Things To Do
in Ilulissat
Ilulissat is a picturesque coastal town located on the west coast of Greenland. It is known for its stunning icefjord, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest and most active glaciers in the world. The town is surrounded by breathtaking Arctic scenery, including icebergs floating in the nearby waters.
Visitors can also experience the local Inuit culture and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, dog sledding, and boat tours.
- "Aaja" - Yes
- "Ajuga" - No
- "Kissaat" - Please
- "Qujanaq" - Thank you
- "Aluu" - Hello
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $150 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $25 - $60
- ☕ Coffee: $4 - $8
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $5 - $10
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $100 - $200
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $50 - $100
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a guided boat tour to see the magnificent icebergs. The stunning views and fresh sea air will energize you.
Enjoy a picnic lunch on the shores of the Disko Bay. Afterward, visit the Ilulissat Museum to learn about the local culture and history.
Dine at a local restaurant, savoring Greenlandic delicacies. As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll along the water's edge.
Set off early on the famous Sermermiut hiking trail. The breathtaking views of icebergs and the landscape will amaze you.
Continue your hike, taking in the sights and sounds of the Arctic flora and fauna. Have a packed lunch set against a dramatic backdrop.
Return to your accommodation and enjoy a warm meal. Spend the night sharing stories around a fire with fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with breathtaking glacier views.
- Unique cultural experiences with the Inuit heritage.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and dog sledding.
- Low population density allowing for a peaceful and tranquil environment.
- Rich wildlife, including opportunities to see whales and northern lights.
- Harsh Arctic climate with long, cold winters.
- Limited accessibility, with few transportation options.
- High cost of living and limited availability of goods and services.
- Potential for isolation, as it is far from major urban centers.
- Limited employment opportunities and economic development.
Best Activities in Ilulissat
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning ice formations and glaciers surrounding Ilulissat. Guided tours offer safe access to these breathtaking natural wonders.
Take a boat tour to see the famous icebergs in Disko Bay. Experience the unique landscape from the water while witnessing the calving glaciers.
Enjoy a traditional Greenlandic experience by going dog sledding in the winter months. It’s a thrilling way to explore the snow-covered terrain.
Paddle through the serene waters of Ilulissat and get close to the icebergs. Kayaking offers a unique perspective of the landscape and wildlife.
Engage in fishing in the pristine waters around Ilulissat. Whether it’s deep-sea fishing or simple catch-and-release, you can enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Take a hike on the Sermermiut Trail to discover ancient Inuit sites and enjoy stunning views of the Icefjord and the surrounding landscape.
Ilulissat offers opportunities for bird watching, especially in the summer months when migratory birds return to the area.
Join photography tours to capture the incredible landscapes, wildlife, and culture of Ilulissat, led by local experts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ilulissat with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ilulissat
Visit one of these nice places.
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning views of massive icebergs. The best vantage points can be found along the hiking trails and at the official viewpoint.
This historic valley offers breathtaking panoramas of the Icefjord and the surrounding landscapes. It's an ideal spot for photography, especially at sunset and sunrise.
Known for its stunning scenery, Disko Bay features dramatic icebergs and coastal views. Boat tours provide excellent photographic opportunities of the icy landscape.
The trail leading to the ancient Inuit site offers multiple viewpoints that showcase the Icefjord, ideal for capturing the unique arctic environment.
This peak provides a breathtaking overview of the Icefjord and the glacier. The hike can be challenging but rewards photographers with unparalleled views.
The town itself offers colorful houses contrasted against the stark ice and sea, making it a vibrant location for capturing local life with the stunning natural backdrop.
Food in Ilulissat
Ilulissat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Inuit dish made from auk birds stuffed inside a seal skin and left to ferment for several months. It's a unique delicacy and a must-try for those seeking an authentic Greenlandic experience.
Must-Try!
Also known as whale skin and blubber, this dish is a significant part of the traditional diet. It's usually served raw and has a chewy texture with a hint of seafood flavor.
Freshly caught from the nearby waters, Arctic Char is a popular local fish. It can be prepared in various ways, such as grilled, smoked, or served raw as sashimi.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located by the harbor, this market offers a wide selection of fresh seafood, including fish, shrimp, and crabs. Visitors can also find local specialties like whale and seal meat here.
In the town center, street food stalls offer traditional Greenlandic snacks such as dried fish, smoked meats, and local pastries. It's a great way to sample authentic flavors while exploring the town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When visiting Ilulissat, it's important to honor local traditions and customs. This includes participating in community events with an open mind and being considerate of cultural practices, such as the significance of storytelling and traditional Inuit practices.
