Things To Do
in Aasiaat
Aasiaat is a picturesque town located on the west coast of Greenland. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with majestic mountains and icebergs as a backdrop. The town has a small population but a tight-knit community, with a strong connection to the surrounding Arctic environment.
Aasiaat offers unique opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, dog sledding, and boat tours to explore the pristine wilderness of Greenland.
- "Aaja" - Yes
- "Ajuga" - No
- "Kissaat" - Please
- "Qujanaq" - Thank you
- "Aluu" - Hello
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $150 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $5 - $10
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $100 - $200
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $60 - $120
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk along the scenic coastline of Aasiaat. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Greenland sea and the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.
Take a boat tour to explore nearby islands. Here, you can witness diverse wildlife and the stunning scenery that Greenland has to offer.
Dine at a local restaurant to experience traditional Greenlandic cuisine. End your day with a relaxing stroll under the midnight sun.
Join a guided whale-watching tour early in the morning. Capture impressive photos of these magnificent creatures as they breach the surface.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on a secluded beach after the whale-watching experience. Spend some time relaxing and soaking up the sun.
Return to Aasiaat and visit the local museum. Learn about the history and culture of the region before heading out for dinner.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with dramatic landscapes and scenic views.
- Rich cultural heritage and unique Inuit traditions.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching.
- Small, close-knit community with a friendly atmosphere.
- Less crowded than other tourist destinations, providing a more authentic experience.
- Harsh climate with long, cold winters.
- Limited access to modern amenities and services.
- Higher cost of living due to remote location.
- Limited job opportunities and economic development.
- Infrastructure challenges, such as transportation and internet connectivity.
Best Activities in Aasiaat
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes of Aasiaat through various hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of fjords and mountains.
Paddle through the icy waters surrounding Aasiaat, allowing you to get up close to glaciers and the local wildlife.
Engage in traditional fishing activities, with opportunities to catch local fish species in the rich waters of the region.
Experience the thrill of dog sledding across the snowy terrain during winter months, a classic Greenlandic adventure.
Take a boat tour to observe various whale species in their natural habitat during the summer months when they are most active.
Join guided photography tours to capture the unique beauty of Aasiaat, from arctic wildlife to picturesque landscapes.
Set up camp in the wild to fully immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of Aasiaat, under the midnight sun or the northern lights.
Tours
Uncover the best of Aasiaat with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Aasiaat
Visit one of these nice places.
A breathtaking natural landscape featuring stunning ice formations, perfect for capturing dramatic shots of the icebergs and surrounding mountains.
Known for its mesmerizing views, this fjord offers panoramic vistas that are ideal for photographers looking to capture the beauty of Greenland's rugged coastline.
The colorful buildings of Aasiaat against the backdrop of the sea and mountains provide a charming view and great opportunities for urban photography.
During the winter months, Aasiaat offers incredible opportunities to photograph the mesmerizing aurora borealis dancing across the night sky.
The sandy beaches around Aasiaat provide an excellent location for capturing sunset photos and the tranquil beauty of the shoreline.
Food in Aasiaat
Aasiaat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Inuit delicacy made of whale skin and blubber, often served raw. It can be found at local markets and traditional Greenlandic restaurants.
Must-Try!
A fermented dish consisting of auks (small sea birds) stuffed into a seal skin, then buried for several months. This is a unique specialty that can be experienced during special occasions or through local connections.
A traditional Greenlandic soup often made with seal, whale, or reindeer meat, along with potatoes and onions. It is a hearty and warming dish widely available at local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the Aasiaat Market to discover a variety of locally sourced seafood, wild game, and produce. You may find street food vendors offering grilled fish or seal meat, providing an excellent opportunity to sample authentic Greenlandic flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Aasiaat, it is important to show respect to elders. This includes addressing them politely, listening attentively, and offering assistance when needed.
Participating in community activities, such as local festivals or gatherings, is highly valued. Engaging with residents and showing interest in their traditions fosters good relationships.
In many Inuit cultures, silence is often a form of communication and should be respected. Not every moment requires speaking; being comfortable with quiet can demonstrate respect and understanding.
