Greenland Travel Guide
Venture to the end of the world and back again with our comprehensive travel guide to Greenland. This captivating Arctic wonderland is a treasure trove of natural beauty, with majestic icebergs, stunning fjords, and the magical spectacle of the Northern Lights.
With its unique culture and welcoming locals, Greenland offers a travel experience that’s out of this world. Let our guide help you discover the diverse landscapes and rich history that make this island a truly unforgettable destination.
Quick Info
Capital city: Nuuk
Currency: Danish Krone (DKK) – 1 USD = 6.77 DKK.
Electricity: Power voltage is 230 Volts. Power sockets type C, F, E, and K.
Languages: The main language is Greenlandic. People also speak Danish and English, but mostly in the largest urban areas.
Fun fact: Despite its name, over 80% of Greenland is covered by an ice cap.
10 Handpicked Highlights of Greenland
Bay of Disko
The Disko Bay area is one of Greenland’s most popular destinations, and it’s not hard to see why. The bay is known for its breathtakingly large and beautiful icebergs, which are best observed from a boat tour. Whale watching is another highlight in this region, where you might spot majestic humpback whales, especially in summer.
The town of Ilulissat, located on the bay, is the third largest town in Greenland and is home to the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a dog sledding tour in winter for an unforgettable experience or explore the area’s hiking trails to witness the colossal icebergs and impressive glaciers up close.
Nuuk
As the capital and largest city of Greenland, Nuuk is a vibrant urban center set against a backdrop of wilderness. The city provides a fascinating insight into modern Greenlandic culture, housing the Greenland National Museum and Archives, which boasts an extensive collection of historical artifacts and exhibits.
Outdoor lovers will revel in the city’s surrounding natural beauty. Hike the nearby Lille Malene and Store Malene mountains, kayak in the neighboring fjords, or watch for humpback whales off the coast. Nuuk offers a unique blend of urban life and wilderness adventure, making it a must-see destination.
Northern Lights in Kangerlussuaq
Kangerlussuaq, a small town in Western Greenland, offers some of the best opportunities to view the stunning Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights. The town, located just north of the Arctic Circle, boasts clear skies for more than 300 days a year, making it an ideal spot for Northern Lights viewing.
Winter nights in Kangerlussuaq are incredibly dark and clear, providing the perfect canvas for the Northern Lights’ spectacular display. However, witnessing this natural spectacle is not the only highlight here. Kangerlussuaq is also the gateway to the vast Greenland Ice Sheet, a monumental ice expanse that offers an otherworldly landscape.
Thule Region
Located in the far north of Greenland, the Thule region is home to some of the most remote and fascinating landscapes on earth. This region is rich in Inuit history and culture, with archaeological sites that offer insights into ancient ways of life.
The Thule region is a land of extreme weather and stark beauty, from frozen sea ice to towering cliffs and glaciers. Here, you can visit traditional Inuit communities, witness the Midnight Sun in the summer, or marvel at the magical Northern Lights in the winter. It’s a place of true wilderness and a testament to human resilience.
Sermeq Kujalleq Glacier
Sermeq Kujalleq, also known as the Jakobshavn Glacier, is one of the fastest and most active glaciers in the world. Located near Ilulissat, this glacier is a significant contributor to the Ilulissat Icefjord’s icebergs and a critical site for understanding global climate change.
Visitors can take a boat tour to get close to the glacier and witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of its ice calving into the fjord. The combination of the vast ice expanse and the thunderous sound of ice breaking away is a sensory experience that perfectly illustrates the raw power and beauty of nature.
East Greenland’s Ammassalik Island
Ammassalik Island in East Greenland is a region marked by dramatic fjords, towering mountains, and small settlements that remain largely isolated from the rest of the world. The main town, Tasiilaq, is an ideal base for exploring the island’s rugged terrain.
Winter offers opportunities for dog sledding and Northern Lights viewing, while summer is perfect for hiking and kayaking amid icebergs. A visit to Ammassalik Museum provides insight into the traditional Greenlandic way of life. It’s a destination that promises adventure and cultural discovery in an unspoiled Arctic landscape.
Uunartoq Hot Springs
For an unusual and relaxing experience, head to the Uunartoq Hot Springs in Southern Greenland. This natural hot spring maintains a consistent temperature of 38 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit), perfect for a soothing soak amidst the chilly Arctic air.
The hot springs are set on a small, uninhabited island, surrounded by icebergs and snow-capped mountains, offering stunning views as you bathe. It’s an activity that truly encapsulates the unexpected contrasts of Greenland and provides a unique opportunity to unwind in one of the world’s most remote corners.
Qaqortoq
Qaqortoq, the largest town in Southern Greenland, is known for its colourful houses and charming harbour. This town boasts a rich history, showcased in its museum that houses collections of Greenlandic artefacts and artworks. The charming town square hosts Greenland’s oldest fountain, adorned with whale sculptures.
Beyond its cultural attractions, Qaqortoq is a hub for outdoor activities. From here, you can embark on boat trips to see seals and icebergs, take hikes to nearby fjords and valleys, or visit the hot springs at Uunartoq. The combination of cultural richness and natural beauty makes Qaqortoq a standout destination.
Scoresby Sund
Scoresby Sund, located in Eastern Greenland, is the world’s largest fjord system. This natural wonder offers dramatic landscapes featuring towering mountain peaks, massive glaciers, and deep, narrow channels. The fjord’s isolated nature supports a variety of Arctic wildlife, including seals, reindeer, and Arctic foxes.
