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Greenland
Kalaallit Nunaat
Exploring the Mystical Land of Greenland
Greenland, the world's largest island, is a place of stark beauty and rich cultural heritage. Known for its vast ice sheets and stunning fjords, Greenland offers a unique blend of natural wonders and vibrant Inuit culture. The island is home to the Northern Lights, which dance across the sky in a mesmerizing display during the winter months. Greenland's history is deeply intertwined with the Norse and Inuit peoples, and visitors can explore ancient ruins and learn about traditional Inuit practices. The capital, Nuuk, is a bustling city that combines modern amenities with traditional Greenlandic culture. The people of Greenland are known for their warmth and hospitality, making visitors feel welcome in this remote part of the world. The island's wildlife is another draw, with opportunities to see polar bears, whales, and seals in their natural habitats. Greenland's rugged landscapes and pristine environment offer endless opportunities for adventure, from hiking and kayaking to dog sledding and ice fishing. A visit to Greenland is a journey into a land of contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern life, and the natural world is both beautiful and unforgiving.
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Safety
Greenland is generally considered a safe destination for travelers. Crime rates are low, and violent crime is rare. However, visitors should be cautious in remote areas due to the harsh natural environment and potential for extreme weather conditions. It's advisable to travel with a guide when exploring the wilderness.
National symbols
The national flag of Greenland is a red and white design, symbolizing the sun setting over the ice and snow. The national anthem is 'Nunarput utoqqarsuanngoravit,' which means 'Our Country, Who's Become So Old.'
Capital city
Nuuk / Nuuk
Visas
Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, and the same visa rules apply. Citizens of EU countries, the USA, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand can enter Greenland without a visa for short stays. Other nationalities should check specific requirements before traveling.
Customs regulations
Travelers can bring personal items duty-free into Greenland. However, there are restrictions on the import of alcohol and tobacco. It's important to declare any items that exceed the duty-free allowance.
Prices
Greenland is known for being an expensive destination due to its remote location and reliance on imports. Accommodation, food, and transportation can be costly, so it's advisable to budget accordingly. However, the unique experiences and stunning landscapes make it worth the expense.
People and nationalities
The population of Greenland is predominantly Inuit, with a small percentage of Danish and other nationalities. The primary religion is Christianity, and the culture is deeply rooted in Inuit traditions. Greenlanders are known for their resilience and strong community ties.
Weather
Greenland's climate is Arctic, with long, cold winters and short, cool summers. The best time to visit is during the summer months of June to August when temperatures are milder, and the midnight sun provides extended daylight hours. Winter offers the chance to see the Northern Lights.
Health
There are no specific vaccinations required for travel to Greenland, but it's recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccines. Due to the remote nature of many areas, travelers should ensure they have adequate travel insurance and access to emergency medical services.
Food
Suaasat
A traditional Greenlandic soup made with seal, whale, or reindeer meat, often served with rice and onions. It's a hearty dish that reflects the island's hunting culture.
Mattak
A delicacy made from whale skin and blubber, known for its chewy texture and rich taste. It's a traditional Inuit food, often eaten raw.
Kiviak
A unique dish made by fermenting seabirds inside a seal skin for several months. It's a traditional winter food, known for its strong flavor.
Transport
Air Greenland
The primary airline for domestic and international flights, connecting Greenland with Denmark and Iceland. It's the most efficient way to travel between towns.
Boats
Coastal ferries and boats are common for travel between coastal communities, offering scenic views of the fjords and icebergs.
Dog Sledding
A traditional mode of transport in Greenland, especially in winter. It's a unique way to explore the snowy landscapes.
Helicopters
Used for travel to remote areas not accessible by plane or boat, providing stunning aerial views of the landscape.
What to visit?
Ilulissat Icefjord
The Ilulissat Icefjord in western Greenland is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its massive icebergs and stunning Arctic scenery.
DetailEqip Sermia Glacier
Eqip Sermia Glacier is a majestic natural glacier in Greenland, known for its stunning ice formations and dynamic calving events.
DetailArctic Circle Trail
A 165 km hiking trail in Greenland from Kangerlussuaq to Sisimiut, crossing remote Arctic landscapes and traditional Inuit hunting grounds.
