is $139 (kr974). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Greenland is $278 (kr1,947). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 139 kr 974
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 278 kr 1,947

Hotel Prices in Greenland

Looking for a hotel in Greenland? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Local Transportation Budget in Greenland

The cost of a taxi ride in Greenland is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $51 (kr357) per person, per day, on local transportation in Greenland.

• Local Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 51 kr 357

Recommended Services

• Private Transfer from Ilulissat Port to Ilulissat Airport (JAV) Viator $ 26
• Private Transfer from Ilulissat Airport (JAV) to Ilulissat Port Viator $ 26

Food Budget in Greenland

While meal prices in Greenland can vary, the average cost of food in Greenland is $71 (kr500) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Greenland should cost around $29 (kr200) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Greenland is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 71 kr 500

Entertainment Budget in Greenland

Entertainment and activities in Greenland typically cost an average of $45 (kr318) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 45 kr 318

Recommended Activities

• The Best of Nuuk Walking Tour Viator $ 290
• The best of Ilulissat walking tour Viator $ 191

Alcohol Budget in Greenland

The average person spends about $31 (kr214) on alcoholic beverages in Greenland per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 31 kr 214

Greenland On a Budget

At A Glance

• Although there are several cruises that visit Greenland, in general, flying is your only way to reach the country. Trans-oceanic flights arrive in either Kangerlussuaq or Narsarsuaq. This limited accessibility mean that traveling to Greenland is quite expensive. Travel agents may be your best option when arranging flights because they occasionally know of discounts through Greenland Tourism.
• Once you're in Greenland, it can be a difficult place to travel around. The sparse population and a lack of infrastructure mean that many parts of the country are completely inaccessible. There is no road or rail system, so the easiest way to travel is by plane. Air Greenland is the best domestic airline. During the summer months destinations between Narsarsuaq and Uummannaq on the west coast can be reach by Arctic Umiaq passenger ships.
• The official language of Greenland is Greenlandic. This is most commonly used along the western coast, but in the east the dialect is slightly different. Both languages are quite difficult to learn due to the challenging pronunciation. Almost all Greenlanders also speak Danish and some have a decent understanding of English. It's worth trying to learn a few words in Greenlandic though as this can greatly improve your experience.
• The official currency of Greenland is the Danish Krone. In touristy areas the Icelandic krona, Euros, Sterling, and US Dollars may also be accepted. While the number of places that accept credit and debit cards continues to rise, Greenland is still predominantly a cash economy. Hotels and major chains may take credit cards, but otherwise it's best to be prepared to pay with cash. Every town has at least one ATM and many banks will give cash advances on credit cards.
• There are some fascinating souvenirs you can buy in Greenland. Inuit art and crafts are interesting. Sealskin is made into belts, purses, coats, and almost anything else. Duty free items are also available including alcohol and cigarettes.

Top Tourist Attractions

Popular foods.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Wild Junket

Greenland Travel Guide: All You Need to Know 2024

Last Updated on March 14, 2024

Welcome to Greenland, one of the last frontiers of our modern world. Greenland travel is a rewarding experience for adventure seekers and wildlife lovers.

Located far north in the Arctic Ocean, Greenland has some of the most dramatic and spectacular polar landscapes in the world. It is home to icebergs as tall as buildings, glaciers glowing in different shades of blue, and a massive ice sheet that covers almost 80% of the mega-island.

After traveling Greenland twice (as a researcher and media), I have completely fallen under its spell. I don’t consider myself a Greenland expert, but I am excited to share all that I have learned about the country in this comprehensive Greenland travel guide .

To help you plan your trip to Greenland, I have included info on the best places to visit in Greenland, recommended Greenland tours and where to stay in Greenland.

Table of Contents

Why Visit Greenland?

Fun facts about greenland, how to travel to greenland, best time to visit greenland, how much time to travel greenland, 10-day greenland itinerary, 2-week greenland itinerary, travel greenland independently or book a tour, ilulissat icefjord boat trip, kayak in the ilulissat icefjord, hike the routes that surround ilulissat, explore the old inuit settlement of sermermiut, wander around the town of ilulissat, go dogsledding in ilulissat, take a day trip to eqi glacier, camp on greenland’s ice cap, sail in the nuuk fjord, hike the nuuk mountains, enjoy traditional inuit food and storytelling , go to a local’s home for kaffemik, wander around the colonial harbor of nuuk, visit the greenlandic national museum, kangerlussuaq: old camp, ilulissat: hotel icefiord, nuuk: hotel hans egede, nuuk: greenland escape, nuuk: inuk hostels, what to eat in greenland, kangerlussuaq: restaurant rokklubben, ilulissat: cafengguaq, nuuk: sarfalik, nuuk: katuaq, nuuk: restaurant unicorn, nuuk: charoen porn, greenland travel cost, internet and data in greenland, people of greenland, language in greenland, my greenland packing list, planning your trip to greenland, travel resources, greenland travel guide.

Greenland is the world’s largest island, and yet very little of it is known to the outside world. There is a lot more to Greenland than glaciers and ice. The nation has layers of culture and history that will unfold once you’re here.

One of the reasons to visit Greenland is its fascinating people. Almost 90% of them are Inuit (native Greenlanders) who have a distinctive language and culture. They are incredibly proud of their roots, and always have a myth or story to tell.

Since most of Greenland is covered in ice, snow and glaciers, the Arctic nation is mostly white. So how did it get its name Greenland?

Greenland actually got its name from  Erik The Red , an Icelandic murderer who was exiled to the island. He called it “Greenland” in hopes that the name would attract settlers. According to scientists, Greenland was actually green more than 2.5 million years ago.

Although Greenland is geographically a part of the North American continent, it has been politically associated with Europe for about a millennium. Since 1721, Denmark has held colonies in Greenland. Until today, Greenland continues to be an autonomous nation ruled under the Kingdom of Denmark.

Because of its remote location, it is expensive to travel to Greenland. There are no direct flights from North America to Greenland. Anyone traveling to Greenland has to fly through Reykjavik (Iceland) or Copenhagen (Denmark). 

It is a good idea to combine Iceland and Greenland in one trip , as you will fly through Iceland to get here. Check out my Iceland travel guide .

Kangerlussuaq is the main gateway to Greenland. You will have to transit through this town regardless of where in Greenland you’re traveling to.  Flights from Copenhagen to Kangerlussuaq take around 4-5 hours and cost around US$700 return. 

Search for Flights to Greenland

The best time to visit Greenland is in summer (July and August), when temperatures are comfortable and conditions are good for outdoor activities.

Summer in Greenland is glorious: everything turns green, while lakes and fjords will shine under the midnight sun. The midnight sun is a natural phenomenon that Greenland experiences between May 25th to July 25th. The sun does not set at all.

If you visit Greenland in spring (April-June) or autumn (Sept-Nov), expect lots of snow. The temperature ranges between 5°F (-15°C) and 40°F (5°C). Greenland has extremely harsh winters and the sun does not rise for months. The temperature can go as low as -49°F(-45°C).

Greenland is a huge island, and there are many interesting small towns worth visiting. I recommend spending at least 1 week in Greenland, since you have already spent a big chunk of money getting here.

In one week, I suggest just focusing on one part of Greenland. Ilulissat is the most popular town for travelers. It is home to the famous Ilulissat Icefjord , a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for the icebergs that dot the fjord all year round.

With 2 weeks in Greenland, you can get a good sense of what Greenland is all about. I recommend visiting Nuuk, Kangerlussuaq and Ilulissat , following my Greenland itinerary below.

If you want to do the Arctic Circle Trail , most people take around 7-12 days to complete the trail.

1-Week Greenland Itinerary*

• Day 1: Wander around Ilulissat town
• Day 2: Walk the hiking routes around Ilulissat
• Day 3: Take a boat trip into Ilulissat Icefjord
• Day 4: Go dog sledding in Ilulissat
• Day 5: Go to a traditional kaffemik
• Day 6: Take a day tour to Eqi Glacier
• Day 7: Home!

*For more details on this itinerary, scroll down to the section on ‘Best Things to Do in Greenland’.

• 3 days in Kangerlussuaq
• 4 days in Ilulissat 
• 3 days in Nuuk
• 3 days in Sisimut

How to Get Around Greenland

As Greenland is largely covered by the Ice Sheet, all of the settlements are located on the coast and are not connected by roads. All travel between towns is done by plane, boat, snowmobile or dogsled.

The best way to get around Greenland is by flying. Air Greenland flies the main routes regularly, often with more than one flight each day.

Domestic flights are not cheap, which is why Greenland travel is so expensive. For example, return flights from Kangerlussuaq to Nuuk cost around $450. Flying from Nuuk to Ilulissat costs around $560 return.

Search for Flights in Greenland

Once you’re in a town, it is relatively easy to get around on foot as Greenlandic towns are small. Even Greenland’s capital and biggest city, Nuuk , only has a population of 18,000. Just dress warmly and be prepared to walk in the snow even in summer.

There are public buses in Nuuk and Kangerlussuaq. A bus ride costs around 15 DKK ($2.20). There are plenty of taxis in Ilulissat and a taxi ride usually costs around 40-50 DKK ($6-8) each way.

There are no ferry connections between Greenland and mainland Denmark. The only ship that runs in Greenland is the M/S Sarfaq Ittuk, run by Arctic Umiaq Line . It sails between Qaqortoq (South Greenland) and Sisimiut (North Greenland) from March/April to January and from Qaqortoq to Ilulissat (North Greenland) from May to January.

Greenland vacation packages  are very expensive — expect to pay around US$3500 for a 4-day tour. Check out these multi-day tours to Greenland .

It is absolutely possible to travel Greenland independently. I encourage you to book your own flights, hotels, and then book day tours like boat trips or dogsledding excursions. Day tours cost around US$100-199.

Guide to Greenland is a good resource to book tours directly through an automatic booking system. Here are some Greenland tours that I have been on and highly recommend:

• Sail Amidst Icebergs in the Ilulissat Icefjord
• Camp on Greenland Ice Sheet in Kangerlussuaq
• Dog sledding in Disko Bay
• Kayak in Ilulissat Icefjord
• Boat tour of Nuuk’s fjord
• Traditional Kaffemik in a Local’s Home

Best Things to Do in Greenland

Without a doubt, an Ilulissat icefjord boat tour is the #1 thing to do in Ilulissat . The Ilulissat Icefjord is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, and for good reason! A n astronomical 35 billion tonnes (46km 3 ) of ice make its way through Disko Bay in Ilulissat every year.

Some of the icebergs in the Ilulissat Icefjord stand at 100m above the level of the water (remember this is only 7-10% of the total size!). But it is only by looking up at these icebergs from the water that you get a true sense of their massive scale.

Book this Boat Trip here!

The Inuit have been using kayaks for thousands of years. In fact, kayaks were invented by the Inuits and the word “kayak” comes from the Inuit language.

Kayaking in the Ilulissat icefjord gives new meaning to iceberg sightseeing from the water as you get up close to the sheer ice towers. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Guide to Greenland runs kayak tours both during the day and in the evening during Midnight Sun. Your local guides will provide all the proper equipment including a dry suit. Whale sightings are a real possibility!

Book Your Kayak Experience!

Ilulissat is one of the best places to visit in Greenland, mainly because of the range of outdoor activities you can do in the area. Hiking in Ilulissat is a great way to explore the backcountry without spending much.

There are three marked routes just outside of Ilulissat. Each one offers hiking with spectacular views of both Ilulissat and the ice fjord. Below is a hiking route map from Ilulissat Guesthouse .

• Yellow Route – 1.7 miles or 2.7 kilometers (1.5-2 hours). This is the most popular route as you get fantastic views of the Ilulissat Icefjord without doing a long or difficult hike.
• Blue Route – 4.3 miles or 7 kilometers (4 hours). A relatively challenging trail that offers amazing views of the ice and surrounding area.
• Red Route – 0.6 miles or 1 kilometer (30min). This is not a loop trail i.e. you need to walk back the same way you came from. If you are short on time, this route will take you directly to a viewpoint where you can see the icefjord.

Sermermiut is an old Inuit settlement located on the outskirts of Ilulissat. The entire area has been designated as part of the Ilulissat Icefjord UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In summer, it is possible to make this short hike from the center of town. There is not much to see here per se, just a few stone ruins to mark an area. But there are spectacular views of the Ice Fjord from Sermermiut.

As Ilulissat is the main tourist town of Greenland , it definitely has the most interesting sights and tourism infrastructure. The town is located next to the sea filled with icebergs, and a stroll around town will reveal lots of beautiful viewpoints.

Besides having lots of scenic spots for photo opps, Ilulissat also has two great museums. One of them is the Ilulissat Museum , showcasing expeditions of the explorer Knud Rasmussen. The other is the Inuit Art Museum , which features paintings from Greenland, Faroese and Denmark, with the most notable by Emanuel A. Peterson.

If you’re looking for a local guide to show you around, I highly recommend Jan Cortsen (pictured), an experienced guide born and raised in Ilulissat. He’s fun and engaging, and is passionate about Greenlandic culture and history.

Dog sledding in Greenland has been a mode of transportation and hunting for approximately 5000 years. Contrary to other Arctic locations, dog sledding in Greenland is a way of life, by choice if not by necessity.

Ilulissat is known for having almost the same number of sled dogs as people, currently the town is home to 4600 people and nearly 3500 sled dogs. This is definitely one of the best places to go dog sledding in Greenland.

During the dogsledding tour , you will first meet a local musher who introduces you to his dogs. The Greenlandic sled dog is the purest dog race, due to is isolation from other dog races. The dogs are raised as work dogs, and therefore it is not safe to approach the dogs on your own. 

Book Your Dogsledding Tour here!

Located 80km from Ilulissat is Eqi Glacier, one of the most active glaciers in Greenland. On this Greenland tour , you will sail north, passing the small settlement of Oqaatsut/Rodebay, the huge fjord system of Pakitsoq, and through the Ataa Strait lined with tall mountains.

This journey is beautiful in and of itself and you may be lucky and see whales and seals along the way. You will also most likely see chunks of the glacier face break off and fall into the fjord. Just make sure you are hanging onto the railing when the resulting wave reaches the boat!

Book Your Glacier Day Trip here!

Camping on the Greenland Ice Cap is literally the coolest (no pun intended!) experience I’ve ever had! Granted, it was the coldest I had ever been, but I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything. We had an excellent guide, who showed us amazing spots and took great care of us.

Kangerlussuaq is the only place in Greenland where you can literally drive to the Greenland Ice Sheet (which is only 25 km from town). The mini expedition took us to Point 660, for a fantastic panorama of the Ice Cap. We then hiked onto the Ice Sheet, wandered around ice valleys and slopes, and spent the night sleeping on ice. That night, we even saw Northern Lights in the dark sky above us.

Book the Camping Trip here!

Nuuk fjord is the biggest fjord in the world, and it covers an area of almost 2,000 square kilometers. There is so much to see, you will probably need a lifetime to experience everything in the fjord system. Book a boat trip to experience the best of the fjord : from icebergs and waterfalls to whales.

