Things To Do
in Greenland
Greenland, the world's largest island, lies predominantly within the Arctic Circle and is known for its vast ice sheet and rugged coastline punctuated by fjords. Its sparse population, largely Inuit, resides mainly along the ice-free, fjord-lined coast, where they engage in fishing and hunting, deeply rooted in their traditional way of life.
Greenland boasts a captivating natural landscape, from the stunning Northern Lights and midnight sun to its unique wildlife, making it a fascinating destination for those seeking adventure and a connection with ancient cultures amid a changing climate.
- "Aaja" - Yes
- "Ajuga" - No
- "Kissaat" - Please
- "Qujanaq" - Thank you
- "Aluu" - Hello
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $150 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $4 - $7
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $5 - $10
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $100 - $200
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Nuuk and check into your hotel. Spend some time exploring the local area and getting acquainted with Greenlandic culture.
Visit the Greenland National Museum to learn about the history and heritage of the indigenous people. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront to enjoy the stunning views.
Dine at a local restaurant and sample traditional Greenlandic cuisine. Enjoy a peaceful evening walk in the stunning Arctic twilight.
Start the day with a kayaking tour of the coastline. Paddle through picturesque fjords while observing local wildlife.
Continue your kayaking journey to remote islands for a picnic lunch. Take time to explore the beautiful scenery and capture some photos.
Return to Nuuk and unwind with a warm drink. Share stories of your adventure with fellow travelers at the hotel.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with vast landscapes, glaciers, and unique wildlife.
- Rich in natural resources, including minerals and potential oil reserves.
- Low population density, providing a peaceful and tranquil environment.
- Diverse cultural heritage with a rich history of Inuit traditions.
- Potential for eco-tourism, attracting visitors interested in nature and adventure.
- Harsh climate with extreme cold temperatures and long winters.
- Limited infrastructure and accessibility, making travel and transportation challenging.
- High cost of living due to remoteness and limited goods availability.
- Vulnerability to climate change, impacting ice melt and local ecosystems.
- Economic dependence on fishing and limited job opportunities in other sectors.
Best Activities in Greenland
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vast glaciers and ice formations of Greenland on a guided glacier hiking tour.
Experience the traditional mode of transportation in Greenland and go dog sledding across the snowy landscape.
Take a scenic boat tour to marvel at the breathtaking fjords and coastal scenery of Greenland.
Catch a glimpse of the mesmerizing northern lights from various locations across Greenland.
Tours
Uncover the best of Greenland with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Greenland
Visit one of these nice places.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its breathtaking icebergs and stunning views.
Offers a dramatic backdrop for photography, with towering ice formations and the chance to witness calving events.
Provides scenic views of the coastline, mountains, and surrounding fjords, especially during sunset.
Ideal for capturing the beauty of a glacier up close, with its blue-hued ice and rugged terrain.
Food in Greenland
Greenland Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Inuit delicacy made of auks (small sea birds) fermented in a seal skin. It's usually prepared during winter and has a distinct taste due to the fermentation process. It's a rare and sought-after dish, often served on special occasions.
Must-Try!
Considered the national dish, suaasat is a traditional Greenlandic soup made from seal, whale, or other meats, mixed with potatoes and onions. The flavors are rich and hearty, representing an important part of the local diet.
Also known as whale skin and blubber, mattak is a delicacy with a chewy texture and a slightly fishy, oily flavor. It's traditionally served raw and is a staple of Greenlandic cuisine.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the capital city, the Nuuk Market offers a wide variety of local produce, including fresh fish, muskox meat, and wild berries. It's an excellent place to experience the vibrancy of Greenlandic food culture and interact with local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Greenland, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others during conversations or interactions.
It is respectful to learn about and observe traditional customs and rituals of the Inuit culture, such as the proper way of greeting elders and participating in communal activities.
Greenlanders have a strong connection to their natural surroundings, so showing respect for the environment and wildlife is essential, including refraining from littering and avoiding disruptive behavior in natural areas.
Safety
Tipping in Greenland
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Greenland. It is generally not expected in restaurants, hotels, or taxis.
Payment in Greenland is primarily done using the Danish Krone (DKK), as Greenland is an autonomous territory of Denmark. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, but it's advisable to have cash on hand when visiting smaller towns or more remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for hiking, wildlife viewing, and midnight sun. Expect milder weather and longer days.
Good for seeing Northern Lights and experiencing the changing colors of the tundra. Weather becomes cooler and days shorten.
Ideal for Northern Lights viewing, dog sledding, and winter sports. Expect cold temperatures and limited daylight.
Great for snowmobiling and witnessing the arrival of longer days and milder temperatures. Ice starts to melt, and wildlife becomes more active.
Greenland at Night
Hiking in Greenland
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking area featuring rugged terrain and stunning views of the surrounding fjords and landscapes.
A series of well-marked trails around Nuuk that offer beautiful coastal views and opportunities to explore local flora and fauna.
A challenging hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking panoramic views over the coastal town of Uummannaq and the surrounding icebergs.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, offering trails that provide scenic vistas of icebergs and the famous Icefjord.
This area offers excellent hiking opportunities through diverse landscapes, including mountains, coastal areas, and cultural sites.
Airports
How to reach Greenland by plane.
The largest international airport in Greenland, located in Kangerlussuaq. It serves as a primary gateway to Greenland and has connections to Denmark and other destinations.
Located in the capital of Greenland, Nuuk Airport serves domestic and a limited number of international flights, primarily connecting to Denmark.
An international airport located near Ilulissat, which is known for its ice fjords. It offers flights to Copenhagen and domestic flights within Greenland.
Located in Aasiaat, this airport provides primarily domestic services but has some international connections, mainly to Greenland's capital and Copenhagen.
While primarily a hub for domestic flights, Greenland Airport also serves international flights to and from Denmark, making it a key airport for travelers to Greenland.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Greenland, making up about 88% of the population. They are primarily descendants of the Thule culture and have a rich cultural heritage.
A significant minority group in Greenland, primarily consisting of individuals with Danish ancestry due to the historical ties between Denmark and Greenland.
Includes small populations of other Indigenous groups, which may comprise individuals from surrounding Arctic regions.
Consists of individuals from various countries, including other Scandinavian nations and other parts of the world. They represent a diverse range of cultural backgrounds.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Greenland, with many local teams and community involvement.
Ice hockey has a significant following in Greenland, with several clubs and competitions taking place, particularly in the winter.
Handball is widely played in Greenland, with various clubs and a national championship.
Athletics includes various track and field events and is encouraged through local competitions and schools.
Skiing is popular in the winter months, with both cross-country and alpine skiing enjoyed by many Greenlanders.
A traditional sport and mode of transport, dog sledding is important culturally and is practiced during events and races.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat and seafood are prevalent in Greenlandic cuisine, some restaurants and cafes in larger towns like Nuuk and Ilulissat offer vegetarian and vegan dishes. It's advisable to inform the staff about dietary preferences in advance, as customizations may be possible.
Given the emphasis on natural, unprocessed foods, individuals requiring gluten-free options can find suitable meals consisting of fresh fish, game meats, and locally sourced vegetables. However, it's recommended to communicate specific dietary needs to the establishment staff for tailored dining experiences.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Greenland.