DetailKangerlussuaq
Kangerlussuaq is a unique Greenlandic settlement known for its Arctic fjord location, rich wildlife, and history as a former U.S. military airbase turned vibrant tourist hub.
DetailGreenlandic National Museum and Archives
The Greenlandic National Museum and Archives in Nuuk showcases Greenland's rich archaeology, history, and culture, including the famous Qilakitsoq mummies from the 15th century.
DetailDisko Island
Disko Island, Greenland's second largest island, is famed for its dramatic landscapes, geological wonders, and rich Norse history.
DetailMount Sermitsiaq
Mount Sermitsiaq is a striking natural landmark near Nuuk, Greenland, renowned for its distinctive triple peaks and cultural significance.
DetailNational Museum of Greenland
Located in Nuuk, the National Museum of Greenland showcases rich Inuit heritage, archaeological treasures, and the famous Qilakitsoq mummies dating back to the 15th century.
DetailArctic Station
Arctic Station is a research facility in Greenland dedicated to Arctic environmental science and education, located on Disko Island by Qeqertarsuaq.
DetailBlæsedalen Valley
Blæsedalen Valley in Greenland offers dramatic landscapes shaped by glaciers, rich wildlife, and striking geological features, ideal for adventurous nature lovers.
DetailSisimiut Museum
Sisimiut Museum in Greenland showcases 4,000 years of local culture through archaeological finds, historical artifacts, and traditional Greenlandic exhibits.
DetailKap Morris Jesup
Cape Morris Jesup is the northernmost point of Greenland's mainland, located in the remote Peary Land peninsula within Northeast Greenland National Park.
DetailSirius Passet
Sirius Passet is a Cambrian fossil site in Greenland renowned for its exceptionally preserved early animal fossils, shedding light on the Cambrian Explosion.
DetailOld Nuuk
Old Nuuk is the historic heart of Greenland's capital, featuring colonial-era churches, markets, and significant missionary heritage on the fjord's edge.
DetailNuuk Art Museum
Nuuk Art Museum in Greenland's capital showcases a rich blend of Greenlandic and European art, highlighting cultural perspectives through paintings and sculptures.
DetailKatuaq Cultural Centre
Katuaq Cultural Centre is Nuuk's vibrant hub for Greenlandic arts, hosting performances, films, and exhibitions that celebrate Inuit culture and contemporary creativity.
DetailQeqertarsuaq Town
Qeqertarsuaq, also known as Godhavn, is a historic port town on Disko Island in Greenland, famed for its Arctic research station and stunning basaltic landscapes.
DetailQaqortoq Stone & Man (Stone Sculpture Trail)
Discover Qaqortoq's unique outdoor Stone & Man sculpture trail, showcasing local artistry amidst stunning Greenlandic landscapes.
DetailHvalsey Church Ruins
Hvalsey Church Ruins are the best-preserved Norse ruins in Greenland, showcasing medieval Viking history in the Arctic.
DetailQaqortoq Museum
Qaqortoq Museum showcases Greenland's rich Inuit and Norse heritage in one of the town's oldest buildings, featuring unique cultural artifacts and historical exhibits.
DetailUummannaq Mountain
Uummannaq Mountain is a striking twin-peaked granite mountain dominating Uummannaq Island in northwestern Greenland, renowned for its heart-shaped silhouette and Arctic coastal prominence.
DetailSermermiut
Sermermiut is a historic Inuit settlement near Ilulissat, Greenland, known for its archaeological significance and proximity to the Ilulissat Icefjord UNESCO site.
DetailHot Springs of Uunartoq
Natural geothermal hot springs in southern Greenland offering a unique warm bathing experience amidst Arctic landscapes.
DetailNuuk Cathedral
Nuuk Cathedral, also known as Christ Church, is a striking wooden church and a key religious and cultural landmark in Greenland's capital.
DetailNarsaq Museum
Discover the rich Norse heritage and local history of Narsaq at this engaging museum in southern Greenland.
DetailZackenberg Research Station
Zackenberg Research Station is a leading Arctic ecosystem research facility in Northeast Greenland, offering unique insights into tundra climate and Arctic ecology.
DetailQaanaaq Museum
Qaanaaq Museum in Avannaata, Greenland, showcases the rich cultural heritage and history of the northernmost communities, offering unique insights into Arctic life.
