greenland travel guide

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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.

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Destinations in Greenland

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

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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

Must-see attractions.

The Southern Fjords

Astonishingly grand spires of granite soar straight out of Greenland's southernmost fjords like the teeth of an interplanetary crocodile. Climbers rate…

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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Greenland and beyond

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

• 3 Other destinations
• 4.1 Location
• 4.2 Climate
• 4.3 Visitor information
• 6.1 Passports and visas
• 6.2 Expedition permits
• 6.3 By plane
• 6.4 By boat
• 7 Get around
• 9.2 Driving a dog-sled
• 9.3 Kayaking
• 9.4 Mountaineering
• 10.2 Shopping
• 10.3 Supermarkets
• 16 Stay safe
• 17 Stay healthy
• 18.1.1 Newspapers
• 18.1.2 Radio
• 18.1.3 Television
• 20.1 Phones
• 20.2 Internet

Greenland ( Greenlandic : Kalaallit Nunaat ; Danish : Grønland ) is the world's largest non-continental island, in the Arctic far north-east of North America . For thousands of years this icy landmass has been inhabited by Arctic peoples. In the 10th century, it was settled by Vikings (or at least a small part of it was), and to this day it is part of the Danish Realm.

Regions [ edit ]

Cities [ edit ]

Greenlandic places generally have two names: the (traditional and now official) Greenlandic , or Kalaallisut , and the (no longer official) Danish. Greenlandic is abbreviated 'kl;' Danish is 'da.'

• 64.175 -51.738889 1 Nuuk (da: Godthåb ) – the capital
• 70.485278 -21.966667 2 Ittoqqortoormiit (da: Scoresbysund ) – settlement in the sparsely populated eastern Greenland
• 67.008611 -50.689167 3 Kangerlussuaq (da: Søndre Strømfjord ) – known for research facilities and the former US Bluie West Eight base; comparably mild weather, while the glacier is in easy reach; good site for viewing the northern lights .
• 65.575278 -37.183333 4 Kulusuk (da: Kap Dan ) – one of the largest towns in Eastern Greenland
• 77.466667 -69.230556 5 Qaanaaq (da: Thule ) – one of the world's northernmost civilian settlements, with a U.S. airbase
• 66.938889 -53.672222 6 Sisimiut (da: Holsteinsborg ) – second largest city
• 65.613611 -37.631111 7 Tasiilaq (also Amassalik, for its municipality and the island it is on) – the largest city in Eastern Greenland
• 72.786944 -56.147222 8 Upernavik – unique wildlife, the largest bird cliff (Apparsuit)
• 70.674722 -52.126389 9 Uummannaq – whale watchers' paradise

Other destinations [ edit ]

• 76 -30 1 Northeast Greenland National Park – the largest natural reserve in the world. There are no towns or settlements, only a couple of weather stations. The coast of this area is accessible on cruise expeditions.

Understand [ edit ]

According to the Icelandic Sagas, Erik the Red chose the name " Green land" to entice settlers from Iceland . In fact, Greenland has far more ice cover (about 84% of its surface area) than Ice land does, but the southern coasts the Vikings settled are green in summer, and were likely more so during the Medieval Warm Period.

Be careful with maps of Greenland, as many Greenlandic names simply reference a particular geographical feature. For example, "Kangerlussuaq" means "Big Fjord" and so is not only the Greenlandic name for Søndre Strømfjord.

When visiting a city or village, don't be afraid to ask for directions of shops, places to eat or somewhere to sleep, even if you think there might not be any. Most places (even Nuuk ) are small enough for everyone to know where everything is, and therefore no one bothered to put up a sign. Don't be surprised to find a fully equipped supermarket inside a grey factory-like building in the middle of nowhere.

Politically, Greenland is a member of the Nordic Council and still part of the Kingdom of Denmark , though it was granted self-government in 1979. In 2008, it voted for more autonomy, in effect making it a separate country with formal ties to Denmark. Some inhabitants are now projecting the eventual road to full independence. Copenhagen remains responsible for its foreign affairs and defence, and is a source of investment.

Location [ edit ]

Although some projections of the globe (including the common Mercator) make Greenland look as big as Africa, (geographers call this "the Greenland problem") it is actually about the size of Mexico . Greenland has the lowest population density among autonomous entities.

Greenland accounts for 97% of the area of the Kingdom of Denmark, which encompasses metropolitan Denmark, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands . The Danish territorial claim is rooted in the 10th-century explorations of the Vikings, though administrative power has changed hands several times over the centuries due to developments in Europe. The native Greenlanders , or Kalaallit , are Inuit descendants of nomads from northern Canada.

Climate [ edit ]

Although all of Greenland is known for being cold, different parts of Greenland have significantly different temperatures. For example, parts of Southern Greenland , have in the past reached 86 °F (30 °C); meanwhile, temperatures in the high central plateau and far north of Greenland can get as low as −87 °F (−66 °C).

Coastal regions on the northern half of Greenland experience winter temperatures similar to or slightly warmer than the Canadian Archipelago, with average January temperatures of −30 °C to −25 °C (−22 °F to −13 °F). The coastal regions in the southern part of the island are influenced more by open ocean water and by frequent passage of cyclones, both of which help to keep the temperature there from being as low as in the north. As a result of these influences, the average temperature in these areas in January is considerably higher.

The interior ice sheet escapes much of the influence of heat transfer from the ocean or from cyclones, and its high elevation also acts to give it a colder climate since temperatures tend to decrease with elevation. Snow cover, combined with the ice sheet's elevation, keep temperatures on the ice sheet lower, with July averages between −12 °C and 0 °C (10 °F and 32 °F).

In summer, the coastal regions of Greenland experience temperatures averaging just a few degrees above freezing in July, with slightly higher temperatures in the south and west than in the north and east. Along the coast, temperatures are kept from varying too much by the moderating influence of the nearby water or melting sea ice. Temperatures above 20 °C are rare but do sometimes occur in the far south and south-west coastal areas.

Visitor information [ edit ]

• visitgreenland.com

Talk [ edit ]

The official language, Greenlandic (Kalaallisut) , is that of the more populated western coast. The eastern dialect is slightly different. Both are highly challenging languages to learn, as words are very long and often feature "swallowed" consonants; try uteqqipugut or Ittoqqortoormiit . Though you won’t be able to quickly pick up the language on a visit in the way that you might for Danish, Greenlandic words may come in handy for visitors wanting to experience the "real Greenland".

Almost all Greenlanders are bilingual with Danish , and in urban areas like Nuuk there are many first-language Danish speakers, and many also have a functional command of English. However, English proficiency in rural areas and villages is rare, so it is best to learn some Danish for exploring these areas.

Greenlandic is sufficiently different from Inuktitut, the language of the Canadian Inuit who share similar historical roots to the Greenlanders, that the two peoples have difficulty understanding each other. However, attempts are being made to unify the Inuit language, and Greenlandic – with its existing libraries of translated Shakespeare and Pushkin – seems the most useful option.

Get in [ edit ]

Passports and visas [ edit ].

Although part of the Kingdom of Denmark, Greenland is neither part of the European Union nor the Schengen Area . Everybody but citizens of the Nordic countries needs their passport, and even Danish residents may need an entry permit.

If you do not need a visa for Denmark, you can generally visit Greenland for up to 90 days without a visa, although your passport must be valid for at least three months after your visit.