A cruise through Scoresby Sund offers spectacular sights, including the spectacular icebergs that calve off the area’s many glaciers. In the summer, the midnight sun casts an ethereal glow over the landscape, while winter brings the chance to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. An exploration of Scoresby Sund is a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of Greenland.
National Park of Greenland
Spanning the northeastern part of the country, the National Park of Greenland is the world’s largest national park. This vast wilderness area is home to a range of Arctic wildlife, including polar bears, walruses, and different species of seals and birds. However, access to this remote park is restricted and requires permission from the Greenland government.
Despite its remote location and limited accessibility, the park offers the ultimate wilderness experience for adventure seekers. Its dramatic landscapes of ice caps, mountains, and fjords provide a truly awe-inspiring backdrop. For those who gain access, the National Park of Greenland offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness Arctic wildlife and landscapes in their most pristine state.
Greenland's Geography & Landscapes
Greenland, the world’s largest island, offers a diverse range of geographical and landscape features. Here are a few key highlights:
- Ice Sheet: Covering about 80% of the island, the Greenland Ice Sheet is the second-largest body of ice in the world. It presents a harsh, otherworldly terrain that has a profound impact on global sea levels.
- Coastal Regions: Most of Greenland’s population lives along the ice-free coastal areas, with fjords, mountains, and valleys offering a stunning backdrop.
- Glaciers: Greenland is home to some of the world’s most active glaciers, including the Sermeq Kujalleq at Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Mountain Ranges: Greenland features several mountain ranges, with the highest peak, Mt. Gunnbjørn, standing at 3,694 meters.
- Fjords: The country’s coastline is deeply indented with fjords, with Scoresby Sund being the largest fjord system in the world.
- Flora and Fauna: Despite the harsh conditions, various animal species like musk oxen, polar bears, reindeer, and Arctic foxes can be found here. Plant life, although limited, bursts with color during the short summer.
Best Time To Go To Greenland
Greenland’s climate varies dramatically depending on the season and location:
- Winter (November – March): During these months, temperatures can plunge below freezing, and the country experiences its famous Polar Nights. However, it’s the best time for viewing the Northern Lights.
- Spring (April – June): This season sees longer daylight hours and melting snow, offering opportunities for dog sledding and skiing. The Midnight Sun can be observed in the northern parts from late April.
- Summer (July – August): This is the warmest period, with temperatures reaching up to 10°C in some places. The ice sheet and sea ice melt, opening up the fjords and seas for boat tours, kayaking, and hiking opportunities. The Midnight Sun can be observed in the southern parts during this period.
- Autumn (September – October): The temperatures begin to drop, and the landscapes turn vibrant hues. It’s a great time for trekking and spotting wildlife, including musk oxen and reindeer. The Northern Lights also start to become visible again.
Traveling in Greenland
Staying Safe
Greenland is generally a safe country for travelers, but due to its remote location and challenging environment, it’s essential to take precautions:
Greenland is generally a safe country for travelers, but due to its remote location and challenging environment, it’s essential to take precautions:
- Prepare for the Weather: Greenland’s weather can be extreme and unpredictable. Always dress appropriately in layers and pack for sudden changes in weather.
- Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from all wildlife including polar bears and musk oxen. Never attempt to feed or interact with them.
- Stay Hydrated: Dry air is common in Greenland. Carry a reusable water bottle and drink regularly to stay hydrated.
- Travel in Groups: Due to the remote wilderness, always travel in groups and let someone know your plans and routes.
- Hire a Local Guide: Local guides know the terrain and can keep you safe. This is especially important when hiking or venturing onto the ice.
- Carry a First Aid Kit: Pack a first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and any necessary prescription medicines.
- Protect Your Skin: Use sunblock to protect your skin from the strong UV rays, especially when the sun is reflecting off the ice and snow.
- Understand the Risks: Before undertaking activities like dog sledding, ice fishing, or boating, ensure you understand the risks and have the necessary safety equipment.
- Stay Updated: Keep up-to-date with the local weather forecast and be prepared to change your plans accordingly.
- Follow Local Advice: Always heed local advice, especially regarding safety measures, routes, and weather conditions.
Getting to & Around Greenland
Getting to Greenland typically involves a flight to Kangerlussuaq Airport or Narsarsuaq Airport from Denmark or Iceland. Once in Greenland, the primary modes of transportation are by air and sea:
- Air Travel: Air Greenland operates regular flights between towns, with helicopter services to more remote locations.
- Boats: In summer, boats are a common way to get around, with Disko Line offering services along the west coast.
- Dogsledding: In winter, dogsledding is a traditional and popular mode of transport, especially in the north and east.
- Hiking: Greenland’s vast landscapes also make it perfect for trekking, but always be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Greenland ranges from modern hotels in larger towns like Nuuk and Ilulissat, to guesthouses and hostels in smaller communities. Some places also offer home stays for a more authentic experience.
Camping is allowed in most places, but do remember to respect nature and the local guidelines.
Prices can vary greatly depending on the location and time of year, but due to Greenland’s remoteness, accommodation can be pricier compared to other destinations.
Most places offer comfortable amenities, though luxury is limited. Advanced booking is recommended, especially during the summer months.