DetailRussell Glacier
Russell Glacier in western Greenland offers accessible views of the Greenland ice sheet's edge and is a key natural attraction near Kangerlussuaq.
DetailKnud Rasmussen's Birthplace
Knud Rasmussen's Birthplace in Ilulissat, Greenland, is a cultural museum honoring the famed polar explorer and anthropologist.
DetailLake Tasersuaq (Qaqortoq)
Lake Tasersuaq near Qaqortoq is a stunning natural freshwater lake offering serene landscapes and a peaceful retreat in southern Greenland.
DetailDaneborg
Daneborg is the headquarters of the Sirius Patrol in Northeast Greenland National Park, serving as a vital Arctic outpost with a unique historical and climatic setting.
DetailOqaatsut (Rodebay)
Oqaatsut, also known as Rodebay, is a small Greenlandic settlement renowned for its traditional Inuit culture and stunning Arctic landscapes.
DetailHistory
The first known human inhabitants of Greenland were the Saqqaq culture, who arrived around 2500 BC. They were followed by the Dorset culture around 800 BC.
Norse explorer Erik the Red, exiled from Iceland, discovered and named Greenland. He established the first Norse settlements on the island.
Greenland became part of the Kingdom of Norway, which later entered into a union with Denmark.
The Danish-Norwegian missionary Hans Egede established a mission in Greenland, marking the beginning of Danish colonization.
During World War II, Denmark was occupied by Nazi Germany, and Greenland was left to govern itself with the help of the United States.
Greenland's colonial status was abolished, and it became an integral part of the Kingdom of Denmark.
Greenland was granted home rule, allowing for greater autonomy from Denmark.
A referendum was held in Greenland, resulting in a vote for greater autonomy. This led to the Self-Government Act, which came into effect in 2009, granting Greenland control over more of its internal affairs.
Activities
Dog Sledding
Experience the traditional Inuit mode of transportation by embarking on a thrilling dog sledding adventure across Greenland's vast, snowy landscapes. This activity offers a unique way to explore the country's stunning Arctic wilderness, with the sound of sled dogs' paws crunching through the snow and the crisp, cold air invigorating your senses. Ideal locations for dog sledding include Ilulissat and Kangerlussuaq, where you can glide past towering icebergs and frozen fjords. The best time to enjoy dog sledding is during the winter months, from November to April, when the snow is thick and the scenery is breathtaking.
Northern Lights Viewing
Witness the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, in one of the best places on Earth to see this natural phenomenon. Greenland's clear skies and minimal light pollution make it an ideal location for viewing the vibrant, dancing lights. The best time to see the Northern Lights is from September to April, with prime viewing spots in Ilulissat, Kangerlussuaq, and Nuuk. Join guided tours that offer insights into the science and folklore behind the lights, and enjoy the magical experience of watching the sky come alive with color.
Ice Fjord Boat Tours
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, home to one of the most active glaciers in the world, the Sermeq Kujalleq. Boat tours offer a close-up view of the massive icebergs that calve from the glacier and float majestically through the fjord. These tours provide a unique perspective on Greenland's icy landscapes and the opportunity to witness the raw power of nature. Available from May to September, these tours are a must-do for anyone visiting Greenland, offering stunning photo opportunities and a chance to learn about the region's glaciology.
Hiking in the Arctic Tundra
Discover Greenland's rugged beauty on foot by hiking through its vast Arctic tundra. The country offers a range of trails, from easy walks to challenging treks, each providing breathtaking views of mountains, fjords, and wildlife. Popular hiking destinations include the Arctic Circle Trail, which stretches from Kangerlussuaq to Sisimiut, and the trails around the capital, Nuuk. Summer, from June to August, is the best time for hiking, as the weather is milder and the landscape is dotted with colorful wildflowers.
Kayaking Among Icebergs
Paddle through the serene waters of Greenland's fjords and get up close to towering icebergs on a kayaking adventure. This activity allows you to experience the tranquility of the Arctic environment and observe wildlife such as seals and whales in their natural habitat. Kayaking tours are available in locations like Ilulissat and Tasiilaq, with options for both beginners and experienced paddlers. The best time for kayaking is during the summer months, from June to September, when the waters are more navigable and the weather is warmer.