The highlight of any boat trip to Nuuk fjords is catching your own fish! Because of the amount of fish here, it is incredibly easy to catch a fish (even if you have no fishing experience!). In summer, you can even bring the fish you caught to Qooqqut Nuan , a restaurant/guesthouse in the heart of the fjord. They will whip up authentic Thai dishes with your catch!

Greenland’s capital city, Nuuk , is enveloped by snow-peaked mountains which are surprisingly accessible all year round, right from the outskirts of the city. The iconic landmark of Nuuk is Sermitsiaq is the most prominent peak in the area. It stands at 4,200 feet (1,280m) tall and most can hike up to its peak in 2.5 hours (steep ascent though!). 

Two other peaks that are easy to conquer are Lille Malene (also known as Quassussuaq in Greenlandic) and Store Malene (Ukkusissat in Greenlandic). The trail heads for both routes are found in the neighborhood of Uiffak.

We climbed Lille Malene in just under 3 hours and the views of the surrounding fjord was mind-blowing. From the top, you can enjoy views of Nuuk and the Kangerluarsunnguaq Fjord with its spectacular glaciers.

For centuries, Greenlanders have sustained themselves on animals found in the region, such as whale and seal meat. Today, the tradition continues, but locals are putting a modern spin on them. For those who are concerned about wildlife conservation, read this section .

If you are curious about Inuit culture, I recommend trying traditional Inuit food and learn about Inuit myths and legends at Inuk Hostels  in Nuuk. They serve interesting fusion dishes like grilled seal meat, muktuk  (raw whale skin and blubber), and musk ox burgers. The owner Lisse is a well-known persona in Greenland and has a wealth of knowledge on Greenlandic culture.

The Greenlanders are extremely proud of their kaffemik , a local tradition that’s a huge part of their culture. Greenlanders hold kaffemik to celebrate special events of all kinds – births and birthdays, first days of school and confirmations.

Most people start preparing days in advance and reserve fine china and decorative table linens for such occasions. When the big day comes, their home becomes a revolving door of celebration with old friends, family, and colleagues all through the day.

I was lucky to join a kaffemik in Nuuk — it was an incredibly fun and immersive experience going to a Greenlander’s home and talking to the family about their food and traditions. 

Book a Kaffemik Experience here!

The colonial harbor is the oldest part of Nuuk and also where colonisation began. This was where the person who founded Nuuk, a Danish missionary Hans Egede, landed and settled in 1721. 

Egede’s house still stands today, right on the water front, alongside rows of other colorful Scandinavian high-roofed houses. Unfortunately, the house is not opened to the public as it is used  to host special events.

Walk along the waterfront to the rocky shore and you’ll find a brass statue of  Sedna , the goddess of the sea and marine animals in Inuit mythology. At low tide, you’ll see it in its full glory: Sedna, with long flowing hair, is depicted with a walrus and polar bear around it.

For a crash course in Greenland’s history, head to the Greenland National Museum right behind Nuuk’s colonial harbor. Greenland’s largest cultural history museum houses artifacts from all over the country.

The most impressive exhibits include the famous mummies and costumes from Qilakitsoq in northwest Greenland, as well as the world’s oldest and almost complete intact skin boat – the Pearyland Umiaq. Admission is free in winter, and DKK 30 in summer.

Where to Stay in Greenland

Accommodation is limited in certain towns in Greenland, so be sure to book a few months before your Greenland vacation to ensure availability! For instance, there are only three hotels in Kangerlussuaq and they get booked up early especially in summer.

One of the two budget options in Kangerlussuaq, Old Camp is simple, clean and well run. Rooms are small, but comfortable and designed in Scandinavian style. It offers free transfers from the airport and the reception can organize Greenland tours for you. Check latest rates.

One of the best hotels in Ilulissat, Hotel Icefiord has awesome views of the ice fjords from most rooms. I loved waking up to see icebergs right outside my window. Its dining room has good Greenlandic snacks and steaks. Well worth splurging to stay here! Check rates here.

The city’s best hotel is  Hotel Hans Egede , a modern four-star hotel with bright, comfortable rooms and a great view of the harbor and the sea. It has a central location in the heart of town, within walking distance from the colonial harbor and nearby museums. Check rates here.

A great budget place to stay is  Greenland Escape , which is surprisingly affordable for the high quality accommodation and proximity to town. A single room is around 50euros per night. Check the latest prices.  

Overlooking the beautiful Nuuk fjord is the Inuk Hostels (pictured), that is located in the hills surrounding Nuuk. Rooms here have a log cabin feel and are quaint and charming. The owner Lisse is a well-known character in Greenland and she has a wealth of knowledge on Greenlandic culture. Check the rates.

Because of its location, you can expect to find lots of incredibly fresh seafood in Greenland. There are quite a few good restaurants in Nuuk and Ilulissat that serve amazing fish stews and fillets ( see this section ).

Food is expensive in Greenland. If you’re looking for a proper fish or lamb meal in a nice restaurant, expect to fork out at least $50 for a full meal. There are cafes and Asian diners that serve more affordable options that cost $15 for a meal. For those on a shoestring budget, check out local supermarkets for ready-made hot dogs and sandwiches.

Traditionally, Greenlanders eat marine animals like whales, walruses and seals. To prevent overfishing, each administrative area  in Greenland is assigned a certain quota for each species. Certain species like the blue whale are protected and thus cannot be fished.  Also, no export of whale and seal meat is allowed — they are only consumed locally.

Where to Eat in Greenland

The only upscale restaurant in Kangerlussuaq serves an excellent buffet with traditional Greenlandic dishes and fantastic lamb chops. They run shuttles to Old Camp and Polar Lodge for guests staying there. Read Tripadvisor reviews.

A casual cafe and diner that serves healthy and sumptuous salads and paninis. They have excellent shakes and lunch dishes. We ended up coming here almost everyday! Read Tripadvisor reviews.

The best restaurant in Nuuk is undoubtedly Sarfalik , on the highest floor of Hotel Hans Egede . The fine dining restaurant serves contemporary gourmet meals using a mixture of local ingredients. The tasting menu includes dishes like musk-ox tartare, pan seared scallops and roasted Greenlandic halibut. Book a table here.

A excellent spot to try modern Greenlandic food is  Katuaq , the in-house bistro at the Katuaq Cultural Centre in Nuuk. The stylish cafe dishes up Greenlandic tapas in hefty portions. If you’re ready to indulge, try the enormous seafood platter made up of snow crabs, marinated scallops, and shrimps. Read reviews here.

This newly opened restaurant (owned by the same couple behind Qooqqut Nuan in Nuuk fjord ) stands right at Nuuk’s colonial harbor. Its fish and meat dishes are excellent and really well worth splurging on. Read the reviews.

Craving for something more international? This family-run restaurant serves outstanding, authentic Thai food right in the center of Nuuk. I’ve eaten here so many times, that I only have praises for it. Get address here.

Let’s face it: Greenland travel IS expensive. Besides the pricey flights to Greenland, accommodation and transport are pretty expensive too.

• Accommodation — A twin room at a basic hostel with shared bathroom costs US$150-200 per night. A more upscale hotel with nice views can go for $300-400 per room.
• Food — A restaurant meal in Greenland generally costs around 200-300 DKK ($29-43) per person. The cheaper options are Asian diners that usually have Thai dishes for around 100 DKK ($14).
• Day Tours — Greenland tours are around $100-$199 for a 2-hour boat trip or dogsledding experience. Guide to Greenland has a huge range of tours and an automated booking system.

Getting connected in Greenland is sadly not easy or cheap. The harsh weather conditions often disrupts the internet network. Sometimes the internet connection in Greenland can drop for a few days, and there is no way of going online except to wait.

Most hostels charge for their WiFi service, and they can cost up to $10/hour. If you do need to get online, I suggest staying at upscale hotels to make sure you can get a stable internet connection.

Alternatively, you can get SIM cards at the Telepost shop outside of the Kangerlussuaq airport or Nuuk’s city centre. Note that even EU SIM cards do not work in Greenland.

Today, 88% of Greenland’s population are Inuit (predominantly Kalaallit) or mixed Danish and Inuit. The remaining 12% are of European descent, mainly Danish.

Greenlanders do NOT appreciate being called ‘eskimos’. The proper name for them is Inuit or Kalaallit, which actually means ‘Greenlander’ in the native Inuit language. The Inuit Greenlanders identify strongly with Inuits in other parts of the world, like Canada and Alaska.

The Greenlandic national costume is a beautiful and colorful display of their culture. Today it is used on special festive occasions such as Christmas, Easter, confirmations and weddings. I got lucky and met a lot of people dressed in traditional wear at the church on a Sunday.

The majority of the population in Greenland speaks both Greenlandic (mainly Kalaallisut) and Danish. The two languages have been used in public affairs since the establishment of home rule in 1979.

The Greenlandic language is an interesting language with a long history. It is closely related to the Inuit languages in Canada, such as Inuktitut. “Kayak” and “igloo” are Greenlandic words that have been adopted directly by other languages.

Today, the young generation learn both languages, as well as English, in school. Almost everyone I met in Greenland speaks English.

What to Pack for Greenland Travel

Regardless of the time of year you are visiting Greenland, b e sure to bring high quality winter gear. I have been in Greenland both in summer and winter, and can assure you you’ll need proper warm gear.

For those traveling Greenland in summer, I advise wearing 3 layers: wool bottom, fleece and a waterproof jacket.

If you visit Greenland outside of summer, I recommend wearing 4-5 layers: thermals, wool bottom, fleece and a thick winter parka.

1.  Long Sleeve Moisture Wicking Tees : The key to staying warm in Greenland is layering. Bring some long sleeve t-shirts that are great for hiking, that you can easily remove throughout the day and night. 

2.  Fleece-lined Long Sleeve Thermal Underwear :  Pack thermals even if you’re traveling in summer. Temperatures can dip below zero – and they’ll be particularly useful if you’re kayaking or dogsledding.

3.  Fleece Base : This is my favorite gear for cold climates. It’s thick but lightweight, and keeps me warm even in sub-zero temperatures. Plus most fleece are cheap and easy to find everywhere. 

4.  Soft Shell Jacket : Pack a thin waterproof, soft shell jacket regardless of the season you’re traveling. I used this almost everyday on my summer trip in Greenland.

5.  Waterproof Ski Jacket : It may be heavy and a pain to travel with, but you’ll need it if you’re traveling outside of summer. Don’t skimp on a quality coat as it will keep you comfortable. 

6.  Quick-Dry Pants : These pants are lightweight, thin, comfortable and waterproof. I can wear them in winter and summer, without feeling too warm or cold.

7.  Fleece-lined Leggings :    For ladies, these are brilliant to keep warm and comfortable. You can use them as they are in summer, or as a base layer in winter.

8.  Beanie :You’ll definitely need something warm on the top of your head in winter.

9.  Ski Gloves : Bring thick ski gloves as they’re good for snow and rain. I would recommend getting a pair of gloves with touchscreen pads so you don’t need to take them off to snap photos on from your smartphone.

10.  Wool Socks : Invest in some high quality wool socks that can keep your feet dry and warm when hiking in the mushy tundra of Iceland.

Any trip to Greenland is an adventure, so be sure to bring your intrepid spirit and an inquisitive mind! Wrap up warm regardless of the time of the year you’re visiting Greenland. Bring a good camera and prepare to be blown away by the beauty of Greenland.

Do you have any other questions on Greenland travel? I hope my Greenland travel guide has helped you plan your own Greenland vacation. Leave a comment below and I will try my best to help!

Here are more of my Greenland articles:

• 13 Cool Things to Do in Ilulissat
• 13 Cool Things to Do in Nuuk
• Summer in Greenland: Cruising Nuuk Fjord
• Svalbard Photo Essay
• Iceland Travel Guide

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to companies I use and trust. I get a small commission when you click on my links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU.

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Over the years (and traveling to 140+ countries), I’ve learned a thing or two about travel planning. I’ve put together this list of travel resources that I personally use to find the best deals and book travel! For more details, check out my travel tips resource page .

• Booking Flights : Kayak is brilliant for finding the best dates to fly as it allows you to search for the lowest airfares within a 3-day period. Then I use Skyscanner as they’ve consistently given me the lowest airfares.
• Accommodations:  I always use  Booking.com   to book hotels, mainly because of the flexible cancellation policy and good customer service. You can also find short-term rental apartments there (I prefer not to use Airbnb due to the extra charges).
• Travel Insurance:  It’s important to have travel insurance, regardless of whether you’re traveling for a few days or months. Safety Wing is the most popular travel insurance company for COVID19-coverage. I use their Nomad Insurance plan , which covers any healthcare expenses I may have worldwide. Refer to my travel insurance guide for more details.
• Health Advice:  I always refer to the travel guides on the   CDC website  for recommended medications and vaccines. You can get them at your travel doctor’s office or a walk-in pharmacy.
• Tours:  If you’re looking for all-encompassing tours, I recommend small-group adventure tour outfitter, G Adventures . I’ve traveled with them to Antarctica, Mongolia, Svalbard, and Nepal, and loved every single trip. For day tours, I always book with  Viator  and  GetYourGuide ; they have easy booking systems and free cancellations.
• Car Rental: I always book car rentals on Discover Cars , as they’ve consistently given us the best rates and customer service (with free cancellations). We’ve used them in Seychelles, South Africa, Spain, Peru, and Mexico.
• Transportation : Whenever possible, I book local transportation online using  Bookaway and Busbud . They’re more reliable than many local transport websites and cover trains, buses, and car hire.
• Restaurants: TripAdvisor is my go-to resource for restaurant reviews and bookings. I also make restaurant reservations on OpenTable .

Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 150 countries across 7 continents. She is a book author and Lonely Planet guidebook writer. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Follow her travels on her Facebook and Instagram .

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The Comments

Jane E House

Great blog. But could you say something about the insects one might encounter in Greenland at certain times of year? And what to do to protect oneself?

hey Jane, the mosquito season lasts between mid-June to end of August in most parts of Greenland. The pupa (which have hibernated under the ice all Winter) hatch as soon as the ice melts from the shallow pools of water. The best way to protect oneself is to wear a mosquito net and pile on layers of mosquito repellent. Hope this helps!

Philip Olenick

Planning trip for Summer 2023 or 2024. We have 2 weeks. How do you recommend traveling if we want to echo your 2 week itinerary ?

hi Philip, good to hear you’re planning to travel Greenland. I’d recommend catching domestic flights in Greenland, there are regular departures. But make sure you have some flexibility in your travel schedule as it’s common for flights to be delayed/cancelled due to the weather. Summer should be fine though!

Planning trip for Winter in December 2024 (sole traveler) for 2 weeks. Hope you can assist to provide a valuable information to me for my planning:

(1) recommendation good travel agency for tour and accommodation (budgeted trip or within my budget) (as will fly from Copenhagen to Greenland).

Hope to hear from you soon. Thank you.

Cristiana Bardella

Great blog! So many useful tips! Thanks for that!

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Greenland Travel Advice: Top Tips & Information

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Are you planning a trip to Greenland? Then make sure you read all my Greenland travel advice before you go – this post is packed full of useful tips & info!