Safety
Tipping in Aasiaat
Ensure a smooth experience
In Aasiaat, Greenland, tipping is not a customary practice as service charges are typically included in the total bill. However, patrons may still choose to leave a small tip for exceptional service, especially in restaurants or for tour guides.
Payment methods in Aasiaat include cash and card transactions. The local currency is the Danish Krone (DKK). While cash is still widely accepted, many businesses, especially those catering to tourists, accept credit and debit cards. It's advisable for visitors to check with individual establishments regarding their payment options.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
From March to May, Aasiaat experiences gradually warming temperatures, with snow melting and the return of sunlight. This season is ideal for experiencing the lingering winter scenery, and wildlife begins to emerge, including migratory birds. Expect temperatures to range from -5 to 5°C (23 to 41°F).
June to August is considered the prime time to visit Aasiaat. The weather is its warmest, with temperatures averaging between 5 and 15°C (41 to 59°F). The days are long with almost continuous daylight, perfect for hiking, fishing, and exploring the stunning fjords and icebergs. This is also peak season for tourists.
September to November sees a transition to colder temperatures, ranging from 0 to 10°C (32 to 50°F). The autumn foliage creates beautiful landscapes, making it a great time for photography. Wildlife can still be spotted, and the Northern Lights may begin to make an appearance as darkness returns.
December to February is characterized by cold temperatures, usually between -10 and -20°C (14 to -4°F). The landscape is covered in snow, offering opportunities for winter sports such as snowmobiling and dog sledding. Visitors can experience the magical winter atmosphere and the chance to see the Northern Lights.
Aasiaat at Night
Hiking in Aasiaat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent peak near Aasiaat offering stunning views of the surrounding fjords and islands, ideal for hiking and photography.
This mountain trail provides a challenging hike with panoramic views of the Aasiaat area and opportunities to encounter local wildlife.
A protected area with marked trails that lead through diverse landscapes, including hills, valleys, and coastal areas.
A series of trails around the Disko Bay offering various hiking options with views of icebergs and marine life.
A scenic valley located a short distance from Aasiaat, perfect for moderate hikes that immerse you in Greenland's natural beauty.
Aiports
How to reach Aasiaat by plane.
The main airport serving Aasiaat, Greenland. It operates flights primarily to Nuuk and other regional destinations.
The largest international airport in Greenland, located in Nuuk. It connects with several international flights mainly to Denmark.
An international airport serving Ilulissat, Greenland, offering flights to domestic destinations and some international flights.
The primary international gateway to Greenland, located at Kangerlussuaq, with flights connecting to Copenhagen and other locations.
Located in Greenland's capital city, it handles both domestic and international flights, particularly to Denmark.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Aasiaat, comprising the majority of the population, primarily known for their traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle.
A smaller demographic of Danish expatriates and their descendants, often involved in administrative and business roles in Aasiaat.
Includes smaller groups of indigenous peoples from the broader Arctic region, contributing to the cultural diversity of Aasiaat.
Various individuals from other countries who have moved to Aasiaat for work and other opportunities, contributing to the multicultural landscape of the town.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hockey is a popular sport in Aasiaat, Greenland, especially ice hockey, due to the region's colder climate, which allows for outdoor ice rinks.
Handball is widely played in Aasiaat and is a popular team sport among both youth and adults.
Given the snowy landscape, cross-country skiing is a favored outdoor activity and competitive sport in Aasiaat.
While not a competitive sport in the traditional sense, fishing is a vital and popular activity, deeply integrated into the local culture and life.
Soccer, or football, is gaining popularity among the youth, with local clubs and community leagues forming.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aasiaat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Greenlandic cuisine heavily relies on animal-based ingredients, some restaurants and cafes in Aasiaat offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, especially in the form of flavorful salads, soups, and locally sourced vegetable dishes.
Many establishments in Aasiaat are attentive to gluten-free dietary needs, providing options such as fish and seafood-based dishes, as well as gluten-free bread and pastries at select cafes.