Greenland is an unmatched Arctic destination with colossal icebergs, vast fjords, and a rich tapestry of Inuit traditions. While Greenland’s rugged beauty spans across its coasts, only certain places like Ilulissat, Sisimiut, and Nuuk provide the accommodations and infrastructure to make exploration comfortable. Much of Greenland’s coastline is uninhabited, making these key towns the ideal starting points for travelers seeking both adventure and culture.
The villages are almost like islands themselves. Moving between them requires travel by boat, plane, or helicopter due to the lack of road connections. For example, Sisimiut is approximately 320 kilometers north of Nuuk—a journey that takes about 45 minutes by flight or, in summer, a full day by ferry.
Top Places to Visit in Greenland
Ilulissat Icefjord
Why Go: The Ilulissat Icefjord is one of Greenland’s most iconic natural wonders and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s home to one of the most active glaciers in the world, Sermeq Kujalleq, which sends colossal icebergs drifting into the Disko Bay. These icebergs create a stunning landscape that is unlike anything else, making it a must-see for anyone visiting Greenland. Ilulissat has become a central visitor hub, with the infrastructure to support boat tours, hikes, and local cultural experiences.
Tips: Take a boat tour through the fjord for close-up views or hike one of the scenic trails overlooking the icebergs. The best time to visit is in summer (June-August) for the midnight sun or in winter when the fjord’s icy landscape is at its peak.
Disko Island
Why Go: Disko Island, located off Greenland’s west coast close to Ilulissat, is a place of striking beauty with unique volcanic landscapes that set it apart from the rest of the country. Known for its rich biodiversity, Disko Island is a haven for nature lovers. The island offers plenty of outdoor adventures, including hiking through dramatic lava formations, dog sledding over snow-covered trails in the winter, and whale watching during the summer.
Tips: Summer is the ideal time to visit Disko Island if you want to catch sight of humpback, fin, and minke whales, which are common in these waters. Qeqertarsuaq, the main settlement on Disko Island, is a good starting point for hikes.
While Ilulissat provides a snapshot of Greenland’s natural beauty and rich culture, the country offers much more beyond this iconic destination. Sisimiut, Nuuk, and Kangerlussuaq each bring their own unique landscapes, cultural heritage, and adventure activities, making Greenland an ideal place for a comprehensive Arctic exploration. This guide covers everything you need to know for an unforgettable Greenlandic journey—from the top destinations and must-try activities to practical travel tips for navigating this Arctic wonderland.
Sisimiut
Why Go: Sisimiut, Greenland’s second-largest town, is a top place to that the trip to see Greenland natural beauty. Nestled along the western coast of Greenland, Sisimiut is surrounded by mountains, fjords, and wilderness, similar to many villages along the westcoast, making it a destination for hiking and skiing. The town itself looks like many other towns, but it is an old settlement with some very old wooden houses. One of the biggest attractions in Sisimiut is the Arctic Circle Trail.
Activities and Adventures in Greenland
Boat Tours and Whale Watching in Greenland
Why Go: Boat tours in Greenland offer a way to explore the Arctic’s dramatic landscapes, for example from Ilulissat or Sisimiut. You can cruise through icy fjords and see massive icebergs up close. The waters around Disko Bay are known for abundant marine life, including humpback, minke, and fin whales that appear during the summer months. Witnessing these majestic animals, towering ice formations from the water and the total silence from the water is an out of this world experience.
Tips:
- Morning Calm: Mornings often bring the calmest waters, making it easier to navigate around icebergs and improving visibility for whale watching.
- Dress Warmly: Even on clear days, Arctic winds can be cold. Wear layers and bring a windproof jacket.
Dog Sledding and Winter Adventures
- Why Go: Dog sledding is an age-old Greenlandic tradition way to experience Ilulissat’s winters. Guided tours allow you to ride with experienced mushers and learn about the role of sled dogs in Greenlandic culture. Dog sledding is best experienced in winter when the snow is thick.
Hiking in Ilulissat, Greenland
Ilulissat is famous for the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with gigantic icebergs. Hiking trails around Ilulissat offer breathtaking views of the icefjord, giving you a front-row seat to one of Greenland’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.
- Sermermiut Valley: This trail takes you to the ancient settlement of Sermermiut, where you’ll see ruins and learn about Inuit history while enjoying views of the Icefjord. It’s an easy-to-moderate hike.
- Blue Trail: This moderate trail winds along the fjord, offering views of floating icebergs and open Arctic landscapes. This hike has minimal little climbing.
- Yellow and Red Trails Ilulissat: These are longer and slightly more challenging hikes that take you further from town and offer views of Disko Bay and the rugged landscapes surrounding Ilulissat. The Yellow Trail is a loop, while the Red Trail takes you closer to the inland areas.
Tips: The best time to hike in Ilulissat is during summer (June to August), when the midnight sun provides long daylight hours and mild temperatures. Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly.
Hiking in Sisimiut
Sisimiut, located south of Ilulissat, is Greenland’s second-largest town and a fantastic destination for hiking and other outdoor acitivities.
- Tele Island Trail: This short, easy trail leads to Tele Island, where you’ll find archaeological sites from early Inuit groups, including the Saqqaq and Dorset cultures. It’s a great day hike, perfect for experiencing Sisimiut’s natural beauty and Greenlandic history without a long trek.
- Nasaasaaq Mountain: This trail leads to the peak of Nasaasaaq, the mountain overlooking Sisimiut. It’s a hard hike with some steep sections but rewards you with panoramic views of the town, fjords, and surrounding mountains. A good level of fitness is recommended.