Let me say this now, planning a trip to Greenland can be difficult. Obviously not many people travel there, getting around is hard and it can be very expensive. However, it’s a real once-in-a-lifetime type of place to visit. Hopefully once you’ve read all my Greenland travel advice you’ll be better prepared planning your trip!

The thing is all the planning and effort is 100% worth it. Greenland really is one of the most magical places I’ve ever been, so much so it’s now my favourite country in the world. Honestly, I can’t tell you enough how amazing Greenland is. If you’re sitting on the fence about going or not, go – I promise you won’t regret it.

I was full-on planning my trip to Greenland for at least a year before I finally visited. In a country that only gets around 75,000 tourists a year (most of those cruiseship passengers), there’s not a huge amount of Greenland travel advice online. Even though I read loads of blogs on Greenland, I still wasn’t prepared.

After travelling around Greenland for a couple of weeks and really immersing myself in the country, there are a few things I learned about the country that I wish I knew before I visited. Also, you’ll find loads of other information on things to do in my Greenland travel blogs – there are loads of them.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Greenland, these are all of my travel tips to help you on your way. Hopefully these will help you fall in love with the country as much as I did!

Planning a trip to Greenland ? Then bookmark my guides on the best places to visit in Greenland , on what the food is like and my top tips for Greenland too. I’ve also written individual destination guides to Nuuk , Igaliku , Narsaq , Qaqortoq and Uunartoq .

Why is Greenland so expensive?

One of the questions I get asked all the time is “why is Greenland so expensive” or “is Greenland worth it?” Yes it is expensive and yes it is worth it!

When I say Greenland is expensive, I really mean it. Expect Scandinavian prices and then some. The reason why is because Greenland is a desolate place – it is so barren trees can’t even grow there – that means they have to import virtually everything to the island which is why it’s so expensive. Make sure you research how much things cost beforehand and come up with a daily budget.

For me, I set myself a budget of about £100 (US$120) per day. I know that sounds like a lot but even having a simple sandwich at lunchtime will set you back £10. Add on transport, tours, accommodation and dinner and it can quickly wrack up. To save some money, I resorted to buying and making my own packed-lunches so I didn’t have to eat out every day.

What to wear in Greenland?

If you’re travelling to Greenland during the summer then make sure you pack lots of layers. When the sun is out, it can actually get quite hot in Greenland. Think t-shirt weather. However, as soon as that sun dips behind a cloud it can get pretty cold again. Bring layers so you can easily put on and take off clothes. When it gets to the evenings, that’s when things can get very cold. I was often wearing 2 pairs of trousers, even in summer. As I said, make sure you pack lots of clothes and options.

If you’re planning a trip to Greenland during the winter, bring even more layers. It can get as cold as -40 during the winter so it’s important you have the appropriate clothes. Thermals are a must, as are waterproofs. My advice here is if there’s skin, cover it.

Make sure you have warm clothes for the evenings

When I was in Greenland it went through a heatwave with a record high of 26 degrees. However, that didn’t mean it was warm in the evenings too. At one point it was so cold I had to wear two pairs of trousers, so make sure you bring thermals so can wrap up warm at night. I found long-Johns invaluable in the evening.

In winter, never get out of your thermals! Some solid Greenland travel advice for you right there.

Also, make sure you bring sunglasses

Another good travel tip for Greenland is make sure you bring sunglasses. It doesn’t matter if you’re travelling to Greenland during summer or winter, make sure you’ve got a pair. The sun can be fiercely bright off the snow and cause snow blindness, a condition that can actually lead to blindness. Polarising ski-goggles are great during the winter and UV sunglasses are great during the summer. I always made sure I had my sunnies on me and they barely left my eyes when I was outside.

Mosquitoes in Greenland – bring insect repellent

This isn’t a lie, but I have never seen so many mosquitos as in Greenland. During the winter all the mosquito eggs are frozen, but once it warms up and the ground thaws they come out in style. Bring the strongest insect repellent you can (I always use this insect repellent with 50% deet) and if you’re doing lots of hiking I would suggest bringing a mosquito facenet too.

Don’t drink alcohol in the streets

Surprisingly, alcoholism is a serious problem in Greenland. As such, alcoholic drinks can only be sold in shops from noon to 6pm during weekdays and from 11am to 1pm on Saturday. If you want to buy drinks then these are the times you can do it – just don’t drink on the streets as it might be seen as encouraging to the locals.

Because there’s such a high level of alcoholism in Greenland, the suicide rate is ridiculously high too. Please bear this in mind when talking to the locals and don’t make any stupid comments. It’s always important to follow the local customs wherever you can.

Getting around Greenland – take water taxis everywhere

Greenland only has 80kms of paved roads which makes getting around the country interesting. If you’re short on time then there are a number of internal flights in Greenland and helicopters are a common mode of transport too. However, during summer most people get around by boat.

If you’re heading south from Nuuk you can catch the Arctic Umiaq Line to Qqartoq, and once you’re south it’s a lot easier getting water taxis from place to place. During winter, every gets around by dog sledding and skidoos.

Speak to the local people

One of the things I loved about Greenland was speaking to the locals and hearing their stories. Greenlandics are exceedingly proud people and have strong cultural values, so it’s really important to talk to them about these. Also, I think it’s fascinating hearing all about what it’s like living in one of the toughest climates in the world.

If you’re lucky, you might be invited along to kaffemik. This is an open house celebration where every shares stories and has a bit of a party. I went along to a kaffemik in Nuuk and I was so surprised at how quickly I was accepted there – it was just like a celebration with old friends!

Make sure you leave your cultural misconceptions at home

In Greenland everyone eats musk ox, seal and whale. Is it shocking that they eat these animals? Not at all, because if they didn’t they wouldn’t survive. A lot of travellers find it quite difficult when they find that out, but this is the way Greenlandics have lived their whole life. Don’t force your cultural misconceptions onto other people. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, respect that hunting is a huge part of culture and life here. You can learn more about the food in Greenland here .

How to travel to Greenland?

Are you wondering how to get to Greenland? It’s a good question! Despite the fact Greenland is closer to Canada than anywhere else in the world, as it stands you can only fly from Copenhagen in Denmark and Rekjavik in Iceland. That means if you’re flying from north America it is most likely you’ll fly over Greenland only to double back on yourself. Flights to Greenland are fairly infrequent so make sure you check all times beforehand to find dates that work for you.

As I said, this is what it is like at the moment. That’s not to say new flight paths won’t open up in the future (there did use to be a flight from Eastern Canada). Fingers crossed they open that one up again soon.

Always try and bag the window seat

My advice for Greenland – always try and sit by the window when flying here!

When it comes to flying, usually I like sitting by the isle (I explain why here !). However, one of the best flights of my life was flying to Greenland . I managed to score a window seat and it was by far one of the most beautiful flights I’ve ever been on. If you want these views, make sure you bag the window seat even if you have to pay for it! Within the country, Air Greenland are the main flight operator.

What is the religion in Greenland?

If you were wondering, the main religion in Greenland is Christianity. Church services are very common on a Sunday around the country. If you’re religious, these are a great way of getting to know the community and seeing how important religion is to Greenlandic culture!

Where is Greenland?

If you’re look at a map, Greenland is almost as north as you can get. Most of the country is within the Arctic Circle which is why it’s such an inhospitable place to live.

However, being that far north means you’re almost guaranteed to see the Northern Lights ( aurora borealis ) if you’re travelling to Greenland during the winter. I’ve heard this is one of the best places around the world to watch the Northern Lights so bear than in mind when planing your trip here!

What is the population of Greenland?

The population of Greenland is small. Very very small. The last census put the population of Greenland at 56,000 people, a level that hasn’t changed since 1997. So yeah, considering the size, the population is tiny. In fact, Greenland is the least densely populated country in the world – another fact for the bucket list!

 Are you planning a trip to Greenland? If so, what did you make of my little Greenland travel guide? Make sure you let me know in the comments below!

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About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

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8 thoughts on “Greenland Travel Advice: Top Tips & Information”

Thanks for sharing your tips. Very interesting. I am hoping to go in 2025 and want to see the Polar bears and icebergs in the north but also the other regions south and east. Would love to know how long you think we should allow for a trip to Greenland and if we can take water taxis from the North to the south. Thanks again. Excited to visit.

You will see icebergs wherever you go in Greenland, they are everywhere. I think 10 days is a great amount of time for travelling around the country, and yes, you can get water taxis or other boats to different places. I really hope you make it out there!

What currency did you use – Can you use Canadian, US, Euros? Thanks

The currency in Greenland is the Danish Krone (DKK), but they also accept USD at a lot of places so we used that too.

Thank you so much!

What a mesmerising trip you had. I always want to be on such places and I am definitely going to be on Greenland one day. Thanks for sharing.

No worries! I’m really glad you liked it and I hope you get to visit Greenland one day!

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Greenland Travel Guide

Your ultimate greenland travel guide, with tips, and things to see and things to do in greenland. great for first-time and returning travelers..

Greenland is one of the final frontiers on the planet! It is the most sparsely populated country in the world and there are no roads connecting any of its towns. As a result,  travelers must journey around the country either by ship or by flying .

The PlanetD explored Greenland on the  Sea Spirit  ship  and enjoyed a 14-day adventure that started from the north of the Arctic circle all the way around to Reykjavik, Iceland. This Greenland travel guide will help you plan your next vacation.

Popular City Guides

• Incredible Greenland
• Kayaking in Greenland

Our Highlight

Table of contents

Table of Contents

Fast Facts about Greenland

• Greenland power voltage is 220 V 50Hz;  Plug C & K
• Currency is the Danish Krone and is around 5.4 DKK to 1 USD
• Foreigner credit cards are valid at banks and ATMs but travelers are advised to bring some cash as these foreign cards may not be accepted at all shops.
• Random fact:  Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark but is  not  a member of the European Union.

Things to See and Do in Greenland

• Kayak through Uncharted Fjords  – For centuries, Greenland was known as the land of kayakers and today the tradition still holds strong.
• Take the Arctic Polar Plunge  – close your eyes and jump into icy waters.
• Go on a Greenland expedition  – enjoy the sites on board a cruise ship while disembarking for multiple shore landings to explore this magical country.
• Take a Bath at the Top of the World   – drink a glass of champagne while taking a dip in the Uunartoq thermal pool.
• Meet the locals and learn about the Inuit culture  – discover more about Greenland, a unique country where ancient culture meets the modern world.
• Eat Whale  – It is a staple food of Greenland and part of their tradition and heritage. Would you try it?

Greenland Travel Guides

• Ilulissat Greenland
• The People and Culture of Greenland

Arctic or Antarctica? How to Choose your Polar Expedition

• Hot Springs and Bubbly

Accommodation

Greenland is expensive to travel and even basic hostels can be pricey. We visited on an expedition ship and it is easiest to go to Greenland on a tour or cruise. But there are options.

Budget  – Hostels start at about $130. You can camp in Greenland, but it is recommended to have experience coming in harsh climates.

Mid Range  – Mid range hotels cost $200

High End  – High end accommodation cost $300 – $375.

Check out our favorite booking platforms Booking.com , Tripadvisor and VRBO for the best deals on accommodation.

Food : Greenland has an arctic climate so fresh fruit and vegetables are scarce.

A diet of fish and meat is the staple food for Greenland.

You will encounter marine mammals like whale and seal. Reindeer, muskox, and lamb are also on the menu.

The Best Ways to Get Around Greenland

Getting to greenland:.

Getting to : There are no direct flights from North America to Greenland. The best way to get to Greenland is from Reykjavik, Iceland via plane or as a part of an expedition. You can check for the best flights to Greenland on  Skyscanner .

Transportation:

Transportation:  Greenland doesn’t have any roads between cities and communities. The best way to get around Greenland is by expedition ship.

Taxis / Uber : Towns are small so you don’t need buses, taxis, Uber or car rentals.

You can check for the best flights on Skyscanner . You will most likely have a connection flight as there are few direct flights to Greenland outside of Iceland. International flights will fly into Nuuk.

When to go To Greenland

• April thought August is summer and the warmest time to visit this Arctic climate.
• June and July is the time to visit for 24 hour daylight.
• November through April is the best time for Northern Lights.

Where to Stay in Greenland

You’ll most likely be traveling Greenland via a tour or expedition as it is very expensive to get from town to town. With no roads connecting cities in Greenland, you will have to either fly or take a ship.

But you can find accommodation in places like Nuuk and Illulissat. Check for hotel prices here.

What to Pack for Greenland

• Insect Repellent  –  Along with natural beauty and warm weather, summers in Greenland (specifically July and August) are known for their mosquito swarms. Travels are advised to bring a mosquito net, insect spray or mosquito headnet if planning to hike a mountain, particularly near any glaciers.
• Layers  – The general rule of thumb is to pack at least four layers: a base layer,  long sleeve shirts, a fleece (mid-layer) and a top layer such as a windbreaker (waterproof!). Base layers should be make of wool or synthetic fabrics are these fabrics offer superior moisture-wicking and temperature control protection than cotton.
• Hiking Boots  – pack a good pair of boots with good grip that are waterproof and insulated for spring/winter travel.
• Binoculars   – great to have if you plan on going on cruises, and/or hiking, boating or nature tours.
• Layering Tips to Dress for the Deep Freeze
• How to Pack for a winter vacation read – Travel Tips for Winter Packing
• See our packing tips:  packing tips

Greenland Travel Guide: Best Booking Resources

Whenever we travel to we make sure to start with these companies. We have tried a lot of different ones over the years and all of these have consistently proven to be the best when it comes to offering great prices.

We have used every one of these personally and continue to do so.

• Booking.com : This is our go site to when comparing prices for accommodation. It usually has the cheapest prices, especially in Europe and we love their interface. Not to mention you get free cancellation and you are guaranteed the best price.
• Trip Advisor :  What we like about Trip Advisor is that we can look at all the reviews and then book our accommodation. TripAdvisor is where we go when we want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
• VRBO : is the main search engine we use when we are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
• Hostelworld :  With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
• Skyscanner : This is the first place we check for flights. It consistently comes back with the cheapest and best options. It allows us to compare a lot of airlines to get the best price.
• Rome 2 Rio :  If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.I love how they show it all to you on a Google Map and it works offline.
• Get Your Guide:  For all your day trip and city guide needs, we use Get Your Guide. It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
• World Nomads Insurance:  When traveling to Italy you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.

Greenland Travel Guide: Related Articles

To browse all our articles and guides about Greenland click here.

Kayaking in Greenland – The Greatest Arctic Adventure in Photos

Incredible Greenland – The Final Frontier for Adventure Travel

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Greenland Travel Guide: What to Do in Greenland

Sarah Schlichter

Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen fires—no humans or animals were harmed).

Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. Sarah's practical travel advice has been featured in dozens of news outlets including the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Budget Travel, and Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A journal. Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia."

Travel Motto: "'To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.'—Freya Stark"

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else."

Email Sarah at [email protected] .