Nordic citizens (Danish, Finnish, Icelandic, Norwegian and Swedish) do not need visas for any length of stay, do not need working permits, and can use any form of identity documentation to enter. However, your transport may require a passport or formal ID stating your citizenship, and if your transport is diverted in bad weather, you may need a passport for e.g. Scotland. Foreign residents of Denmark need to apply for an entry permit instead of a visa.

If you do require a visa for Denmark, Schengen area visas for mainland Denmark are not valid for Greenland. You will need a separate visa , which can be applied for at any Danish diplomatic post or embassy along with your Schengen visa for Denmark or Iceland if you are transiting through one of those countries. If you are flying through Nunavut, you would need a Canadian temporary resident or transit visa.

If you're planning work or study in Greenland, you'll need an appropriate permit, although some types of work (teaching, consulting, artists, installation technicians, and a few others) as well as short term research are exempt from needing a work or study permit if the time spent in Greenland is less than 90 days. For Nordic citizens, see above.

There is no border control on entering or leaving Greenland – all document checks are performed by the airline during check-in and at the gate. Thus, if you need your passport stamped (e.g. for a residence permit) you will normally have to seek out border staff yourself or get in touch with Greenland Homerule to obtain the stamp.

Expedition permits [ edit ]

If you stay on the typical tourist paths you do not need any permissions, but any expeditions (including any trips to the national park , which by definition are expeditions) need a special permit from the Danish polar centre. If travelling with an agency they will usually take care of the paperwork. If you are entering or travelling through Thule Air Base , you also need a permission from the Danish department of foreign affairs, since it is a US military area (except for children under 15, Danish police and military, US military or US diplomats). See Qaanaaq for details.

By plane [ edit ]

Trans-oceanic service to Greenland either lands at 67.011 -50.717 1 Kangerlussuaq ( SFJ  IATA ) (Danish: Søndre Strømfjord, English: Sondrestrom), or 61.1588 -45.4255 2 Narsarsuaq ( UAK  IATA ), the only airports in the country that can accept anything larger than a turboprop. These two airports are in unpopulated areas without road connection, and almost every passenger continues with local flights, helicopters or boats.

The capital 64.193 -51.676 3 Nuuk ( GOH  IATA ) receives some international services from Iceland each summer.

Except on the Reykjavík-Nuuk route, where there is some competition (Air Greenland and Icelandair), getting to Greenland is expensive , although sometimes travel agents are able to get discounts through agreements with Greenland Tourism.

Air Greenland , the flag carrier, offers several options for reaching Greenland. They only sell tickets through their own website and travel agents. Fares are not advertised on any consolidator website. Despite minority ownership by SAS, Air Greenland is not part of the Star Alliance network, nor does it have codeshares through SAS or any other major carrier. Interlining baggage and a single reservation may be possible: consult a travel agent.

• Year-round, a daily return between Copenhagen Airport and Kangerlussuaq , with a second daily return in the summer season contracted out to Danish carrier JetTime. From Kangerlussaq, you can reach any other city or settlement in the country, including the capital Nuuk, through Air Greenland's domestic network.
• Seasonally, several departures each week between Copenhagen and Narsarsuaq, operated by JetTime.
• June to September, two weekly returns from Keflavik Airport in Iceland (Icelandair's hub) to Nuuk and Narsarsuaq. With plenty of flights between Iceland and the United States, this is by far the easiest way to get to Greenland from North America. It's also the most affordable as it's the only route Air Greenland has any competition on.

The flights to Greenland typically leave in the morning and flights to Iceland in the afternoon. This means together with the transfer time that a night's sleep is probably needed in Iceland. If you are in Iceland, a popular day excursion is to fly from Reykjavík to Kulusuk , where traditional handicrafts are on sale, before returning to the comparative comforts of Iceland.

• Year-round flights from Reykjavík city airport to Kulusuk , Ittoqqortoormiit and Nuuk and additionally to Narsarsuaq and Ilulissat during the summer months.

There are also many charter outfits serving Greenland from Europe and mainland North America, and if you're on a package tour to Greenland from the rest of North America, a chartered flight is frequently included. Scientific and technical personnel travelling from North America for research purposes typically fly into Kangerlussuaq aboard New York Air National Guard C-130s.

Greenland's airports are private aviation-friendly if the weather is right. The name of Greenland's airport service is Mittarfeqarfiit.

By boat [ edit ]

Realistically, there is no ferry service from Europe or the rest of North America. Royal Arctic Line is the national freight operator, but they don't take passengers to or from Greenland.

There are cruise ships from both continents that visit Greenland:

• Hurtigruten , has cruises from or to Iceland.
• AdventureSmith Explorations - Expedition cruise wholesaler with over 30 small ship cruises to Greenland.

By car [ edit ]

It is possible to transport a car as container cargo. Royal Arctic Line transports containers and other goods from Aalborg. This is however very expensive (kr 30,000 return) and time consuming and considering there are no roads between settlements, this is done only when moving or buying a car, not by visitors.

Get around [ edit ]

There is no road or rail system. The easiest way to get around Greenland is by plane, particularly Air Greenland. In the summer, Arctic Umiaq Line passenger ships provide service to destinations between Narsarsuaq and Uummannaq along the west coast. Royal Arctic Line can take passengers on local routes.

See [ edit ]

• Icebergs and glaciers (especially the Ilulissat Icefjord)
• Animal life - Whales, seals, walruses, musk oxen, reindeer/caribou and polar bears; see North American wildlife .
• The midnight sun - In the northern 2/3 of Greenland, the sun stays above the horizon for days or even several weeks in the summer. In the remainder, the weeks around the summer solstice (21 June, a national holiday) see the sun dip below the horizon for only a short while each night, with the sky never getting truly dark. (Of course the reverse is true in the winter.)

Do [ edit ]

Hiking [ edit ]

You can freely hike near most settlements in Greenland as there is no property ownership anywhere in the country. Do go off the few small walking paths that exist. You will easily find yourself in offbeat locales, and wonder if you are perhaps the first person to ever stand in that particular spot. This rare sensation is by far the best reason to travel in Greenland.

Hiking does require permits in some cases, though. The government requires expedition permits [dead link] for all traffic on the glacier, in the Greenland National Park and East Greenland except areas around Illoqqortoormiut and Tasiilaq. There is a non-refundable application fee of kr 4000 for the expedition permit.

There are hiking trails or trail networks in some parts of Greenland. The longest and the most famous is the Arctic Circle Trail, which spans 167 km from Kangerlussuaq to Sisimiut, is well marked and frequented by 600-1000 hikers annually. Hikers typically complete it in 7-11 days.

Nuuk is connected with Kapissilit by a trail which is not marked but frequented by a considerable number of hikers, typically in 5/7 days, 103 km.

In Southern Greenland the settlements of Narsarsuaq, Quassiarsuk and Nasaq can be linked by a hike, partially on gravel roads and paths, approx 80 km in total.

Driving a dog-sled [ edit ]

Kayaking [ edit ], mountaineering [ edit ].

As with hiking, you need permits for some destinations. The peaks in the western part of Greenland and especially those nearby towns do not require any permits, and often have a path leading to the top. The helicopters on Greenland are not equipped for mountain rescue.

Buy [ edit ]

Money [ edit ].