Always ask for permission before taking photographs of individuals, particularly during cultural or family gatherings. Respecting people’s privacy is crucial, as some locals may view photography as intrusive or disrespectful.
Make an effort to interact with the locals in a friendly and respectful manner. Learning a few words in Greenlandic or showing interest in the local culture can foster goodwill and create positive exchanges with the community.
Safety
Tipping in Ilulissat
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ilulissat, tipping is not a common practice as it is in many other countries. Service charges are often included in the bill, especially in restaurants and hotels. However, it is appreciated if customers leave a small tip to express gratitude for exceptional service. A tip of around 10% may be considered generous.
Payment in Ilulissat can be made using credit and debit cards in most establishments such as hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash in Danish Krone (DKK) for smaller vendors and local markets. ATMs are available, but it's wise to check in advance for their availability, especially during off-peak tourist seasons.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Winter in Ilulissat runs from December to February. This season offers a magical landscape of snow-covered mountains and frozen fjords. Visitors can expect extreme cold with temperatures often dropping below -20°C. It's the perfect time for experiencing the Northern Lights and enjoying winter activities such as dog sledding, ice fishing, and snowmobiling.
Spring spans from March to May. Temperatures begin to rise, ranging from -10°C to 5°C, and the days grow longer. This is a great time to witness the melting of ice and the return of wildlife. Spring activities include hiking, boat tours, and observing the striking icebergs as they break away from the glacier.
Summer lasts from June to August, characterized by milder temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C. This is the peak travel season when the midnight sun provides nearly 24 hours of daylight. Visitors can enjoy hiking, whale watching, and exploring the stunning landscapes and glaciers. It's an ideal time for photographers and those looking to experience the natural beauty of Greenland.
Autumn, from September to November, sees temperatures decreasing from around 10°C to -5°C. The fall colors transform the landscape, making it a picturesque time to visit. This season is perfect for those interested in photography and wildlife, as migratory birds are still around, and the ice starts to solidify again. It's a quieter season, allowing for a more intimate experience of the stunning surroundings.
Ilulissat at Night
Hiking in Ilulissat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful hiking area near Ilulissat that offers stunning views of the Icefjord and the surrounding landscape. The trail leads through ancient Inuit sites and provides a glimpse into the region's history.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Icefjord can be explored via various hiking paths that offer breathtaking views of massive icebergs and the spectacular glacial landscape.
This marked trail allows you to hike from Ilulissat to the Icefjord, showcasing the unique Arctic environment and panoramic views of the fjord and icebergs.
A hiking spot that provides access to impressive views overlooking the Disko Bay, this area is perfect for those looking to experience the rugged beauty of the Greenlandic coastline.
A bit further from Ilulissat, this mountain offers more challenging hikes with rewarding views. It's ideal for experienced hikers seeking adventure in the dramatic terrain.
Aiports
How to reach Ilulissat by plane.
The primary airport serving Ilulissat, Greenland. It is a small airport with limited international connections.
Located approximately 353 kilometers from Ilulissat, Kangerlussuaq Airport is the largest international airport in Greenland and serves as a hub for Greenlandair.
Located about 450 kilometers from Ilulissat, Nuuk Airport offers some international flights and connects to other airports within Greenland.
Approximately 92 kilometers from Ilulissat, Aasiaat Airport provides regional flights with limited international connections.
Located about 45 kilometers from Ilulissat, this airport primarily handles flights to and from nearby Greenlandic towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The indigenous Inuit people are the majority demographic group in Ilulissat, comprising a significant portion of the population and maintaining cultural heritage and traditions.
Danish citizens and expatriates who live in Ilulissat for work or study, contributing to the local economy and cultural exchange.
Seasonal visitors to Ilulissat, attracted by the natural beauty, iceberg scenery, and opportunities for adventure tourism, making them a temporary but notable group.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport in Greenland, ice hockey is played on frozen surfaces and is a traditional sport enjoyed by many communities.
With its vast snow-covered landscapes, skiing, including both alpine and cross-country, is a favored activity among the residents.
A traditional mode of transportation that has become a popular recreational activity and sport, dog sledding is embraced by locals and tourists alike.
Fishing, particularly during the summer months, is both a vital source of sustenance and a popular pastime for many in Ilulissat.
With breathtaking natural landscapes, hiking is a popular outdoor activity, allowing residents and visitors to explore the beauty of Greenland's terrain.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ilulissat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While the traditional diet in Greenland is meat-heavy, many restaurants in Ilulissat offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, often featuring locally sourced vegetables and dairy alternatives.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find options such as fish, seafood, and naturally gluten-free grains on the menus of various restaurants. It's recommended to inform the staff about dietary restrictions for personalized recommendations.