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If you’re hankering for a destination that’s off most travelers’ radar, look no farther than Greenland. Though it’s the world’s largest island, it sees fewer than 100,000 visitors each year — which means you’ll often feel like you’ve got the country’s remarkable landscapes all to yourself.

Come in the summer, and you can sail among hulking icebergs under the midnight sun. Come in the winter, and you can speed across the snow behind a pack of energetic Greenland dogs. No matter which time of year you visit, you’ll discover quiet, colorfully painted villages, dramatic rocky fjords, and friendly locals willing to invite you into their homes for coffee and cake.

Check out our slideshow for a list of eight one-of-a-kind experiences to have in Greenland.

Camp on the Ice Cap

About 80 percent of Greenland is covered by a thick sheet of ice year-round. Norwegian explorer Fridtjof Nansen was the first to successfully cross it back in 1888, leading a small team of men pulling lightweight sleds and camping each night on the ice.

You can get a brief taste of Nansen’s journey with World of Greenland – Arctic Circle, which offers the chance for travelers to camp for a night directly on the ice cap in a tent with a warm sleeping bag. (A toilet tent nearby offers basic facilities.) During the day, you’ll hike along the ice to see glacial rivers, lakes and waterfalls. If you’re not up for camping overnight, day trips from Kangerlussuaq are also available.

Meet Locals at a Kaffemik

In Greenland, where most homes are small, locals tend not to throw big parties for birthdays and other special occasions. Instead, they host a kaffemik, a more intimate gathering in which friends and family come for short visits over coffee, tea and (typically homemade) pastries. If more guests show up than seats are available, etiquette requires that those who’ve been there longest take their leave. (It’s also polite to remove one’s shoes before entering the home.)

For travelers, taking part in a kaffemik is one of the best possible ways to meet locals and see inside their homes. (Note that many Greenlanders don’t speak much English, so communication can involve a fair share of smiling, nodding and hand signaling.) IceCap Tours in Ilulissat and Tupilak Travel in Nuuk are among the tour operators that arrange kaffemik experiences, and cruise lines visiting Greenland often offer them among their shore excursions.

Cruise Under the Midnight Sun

If your vision of Greenland involves ice and lots of it, look no farther than the town of Ilulissat. The name means “iceberg” in Greenlandic, and it’s apt for a community located at the mouth of a fjord fed with ice from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier, one of the world’s most active.

The most dramatic way to experience Ilulissat’s ice is to take a boat ride into the fjord, where you’ll cruise amid icebergs of all sizes and shapes, some more than 300 feet high. World of Greenland offers trips throughout the day, but our favorite is the evening sailing during the late spring and early summer, when the soft light of the midnight sun casts a glow across the ice.

Learn About Greenlandic Arts

Just across the street from the Greenland National Museum in Nuuk is Kittat, where half a dozen skilled women wash, tan and hand-stitch sealskin for the legs and boots of the national costume. Because the process is so time-intensive, the workshop can only produce a few costumes per year. Visitors are welcome to watch and ask questions during Kittat’s weekday opening hours.

At the art workshop in Sisimiut, located near the harbor, you can watch artists carving jewelry, threading beads and creating other traditional handicrafts in a shared studio. (Of course, you’re welcome to make a few purchases too.) Cruise ships that stop in Qaqortoq typically offer excursions to the Great Greenland Tannery, where seal and polar bear furs are prepared for use in designer clothing.

Ride in a Dog Sled

For thousands of years, the Inuit people of Greenland have traversed the country’s harsh frozen landscape behind teams of sled dogs. Above the Arctic Circle, only one breed exists here: Greenland dogs, powerful animals with thick fur and incredible stamina. In the summertime, you’ll see them chained up on the outskirts of many towns (except for the puppies, who are permitted to run free until they’re about six months old). Once the weather turns frigid and the ice thickens, the dogs are put to work.

Visit in the winter, and you can take a ride behind a dog sled for anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Nanu Travel in Ittoqqortoormiit offers a three-hour run to Kap Tobin, including a stop at a hot spring and a chance to spot polar bears and seals. Six-hour and custom multi-day dog sledding excursions are also available.

In Ilulissat, World of Greenland leads a five-hour trip to the Nalluarsuk fjord, where you can get a view of a glacier and take an exhilarating ride among icebergs. For a more intensive experience, book the four-day Ice Cold Fishing experience, which includes not only dog sledding but also the chance to go fishing and hunting for seals with local fishermen.

Follow in the Footsteps of the Vikings

Ever wondered why an island covered with ice was given the name Greenland? Blame Erik the Red. This Viking outlaw, who came to southwestern Greenland in the 10th century after being exiled from Iceland, coined the name as a marketing device of sorts when he was trying to drum up new settlers for his new community.

He wasn’t entirely wrong. Today you can visit the ruins of his settlement, Brattahlid, in the modern-day town of Qassiarsuk, which is surrounded by green, fertile farmland. Here you can step inside re-creations of Erik’s longhouse and his wife Tjodhilde’s church, and see the stone ruins of farm buildings from the old settlement. Greenland’s best-preserved Norse ruin is Hvalsey Church, near Qaqortoq. Blue Ice Explorer offers day trips to both sites, while Greenland-Travel.com runs a two-week “grand Greenland tour” that includes time at both sites.

Visit the World’s Largest National Park

Covering more than 375,000 square miles, Northeast Greenland National Park is not only the biggest national park on the planet, but it’s also the most remote. Its only year-round inhabitants are animals: polar bears, walruses, reindeer, musk oxen and Arctic foxes, to name a few. Visitors can look for these and other creatures, go hiking on the Arctic tundra, and marvel at the magnificent fjords and glaciers along the coast.

The park is not easily accessible; the nearest community is the small settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit (population: 450), which can be reached by air from Reykjavik, Iceland. Nanu Travel in Ittoqqortoormiit can help arrange customized tours and expeditions in the national park based on your interests. Another option is to come by cruise ship; Hurtigruten, Quark Expeditions and Oceanwide Expeditions are among the lines that offer itineraries to the national park, starting either in Reykjavik or in Spitsbergen, Norway. Keep in mind that ice conditions might limit the number of landings a ship is able to make.

Paddle Along Greenland’s Waterways

Did you know that the word “kayak” is derived from an Inuit word? These narrow boats, originally made of driftwood covered with sealskin, were once used by the Inuits for fishing, whaling and seal hunting. While wooden kayaks have mostly given way to more modern fiberglass ones, traditional techniques are kept alive at kayak competitions across Greenland.

For visitors, kayaking can be a relaxing and memorable way to explore the country’s scenic coastline. Greenland Outdoors in Kangerlussuaq offers a three-night camping, hiking and kayaking adventure to look for musk oxen. Dines Tours leads day trips along eastern Greenland’s serene Tasiilaq Fjord; kayaking experience is not required, but you should have a reasonable level of fitness.

Best Time to Go to Greenland

Most travelers visit Greenland during the summer months, when the weather is pleasant and the midnight sun allows for long days of hiking, kayaking or cruising through icy fjords. In fact, many flights into the country only operate during the summer. But if you can stand the cold, you may wish to travel in the winter to see the northern lights or go on a dog sledding excursion. No matter what time of year you go, ice and weather conditions may affect your itinerary.

Greenland on a Budget

Greenland isn’t a particularly budget-friendly destination; rates are high even at bare-bones hotels, and getting from one remote settlement to another can cost you a pretty penny for ferries or flights. The most affordable option might be to try to find a package deal from Iceland that includes air, accommodations and sightseeing. If you want to plan your trip independently, minimize the hopping from one place to the next, look for hostels and save money on food by shopping at grocery stores.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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'When you've seen the world there's always Greenland' goes the old travellers' saying. But why wait till then? Greenland is not a cheap destination, but few places combine such magnificent scenery, such clarity of light and such raw power of nature.

Attractions

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The Southern Fjords

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Ilulissat Kangerlua

The greatest tourist attraction in all of Greenland is the astonishing Ilulissat Kangerlua (Ilulissat Icefjord), a berg-packed bay fed by the 5km (3mi)…

Greenland National Museum

The spacious, well-presented Greenland National Museum is based in an extended 1936 warehouse. Its better exhibits include an interesting section on 1950s…

Paamiut Museum

A circle of five historic stone-and-timber buildings around a turf-ringed former wellhouse constitute Paamiut Museum. The 1839 former governor's residence…

Tele-Museum

On weekend afternoons it's well worth visiting the Tele-Museum. It traces Greenland's role in the development of transatlantic communications and has such…

Emanuel A Petersen Art Museum

Greenlandic landscapes are on view at the Emanuel A Petersen Art Museum, where most of the works are by the eponymous Danish artist. Petersen (1894-1948)…

Qaqortoq Museum

Qaqortoq Museum is housed in a tar-blackened 1804 building that was once the Julianehåb colony manager's house. Today its most unique features are right…

Lyberth Charter

The cute 1859 cottage housing Lyberth Charter was the former Fortanderkabshuset (elders' council chamber). Red with green stairs, it retains the bronze …

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Budget Tours & Trips to Greenland

Discover a varied offer of Greenland budget adventures that will take you through some of the most renowned destinations such as Narsarsuaq and Narsaq. Each affordable tour will provide you with great experiences for some of the lowest prices on the market.

11 cheap Greenland tour packages with 4 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking

South Greenland Grand Adventure - 8 Days

• Mountain Hikes

Arctic Villages

Wonders of Greenland (from Iceland)

Absolutely amazing trip of a lifetime! Enrico, the guide was extremely knowledgeable. The tour group was great fun, the food was simple and fulfilling. The hikes were a bit strenuous but great fun. I wish I could do it all over again. Kayaking with icebergs, crampon walking on glaciers, climbing mountains and sleeping amongst melting glaciers was all an exceptional and unique experience. Highly recommended. I suggest separating out English and other language groups to get the best out of the experience. I also suggest providing more information on the tour so people know to pack like it’s summer and to know what the full day itinerary will look like.

• Food & Culinary
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Wonders of Greenland (from Denmark)

Kayak and Ice Trekking Expedition (from Iceland)

Kayak and Ice Trekking Expedition (from Denmark)

• Northern Lights

Northern Lights (from Iceland)

Northern Lights (from Denmark)

South Greenland Explorer (from Denmark)

South Greenland Explorer (from Iceland)

Kayak and Ice Trekking Expedition 2 weeks (from Iceland)

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Best time to visit Greenland

Best time of year to visit Greenland

Thanks to more comfortable weather, the best time to visit Greenland is a smooth and bright summer. A period from June through August is ideal for flightseeing, watching the midnight sun, enjoying hot springs or watching giant whales. Winters in Greenland are frosty and almost synonymous with dogsledding. If you want to see more on a smaller budget and avoid to the crowds, come to Greenland during shoulder season in spring and autumn to watch the Northern Lights and practice some ice diving.

12 THINGS TO DO IN GREENLAND ( AUGUST 04 - AUGUST 13 )

Flightseeing

There's no better way to experience the size and the magnificence of Greenland

Cottongrass Blooming

The surprisingly​ green landscape of Greenland becomes dotted with white fluffy flowers in summer

While hiking the monumental landscapes​ of Greenland you can truly experience the smallness and temporality of being human

Hot Springs

Greenland has plenty of hot springs but only one of them is used as an outdoor spa

Midnight Sun

One amazing phenomenon of nature only available in the far north or south

Flower Valleys Blooming

A walk along the valley of flowers is a wonderful way to discover the surprising variety of flora in Greenland

Greenland Ice Sheet

The best Arctic adventure ever—just you and untouched millennial glaciers, glacial lakes and ice rivers

Observing glaciers under the midnight sun or the northern light is an unforgettable experience

Whale Watching

Check out several magnificent species of whales though you may feel smaller than ever

Kayak is not only a fun water activity. For the locals, ​it's also an ancient transportation and hunting tool

If you have some experience and courage you can try either open water iceberg diving or diving under icebergs trapped in the pack ice

River Fishing

When fish migrate up the rivers, Greenland begins a short and intense season for fishing

14   THINGS TO DO OUT OF SELECTED DATE RANGE

Frost 'Flowers'

The most unusual "flowers" that "bloom" only in winter

Northern Lights

Go for the best aurora borealis experience in the world

Dog Sledding

A classic way to explore the majestic Greenland nature in winter

Polar Circle Marathon

All marathons are quite demanding and exhausting but this one is especially tough

Snowmobiling

A fast and fun way to explore the snowy expanses of Greenland

Wild Berry Season

Wildberries are an important part of Greenlanders' diets

Arctic Circle Race

One of the toughest cross-country races in the world

Snowshoeing

Hiking is possible even in winter. The only thing you need is showshoes

Ice Climbing and Mountaineering

There's nothing like observing the world's biggest island from a high rocky and snowy mountain after a challenging climb

Ski Tours and Heliskiing

Off-road skiing might be tough but the experience of riding in peaceful, virgin snow is definitely worth the effort

Christmas in Greenland

One of the most important holidays in the country is celebrated with some peculiar traditions

Hundreds of raw auks are wrapped into a sealskin, then sewn up and fermented under a heap of stone—that's the recipe of Greenland's typical winter delicacy

Arctic Poppy and Purple Saxifrage

The hardiest flowers in the world bloom in the freezing cold

This might sound cruel and weird but whale is a common delicacy in Greenland

Explore Greenland

In the spotlight.

Greenland's Flora

Even in the towns, you don’t have to go far before you find yourself in the middle of wild Arctic nature.

Sailing is a way of life for Greenlanders, and we are proud to share with you one of our most favorite activities.

5 Top Tips for Photographing the Midnight Sun

Don’t miss out on this expert advice from local photographer Vagn Hansen. Here he shares his top tips for getting the best shot of the midnight sun.

Celebrating Our Achievements

Receive inspiring stories and news from Greenland via email.

Destinations in Greenland

Explore outdoor and nature activities, cultural experiences, hunting and fishing activities, coastal sailings and cruises in Greenland.

Capital Region

South Greenland

East Greenland

The National Park

NORTH GREENLAND

Destination Arctic Circle

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Greenland on a Budget

Posted by ITKT Media Partner | Aug 25, 2009 | Announcements , Greenland News | 0 |

New York, NY, July 2009 — As interest in Greenland grows, especially as regards its ongoing significance in the global warming debate, Hurtigruten is making it easier and more affordable for North Americans to get a first-hand look at the changing landscape and learn about its history, geography, culture, wildlife and environment from onboard experts during lectures and land excursions. Whether the consumer is interested in a “25% Off + 2 Hotel Nights” deal with savings of 25% and free hotel nights in Copenhagen; traveling solo at nearly the same rate as those traveling on a double occupancy basis, saving up to 47%; or wanting to embark on an air-included trip in Greenland and disembark at the harbor edge of New York City’s skyline, while saving up to 67%; there is an offer made to fit. All sailings include cabin category selected, three meals daily aboard ship, services of naturalist guides, specified land excursions and PolarCirkel excursions, ship transfers, government fees, cruise taxes and port charges. New bookings must be made by August 31 and availability is capacity-controlled.