Like the rest of the Kingdom of Denmark, the official currency is the Danish krone (plural, kroner ), denoted by the abbreviation " kr " (ISO code: DKK ). Icelandic króna, euros, and Canadian dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist areas (but always check first), exchange other major currencies (such as pounds sterling, Swiss francs or U.S. dollars) for kroner at any bank or post office for a minimal charge.

Shopping [ edit ]

Greenland is largely a cash economy. With improvements to the infrastructure over the past few decades, the number of merchants accepting credit or debit cards are steadily growing, although many still do not. As a general rule, apart from hotels or mainland chains with a presence on the island (e.g. supermarkets) don't expect that credit cards are accepted: carry some cash as a backup. Every settlement has at least one ATM and if all else fails, banks may be able to give you a cash advance from your credit card.

Tourists to Greenland sometimes buy:

• Inuit art and crafts
• Sealskin - which the Great Greenland fur company has fashioned into everything from coats to thick belts to purses and pencil cases.
• Duty-free - most flights land at Kangerlussuaq, one of those lovely places on earth where you can buy duty-free after landing. Stock up on cheap booze, smokes and everything else at prices far lower than the rest of Greenland. Greenland is not a member of the EU , so although you may be travelling from Denmark, the custom rules are the same as for a trip out of the EU.

Supermarkets [ edit ]

• Pilersuisoq - Chain of larger supermarkets usually found in small villages. Has a little bit of everything.
• Pisiffik - Chain of larger supermarkets present in the cities.
• Spar - Dutch supermarket chain with a few shops in Greenland.
• Brugsen - Danish supermarket chain with a few shops in Greenland.

Eat [ edit ]

Food in Greenland is generally not that different from American or continental European tastes. Restaurants carry typical European fare. Local food can be purchased at local markets in each town. Many Greenlandic restaurants combine traditional foods (locally-caught fish, shrimp, whales and seals; also muskox and reindeer) with more familiar dishes. Expect to find whale meat at a Thai restaurant and caribou in a Chinese one. Nuuk also has several burger bars and a couple of very high-end restaurants, most notably Nipisa, which specializes in (very expensive) local delicacies. Prices are high everywhere, but servings are generally large, especially with fries.

Vegetables are expensive and therefore not very common.

Drink [ edit ]

A local speciality is Greenlandic coffee. Its creation in some places is a performance and it hits hard: it's coffee laced with liberal amounts of kahlua, whisky and Grand Marnier. One of the best places to buy is at the Sukhumvit Thai Restaurant, for about Canadian $22.

Sleep [ edit ]

Accommodation in Greenland tends to be pricey, world class hotels exist in all of the more visited areas (Hotel Hans Egede in Nuuk, Hotel Arctic - with its igloo rooms - and Hotel Hvide Falke in Ilulissat), but cheaper options exist. Try for the Seaman's Home hotel in Maniitsoq, Nuuk, Qaqortoq, Sisimiut and Aasiaat.

For less expensive options, you can check with the Nuuk Tourism office for its hostel program, where locals have rooms they will rent out for a third the price of the town's hotels. It's a great way to experience the real Greenland, although knowing a few words of Danish or Greenlandic is very helpful as your hosts may or may not understand English. You can also camp in any field or plain for free if you're equipped to handle the elements.

Learn [ edit ]

Work [ edit ].

Skilled workers (K-12 teachers and doctors in particular) are always needed, knowledge of Danish or Greenlandic (preferably both) are necessary, although the University of Greenland in Nuuk does offer some programs in English. Foreigners, including most EU/EEA nationals (Greenland is not part of the EU/EEA) require a work permit in advance, which needs to be vetted and approved both by the Danish immigration authorities and the Government of Greenland. Only citizens of the Nordic countries are exempt. Certain types of short-term work (teaching, performing, installation technicians, construction, among others) for less than 90 days does not require a work permit, nor does short-term research. See this page .

If you have residency (permanent or temporary) in Denmark, you do not have any automatic immigration privileges in Greenland, although you can visit for up to 90 days without a visa even if you are a citizen of a country that would normally require one. Under Danish immigration law, time spent in Greenland is considered time outside of Denmark for residence permit purposes, and a long visit or work assignment in Greenland (i.e. 6 months or more) could cause your permit to lapse. Contact the immigration department if this may apply to you. (For purposes of applying for Danish citizenship, time spent in Greenland fully counts as it is part of the Kingdom of Denmark.)

Stay safe [ edit ]

Crime , and ill-will toward foreigners in general, is virtually unknown in Greenland. Even in the towns, there are no "rough areas." So long as you use basic common sense and etiquette, you should be fine.

Cold weather is perhaps the only real danger the unprepared will face. If you visit Greenland during cold seasons (considering that the further north you go, the colder it will be), it is essential to bring warm enough clothing.

Stay healthy [ edit ]

The very long days in the summer can lead to problems getting sufficient sleep and associated health issues.

During the summer, also watch out for the Nordic mosquitoes . Although they do not transmit any diseases, they can be irritating.

The availability of emergency health care is limited in smaller communities. Evacuation by helicopter or airplane might be needed. This is quite expensive, so make sure you have travel appropriate insurance.

Tap water is drinkable.

Cope [ edit ]

Media [ edit ], newspapers [ edit ].

• Sermitsiaq (in Danish and Greenlandic)

Radio [ edit ]

• Kalaallit Nunaata Radioa ( Radio Greenland ) broadcasts one national radio station with a wide variety of news, music, cultural, and entertainment programs, primarily in Kalaallisut (Greenlandic) but some features (particularly news) are also in Danish.
• In Nuuk only, a second frequency re-broadcasts Danmarks Radio from Copenhagen.

Television [ edit ]

• Kalaallit Nunaata Radioa broadcasts KNR TV nationwide, with a similarly broad selection of programs in both Greenlandic and Danish.
• Many settlements have a secondary commercial television station, such as Nuuk TV and Sisimiut TV with locally produced news, current affairs and entertainment programs.
• Nuuk TV also offers Nuuk TV Digital an encrypted over the air digital network available by subscription. 40 channels are available, comprised of Danish terrestrial networks (DR Television), Canal+ film channels, and several Danish and international cable networks, such as CNN and Discovery. Some channels on Nuuk TV digital are in English.
• Terrestrial TV networks do not broadcast around the clock. KNR Television has a breakfast news program from 06:00-11:00, closes down until 16:00 and then signs back on for the evening program until 00:00 or 01:00, hours are expanded slightly on weekends and may be expanded further for football or other sports coverage. The local commercial stations only broadcast in the evening. Nuuk TV Digital is on the air 24 hours a day.

Respect [ edit ]

Although Greenlanders used to be commonly known as "Eskimos", the term is today considered to be a racist slur in Greenland and should never be used. The native inhabitants of Greenland call themselves Kalaalleq (plural Kalaallit), though the term "Greenlander" is also acceptable. Also do not say you are in "Denmark", as this might be considered offensive. Instead, if you must make reference to Danish sovereignty, state that you are in the “Kingdom of Denmark”.

Connect [ edit ]

Phones [ edit ].

Greenland has country code 299. Tusass is the only telephone service provider. Almost every village has mobile phone coverage. The countryside has much less coverage. Greenland does not belong to the EU, and the roaming charges are much higher than they are inside EU for EU residents, closer to the high end of the world's roaming prices.

