Things To Do
in Greenland

A traditional soup often made with seal, whale, reindeer or seabird, with potatoes, onions and a clear broth — a warming staple found in homes and sometimes on local menus.

Must-Try!

Fresh or frozen whale skin with a thin layer of blubber — usually eaten raw or lightly frozen. It's a traditional delicacy and offered in cultural demonstrations or select local eateries (ask first because it's not for everyone).

Locally caught fish are often smoked, dried or prepared simply; Arctic char is common and available in markets and restaurants throughout coastal towns.

In areas where available, reindeer and muskox meat appear roasted, in stews, or as smoked specialties — hearty options in colder seasons.

Small harbor markets and fish stalls in larger towns sell freshly caught fish and smoked specialties; great for sampling fresh seafood and buying ready-to-eat bites.

In Ilulissat you can often find local vendors offering simple fish and meat snacks, as well as homemade jams and traditional treats — ideal for tasting local flavors informally.

Treat the environment carefully: avoid leaving waste, follow guide instructions near glaciers and wildlife, and be mindful of fragile tundra and nesting seabirds.

Ask permission before photographing people, especially in small communities where privacy is valued; a polite greeting and brief conversation goes a long way.

Show respect for Inuit traditions and practices: avoid judgmental questions about hunting, whaling or local customs, and accept invitations to cultural events with appreciation.

Greenlandic (Kalaallisut) and Danish are official languages; learning a few phrases and using them politely is appreciated. Simple greetings and thank-yous in local language make positive impressions.

Tipping is not mandatory in Greenland and service charges may be included, but rounding up or leaving a small tip (5–10%) for exceptional service is appreciated in restaurants and for guides. For small services and taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is common practice.

Danish krone (DKK) is the official currency. Credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard) are widely accepted in larger towns and tourist services; cash is useful in very small settlements and some markets. ATMs are limited outside major towns, so carry enough funds or card options for remote travel.

Midnight sun in the north and long daylight hours make it ideal for hiking, boating and photography; sea ice retreats, enabling many boat excursions. Temperatures are mild on the coast (roughly 5–15°C / 40–60°F) but can still be chilly with wind. Accommodation and tour bookings should be made well ahead for peak summer months.

Shorter days and colder temperatures; this shoulder season sees fewer tourists, dramatic light and the start of sea ice formation. Northern Lights become visible as darkness returns, but weather can be unpredictable and some services begin to reduce frequency.

Long Arctic nights, heavy snow and excellent conditions for dog sledding and Northern Lights viewing; many coastal areas are accessible by snowmobile, dogsled or winter boat schedules. Cold is intense inland and in the high Arctic — temperatures can plunge well below freezing, so prepare with proper gear.

Increasing daylight and melting snow in coastal zones; a good time for early-season activities, fewer crowds and dynamic snow-to-water transitions. Some flights and ferry schedules resume more regular operations; pack for mixed conditions.

A major international entry point for Greenland with reliable connections to Denmark and Iceland; gateway for travel to central West Greenland and the start of the Arctic Circle Trail.

Serves the capital Nuuk with domestic flights and occasional international connections; convenient for travelers visiting southwestern coastal areas.

Primary access point for the Ilulissat Icefjord region and Disko Bay attractions, with domestic connections and seasonal international services.

Regional airports and heliports that connect more remote settlements; schedules vary seasonally and often depend on weather.

Both a traditional mode of transport and a popular sport/tourist activity in winter, showcasing mushing skills and cultural heritage.

Widely played in towns with community leagues and youth participation despite the challenging climate.

Sea kayaking has deep historical roots and modern competitive and recreational practice along the coasts and fjords.

Popular winter activities in northern and inland areas for both transport and recreation where permitted.