Guests aboard the world’s newest expedition ship, Hurtigruten's deluxe 318-berth MS Fram, take in sights and scenery little changed in 5,000 years while moving from village to village, and spend time ashore, meeting and sharing time with the local population. Scenic highlights include Eqip Sermia Glacier, a huge wall of ice that calves directly into the sea; towering icebergs in Disko Bay and at the mouth of Jakobshavn Ice Fjord, a World Heritage Site; and Jakobshavn Glacier, the world's most active glacier. Guided walking tours take in Inuit villages and towns, with tongue-twisting names "“ Qeqertarsuaq, Ukkusissat, Itelleq and Ilulissat "“ and illustrate how the friendly local populations flourish in one of the harshest climates on Earth.

“Three Countries – One Deluxe Ship” — besides saving 64% to 67% on the voyage ($8,667 to $13,117 in savings), and beginning the voyage on the MS Fram in a European country and ending it in New York (by way of Canada ), and exploring one of the world’s most remote destinations (Greenland), guests on the 18-day voyage are treated to a unique historical perspective as they are joined by Benedicte Ingstad, the daughter of the famed explorer Helge Ingstad. Ms. Ingstad was with her parents, Anne Stine and Helge, on their groundbreaking historical 1960 expedition to L’anse Aux Meadows in Newfoundland, where they discovered and excavated what is considered to be the "Vinland settlement" of Leif Eriksson from circa AD 1000, or 500 years earlier than Christopher Columbus' "discovery" of North America . She will share memories of her family’s adventures and the story of her father’s life as well as show photographic material and unique films. Other highlights include visits to three UNESCO World Heritage Sites: L'anse Aux Meadows, Red Bay (provisional World Heritage list) and Gros Morne National Park. The September 22 departure has fares of $4,249 to $7,249 per person, double, include flights from New York/Newark, one night hotel in Copenhagen, as well as the aforementioned inclusions.

“25% Off + 2 Hotel Nights” — the 25% savings, amounting to a reduction of $1,990 to $5,745 per person, has the added bonus of including two hotel nights in the Denmark ’s capital city of Copenhagen, where guests will have time to explore this medieval city at a leisurely pace, taking in its abundance of attractions. The discounted prices for the 8- and 15-day Greenland sailings (10 and 17 days with the two hotel nights) in August and September range from $4,597 to $15,862 per person, double.

“Go Solo And Save” — single travelers will pay the normal brochure rates — as if they were traveling with a partner and paying the double occupancy rate – saving upwards of 47%, or $3,065 to $19,034. The no supplement savings, offered on the 8- and 15-day August and September departures, result in single passenger prices of $6,129 to $21,149. And the friendly crew and fellow guests are always around so no solo traveler ever really travels alone.

Air is offered by Hurtigruten; air add-ons rates for the Greenland-NY sailing (where air from NY is included) is available from dozens of North American gateways for $100 to $300.

For international stories: For travel in the United States visit In The Know Traveler USA

For USA stories: For travel around the world visit In The Know Traveler

About The Author

ITKT Media Partner

ITKT is proud to have developed relationships with organizations that provide the best and most reliable travel news anywhere. These news items come directly from pr firms, national and regional tourism boards, hotels, events and attractions worldwide.

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• 4 DAYS – ILULISSAT FROM REYKJAVIK
• 5 DAYS – AUTUMN, ICEBERGS & NORTHERN LIGHTS IN ILULISSAT
• 7 DAYS – ARCTIC PARADISE
• 8 DAYS – HIKING TOUR: TUNDRA, ICE CAP AND DISKOBAY
• 8 DAYS – WONDERS OF SOUTHERN GREENLAND
• 8 DAYS – THE ARCTIC CIRCLE TRIANGLE
• 10 DAYS – GREENLAND ON A BUDGET
• 12 DAYS – THE GRAND TOUR
• 13 DAYS – NORTH TO SOUTH
• ABOUT GREENLAND
• ILULISSAT – SUMMER TOURS
• KANGERLUSSUAQ – SUMMER TOURS
• 5 DAYS – NORTHERN LIGHT WINTER BREAK
• 5 DAYS – AUTUMN, ICEBERGS & NORTHERN LIGHT IN ILULISSAT
• 7 DAYS – NEW YEAR IN ILULISSAT
• 7 DAYS – THE ARCTIC PARADISE – WINTER
• 8 DAYS – SETTLEMENT & DOG SLEGDE – ULTIMATE WINTER ADVENTURE
• 8 DAYS – ARCTIC HIGHLIGHTS WINTER
• NORTHERN LIGHTS
• THE BIG ARCTIC FIVE
• ABOUT DOG SLEDDING
• GREENLAND INTRO
• ILULISSAT TOURS
• KANGERLUSSUAQ TOURS
• COPENHAGEN STOP-OVER
• FAROE ISLANDS
• LUXURY / VIP
• SUPPORT FILM PRODUCTIONS
• MEET THE TEAM
• ONLINE PAYMENT
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• TERMS AND CONDITIONS
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• TRAVEL TO GREENLAND

• Accommodation
• Other tours

8 DAYS – KAYAK, GLACIERS AND HIKING IN SOUTH GREENLAND 2024

In Greenland , Summer by Casper 2. March 2018

On this tour you will experience real Arctic wilderness, which to this day is home to local Inuits, who still stay true to their traditions of hunting and fishing.

Here you will witness the contrasts between a vulnerable environment and its weatherhardened nature of ice and fiords, where it is hard not to be humbled by its magnificance. Southern Greenland offers a sea of icebergs and an awe inspiring variety of glaciers that solemnly floats out and into the fiords. Landscapes of intense green tundra and colorful settlements add character to the tour, which will inspire the most adventurous of our guests.

On our route we will navigate through a system of fiords surrounded by blue icebergs and spectacular glacier fronts emptying its overflow of ice into the waters. We will overnight in our camp right beside glaciers,  and walk up onto the glacier itself, and experience the nature of an inland glacier, with its crevasses and glacier tongues. We will hike through tundra and glacier valleys and spot herds of reindeer and marine fauna.

DAY TO DAY PROGRAM

Day 1: Reykjavik or Copenhagen – Narsarsuaq Middag flight to Greenland. You will meet your local guides in the reception in the airport. Trasnsfer to pier for  boattransfer to Narsaq by open RIB boat. Narsaq has about 1,500 inhabitants and is one of southern Greenland’s biggest towns.  Today you will get an introduction to your equipment, and we will begin our preparation of the upcomming tour. Overnight in hostel, dinner included.

Day 2: Narsaq icebergs. Nuulussuaq peninsula Breakfast at the hostel. Technical session introduced by the guide and then transport to Qingaarsuup Nunaa where we will start the kayak expedition. We will follow the coast of the island, along the ice covered fjord among big and small icebergs coming from Eqalorutsit glacier. We will travel through an area full of ringed seals. In this area, there is usually a greater density of ice, slowing down the kayak and sometimes even blocking access at certain locations. When we start the crossing to Nuulussuaq Peninsula through we get the first views of the ice cap. Once we arrive to Nuulussuaq, we will install our camp. Time for fishing arctic salmon, gathering mushrooms and cranberries. Overnight in tents, full board is included today.

Days 3: Naajaat Sermiat After breakfast we will travel into a labyrinth system of islands and outcropping lands. We will have different views of the ice cap and several glaciers and will be impressed by unique and wild areas. We will paddle through a setting of low-slung islands, with waterfalls and alongside leafy tundra which contrasts with the blue and white of the icebergs. Several islands and peninsulas are separating indland ice from Ikersuaq fjord. This magical landscape attracted the Vikings to establish settlements in several coastal areas. And of course we will camp in one of these former Viking settlements. Kayaking among blue icebergs provides us a special feeling of Arctic nature. We will sail in Maniitsup Tunua fjord, surrounded by the peninsulas of Maniitsop, Niaqornap Nunaa and Nuulussuaq. We are just in front of the ice cap, camping no so far away from Naajaat Sermiat Glacierfront. This is time to allow our senses to enjoy the unbelievable views of one of the oldest masses of ice in the planet. This is not the only area that will surprise you. The next step will be special when we get so close to Qaleraliq Glacier where we spend the night in tents. Full board is included today.

Days 4: Qaleraliq glacier. Hike to Tasersuatsiaq Lake Today, after brakfast, we are sailing around Akuliaruseq Island (Caribou Island) which may allow us to admire this fauna approaching the coast or include the glacier front. Sailing along Qaleraliq fjord, we will arrive to Qaleraliq glacier with its three glacier tongues nearly 10 km wide, probably the most spectacular glacial scenery in south Greenland. We will camp on a sandy beach. If weather conditions and time allow it, we will ascent to a view point if we are lucky we will observe the caribou feeding on salts from the fjord, and at night, will enjoy the thundering sound of the seracs breaking away in the area’s magical silence. Overnight in tents, full board included.

Day 5: Glacier-walk After breakfast we will paddle direct to the ice. And right in the spot where the rare south-north expeditions crossing the ice cap use to start, we will hike over the glacier and discover a very small part of its immensity, among the rimes (crevasses), large cracks and drains. Enjoying a short trekking on one of the oldest masses of ice in the planet. A unique experience. Back on the kayaks we will continue the navigation along the glacier fronts, admiring the beauty of their vertical walls, ice walls and numerous icebergs as we approach them along their more than 10 kilometres descent to the sea. These glacier fronts extended in only one. But the dramatic progress of climate change divided it in three glacier fronts. We will install our camp in caribou island. During the night, we will be surprised by thunderclap roar of the icefall from seracs. Overnight in tents, full board included.

Day 6: Ikerssuaq fjord After breakfast will start the way back towards Qingaarsuup Nunaa island, kayaking through Ikerssuaq fjord. This is an area where the chances of seeing whales are greatest. Big icebergs use to decorate Ikerssuaq Fjord. These are enormous ice blocks coming from Eqalorusit and Qorooq fjords. Sometimes you could be surprised by Greenlandic seals sailing in your way or staying over these icebergs. Overnights in tents, full board included.

Day 7: Qingaarsup. Narsaq City Depending on conditions in the fjord we will go directly to Qingaarsuup, or will cross Ikerssuaq direction Stephensen Havn which is a protected bay among a sea full of icebergs. This was an ideal settlement where Inuit established during hundreds of years and it’s called Manitsuarsuk. Ruins of the settlement can be seen. Catching seals, hunting foxes, birds, sharks… were the principal activities of Greenlandic settlers in this emplacement, up to 18th century. Inhabitants were sometimes surprised by the arrival of polar bears “sailing” over the big icebergs coming from the eastern coast. Let be impressed by the Greenlandic history and discover one of the former Inuit settlements in South Greenland.

Our sailing will continue towards Narsaq or we might be ending in Qingaarsup and then be transferred to Narsaq. Free time to visit the city, inuit market, hunters’ harbour, church, local handicraft workshop, museum, etc. Evening at leisure, and dinner on your own. Breakfast and lunch is included in the tour. Night in hostel.

Day 8: Narsarsuaq Transfer to Narsarsuaq. Time to walk around in the area and visit the local museum, Bluie West, that reflects the history of Narsarsuaq creation and especially its role as military base in the Second World War, or you can ascend to the “View Point”, an easy trekking of approximately one hour starting near the Hotel Narsarsuaq, from where you will have views of the fjord and the Kiattutglacier. During the afternoon we have flight from Narsarsuaq to either Reykjavík or Copenhagen.

ACCOMMODATION

Guesthouse and hostel in Greenland

Pricing & departure.

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• Flights Copenhagen or Reykjavik – Narsarsuaq vice versa
• inkl. taxes
• Guide (English)
• Transfers in Greenland Zodiac ekspeditionboats
• Rental of Kayak eqipments
• Full board incl. Greenlandic farewell dinner
• all nights in Greenland hostel and nature camp
• Camping & Zodiac boat gear

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• Lunch on travel dates, and dinner the last night in Narsaq
• Extra expenses
• Administration and fee to Danish travel fond – DKK 100,-
• Single supplement

DEPARTURES, TOURS ETC.

Name:  Wonders of Southern Greenland Lenght:  8 days Type: Kayaking and Hiking in South Greenland Departures and prices 2024

Departure from Copenhagen and Reykjavik

• 25. June – 02. July
• 02.- 09. July
• 09. – 16. July
• 16. – 23. July
• 23. – 30. July  
• 30. July – 06. August
• 06. – 13. August
• 13. – 20. August
• 20. – 27. August

Special Northern Lights departures

• 27. August – 03. September
• 7. – 14. September (Departure only Island)
• 10. – 17. September (Departure only via Island)

* Price from  Copenhagen (DKK 21.350,-) * Price from  Reykjavik (DKK 21.100,-)

OTHER TOURS

Welcome to our arctic way of life

Photo by Thrainn Kolbeinsson – Visit Greenland

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Visiting Greenland From Iceland

Should Iceland and Greenland swap names?

Why visit greenland, what tours can i take to greenland, greenland sailing | 10-day photography workshop, 8 day summer package | iceland in depth with a greenland day tour, 6 day summer package | south iceland with a greenland day tour, 5 day summer package | golden circle, south of iceland with a greenland day tour.

Is it possible to visit Greenland during your trip to Iceland? Which tour opportunities and packages include a trip to Greenland? And what links, if any, do Iceland and Greenland share? Read on to find out all you need to know about visiting Greenland from Iceland.

• See also: Iceland & Greenland Packages

Approximately three quarters of Greenland is covered by the largest permanent ice sheet outside of Antarctica. A mere 1,210 km east, Iceland is a temperate and green country in comparison, with only 11% of the land comprised of glaciers.

Despite Iceland’s snow-laden winters, many people notice a discrepancy when considering the choice of names for both countries.

According to one story, a group of Vikings rebelled against the Norwegian monarchy, forcing them to flee the country by boat. Enroute, they stopped at Iceland.

Quickly discovering the island to be habitable with its breezy summers, rich fishing grounds and wealth of timber, the rebels sent false word back to Norway claiming their landing grounds was harsh, barren, little more than ice. To further deter reinforcements, they stated a larger, more distant island was a lush paradise.

• See also: The History of Iceland

In short, this decision appears to have been clear bait-and-switch tactic. Unfortunately, as so often is the case, the legend is false.

Instead, this widely circulated rumour is little more than a simple and ingenious tale that simplifies the far more complex process that was the discovery of Greenland.

In truth, the Norsemen did not arrive to Greenland until Erik the Red in A.D. 982, approximately 100 years after the settlement of Iceland. Touching on grains of truth, Erik really was fleeing Iceland after murdering three people, but was blown dramatically off-course.

To attract other settlers to this newfound country, Erik reported that the island was perfect for habitation. To stress this point, he named it Greenland; medieval marketing at its best! In all fairness, it is likely that Greenland was far grassier in A.D. 982, especially the southwestern corner of Greenland which sits at a southern latitude below even Iceland. To this day, successful sheep farms continue to operate in the area.

Of course, not everyone calls the island Greenland. Greenlanders themselves refer to their island as Kalaallit Nunaat, which means “Land of the People” in the Inuit language.