SIM cards with data can be purchased from Tusass but they are not cheap: a prepaid SIM costs 250 kr for 3 GB of data for 1 week, or 500 kr for 20 GB of data for 2 weeks. If your phone supports eSIM technology, these are available from US$9 for 1 GB for 1 week.

Internet [ edit ]

Thanks to undersea fibre optic cable links to Europe and broadband satellite, Greenland is well connected with 93% of the population having internet access. Your hotel or hosts (if staying in a guesthouse or private home) will likely have Wi-Fi or an internet-connected PC. Every town and village has some form of publicly-accessible internet. Just ask around.

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Your full  Wanderlust  guide to travel in Greenland 

Whether you want to crane your neck at the cruise ship-dwarfing icebergs of the north, or hike the green-cloaked mountains of the south, Greenland is full of contrasts.

If you’re looking for peace and quiet, head to the remote, raw wilderness of the Arctic Circle or the isolated and culturally-rich east.

Whatever direction you head in, Greenland is bound to offer you an adventure of a lifetime. Start planning your trip with our guide now…

Where in Greenland should you visit?

How to explore Greenland?

When is the best time to go to Greenland?

Wildlife experiences in Greenland

Is it safe to travel in greenland, essential information for greenland, where in greenland should you visit .

Whether you want to float past giant bergs in a kayak, spot polar bears jumping through the ice, or get your feet on solid ground, Greenland offers adventures to suit every type of traveller. It all depends on which part you visit…

North Greenland 

(Dreamstime)

Calling all iceberg junkies, sun addicts and dog lovers. The north of Greenland is for you. Drive your own dog-sled as you can taste the crisp air and appreciate the stunning scenery rushing past. Don’t miss the UNESCO-listed Illulissat icefjord, where icebergs shimmer on the water’s surface like a thousand shards of glass under a sun that never sets.

South Greenland 

One glimpse of the south and you’ll see how Greenland got its name. Hike from farm to farm across the mountains, looking down at the sea ice flowing past. Feel a warm welcome from the villages you visit and listen to the locals’ cultural stories. Warm up in a natural hot spring and appreciate the power and beauty of nature all around you.

The Arctic Circle 

The urban city of Sisimiut, with its orange glow radiating warmth from its brightly coloured houses is a real comfort inside the vast, remote and rough Arctic Circle. Sisimiut is the perfect base for adventure, from where you can hike the never-ending white-powdered landscape, spot polar bears, Arctic foxes and whales, and kayak among the glittering icebergs. If you want a real polar adventure, this one’s for you. 

Learn more about Arctic Greenland

East Greenland

The east is for those who like to get outside all year round. This mountain-dominated part of the country offers ample opportunities to strap on some skis, paddle a kayak, climb the steepest of slopes and walk across the Ice Cap. Don’t forget to pause to appreciate the unique culture of the Innuit communities in the east. And keep your eyes peeled and fingers crossed for the northern lights.

Learn more about the east of Greenland

How to get to explore Greenland

By expedition ship .

Undoubtedly the most exciting way to explore wild, vast and remote Greenland is by expedition ship. Cruising through the deep blue in between towering mountains and floating bergs will make you feel like a true adventurer.

But it’s not all about being on board. Most ships these days offer ample opportunities to get off the boat and into kayaks, zodiacs and hiking boots, ensuring you get a closer look at the exciting world around you…

What it’s like to explore Greenland by expedition ship

6 mins william gray.

Polar cruises: What are they really like?

4 mins william gray.

A view of east Greenland from the plane (Dreamstime)

For a quicker way to Greenland, opt for a flight. Both Air Greenland and Icelandair   offer flights to Greenland all year round, although it's worth noting that flights are far less frequent in the winter months. 

Getting around Greenland

Husky-sledding in Greenland (Dreamstime)

Rugged and remote Greenland has hardly any roads so most people take to the air or seas to get around instead. Options include helicopters, planes, ferries and ships. Make sure you embrace dog-sledding while visiting the country, too.

When is the best time of year to go to Greenland? 

The climate in Greenland is sub-Arctic: summer is surprisingly comfortable, averaging 17°C, but temperatures plunge as low as -40°C in January.

Peak tourist season is mid-May to mid-September. However, when you should go depends entirely on what activities you’re interested in. Whenever that may be, make sure you’re prepared for changeable conditions. 

Summer in Greenland

Summer in Greenland (Dreamstime)

The short Greenlandic summer starts in June and finishes around early September time. If you’re not a fan of snow and would prefer more greenery, wildlflowers and waterfalls then summer is for you.

You also have a higher chance of seeing more diverse birdlife as well as whales. And if you’re energetic you can enjoy scenic hiking, cycling and kayaking all under the midnight sun that never sets.

Learn more about hiking in Greenland

Winter in Greenland

Winter in Greenland (Dreamstime)

Winter in Greenland runs from October to May and is perfect for anyone who gets excited over all that white stuff – you’re guaranteed a white winter in Greenland.

Expect snow adventures such as skiing, snowmobiling and dog-sledding. For a chance to see the northern lights, visit between September and April. Make sure you jump aboard a ship for a tour of the immense icebergs, too.

Learn more about the northern lights in Greenland

It's not just the snow that makes Greenland so majestic - the wildlife is spectacular, too.

Whether you're listening for the snow to crunch under the weight of a polar bear's paw or feeling the splash on your face from a nearby whale diving under the icy waters, Greenland will offer you the chance to spot rare creatures...

1. Polar bear 

You'll most likely see Greenland's rarest and most exciting animal on the sea ice, feasting on seals. 

2. Humpback whale

Increase your chance of a whale sighting by visiting the southeast coast in summer.  

Sail through east Greenland and in the Davis Strait and baffin Bay to see walrus.  Learn more

4. Reindeer

Head inland during summer to see hundreds of Greenland's grazing reindeer, also called caribou. 

5. White-tailed eagle

Find Greenland's largest bird on the southern part of the west coast of the countr y. 

To see tens of thousands of these hefty and furry creatures, visit the wild herds in Kangerlussuaq. Learn more

Take precautions when hiking in Greenland (Dreamstime)

The most dangerous thing about Greenland is the weather – not just because of its Arctic temperatures but also because of its unpredictability.

When hiking, it’s essential to tell people where you are going and when you expect to be back. Conditions can change quickly so take it seriously, pack survival rations and be prepared for the cold.

A polar bear in Greenland (Dreamstime)

Capital of Greenland:  Nuuk

Population of Greenland:  56,600

Languages in Greenland:  Inuit (Greenlandic), Danish

Time in Greenland:  GMT – 3 (March – October GMT – 2)

International dialling code in Greenland:  +299

Voltage in Greenland:  220 AC 50 Hz

Visas for Greenland: If you are a UK, USA, Australian or European national, then you do not need a visa for Greenland. 

Money in Greenland: Danish Krone (Dkr)  ATMs accept foreign cards. Travellers cheques are not widely accepted.