- The Arctic Circle Trail: Starting in Sisimiut and ending in Kangerlussuaq, the Arctic Circle Trail is one of Greenland’s most famous multi-day hikes, covering around 160 km (100 miles). This challenging hike takes around 7-10 days to complete, passing through remote valleys, lakes, and wild landscapes. It’s ideal for experienced hikers looking for an immersive Arctic experience.
Tips: Sisimiut’s hiking season is also best in summer, but shorter hikes are possible in winter with appropriate gear. If hiking the Arctic Circle Trail, plan carefully, as there are no facilities along the way, and hikers need to carry all supplies.
Winter Bath and Swimming in Greenland
Greenland offers the ultimate Arctic experience—taking a plunge into the icy waters of Disko Bay. Although not a common activity in Greenland for the locals, it is another way to connect with nature and boost the mode. Hotel Arctic in Ilulissat offers a sauna for warming up after a winter swim among the icebergs.
- After the Swim: Warm up quickly afterward by wrapping up in thermal blankets and heading to a nearby sauna or hot shower. Be sure to dress in warm, layered clothing to recover from the icy plunge. Reduce your time in the water to a few seconds to avoid hypothermia and know your limits.
- Where: The coastal area around Ilulissat can be accessed for a quick dip, but always check with locals for safe spots. Some hotels may offer organized winter swims or can assist in arranging a safe experience.
Greenland Spa and Wellness
After the cold diver, there are some options to get back the heat, though we could wish that there would be a sauna directly or very near a dipping pool spot. Here are some of the options:
Hotel Arctic Sauna – In Ilulissat, Hotel Arctic provides a sauna with views over Disko Bay, perfect for warming up after a winter swim or chilly hike.
Sisimiut Spa – In Sisimiut, this spa offers hot tubs, saunas, and a relaxation lounge—a great spot to warm up after exploring the outdoors.
Also, in the south of Greenland, you can find hot springs, such as Uunartoq Hot Springs, between Qaqortoq and Nanortalik. Imagine to soak in warm waters surrounded by icebergs and mountains.
Where to Learn About Greenlandic Culture
Ilulissat Icefjord Centre: This modern museum and visitor center provides interactive exhibits on the history, science, and cultural significance of the icefjord. It’s an excellent starting point for understanding the local environment and its impact on Greenlandic life.
Knud Rasmussen Museum: Dive deeper into Greenlandic history and Arctic exploration, learning about the life of Knud Rasmussen and his connection to Ilulissat.
Seal Butchering Tradition in Greenland
In Greenland, seal hunting and butchering are integral parts of Inuit culture, passed down through generations. Seal meat provides a crucial food source, especially in remote areas, where hunting is essential for survival. Seal hunting also supports the creation of traditional clothing and tools, as every part of the animal is used—meat for food, fur for warm garments, and bones for tools and crafts. It’s common to see these demonstrations at cultural gatherings like Greenlandic National Day on June 21.
Demonstrations like the one in the photos serve to educate both locals and visitors on Greenland’s cultural heritage and sustainable practices. Many Greenlandic people continue to hunt seals in a respectful, traditional way, taking only what is needed and using the whole animal. Such practices emphasize a deep respect for nature, sustainability, and survival in the Arctic environment.
These events often gather community members and curious visitors, allowing them to connect with Greenland’s history and learn about the skillful techniques used in traditional butchering. Observing these practices firsthand offers a unique understanding of how Greenlandic people maintain their cultural identity and live in harmony with their challenging environment.
Greenlandic Dog Sledding Tradition
In Greenland, dog sledding is more than a sport—it’s a vital part of Inuit culture and daily life, especially in northern communities. For centuries, Greenlandic Inuit have relied on sled dogs for hunting, transporting goods, and traveling across snowy landscapes.
Today, dog sledding remains a cherished tradition, and visitors can experience it firsthand through tours led by local mushers. It’s an unforgettable way to explore Greenland’s wilderness and connect with its cultural heritage.
Greenlandic Cultural Celebrations
Greenlandic cultural celebrations are lively events that highlight the country’s traditions and community spirit. Traditional Inuit dancing and choir singing are central to these gatherings, offering an authentic experience of Greenlandic life.
Dance: Greenlandic dance, with rhythmic movements inspired by Inuit storytelling, is often performed during festivals. Dancers wear colorful attire and celebrate the land, wildlife, and daily life in Greenland.
Choir Singing: Choirs sing traditional songs in Greenlandic and Danish, creating a warm, communal atmosphere that reflects Greenlandic pride and heritage.
Held during events like Greenlandic National Day (June 21) and local festivals, these performances provide visitors with a meaningful insight into Greenland’s culture and community.
Where to Eat Authentic Greenlandic Cuisine
Greenlandic cuisine is a reflection of the Arctic environment and includes locally sourced ingredients such as reindeer, muskox, and fresh fish from Disko Bay. You’ll also find unique dishes like whale meat (known locally as “Arferup neqaa”) and seal. Fresh greens and dairy are less common, making local cuisine a special and flavorful experience. Popular restaurants in Ilulissat offer modern takes on Greenlandic dishes, using local ingredients in creative ways.
Practical Tips for Visiting Greenland
Getting There
Ilulissat is accessible by flights from Nuuk, Kangerlussuaq, and Copenhagen. Seasonal boat routes are also available for those traveling within Greenland.
Getting Around
Ilulissat is compact and walkable, but for trips to surrounding areas or excursions into Disko Bay, you’ll need to book boat tours, snowmobiles, or helicopters, depending on the season.
When to Visit
- Summer (June – August): Experience the midnight sun, whale watching, and hiking. Temperatures range from 5-15°C (41-59°F), ideal for outdoor activities.
- Winter (November – April): Winter brings the Northern Lights and opportunities for dog sledding. Temperatures can drop significantly, so be prepared with appropriate cold-weather gear.