Due to the ever-impending dangers of climate change, a large percentage of meteorologists believe that in the near future, the names will make more sense. With the slowing down of the Gulf Stream, Greenland will continue to experience warmer temperatures and the melting of ice, while Iceland will experience the polar opposite; pack ice and even longer, darker winters.

Greenland is a land of staggering, ethereal and dramatic scenery, the likes of which can be found nowhere else on earth. While Iceland’s landscapes are commonly regarded as some of the best scenery on earth, Greenland’s breathtaking smoky mountains, iceberg-filled fjords and sweeping plateaus make for a fierce contender.

• See also: International Relations in Iceland 

Greenlandic culture is just as inspiring, having much in common with the Inuit tradition, from which most people are descended. Ice fishing and dog-sled races, for instance, are both still popular among the local people.

Most inhabitants still hunt given to supplement their diet or provide skins for boats and attire. Animals such as walrus, seals, caribou and narwhal are still essential to the Greenlandic cuisine, especially in the northwest region known as Thule.

This is reiterated by the Greenlandic government themselves, who state;

" Hunting is the heart and soul of Greenlandic culture.... Hunting is also very important from a cultural perspective. In a society such as Greenland, which for centuries was based on subsistence hunting (until about 50 years ago), hunting is still of great cultural importance. Irrespective of the fact that most live like wage-earners in a modern industrial society, many Greenlanders' identity is still deeply rooted in the hunting."

Over recent years, Greenland has become more and more of a tourist destination, offering spectacular hiking trails, photographic opportunities and unbeatable adventure.

Given its isolation as the world’s largest non-continental island, Iceland makes for the perfect jumping off-point, with flights from Keflavik International Airport to both Nuuk (Greenland’s capital) and Ilulissat in Disko Bay.

Thankfully, visitors to the northernmost corners of this planet will have the opportunity to combine their holiday to Iceland with a trip to Greenland.

Below are two examples of the most prized tour options available. Don't hesitate to come aboard! 

It’s time to charge the batteries, pack extra memory cards and ready yourself for the adventure of a lifetime with this 10-day sailing trip photographing the unreal landscapes of Greenland.

After a night discovering the many cultural charms of Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, you will travel from the domestic airport to Constable Point, East Greenland—a 2-hour flight. Upon arrival, you will board the expedition schooner, Donna Wood, and sail to the scenic village to Ittoqqortoormiit .

Here, you’ll have the opportunity to capture the colourful houses and local fisherman, perfect for an authentic, documentary-style portfolio.

The next few days, you will be preoccupied photographing the icebergs of Scoresby Sound, the fjords of Milne Land and the wildlife of Hare Fjord, including Arctic foxes, snow hares, stoats, eagles and musk-oxen.

• See also:   The Arctic Fox | A Tale of Iceland's Only Native Mammal

Day 6 and day 7 are focused on the dramatic mountains of Øfjord, as well as the 200 m (650 ft) basalt stacks that tower nearby. You will also embark to the nature reserve, Bjørneøe, anchoring beside the Bear Islands to turn your lens towards the seabird colonies of the North Atlantic.

Your final day in Greenland will be spent travelling the Arctic Riviera, an archipelago filled with the largest icebergs of the expedition.  

Day 4 of this tour package provides a chance to visit Greenland, specifically the small island village of Kulusuk. Here, you will have a guided tour of the area, paying special attention to the local architecture and way of life for Kulusuk’s three-hundred or so residents.

You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the village museum, providing unprecedented insight into the region’s history and Inuit culture. In the evening, you will return on a short flight back to Reykjavik.

The previous days will be spent in Iceland, first discovering the Snæfellsnes Peninsula —often referred to as “Iceland in Miniature” thanks to its eclectic range of natural attractions—as well as the Golden Circle trail.

The Golden Circle is Iceland’s most popular sightseeing route, comprised of Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal valley and the mighty Gullfoss waterfall.

After your return to Iceland at the end of Day 4, you will spend the following days exploring the picturesque South Coast , complete with its enchanting waterfalls, unique black sand beaches and gorgeous, ancient sea cliffs.

Enroute, you’ll stop at Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, known as “The Crown Jewel of Iceland” thanks to its heavenly blue icebergs, still waters and the unbelievably beautiful surroundings of Vatnajökull National Park.

This tour is also available, with adjustments, as seen below:

Have you visited Greenland? Have you experienced both Iceland and Greenland during the same trip, or are you planning on doing so? Make sure to leave your thoughts and queries in the Facebook comments box below. 

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Bucket list travel on a budget: Expert tips for airfare, loyalty programs, credit card perks and more

Nicky Kelvin from The Points Guy dives into ways to save this summer.

Many travelers have their sights set on summer getaways , but with everything from baggage fees to fuel costs impacting the price of a ticket, "Good Morning America" is asking travel experts to share tips for booking bucket list destinations on a budget and finding savings along the way.

Travel expert Nicky Kelvin, senior director of content for The Points Guy, offered his tips for affordable travel techniques.

Where to find the best flight deals

Kelvin encourages travelers to utilize Google Flights and other free price-tracking tools to compare fare prices and snag the best deal.

He also suggests using both the calendar and map features within Google Flights to see which airports, dates and destinations how the lowest fare.

From the Google Flights homepage on a computer, click "explore destinations" and select a departure city without adding a destination. Then zoom out on the map to see the best prices for destinations all over the world.

Get the most out of free travel loyalty programs

Travelers should be earning points for anything and everything that they are buying or booking from airline and hotels to car rentals, Kelvin said.

In addition to the points that can can help travelers earn free flights and hotel stays, Kelvin said to look for extra perks just for joining.

Hyatt rewards, for example, offers all guests free breakfast.

For Thrifty Car Rental and Dollar Car Rental, he said you can add your spouse or domestic partner as an additional driver for free.

Loyalty programs are great for airlines too. JetBlue, for example, allows enrolled customers -- even if they don't have enough points for a flight -- to use points for discounts. Plus, with any airline, as you accumulate points to earn status, you can get free seating upgrades.

Travel credit cards with cash back perks

Along with earning points, travel credit cards give you protection for your trip like insurance to help with lost or damaged baggage and trip cancellation protection

Chase debuts new airport lounge: Gourmet menus, sleek interiors, free facials redefine hospitality for airport travel

As for credit cards, The Points Guy team suggests the Capital One Venture Rewards credit card as an all-around pick -- you get 75,000 miles after meeting your minimum spend in the first three months. Which Kelvin said is a value of over $1,300.

If you're looking to earn the most miles, he said look to the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

"You'll earn the most points on all your purchases with this one," he said.

Finally, if you want a credit card with no fee, Kelvin suggested the Bilt Mastercard, which he said is particularly great for renters because you can earn points on what's likely someone's biggest expense.

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Save money on international phone plans for summer trips

If someone's trip is taking them out of the country, using a cell phone internationally can cost $10 to 15 per day. For a family of four, that's more than $400 for a week.

If your phones support eSIM, Kelvin suggested purchasing a data plan for your destination through an app such as Airalo, Truphone or GigSky.

For example, one of Airalo's global SIM plans costs $9 for one week, which could save a family close to $350 dollars, depending on their existing international coverage.

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How I Travel on a Budget

Melanie Lockert

Credit & Credit Cards Expert

Melanie Lockert is a freelance writer with nearly a decade of experience in the personal finance space. She is the founder of the blog and author of the book “Dear Debt” and paid off $81,000 in student loans. She has an M.A. from New York University and is an LA native based in Brooklyn, NY.

Robert Thorpe

Senior Editor

Robert is a senior editor at Newsweek, specializing in a range of personal finance topics, including credit cards, loans and banking. Prior to Newsweek, he worked at Bankrate as the lead editor for small business loans and as a credit cards writer and editor. He has also written and edited for CreditCards.com, The Points Guy and The Motley Fool Ascent.

Updated April 26, 2024 at 9:38 am

Traveling can be fun for a much-needed vacation and to explore other places. But the cost of traveling can be prohibitive, and it’s not getting cheaper. Average travel costs jumped 27% from 2019 to 2022 going from $2,100 to $2,671, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) . While it may cost more to get out of town, you can still find cheap travel options with some research and creativity. In this guide, learn how to travel on a budget and reduce costs in all categories.

Our research is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of personal finance services and products that best suit your needs. To help you in the decision-making process, our expert contributors compare common preferences and potential pain points, such as affordability, accessibility, and credibility.

Vault’s Viewpoint

• Travel costs are on the rise but there are ways to lower your travel budget.
• You can book cheap flights by looking for deals and using points or miles.
• Being flexible can open up even more cheap places to travel.

Be Flexible on Location and Time

One of the keys to budget travel is to be flexible on where you go and when. Going to tourist hot spots during peak season will cost you a premium. But entertaining other locales during the off-peak season can score you serious savings. Airline tickets are all about supply and demand, so when demand is lower, so are the prices.

I base much of my travel on deals. Instead of choosing a location and planning a trip, I find a deal and plan my trip based on that. To get cheap flights, I typically avoid traveling during the summer and around any major holidays, with one exception. I’ve found affordable international flights during Thanksgiving as most travel during that time is domestic.

Examples of Cheap Flights

For example, I was able to get a roundtrip ticket from Los Angeles to Lima, Peru for less than $300 and fly back on Thanksgiving day in 2022.

This past Thanksgiving in 2023, I found cheap flights to Tokyo from Los Angeles. Remember, cheap is relative. Typically, roundtrip tickets to Tokyo can easily be four figures and I got a ticket for $706.45. According to travel website Kayak , the cheapest month to fly to Tokyo from Los Angeles is February with flights costing an average of $689. In June or July, the most expensive flights are over a thousand dollars.

Find an Affordable Flight

Using specific websites can help the affordable flights come to you. I’m signed up for Travelzoo’s newsletter which publishes deals and I also use Google Flights alerts for many different locations that I’m interested in visiting.

To start, input your departure and arrival locations and input some dates. From there, you can turn on alerts below next to “Track prices” for those exact dates or “Any dates.” I toggle on “Any dates” and whenever prices drop, I’ll get an email alert. That’s how I found the cheap flight to Lima, Peru.

I have alerts set up for 10+ locations that I have my eye on so I can find cheap places to travel at the right time. This strategy works great because I don’t have to put in much leg work to get started and the deals go straight to my inbox.

Additionally, I book flight departures and arrivals on weekdays when fewer people are traveling and airfare tends to be cheaper.

Carry-On Only

For the past 15 years, I’ve been a carry-on-only traveler. While I am a minimalist, the decision wasn’t about that. Instead, I had a frustrating experience on my return to the States after a magical trip to Buenos Aires, Argentina. I had returned but my checked bag did not. For months, I continued to follow up with the airline. Eventually, the airline offered me a paltry amount to reimburse me for my lost luggage.

I let them know that the amount would not replace my wardrobe and other items and that I wanted to escalate the issue. Somehow, after six months of luggage limbo, they found and returned my bag.

Since then, I’ve traveled light with one carry-on so I could avoid another potential luggage mishap. The eBag backpack has been my trusty companion for years. I roll my clothes in packing cubes and have become a master at playing Tetris with my items. I make sure that my luggage meets the size requirements for the airline and avoid airline baggage fees altogether.

Use Rewards To Pay for Flights

Aside from using Google Flights to book cheap flights I also use travel rewards when possible. Using various travel rewards credit cards, I’ve been able to get cheap flights to Rome, Italy with my mom to celebrate paying off my student loans and to Madrid, Spain to see a friend living there. Thanks to miles and points , I was paying only a nominal amount in taxes and fees.

The cards I’ve used include:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
• AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®
• Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®

Using travel rewards credit cards strategically has helped me lower my costs and reduce my travel budget. I pay off all my credit cards in full every week, which I find helps with my spending and cash flow. Additionally, I change up the credit cards I use based on the purchase to maximize my rewards.

Find Affordable Accommodations

Getting to your travel destination is one thing. But you need a place to stay once you get there and that can increase your costs significantly. In some cases, I’ve been able to lower my accommodation travel budget by staying with a friend for a night or two or house-sitting while a friend is gone.

When I travel somewhere new, I typically book hostels or Airbnbs which can be more affordable than some hotels (but not always). I tend to steer clear of trendy areas and choose places slightly off the beaten path. I go a bit further out and ensure I can either walk or have public transportation options. Nine times out of 10, this has worked in my favor. I get a bit more local flavor at a fraction of the cost.

The other 10% of the time I’ve found myself in a situation that I call a ‘frugal fail’. For example, booking a basement Airbnb in Prague in a not-so-great neighborhood. As a solo female traveler, I stayed there one night and ended up moving and paying more for a hotel. Safety is paramount and that is priceless.

Use Rewards To Book Hotel Stays

When I book hotel stays , I typically use my Chase Ultimate Rewards points from my Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. When I unexpectedly changed plans and decided to book a hotel in Prague, I used my rewards points to offset the costs.

After looking at accommodations in Tokyo, I found a great hotel I had my eye on at a discount in the Chase Travel portal. I was able to book a stay with fewer points. The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is my go-to card for hotel stays as one of its many benefits is a $50 annual hotel credit on hotel stays purchased through Chase Travel.

One Big Meal Out per Day

Dining out while on vacation is a treat. But doing so two to three times a day will skyrocket your travel budget. I typically commit to having one big meal out per day. If I’m staying at an Airbnb, I’ll get groceries and cook —one of the benefits of having access to a kitchen.

If I choose to stay at a hotel, I prioritize options with a continental breakfast. I’ll also go to the grocery store and pick up affordable items like:

• Granola bars
• Fruit like an apple or banana
• Protein shakes

These help out during the day. Once I’m at my location, I’ll also identify a low-cost food option. For example, while in Tokyo I ate a couple of onigiri (rice balls), yogurt, and cheese from 7-Eleven nearly every day for breakfast or lunch, which cost around $8. Dinner is where I splurged on unique or indulgent experiences. This strategy is one of the top ways I’ve learned how to travel on a budget.

Use Public Transportation

When I travel, I typically get around using public transportation and walking. One of my favorite things to do is explore a city by foot or the local transit. You get a different experience that way and can enjoy budget travel and serious savings.

I rarely use taxis and ride-sharing . If I do, it’s typically to and from the airport if no viable public transit options exist. But some cities make it easy to take public transportation from the airport to the center of the city. For example, there are great public transit options to and from the airport in Chicago, Illinois; Portland, Oregon; and Tokyo, Japan.

Instead of paying for a ride that can easily exceed $50 you can pay a few bucks on public transportation.

Additional Ways To Travel on a Budget

If you want to learn how to travel on a budget or find cheap vacation ideas, here are additional ways to lower costs:

• Sign up for rewards programs. Always sign up for hotel or airline rewards programs . Leave no rewards on the table.
• Use cash back. If you have a cash back credit card , use those extra funds to lower your travel budget.
• Book flights and hotels early. To find cheap places to travel, book flights and hotels in advance. Ideally at least several months ahead of time.
• Compare options. Budget travel requires some research. When planning an upcoming trip, compare all your transportation options, such as various airlines, buses, trains, and road trip costs.
• Research free or cheap activities. Check out local parks, free museum days, discounts on Groupon or Goldstar, and local festivals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are cheap vacation ideas.