Greenland travel advice:  Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Greenland tourism board:  Greenland

Related Guides

Aurora Borealis/Northern Lights

Dog sledding

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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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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 Guide – An Overview of All Regions In Greenland

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

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

The Capital Region

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

Reasons to visit Greenland’s Capital Region:

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

Northeast Greenland National Park

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

Reasons to visit Northeast Greenland:

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

East Greenland

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

Reasons to visit East Greenland:

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

South Greenland

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

Reasons to visit South Greenland:

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

Destination Arctic Circle

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

Reasons to visit Greenland’s Arctic Circle:

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

North Greenland

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

Reasons to visit North Greenland:

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

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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).

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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.

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How to experience the ultimate adventure in South Greenland

From kayaking across vast, petrol-blue fjords to tasting locally foraged delicacies, these seven South Greenland adventures reveal a country ripe for adventure.

Nature pulls out all the stops in South Greenland. Glaciers crash into fjords where whales often feed, icebergs tower like the ruins of fairytale castles and remote sheep farms nod to a rich Norse and Inuit history. On the fringes of the second-largest body of ice in the world, the Greenland ice sheet, this fjord-woven region will blow you away with raw beauty, heritage and season-led cuisine using ingredients from land and sea.

Cruise ships only give you a taste of what’s out there. To properly venture into the wilds and get a feel for the Arctic, fly in and stay a while. You need time, peace and space to find your own adventure — whether hiking, kayaking, exploring Norse ruins or bathing in hot springs. With luck, you’ll have the Northern Lights for company already in late summer and early autumn.

1. Taste Greenlandic flavours  

Using Arctic ingredients, incorporating Inuit heritage with agricultural tradition and adding a pinch of creativity, South Greenland is a rising star in new-Nordic cooking, bringing hyperlocal ingredients to the plate. Whether you’re digging into a leg of lamb, newly cultivated grass-fed beef or locally grown root vegetables, this is food with heart. For an immersive experience, join locals for a private dinner — one of the best is ByNanna, where Nanna Høegh and her husband talk art and Viking ruins over a multi-course feast in their beautiful home in Qaqortoq. At fjordside Tasermiut Camp , help the chef forage for herbs and flowers to pep up dinner, where storytelling and — if you’re lucky — a Northern Lights show join, too.

2. Immerse yourself in Inuit history at Kujataa

For millennia, humans have eked out a living on the edge of the ice cap. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kujataa   brings to light a rich thousand-year-old subarctic farming culture, taking you back to the Norse farmer-hunters of the 10th century, who reared cattle, sheep and goats; and to the Inuit farming, fishing and seal-hunting communities that sprung up here in the 18th century. With the ruins of farms and churches spread across the World Heritage Site, often right next to present-day working farms, Kujataa offers a fascinating window into the hard work, resilience and pioneering spirit of the Indigenous people, and those that came to settle on their land.

3. Boat along the Tasermiut Fjord

Home to one of South Greenland’s most photographed glaciers, Tasermiut Fjord , with its lush forest and sheer walls of granite, is jaw-droppingly beautiful. This 44-mile-long fjord is a taste of the Arctic proper. To get a true sense of scale, and for closer encounters with the nature and wildlife, nothing beats exploring Tasermiut Fjord by boat. With stops along the way including the only settlement in the entire fjord or a sheep farm, you can get a feel for life in the fjord. Continue onward to the great lake, the forest and then the innermost reaches of the fjord, which is often called the Patagonia of the Arctic.

4. Unwind at a sheep farm

If you want to give civilisation the slip and tune into the quiet beauty of South Greenland’s fjords, fields and mountains, stay on one of eight sheep farms that offer guest accommodation. Norse settlers first grazed sheep in these lush pastures 1,000 years ago, a tradition revived 100 years ago by an Inuit couple in Qassiarsuk. Affording an insight into traditional Arctic life, the farms are ideal for embracing the outdoors, whether on foot or by horseback. Favourite escapes include Pioti Igaliku , with a summer lake cottage where you can peer up at gliding sea eagles; Sermilik Hostel , where sheep paths lead to the Greenland ice sheet; and idyllically rustic Kangerluarsorujuk Cabin , where your host family will prepare delicacies like smoked lamb leg and marinated salmon. Just be sure to follow the cardinal rules of traversing farm country — leave gates as they are found (open or closed); walk on roads whenever possible; do not give working dogs attention; and never walk on the green grass fields.

5. Bathe al fresco at Uunartoq Hot Springs

You’ll find hot springs bubbling up all over the Arctic, but there’s something special about Uunartoq’s. This uninhabited island, a breezy boat ride away from Qaqortoq, Nanortalik or Alluitsup Paa, is a vivid green speck of land, ringed by mountains and petrol-blue waters glinting with icebergs. Here, you can ditch your clothes and slip into your bathers to wallow in the 38C natural pool. Enjoyed by Norsemen and Inuit alike for many centuries and heated by geothermal subsoil, these are the most accessible hot springs in Greenland warm enough to bathe in.

6. Embrace adventure in Nanortalik

Where fjord meets sea, the town of Nanortalik — meaning the place with polar bears — is beautiful, with a sprinkling of brightly painted timber cottages amidst a rocky landscape with direct views of the mountains. After roaming the old town and open-air museum that delves into Greenlandic history and heritage, you’ll be itching to head out into the wilds. This is South Greenland’s adventure hub, where you can trek into the mountains with a backpack, scale near-vertical cliffs (the 2,010-metre peak of Ulamertorsuaq, also known as Ketil, is the ultimate challenge) or get a guide who’ll take you kayaking, sailing or fishing for trout, salmon and cod. Staying at the locally-owned and operated Tasermiut Camp or NTS Cabins is highly recommended to fully connect with the backcountry.

7. Press the pause button in Igaliku

It’s oh so quiet in Igaliku, an isolated Inuit settlement of just over 30 people sitting on on a thin 2.5-mile wide isthmus, tucked between two fjords. Green and gold pastures north of the town slope down to iceberg-filled waters, Qooqqut Glacier shimmers in the distance at the top of Illerfissalik mountain and, in summer, the fields erupt with wildflowers. But Igaliku is more just a pretty face — this is one of the central grounds for Greenland’s 12th-century Norse culture, home to the well-preserved ruins of Gardar, seat of the Norse bishop. Getting there is part of the magic: arriving via Tunulliarfik Fjord includes a 2.5-mile traverse along the King’s Road from Itilleq, open for walking, driving or UTV-ing.

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Greenland travel blog — the fullest greenland travel guide for first-timers.

Greenland is an autonomous country within the Kingdom of Denmark, the largest island in the world. With 80% of the area covered with ice, when it comes to Greenland, everyone thinks of giant glaciers. However, few people know that this island also possesses impressive natural scenery and an extremely long Inuit culture. So, is Greenland worth visiting, how to visit Greenland, what to do in Greenland and how to plan a budget trip to Greenland for the first-time perfectly? Let’s check out our Greenland travel blog (Greenland blog) with the fullest Greenland travel guide (guide to Greenland, Greenland visitors guide, Greenland city guide, Greenland guide) from how to get to Greenland, best places to visit, best time to come, what to eat as well as top things to do in Greenland to help you maximize your trip as follows!

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However, few people know that the island also boasts spectacular natural beauty and an extremely rich Inuit culture. Explore the article below with us to have unique ideas for your trip!

Overview of Greenland (#greenland travel blog)

Greenland means “land of people” and in Danish means “green land”. Geographically it is an Arctic island nation linked to the North American continent and Canada, but politically and historically Greenland has close ties to Europe. This largest island in the world has an area of 2.166 million square kilometers but 80% of the area is ice, the rest is not covered with ice equivalent to the size of Sweden.

Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark and can actually be thought of as an independent country. With a population of less than 60,000, it is the most populous country and the largest extra-continental island in the world. Icebergs and glaciers are perhaps the most famous features of this place. The wonderful shape of the thick icebergs makes many visitors enjoy coming here.

High mountains with beautiful cliffs, clear blue skies and fresh air are tourist attractions. Animals that thrive in the sea and on land such as seals, whales, polar bears and reindeer make the flora and fauna here extremely rich.

Greenland is even more famous after US President Donald Trump asked to buy this island from Denmark after realizing the great benefits and significance as well as the development potential of the beautiful ice island. Of course, the Danish government rejected this offer and claimed sovereignty over Greenland and asserted that the island of more than 2.1 million square kilometers is not for sale no matter how big the profits or numbers are that the US offers.

Before going to Greenland, visitors should prepare the Danish Krone, also denoted by Kr. This is the currency used in Greenland and 1 Krone is divided into 100 øre.

When is the best time to explore Greenland? (#greenland blog)

This island country has 3 tourist seasons: spring, summer and winter, but if you come here in spring, you will experience the snow festival in the capital Nuuk. In addition, this is also the time when the world’s toughest Arctic Circle Race is held in Sisimiut.

Summer from May to September, ice melts in fjords and large rivers. The highest temperature here does not exceed 10 degrees Celsius and the sky is clear. This is an opportunity for visitors to sail on the bay, enjoy boat excursions on the glaciers, visit the settlements and historic sites of Greenland.

If you are an adventurer, you should come here in winter, from November to February. At this time of year, you can admire the spectacular Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) and mysterious dark nights in the polar and enjoy the feeling of riding a sled, you can even go on a snowmobile excursion during the Polar Nights.

There will be 2 consecutive months without night (white night) (#greenland travel blog)

Visitors should note that when traveling to the island of Greenland, they will experience the feeling of 2 months without night if they come here at the right time from May 25 to July 27 every year. The reason is that this is the period with the longest day of the year as well as the festival season of this beautiful island. This is an opportunity for indigenous people to enjoy life, they lie in the sun and together create vibrant outdoor barbecues.

This time also has the warmest temperature of the year, visitors will experience a warm time in the sun and see the entire island in the most clear way instead of the white color of snow and ice in winter.

How to get to Greenland? (#greenland travel guide)

To buy air tickets at a good price, you should note on how to travel and book tickets 1-2 months in advance. Greenland’s visa regulations are similar to those of Scandinavia and parts of the Kingdom of Denmark. If you come from a country that requires a visa to enter Denmark, you will also need a visa to travel to Greenland. However, a visa valid for Denmark is not automatically valid for Greenland, so a separate visa application is required upon arrival in Greenland.

There are 3 ways to go from Vietnam to Greenland by plane, you can fly from Tan Son Nhat airport to the following 3 places:

• Ho Chi Minh City – Sisimiut: It takes about 27 hours and 11 minutes with the price from 702 – 1802 USD.
• Ho Chi Minh city – Ilulissat: It takes about 26 hours and 9 minutes with the price from 1102 – 2802 USD.
• Ho Chi Minh City – Nuuk: It takes about 27 hours 42 minutes with price from 1202 – 3002 USD.

The international airlines operating flights from Vietnam to Greenland are Thai Smile, Thai Vietjet Air, Qatar Airways, Air Greenland and Icelandair.

If you depart from other cities you can access Google Flights , Kayak or Skyscanner to find suitable routes and hunt cheap airfares.

Getting around Greenland

This place is located separately from the mainland, and there is no road or rail system connecting these areas. To move from the town center to the suburbs, people mainly use boats, sleds, dogsled or helicopters.

Where to stay? (#greenland travel blog)

Greenlanders often live in the capital Nuuk, so almost hotels are concentrated here. You can choose from modern, fully equipped 4-star hotels or if you want to experience contact with the lives of locals, you can choose to stay in a homestay. In the larger towns, you can check in with tourist offices to arrange accommodation for you at a Greenlandic family. In addition, you can also choose to stay in a hostel to save money for backpackers. Here are some hotels in Nuuk for your reference:

Aurora Hotel: 1.1 km from the city center. The hotel offers single, double and family rooms. Each room has a private bathroom and toiletries. ( Agoda , Booking )

Kang Apartments : 1.6 km from the city center, with sea views and free Wi-Fi. ( Agoda , Booking )

HHE Express: Located in the heart of Nuuk, the hotel has a modern design, clean and comfortable rooms, free private parking and a restaurant serving European dishes. ( Agoda , Booking )

Hotel Nuuk – Apartment Nanoq: It has received many very good reviews from travellers. This is the ideal place to stay for groups of friends or families, with a large kitchen space and relaxing spa bath. ( Agoda , Booking )

B&B Julia & Poul Lyberth: There are many interesting experiences with homestays with locals. Guests staying at this hotel give it a score of 9.4/10 for the convenience and friendliness of the host. ( Agoda , Booking )

Below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Hotel Nuka ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel Icefiord ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel Arctic Ilulissat ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel SOMA Nuuk ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hans Egede Hotel ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel SOMA Ilulissat ( Agoda , Booking )

Check out more top and best hotels in Greenland on Agoda.com or Booking.com

Where to go and what to do in Greenland?

Greenland can really be seen as a separate world. The most famous feature is probably the icebergs and glaciers like giant white buoys against the deep blue sea. Greenland also has beautiful green mountains and wildflowers, fjords, steep cliffs in the against a crystal clear sky.

Animals here thrive both at sea and on land such as seals, whales, polar bears and reindeer The fresh air creates a beautiful and romantic world just waiting to be discovered.

Ilulissat Icefjord

This is the most visited area by tourists when coming to Greenland, in 2004 it was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Ilulissat Iceford is located in Disko Bay, home to huge glaciers. The ice sheets fractured off the glaciers and floated into coastal waters. If you are lucky you can witness this natural spectacle and can be watched from the mainland if the time is right.

Jakobshavn Glacier (#guide to greenland)

It is Greenland’s most visited site and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. Ilulissat is located in Disko Bay, home to huge Jakobshavn Glacier. Icebergs break off glaciers and drift into coastal waters. If you’re lucky, you might be able to witness this natural wonder first-hand during your visit to Greenland.

Uunartoq Hot Springs (#greenland guide)

Hot springs are found everywhere in Greenland, especially the Uunartoq area. This is uninhabited land and is home to the most hot springs. Three natural hot springs combine to form a small pool, where visitors can immerse themselves in nature and admire the beautiful mountain peaks.

Northern Lights

The Northern Lights are often referred to as “the greatest light show on earth”. When visiting Greenland, any tourist wants to see this scene once, and it only happens during the winter months from November to March. You can see the Northern Lights in the east – Ittoqqortoormiit, south – Qaqortoq and west – Kangerlussuaq.

Ancient Eskimos

About 2 km from the town of Ilulissat is an ancient Eskimo settlement. The site was first excavated in the early 20th century and includes a number of preserved sites of the indigenous Arctic Eskimo culture. In an old abandoned village, tourists will have the opportunity to see firsthand objects created by the inhabitants who lived here more than 2000 years ago.

The capital city of Nuuk

The capital Nuuk is the administrative center of Greenland, where most of the island’s population is concentrated. Tourists often head to the National Museum of Greenland to admire its collection of hunting equipment, carvings, kayaks and Viking life.

It also regularly hosts geological and art exhibitions. The museum currently houses the 500-year-old mummies of women and children, and some of the facial tattoos are still clearly visible.

Viking Ruins

The Viking ruins are the ruins of Eric’s millennial Norse colonies located south of Greenland. A visit to the Viking ruins takes you on a fascinating journey back to the days of the hunter-gatherers of the Norse peoples. Several ruins are found in the area such as the Church of Hvalsey Fjord and Brattahlid.

Tasiilaq is the largest town in Eastern Greenland, but only 2,000 people live here. The town of Tasiilaq possesses an extremely beautiful natural setting, surrounded by soaring mountains and divided by a small river. Behind the town is the valley of flowers, a great place for tourists to take a scenic walk. In winter, ski trips or snowmobile tours are popular. Summer is popular again with hiking tours, mountain climbing, sea kayaking or helicopter watching glaciers.

Thule & Northwest Greenland

Thule was founded in 1910 by Danish explorer Knud Rasmussen and his friend Peter Freuchen. Rasmussen made several expeditions from Thule into the North Pole to learn about the Eskimo tribe. Today Thule is a popular cruise ship destination.

Whale watching

Topping the wish list of many tourists in Greenland is watching the real whales. Most of the ice in the fjords will melt in May, so June and July are usually the best months for whale watching along the coastline.

Tours usually depart from towns such as Qeqertarsuaq, Nuuk and Aasiaat and are offered by tour companies such as Diskoline and Greenland Adventures. Usually, tourists will see encounters between humpback whales, groupers and fin whales. Luckily, you can catch blue whales, killer whales (orca), guppies, belugas, sperm whales, and pilot whales.

Snowmobile tours and dog sled rides

Wildlife spotting is one of the must-try things to do in Greenland, and the best way to experience the country’s unique natural environment is by taking a sleigh excursion. Reindeer, polar bears and white-tailed eagles are just some of the beautiful creatures in this place.

The winter months are the best time for snowmobile or dog sled tours. You will discover wildlife such as reindeer, polar bear and white-tailed eagle.

In addition, you can also rent a snowmobile to experience it yourself. Naturally, winter is the best time for this type of travel. Some of the most popular areas to explore its flora and fauna are Disko Bay, Tasiusaq Fjord, Qaanaaq and Thule.

What to eat?

Greenlandic cuisine is little known but has recently begun to take on a more international influence. The dishes here are used local products such as reindeer and fish. In coastal fishing villages, fishing is the main source of income and daily food for the people.

Mattak is a popular snack in Greenland and a favorite of the indigenous people. Mattak refers to the skin and underlying fat layer of the whale. This dish is served raw or served with coarse salt. The way to eat mattak is like tasting wine, because people often enjoy the taste of it and then discard the crumbs.

Suaasat is a traditional Greenlandic soup. It is traditionally made from seal meat, but can also be substituted with whale, reindeer or seabird meat.

The soup usually consists of onions and potatoes and is simply seasoned with salt, black pepper, and bay leaves. The soup is usually thickened with rice or barley soaked in water overnight.

Dried whale meat

Dried whale is a popular snack for light lunches. Because the temperature on the island does not exceed 10 degrees Celsius, fresh food can be easily preserved as dry or salted food. Although Greenland does not allow commercial whaling, whale hunting is still possible in traditional communities, as this has been their practice for centuries. via.

Grilled beef is also a popular dish, prepared with all ingredients including tomato sauce, soy sauce and paprika.

Fruits and vegetables are ingredients that must be imported from other countries, so they are quite expensive.

Today, going to Greenland is not difficult because there is a lot of information available to tourists. In particular, the hospitality of the locals will make your trip easier. Prepare before you go, especially warm clothes and personal papers to make the trip the most complete.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Greenland you can refer to

• Sisimiut: Stars and Northern Lights UTV Tour
• Sisimiut: Winter Monster Sled Safari to the Backcountry
• Sisimiut: Dogsledding Discovery Experience
• Sisimiut: Winter Snowshoe Hike
• Sisimiut: Guided Backcountry Snowmobile Adventure

Read more Denmark guide here .

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Sleep beneath the Arctic Sky in an Aurora Glass Igloo | Nuuk

Glamping at Camp Kangiusaq | Nuuk | West Greenland

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

SUP amongst Icebergs originated from UNESCO World Heritage Site | Ilulissat

Private guided tour by car in the capital of Greenland | Nuuk

Full day adventure on Greenland Ice sheet | Kangerlussuaq | West Greenland

Witness the epic Eqi Glacier by boat | Ilulissat

Northern Lights Tour | Nuuk | West Greenland

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What our guests say

See the stories our guests have shared from their experiences with us.

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

I drove snowmobile for the first time! I never had experience driving snowmobile but after short introduction of the guide I was able to follow the guide and other guests. The views were amazing, we had a few stops along the way and a bit of adrenaline going up and down the mountains. It was a great tour, would do it again!

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

How to travel to Greenland from the US

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Greenland

Best clothing to pack for a trip to Arctic Greenland

Useful tools for travelling in Greenland

Experience the Northern Lights in Greenland

How to travel to Greenland on a Budget

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• Greenland Travel Guide: Here Is Everything About The Land Of Eskimos

10 Jul 2023

Greenland, a huge island country situated in the northernmost point of the Arctic Ocean is most renowned for the naturally occurring phenomenon; the Northern Lights. Contrary to its given name, the Danish country is covered by ice for most of its land mass. With a limited population mostly comprising in its capital city, Greenland is an adventurous choice for most of the world travelers. One shouldn’t get flustered by its far off position on the world map or the weather pattern as Greenland has a lot to offer to tourists. All one needs to do is hold onto this Greenland travel guide and enjoy the most magical country in the world which also doubles as a basket of rare natural phenomena.

Best Time To Visit Greenland

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It is hard to point out the best time to visit the country as Greenland is open for various activities at varied climatic conditions and seasons. Since the country is mostly covered in ice throughout the year, the temperature always stays on the lower end of the thermometer. However, the summer season from May to August is filled with sunlight and one can even experience the Midnight Sun during these months. It is the best time to indulge in some hiking activities.

The winters are biting cold with little to no sun for most of the days. The days are short and dark but fill the sky with the magnificent Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights). The best time to witness the Northern Lights are during the short autumn season from September to October when the maximum temperature is 1℃ and there is still some sunshine to count on. The spring season is also rather short but it is the ideal time to go dog sledding and to spot the wildlife.

How To Reach Greenland

The most ideal way to reach Greenland is by Air. Greenland has 2 major airports that can be reached either from Denmark or Iceland. The best way to travel to the country is to take a flight to Copenhagen and hop on to a connecting Air Greenland or Air Iceland flight to Greenland. Most of the major airlines have a direct flight to the capital of Denmark from India. The next option is to get on a cruise to Greenland from Iceland, Canada or Europe.

Things To Do In Greenland

Apart from the obvious choice of witnessing the unique phenomenon of the Northern Lights appearing in the dark skies of Greenland, here are some of the activities one can indulge in when visiting the country.