Some cheap vacation ideas include camping, having a staycation, or going somewhere you can get free accommodations by house sitting or pet sitting. You can also look for cheap flights on Google Flights, see if there are budget buses, and plan your vacation around the deals you find.

What Are Cheap Places To Travel To?

If you’re looking for cheap places to travel to, that will depend on your departure city, currency, and time of year. For travelers in the United States, traveling domestically will be the most affordable. If you’re looking for cheap vacation ideas for international travel, you can look into countries in Latin America or Southeast Asia.

What Credit Card Is Best for Travel?

The best credit card for travel is one with no foreign transaction fees . Look for cards that can earn you more points for travel-related purchases and that may have travel credits included. Compare annual fees and make sure it’s worth the cost.

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Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. We may earn a commission from partner links on Newsweek, but commissions do not affect our editors’ opinions or evaluations.

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The best expereince of my life! Totally worth the money, we saw icebergs, Eqi glacier, icecap and whales from above! Magical memories from Greenland.

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One of the best tours I ever been to! We meet in local office, got warm clothes and get to the dogs. All the dogs were supper eager to get out and run. We were 6 people so all we got 3 sledges for our group. So we sit two of us and the dogsledge driver on the sledge. On the way we climbed some of the high mountains and enjoyed the views and dogs running. We stop on Unesco viewpoint where we saw glacier and had cup of coffee! The tour was amazing, all crew was very nice friendly and helpful, all spoke good English. When we come back we helped to take off harness and feed the dogs. Amazing experience would recommend to everyone!

Everything about the dogsled ride was fun and professionally executed. This started with the warmest boots and coveralls we have ever worn, and the pre-ride instructions. Our group of eight was divided into four pairs and each pair was assigned a sled with driver and about a dozen dogs. Our driver and his team were very well-coordinated and gave us a smooth ride, over about 5km of mostly snowy terrain. Where the snow was sparse, the sled made a grinding noise on the rocks, but otherwise it was a silent, blissful ride. After a rest for the dogs, and some hot tea for the humans, we headed back over the same trail. All in all, it was, for us, a unique, educational and highly memorable experience.

Sužinojome daug apie Nuuk miestą ir visą Grenlandiją: istoriją, žmones, tradicijas. Komanda darė daug pastangų ,, medžiojant” šiaurės pašvaistę, bet kaip ir kiekvienoje medžioklėje ne visada pasiseka. Buvo graži pažintis su šalimi, ir įdomus turas. Ačiū.

The Sermermiut Walking Tour was fairly easy, though my wife was glad she had walking sticks (We are both over 65). Our guide, stopped at several points along the way, to impart a lot of useful information about the three cultures whose artifacts have been discovered in the settlement, and to answer our questions. It took us about 40 minutes to reach the end of our walk, and we will never forget the amazing sight which awaited us. After enjoying the view with a cup of hot chocolate, we headed back over the same route.

Loved this tour! Sailing and seeing icebergs was amazing but also we enjoyed the view from the hotel to the icefjord and the city. We even seen Northern lights from the hotel window!

Really enjoyed the tour. Ejnar and Amalie were excellent guides. We had a fantastic hike with breathtaking views of the fjord and enormous icebergs. After the hike, we headed straight to the sauna experience, known as 'sauna gus', which was a perfect way to end the day.

We had a brilliant snow mobile tour on out trip to Greenland. Unfortunately we didn't get to see the northern lights but we had a thrilling snow mobile ride through the snowy terrain which was brilliant.

Had an amazing experience seeing the northern lights, which showed up better than I expected. Our guide Mads was very nice and drove us around Nuuk explaining some of the history while we waited for the lights to show. Once they appeared we drove to several locations to see the lights clearer. The photos he took for us came out excellent and the hot chocolate was a great addition. Thanks!

We booked an 8 days trip with them and it was just amazing! Every single day was different, we saw many things and had a lot of fun. Very recommended!

One for the books! I highly recommend everyone visiting Ilulissat :-)

I unfortunately did not get to see any Northern Lights but the local guide worked really hard to make it happen. He was good at telling stories about Nuuk, Greenland and local customs in general which helped pass time while we were out looking for the Northern Lights.

Organised a recent stay in Qaanaaq. Despite the problems of unreliable internet (and its amazing that it works in such a remote area) I got very nice accommodation and enjoyed the visit. Would recommend to others planning a visit there.

Filled with happiness and joy over the most amazing trip over the ice with Johanne and her dogs 🐕 in full sunshine 🌞 thank you so 🙏🇬🇱

Articles to help you discover more about Greenland and plan your vacation

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Greenland

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How to travel to Greenland on a Budget

Where to fly on a budget this summer

Airfare experts share their forecasts for summer vacation destinations that won’t break your budget.

This summer is shaping up to be another scorcher , and the demand for summer travel is piping hot, too. If early 2024 trends are any indication of what’s to come, “it’s looking to be busier than 2023,” said Katy Nastro, spokesperson for the flight booking site Going . Recent airport passenger volume numbers have regularly exceeded last year and pre-pandemic levels.

Jeff Klee, CEO of CheapAir.com , says airline capacity has rebounded from pandemic complications, but strong travel demand means summer flight prices can be high, depending on when you’re hoping to go. Flying in June, July or early August will be more expensive than later in the season, according to the company’s summer forecast .

“And it’s not just the airfare,” Klee said in an email. “Expensive hotel rates and crowds everywhere make Western Europe tricky for the summer.”

Despite the price tag, “people are going to go,” said Melanie Fish, the head of global public relations for all Expedia Brands, including Vrbo, Expedia and Hotels.com . “When we look at searches for destinations, they are definitely up year over year.”

For popular destinations like Europe , Klee and Fish say to push trips later into August, September or even October. Not only will prices soften, but you’ll alleviate some of the strain of overtourism .

“My number one tip is go ahead and take that summer vacation, but maybe hold on to take that big, big trip in September,” Fish said.

According to Expedia’s summer 2024 travel outlook , we’re currently in the sweet spot for shopping for early summer flights at the best rates, as Fish says lower fares tend to pop up 21 to 60 days out. It doesn’t hurt to start your search even earlier, setting up price alerts to flag when airfare drops. If you can swing it, look to fly on a Monday for international trips or a Tuesday for domestic trips to save up to 15 percent on fares, Fish added.

It’s not impossible to find good deals on airfare, whether you’re looking for a tropical beach trip , a mountain adventure or a vibrant city. Here are places that are trending cheaper — and the destinations you’ll want to avoid.

Go to Mexico

Sun, surf, culture, chilaquiles — Mexico is always a good idea , but particularly so this summer. With the opening of the new airport in Tulum , U.S. airlines have been adding gobs of new flights to Mexico, particularly to beach regions. “We’ve seen a healthy amount of deals down to Mexico resort areas like Cancún,” Nastro said.

Laura Lindsay, global travel trends expert at Skyscanner , says three Mexican cities — Cancún, San José del Cabo and Puerto Vallarta — are among the top 10 destinations offering travelers the best bang for their buck in 2024.

To escape the summer heat, Phyllis Stoller, president of the Women’s Travel Group , recommends high-altitude destinations like Mexico City or Ixtapan de la Sal, a town near Mexico City with thermal springs.

Avoid European port cities

If you’re considering a visit to a popular European city that’s also a cruise hub, beware. Not only will you be battling the usual summer crowds, you’ll be joined by thousands of day-trippers flooding into the ports — meaning Barcelona, Venice , Athens and Santorini.

Sandra Weinacht, who co-owns the tour company Inside Europe Travel Experiences , says you can avoid some of the madness in these hot spots by staying in neighborhoods away from the typical tourist zones. You can also visit top sites in the late afternoon or evening, after cruise travelers have returned to their ships.

Better yet, wait to visit until the shoulder season

Go to Colorado

Epic hiking, breathtaking nature and more craft beer than you could ever try in a lifetime: The Centennial State is a domestic gem. Ashlee Collins of Inspirato , a luxury travel and lifestyle subscription service, says Vail is popular among members this summer. Not only is the ski resort beautiful sans snow, it’s drivable for many, cutting a significant cost for travelers.

Airfare to Colorado is looking more reasonable than other domestic vacation hubs. Nastro recently spotted a Miami-to-Denver, round-trip fare over the July Fourth holiday for just $199. She says an average round trip from major U.S. cities is running between $173 and $250, but those prices are expected to climb upward of $350 the closer we get to summer.

Avoid places at risk for wildfires

Wildfires have become an unfortunate fixture of summers in the Northern Hemisphere. Last year’s fires in Europe — including those in Cyprus and Greece — were among the worst so far this century, the European Commission reported .

Stoller says fire risk has been a factor in her summer travel planning; she nixed a New England cruise after remembering how bad smoke was last year because of the fires in Canada . “None of us can predict everything, but that would be something I would be aware of,” she said.

Extreme heat is also an issue. Last July, Southern Europe experienced excessively high temperatures from a “heat dome.”

“There’s a concern about heat,” Stoller said. “Last summer was really painful.”

Go to the Caribbean

The Caribbean has its peak tourist season during the winter, when Americans flock to warmer waters. That means summer trips to the region tend to be quieter and cheaper.

“You can go under $300 to pretty much all of the islands: Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Aruba, Dominican Republic,” said Lindsay Schwimer, a consumer travel expert at Hopper . She’s seen similar price point flights to Colombia.

Lindsay of Skyscanner also said Puerto Rico and the Bahamas offer some of the most affordable flights from the United States this summer.

Avoid Paris

Unless you’re going for the Olympics , skip the French capital this summer.

“Paris is always a top destination in the summer, but this summer … it’s going to be on another level,” said Madison Pietrowski, head of U.S. brand at GetYourGuide .

Not only are hotel prices high, “we’re seeing that some of the top attractions like the Louvre have raised their ticket prices,” Pietrowski said.

Nastro says the crowds are going to be “bananas” during the Games, and not just in Paris. Olympic travelers are likely to add on other French destinations to their trip, like Nice — which will host soccer games — or the Côte d’Azur, which already gets popular in the summertime.

Even if you try to get ahead of the rush by visiting before the July 26 start date, you may still have some Olympics-related headaches in the French capital. As the city races to finish prep, “you might find that there’s going to be eyesores and scaffolding and loud noises early in the morning,” Nastro said.

Go to rural Europe

Interest in Western Europe has not slowed down, and Americans are expected to surge back en masse this summer. If you’d like to avoid them, put rural European destinations on your radar.

Weinacht is bullish on Spain’s Rioja region , the Basque countryside and the central Italian region of Umbria, which borders Tuscany but does not see the same levels of tourism. She’s also a fan of Carinthia, the least-populated state of Austria. “It is castle- and lake-dotted, doesn’t get too hot, and oh, the food and stories the cities and villages can tell,” Weinacht said in an email.

Weinacht says she’s been getting more requests from Americans for trips to her homeland, Germany. The country is easy to navigate with its high-speed trains, and offers a mix of small and big cities spread across powerhouse wine regions, UNESCO World Heritage sites and many food festivals . According to Skyscanner, airlines in the United States have been increasing their flights to Germany — namely, Frankfurt, an international business hub — meaning you may be able to find more deals.

Avoid Sicily and Amalfi

If your dream Italian destination has been featured on TV lately, that’s a red flag. The last season of “The White Lotus” spurred an interest in already popular Sicily ; the same is happening to the Amalfi Coast thanks to the new Netflix miniseries “Ripley.”

“They’re really going to be the most expensive and they’re going to be pretty crowded for the summer,” Schwimer said.

Where to go

Our favorite destinations: These 12 destinations are at the top of our wish list for where to go this year, without crowds. In 2023, we explored an Alaskan bear paradise, Brooklyn’s famous pizzerias and a hidden gem in Italy, among other highlights .

Travel like a local: Residents share their favorite places in our top city guides: New Orleans , Rome , Tokyo and Mexico City .

National parks: This comprehensive guide has details on all 63 U.S. national parks. For a deep dive into five of the most well-known, you can listen to the Field Trip podcast . Then explore tips from locals for visiting Yosemite , Glacier and Everglades .

Tales from the road: Dolly Parton has opened a new resort at her theme park complex in Tennessee, while “Fixer Upper” stars Chip and Joanna Gaines have a new hotel in Waco . Road-trippers may be just as excited to see the cartoon beaver at Buc-ee’s , and bargain-hunters should consider a stop at the Unclaimed Baggage store in Scottsboro, Ala.

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My Secret to Weeks of Free Lodging in Europe

I wanted to stay in apartments or houses—but i was a brand-new college grad on a budget.

This is One Thing , a column with tips on how to live.

After I graduated from college, I knew I wanted to travel for a few months, so I secured a part-time job that could be done remotely. I didn’t want to do my work shifts from a hostel bunk bed or random cafés that stayed open late. (I’d be in Europe, thanks to an EU passport, and my gig was based in the states.) Paying for Airbnbs the entire trip would eat up way too much of my paychecks. It was kismet that just as I was starting to plan my travels, my friend sent me a video about a couple traveling the world and dog-sitting along the way, using an app called Trusted Housesitters .

As an avid dog lover, I thought it was perfect. I paid a little over $100 to make an account, then started browsing housesits around the world. I adorned my profile with pictures of me and the various dogs in my life, and applied for opportunities across the ocean. Before I had even left the United States, I had three gigs set up: I’d spend about 10 days in Scotland and Wales, then three weeks in Amsterdam.

Just like when setting up drinks through a dating app, you do have to be vigilant and pay attention for red flags when talking to potential hosts. My stay in Scotland was less than ideal for many reasons—the situation could have been easily avoided if I had listened to my gut and declined that gig. (The app does do background checks, and there’s an opportunity for both sides to leave reviews, meaning you don’t go in completely unaware.) But the other dog-sits were fantastic. One experience went so well that last fall, I returned to Amsterdam to once again to dog-sit Pretzel, a lovely Maltipoo, while her parents got married and went on their honeymoon.

Although I opted for longer sits abroad, there is also the option to just watch a furry friend stateside for a weekend. (If you do go internationally, be mindful that you might potentially need a work or tourist visa.) I just checked the app, and as I’m writing this, there are opportunities available in cities that include Austin, Atlanta, and Boulder.

Of course, you have the responsibility of taking care of someone else’s dog—you need to do some planning and can’t just leave the pet alone all day, and the owners don’t pay you. But the free accommodations feel like a fair exchange to me. I also love that many of the dog-sit locations are in more residential areas, so you’re able to experience local life in whatever city you’re in. Plus, you get to hang with a cute dog. What could be better?

Freeland's new federal budget hikes taxes on the rich to cover billions in new spending

With interest rates running high, cost to service the national debt surpasses federal health care spending.

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HIGHLIGHTS:

• Ottawa to spend $52.9 billion more than planned over the next five years.
• Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland projects Ottawa will post a $40 billion deficit this fiscal year.
• The budget includes $8.5 billion in new spending for housing.
• Other major budget items include a $6 billion Canada Disability Benefit, a $1 billion national school food program and a $500-million fund for youth mental health.
• Freeland will hike capital gain taxes paid by the rich and corporations to collect an estimated $19 billion in new revenue.
• The cost to service the growing national debt has increased substantially — it's now about $2 billion more than it was projected to be just a few months ago.
• The government will spend more on servicing its debt than on health care this year.

Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland's fourth budget delivers a big-ticket housing program for millennials and Generation Z voters — a multi-billion dollar commitment to be paid for in part with a tax hike on the rich and corporate Canada.

Freeland's document calls for about $52.9 billion in new spending over the next five years — a significant jump over what Ottawa had said it would spend in the fall economic statement released just a few months ago.

To offset some of that new spending, Freeland is pitching policy changes the government says will generate roughly $21.9 billion in new revenue. That money is to come in part from higher capital gains taxes and a hike to excise taxes on cigarettes and vaping products.

"We are making Canada's tax system more fair by ensuring that the very wealthiest pay their fair share," Freeland said Tuesday after tabling her budget in Parliament.

"We are doing this because a fair chance to build a good, middle class life — to do as well as your parents, and grandparents, or better — has always been the promise of Canada."

• 2024 federal budget's key takeaways: Housing and carbon rebates, students and sin taxes
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• Updated Federal budget's funding boost for defence spread out over multiple years

The result is a projected budget deficit of about $40 billion in the 2024-25 fiscal year — roughly what Freeland had predicted.

While the government is spending more overall, it says that better-than-expected economic growth and higher taxes will keep the deficit under control.

The Liberal government's preferred "fiscal anchor" — the budget benchmark that guides its decisions — has long been to keep the net debt-to-GDP ratio on a declining trend, with debt levels closely tracking the overall size of the economy.

The budget document says the government must meet that benchmark in the years ahead to retain Canada's triple-A credit rating.

Debt charges soar

Deficits eventually roll over into long-term debt. The cost to finance Canada's growing debt pile — which has more than doubled over the last nine years to $1.4 trillion — is eating up more and more taxpayer dollars as the government is forced to refinance its borrowing at higher rates.

Public debt charges will cost $2 billion more this year than the forecast in November as the Bank of Canada keeps rates relatively high to tame inflation — which has shown signs of slowing down.

• Liberals pledge $9B in new money for Indigenous communities in 2024 budget

With interest rates at a 20-year high, Ottawa's cost to borrow has spiked from $20.3 billion in 2020-21 to $54.1 billion in 2024-25.

That means Ottawa will spend more to service its debt than it will on health care this year — and the debt charges will march even higher in the years ahead.

Carrying the debt is expected to cost the federal treasury $64.3 billion in 2028-29 — more than double what Ottawa sends to the provinces through equalization payments.

"The interest rates are hurting the government just as much as they're hurting us consumers," said Sahir Khan, a former deputy parliamentary budget officer and the executive vice-president of the uOttawa Institute of Fiscal Studies and Democracy.

"It's now a meaningful amount relative to other spending pressures and it's going to start squeezing other programs. The government built up a stock of debt subject to prevailing interest rates and that creates a risk."

Billions more for housing

The budget allocates $8.5 billion more to housing to help alleviate a crisis that has locked a generation of young people out of the dream of home ownership. The government maintains its housing measures will drive the creation of roughly four million more homes by 2031.

New investment to lead 'housing revolution in Canada,' Freeland says

Freeland has freed up money to send more cash to municipalities through the Housing Accelerator Fund, build more homes on underused public lands and at Canada Post outlets, cut cheques for new water and solid waste infrastructure in growing communities , offer tens of billions of dollars in loans to spur new rental construction and secondary suites, and help non-profits acquire existing rental homes and keep them affordable.

"We are moving with purpose to help build more homes, faster. We are making life cost less," Freeland said. "Millennial and Gen Z Canadians, we want them to look forward to the future with a sense of anticipation, not angst."

The government also has committed to maintaining the already well-subscribed tax-free savings account , extending mortgage amortization terms and increasing the RRSP withdrawal limit for some first-home buyers, among other measures.

The housing program is a "home run," said Armine Yalnizyan, a progressive economist and the Atkinson Fellow on the Future of Workers.

Yalnizyan said Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre's early focus on housing hurt the Liberals' standing among some millennial voters.

Now, the Liberals are trying to reclaim some of those votes with an ambitious program which, if it's carried out as planned, will meaningfully increase the country's housing supply, she said.

"It's really an attempt to stop the Conservatives from eating their lunch," she said.

A tax hike on the rich

As Ottawa moves to remake the housing landscape, roll out a national dental care program and launch pharmacare , Freeland's budget includes a number of targeted tax hikes that it says will yield some $21.9 billion in new revenue over the next five years.

The biggest windfall will come from an increase to the capital gains inclusion rate.

Under the current regime, only 50 per cent of capital gains are taxable. If a taxpayer sells an asset like a cottage, an investment property, a stock or mutual fund for $100,000 more than they paid, they are taxed only on $50,000 of that profit.

With this new budget, the "inclusion rate" will increase from one-half to two-thirds on capital gains above $250,000 per year for individuals, and on all capital gains realized by corporations and trusts.

The move is likely to be seen by business-friendly groups as an attack on the people and businesses that create jobs.

Freeland said she anticipates some blowback.

"I know there will be many voices raised in protest. No one likes paying more tax, even — or perhaps particularly — those who can afford it the most," she said.

"Tax policy is not only, or chiefly, the province of accountants or economists. It belongs to all of us because it is how we decide what kind of country we want to live in and what kind of country we want to build."

The NDP — the government's partner in the supply-and-confidence agreement — likely will welcome the change; party leader Jagmeet Singh has said the wealthy and big corporations should shoulder more of the country's tax burden.

"We are asking the wealthiest Canadians to contribute a bit more, so that we can make investments to ensure a fair chance for every generation," the budget document says. "Canada's tax system can be more fair."

The change will not apply to any capital gains from the sale of a primary residence. Investment income earned in an RRSP or TFSA, including capital gains, also will not be taxed.

According to government data, only 0.13 per cent of Canadians — people with an average income of about $1.4 million a year — are expected to pay more in personal income tax on their capital gains as a result of this change.

Jimmy Jean, an economist at Desjardins who tracks Ottawa's spending, said the federal government's goal of collecting about $19 billion from the capital gains measure may be difficult to achieve.

"The jury's out on whether they can get that much," Jean said.

"Targeting the income and wealth of the wealthy — it's difficult because it's more mobile, they can move it around. I'm skeptical."

Other new revenue-generating measures in the budget include a promise to crack down on bankruptcy fraud and tackle "aggressive tax planning schemes."

Beyond housing, there's also a promise to top up the incentives for zero-emission vehicles, deliver a new carbon tax rebate for small businesses, stand up an $800-million energy efficiency retrofit program, increase student grants, create a $500-million fund for youth mental health , launch a $6 billion Canada Disability Benefit, fund a $1 billion national school food program and deliver a $900-million top-up to the Indigenous infrastructure program .

CBC/Radio-Canada will get a one-off $42 million budget boost for news and entertainment programming — a cash injection that will help the company avoid some of the previously announced layoffs .

VIA Rail Canada stands to gain about $400 million over the next few years to turn the dream of high-frequency rail in central Canada into a reality.

What's in the new federal budget?

Poilievre blasts budget, singh stays noncommittal.

Poilievre pilloried the budget and said his party would vote against it.

Speaking in the House of Commons, the Conservative leader said the Liberal government has never presented a balanced budget in all the years it's been in office and the promised $40 billion in new spending will drive inflation higher.

"This is the ninth deficit. The ninth deficit after the prime minister promised the budget would balance itself and what did he do with the money? Everything he spent it on has become more expensive," Poilievre said.

"This is like a pyromaniac spraying gas on the inflationary fire that he lit. It is getting too hot and too expensive for Canadians and that's why we need a carbon tax election to replace him with a common sense Conservative government."

Conservative leader rises in House of Commons to reject Liberal budget

Singh, meanwhile, said it's too early to say if his party will support the budget.

While he praised some measures he said his party forced the government to include, such as dental care, pharmacare and a national school food program, Singh said he wants to meet with Trudeau to raise some other "concerns" before making a final decision.

Singh said he's not onside with a plan to cut about 5,000 public servants through attrition — the federal bureaucracy has grown to about 357,247 workers under Trudeau — and he said there's inadequate funding for Indigenous peoples.

Liberals 'ignored opportunity' in budget to tackle corporate greed, NDP says

If Singh and his NDP MPs withhold their votes, the minority government could lose the confidence of the House of Commons, tipping the country into an early election.

While the capital gains tax increase will cost the country's big businesses billions more than what they pay now, Singh said "the Liberals ignored the opportunity to take on corporate greed."

Singh said the companies he blames for inflation — grocery store chains, telecommunications companies and "housing and corporate landlords" — should have faced tax hikes.

Green Party Leader Elizabeth May said her caucus will vote against Freeland's budget.

She said the government's planned disability benefit, which amounts to about $200 a month for eligible Canadians, is too low.

May also said there's not enough money earmarked for social housing — just more loans for developers to build more affordable homes.

"The budget falls far short of our hopes," May said. "It's not meeting the moment. We need dramatic, transformative changes to our society to be able to afford the things we need."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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J.P. Tasker is a journalist in CBC's parliamentary bureau who reports for digital, radio and television. He is also a regular panellist on CBC News Network's Power & Politics. He covers the Conservative Party, Canada-U.S. relations, Crown-Indigenous affairs, climate change, health policy and the Senate. You can send story ideas and tips to J.P. at [email protected].

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New York State Senator John C. Liu

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( D ) 16th Senate District

Legislators announce language defining squatter in state housing law included in FY25 state budget

John C. Liu

April 23, 2024

• State budget
• Senator Liu
• Housing Law

File press-release-2024-04-22-squatter.pdf

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  Monday, April 22, 2024 Contact: Soojin Choi |347-556-6335| [email protected] 

Albany, NY –  State Senator John Liu, Assembly Member Ron Kim and Queens legislators today announced that the final FY2025 state budget includes language that defines squatter in state housing law. The language was derived from legislation introduced by Senator Liu and Assembly Member Ron Kim,  S8996 /  A9772 , following recent reports of squatters who take over private property.

The definition updates New York State real property law to read that “a tenant shall not include a squatter,” and further define squatter as “a person who enters or intrudes upon real property without the permission of the person entitled to possession, and continues to occupy the property without title, right or permission of the owner or owner’s agent or a person entitled to possession.” 

Including this definition in real property law will help distinguish legal renters from those who unlawfully intrude or take over property. It establishes that squatters are not tenants and therefore not subject to tenant rights or protections after 30 days.

State Senator John Liu stated, “It was important that we acted with urgency to send a strong message to squatters who take over private homes that they are not welcome in our community. Scam artists who intrude on others’ homes should not have rights as tenants in state housing law, and this inclusion in the budget codifies that in simple, straightforward language. Defining squatter is an important step forward, and we will continue examining even stronger measures to protect homeowners without inadvertently putting renters at risk.”

State Assembly Member Ron Kim  stated, "Our state needed stronger protections for law abiding property owners who are being victimized by squatters. Our new law defines these terms more precisely. Any occupant who unlawfully resides in a property owner's home will be more easily removed. I want to thank colleagues in the legislature for moving expeditiously on this new law"

State Assembly Member Ed Braunstein stated, “New York State homeowners have been put on edge by the recent reports of people returning to their properties and finding squatters, only to discover that the squatters cannot be removed without a lengthy and costly eviction proceeding. Trespassing individuals in these situations are abusing a law meant to protect lawful tenants and they absolutely should not be afforded the same rights and protections. I was proud to co-sponsor this bill, which sought to close this loophole and protect New York homeowners from these unlawful opportunists. I am pleased that this clarifying language was included in this year’s state budget.”

State Assembly Member Nily Rozic  stated, “ Today signifies an important step forward as we include language defining 'squatters' in the state budget. This measure will help safeguard property rights and ensure the well-being of our communities. Thank you to my colleagues for their collective efforts to address squatting issues across New York."

State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky  stated, “I want to thank my colleagues in the legislature for supporting this bill, which I cosponsored. A problem was brought to our attention, and we got positive results.”

State Senator Leroy Comrie  stated, "The state legislature took a hard stance against squatters who twist existing loopholes through acts that would, by any other circumstance, constitute theft. This change to the law is desperately needed, amongst our Queens residents, especially our seniors and homeowners, who have been living in fear and confusion as to how the law could possibly allow for such abuses. I am proud to stand with my colleagues to resolve this matter and hope for this bill’s swift passage.”

State Senator Roxanne J Persaud  stated,  “Squatters have jeopardized the livelihood of homeowners far too long. By passing this legislation in the budget, the rights and protections of legal renters will be clearly defined and those who take advantage will be legally held accountable. This law seeks to protect the hard earned assets of property owners and allows them to further secure their economic stability."

State Assembly Member Grace Lee  stated, “In this year’s budget, we are making it clear that if you are illegally occupying someone’s property, you are a squatter, not a tenant. Squatters do not have the same rights and protections as lawful tenants and by clarifying this distinction, we can better protect small landlords in our communities. I was proud to be a prime co-sponsor for this bill and to fight with my colleagues to get it passed in this year’s budget.”

                                                               ###

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State Sen. John Liu on budget deadline, mayoral control of NYC schools

April 15, 2024

Liu, Kim introduce legislation defining squatter in NYS housing law

April 10, 2024

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April 9, 2024

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Harvey weinstein accuser hopes to see him retried on rape charge.

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Harvey Weinstein accuser Ambra Battilana Gutierrez hopes to finally have her day in a Manhattan court.

The 31-year-old former model and actress worked with the NYPD to catch the “Pulp Fiction” producer on a wire admitting he sexually assaulted her back in 2015, during a casting call at his SoHo office.

Her efforts helped propel the case by countering the defense’s argument that the sexual encounters were consensual.

The case spurred the #MeToo movement.

She still remembers what happened like it was yesterday.

“It was about 5 p.m. in late February of 2015,” she told The Post. “I was 22 years old and then like five minutes into our conversation he just grabbed my breast.”

The powerful producer tried to kiss her and “was putting his hands on me,” she alleged.

“It was just crazy because I was in a safe place, just outside people were working at their desks and he’s literally a sick person,” she said.

She was never called to the stand when then-Manhattan District Attorney Cyrus Vance won a rape conviction against Weinstein in 2020.

But she may have another chance after a jury overturned the conviction Thursday.

Now, she’d like to see Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg retry the case and give her a chance to be heard.

“This case needs to be retried,” she said. “We have to stop these people who think they have so much power they can do these things.”

In overturning the decision, the court determined prosecutors had prejudiced the jury by allowing them to hear about cases not directly connected to the charges.

Guttierez, who testified against Weinstein in Los Angeles where he is serving a 16-year sentence on a rape conviction, is upset he was able to go on to assault women after her.

“I see what he’s done after me and that’s what makes me very angry,” she said. “I’m really annoyed and upset about the handling by the DA back in 2015. Hopefully, this time, it’s just gonna go on the right way.”

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