1. Kayaking along the Blue River

A popular activity in Greenland is to explore the dreamy ice blue waters of the Petermann Glacier. During the summer months, the Petermann Glacier is subjected to some thawing by the sunshine which has led to the formation of the crystal blue waters of the river. Undoubtedly, one of the best places to visit in Greenland is the Blue River that forms a valley in the Northern Hemisphere. A unique feature about the river is that it is susceptible to the change in the flow of its course every year. There are many kayaking tours available in the months of August and September in the Blue River that allows one to explore the icebergs and to revel in the serenity of the untouched surroundings.

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The most favorable activity in the summer season is hiking the Arctic Circle. Greenland constitutes of many rocky mountains and valleys that are a pleasure to climb when not covered in snow. The mountainside is filled with varied flora, rocky surfaces, and glaciers that are every adventurer's dream to capture. With a limited population around, food and medicine need special attention when planning to go on a hike in Greenland.

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3. Enjoy the hot springs

Wondering what to do in Greenland for a relaxing day? One might be surprised to know that Greenland has a few hot springs that are open for tourists to take a dip in. One such popular hot spring is the Uunartoq. The easiest way to reach the hot spring is to take a boat from Ilulissat. The temperature of the water is around 37℃ that makes it a perfect date to have with a loved one on a lovely day of summer.

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4. Explore Qaqortoq

Apart from its capital Nuuk, Greenland has another quaint town called Qaqortoq in its lap that is worth exploring. It is a perfect town to have a stroll in, taking in the beauty of the architectural wonders, museums and the only existing fountain in Greenland. The town is very colorful and is famous for its local cuisine. It is one of the best places to visit in Greenland to try the local dish called Suaasat filled with seafood or a steaming cup of Greenlandic coffee.

Where To Stay In Greenland?

There are some good hotels in Greenland where you can crash at. Here are a couple of famous ones. They provide all the facilities and amenities required for a comfortable stay in Greenland:

1. Hotel Arctic Ilulissat

Situated at a prime location, Hotel Arctic is one of the best accommodations one can consider. With most of its rooms facing the UNESCO site- Ice Fjord, the hotel wins the race with the most number of tourists choosing it for their stay in Greenland. It offers delectable food and a comfortable stay. It also provides transport to various sightseeing places including a ferry ride to the hot springs.

Location: Mittar Mmmut, Aqqutaa, Ilulissat DK-3952, Greenland. Cost: INR 21000 per night TripAdvisor Rating: 4.5/5 Reviews

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2. Hotel Nuuk Seamen's Home

Located in the capital city of Nuuk, Hotel Seamen’s Home is a bed and breakfast facility that offers comfortable rooms and incredible food. Off late, the hotel has reportedly expanded their facility with more rooms and a full day meal hotel. It is closer to most of the sightseeing places in the city and is helpful when it comes to arranging transport to see the Northern Lights.

Location: Marinevej 3, Nuuk-3900, Greenland. Cost: INR 10000 per night TripAdvisor Rating: 4/5 Reviews

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Things To Know Before Visiting Greenland

• Although Greenland is a part of the Denmark Kingdom, it holds an autonomous rule in the country.
• It is the largest island in the world that is also believed to be the first land to be inhabited by Homo Sapiens and yet the least populated in the present times.
• The language barrier is hardly a problem in the country as English is extensively understood although their official languages are Danish and Greenlandic.
• Though Greenland is a Scandinavian country, one cannot enter the country with a Denmark visa. An individual visa system exists in the country.
• Danish krone is the currency of Greenland like Denmark.
• Greenland has its own time zone that one should consider before planning their itinerary.

Further Read: 13 Frolicsome Beaches In Europe For All The Excited Beach Bums Across The Globe

One of the most magical lands in the world is the Greenland that is unique in its composition, time zone, and lifestyle. Visiting Greenland must be on every traveler’s bucket list and this Greenland travel guide covers up all one needs to plan a trip to this icy land. With all the basics covered, book your tickets to Greenland with TravelTriangle and explore Greenland.

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Greenland travel guide. Expert advice and tourist information covering accommodation, travel where to stay and eat, and what to see and do. Features Nuuk, icebergs, the world’s second-largest ice sheet, glaciers, northern lights, Arctic Circle Trail, whale watching, walruses, polar bears, winter sports, hiking, dog sledding and snowmobile rides.

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About this book.

New from Bradt, Greenland is the first standalone travel guidebook to the country from a mainstream publisher. Targeted at independent travellers, but equally serving those visiting on organised tours or cruises, this guide combines essential information – such as getting around on an island lacking roads connecting the major settlements – with advice on what to see and do, and where to stay and eat. Every chapter is infused with Greenland’s remarkable combination of pristine nature and traditional culture, which sets it apart from Arctic neighbours – and which makes a trip so rewarding. The world’s twelfth-largest country, but also part of the Kingdom of Denmark, Greenland sits near the top of the world, a vast expanse of white in a planet full of green, blue and brown. Today’s visitors relish opportunities for close encounters with immense icebergs and glaciers. The epic scenery provides the backdrop to the numerous activities on offer – from visiting the world’s second-largest ice sheet or taking to the sea in search of fifteen species of whale, and from hiking the 160-km-long Arctic Circle Trail to seeking out polar bears, musk oxen and walruses. Greenland in winter is another world, the endless night brightened by the mesmerising northern lights. It remains a snowy paradise until spring – the best time to travel by dog sled or snowmobile across the frozen tundra. To relax afterwards, why not close your trip with a few days of nature-inspired art, eclectic culture and fine dining in the diminutive capital, Nuuk? Greenland has always been a destination for pioneering explorers, be they the Inuit who arrived from the west, the Norsemen who came from the east or mariners seeking the Northwest Passage. Part of the attraction for today’s visitors is to experience an element of the challenges they faced. Although travel within Greenland can be tricky given limited infrastructure and often adverse weather conditions, it can also be a remarkably easy place in which to travel, with the right planning, a flexible attitude and the right advice – which is precisely where Bradt’s Greenland comes in. Let it be your guide to a truly staggering country.

About the Author

Gill and Alistair Campbell (travelblog.org/Bloggers/Postcards) have been writing guidebooks since 2010; Greenland is their third guidebook for Bradt. They are avid travellers, criss-crossing the globe since the early 1970s, and Greenland is a place they have grown to love. They find it incredible that so few people visit, given how much the country offers: the world’s largest fjords and national park, fifteen different whales and gargantuan icebergs. No two towns are linked by road, and the weather determines how you travel: boat, dog sled, snowmobile or helicopter. Each of the Campbells’ journeys has been an adventure, and they are constantly amazed by how tiny Inuit hunting and fishing communities prosper in this harsh environment. They have visited every region in this huge country, meeting with dog-sled mushers, boat skippers and Inuit running remote cabins – all to write a book that allows visitors to plan their own adventure in this majestic land.

Additional Information

PART 1 GENERAL INFORMATION Preface Chapter 1 Background Information Chapter 2 Practical Information PART 2 THE GUIDE Chapter 3 Nuuk and the Capital Region Chapter 4 Kangerlussuaq and the Arctic Circle Region Chapter 5 Ilulissat and Disko Bay

Chapter 6 The Far North Chapter 7 South Greenland Chapter 8 East Greenland

Appendices Language Glossary Further info Index