Things To Do
in Kraulshavn

Kraulshavn is a remote Arctic settlement perched on a windswept coast, where the sea and ice shape daily life. Its scenery blends rugged rock, icy fjords, and colorful wooden houses that cling to the shoreline. The town thrives on a hard-won fishing heritage, with fishermen and researchers sharing the same salt-scented air.

Visitors come for pristine landscapes, wildlife encounters, and the slow, intimate pace of Arctic hospitality.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Welcome to Kraulshavn
morning
:

Arrive in Kraulshavn and settle into your cozy accommodation with stunning views of the fjord. After a hearty Greenlandic breakfast, take a stroll around the charming village to soak in the tranquil atmosphere. As the sun rises, watch the surrounding mountains bathed in golden light, creating a perfect start to your adventure.

afternoon
:

Join a local guide for a boat tour of the nearby icebergs, where you can witness their majestic forms and learn about the region's unique geology. Enjoy a packed lunch on board as you sail through the pristine waters, keeping an eye out for seals and seabirds. The afternoon sun makes the icebergs glisten, providing fantastic photography opportunities.

evening
:

Return to Kraulshavn for a traditional dinner at a local eatery, where you can savor Arctic char and other freshly caught seafood. Post-dinner, gather around a warm fire with fellow travelers as your guide shares stories of the local culture and folklore. As night falls, take a moment to marvel at the clear starry sky, a sight seldom seen in urban areas.

day 2
Exploring the Wilderness
morning
:

Start your day with a guided hike through the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Kraulshavn. With the crisp morning air invigorating your spirit, traverse trails that lead to panoramic viewpoints of the fjord. Bring your camera along to capture the stunning vistas and unique flora.

afternoon
:

After lunch, embark on an adventurous kayaking tour along the coastal waters, navigating through hidden coves and getting up close with the dramatic cliffs. Learn basic kayaking techniques from your knowledgeable guide, who will help you appreciate the harmony between the water and the land. Experience the thrill of paddling amidst floating ice, feeling the cool sprays of the water.

evening
:

As twilight descends, return to the village for a simple yet satisfying meal featuring indigenous ingredients. Engage in discussions with locals and fellow hikers about the day’s experiences, fostering a sense of community. Cap off the evening with a relaxed walk along the shore, listening to the soothing sounds of the waves lapping against the rocks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$15-25
🛒Groceries for a week$60-120
🛏️Hotel night$120-260
🚗Rental car per day$70-120
🗺️Guided excursion$50-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning Arctic landscapes and wildlife
  • Fresh seafood and long, bright days in summer
  • Low crowds in shoulder seasons
  • Warm, welcoming communities
  • Remote and expensive due to isolation
  • Limited services and amenities outside main towns
  • Extreme weather conditions and seasonal accessibility
  • "Hej" - Hello (Danish)
  • "Tak" - Thank you
  • "Hvor er nærmeste supermarked?" - Where is the nearest supermarket?
  • "Kan jeg få menuen, tak?" - Can I have the menu, please?
  • "Tal langsomt, tak" - Please speak slowly

Places to Visit in Kraulshavn

Visit one of these nice places.

Harbor at Sunrise

Calm water, low-angled light, and working boats create a tranquil, color-rich harbor scene.

Colorful Waterfront House Row

A row of bright houses along the inlet provides a quintessential Arctic village portrait.

Icefjord Overlook

Breathtaking blue ice and distant fjords offer dramatic contrast for landscape photography.

Midnight Sun Cliffs

Glowing coastal cliffs during the extended daylight hours provide cinematic backdrops.

Aurora Ridge

A dark hilltop vantage point for aurora photography when skies clear.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kraulshavn

Greenlandic cuisine here centers on seafood and foraged berries, fortified by hardy local traditions. Expect simple, satisfying dishes built to fuel long days outdoors, with a strong emphasis on freshness and seasonality.

Kraulshavn Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Suaasat (seal meat soup)

A traditional Greenlandic soup using seal meat, potatoes, and aromatics; a hearty, comforting option in cold weather.

Must-Try!

Arctic Char with dill and potatoes

A light, flavorful preparation of local char served with potatoes and herbs, a staple for seafood lovers.

Smoked cod with rye bread

Cold-smoked or hot-smoked cod paired with dense Greenlandic rye bread and cultured butter.

Berry compote with cloudberries

A sweet ending or side dish highlighting the region’s foraged berries during harvest season.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Harbor Fish Market

Morning stalls offering freshly caught cod, haddock, and smoked fish; try fish cakes and local bread nearby.

Coastal Street Food Stand

Seasonal vendor servings of simple soups, shellfish, and berry desserts by the pier when weather allows.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kraulshavn experiences a polar climate with cold winters, cool summers, strong winds, and variable precipitation. Coastal moderation is typical, but wind chill can make it feel much colder. Snow and ice persist through the winter months, while summers bring longer days and more comfortable outdoor conditions.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space and quiet behavior

Public seating and walking areas value modest, calm conduct; keep voices down and avoid loud gestures near wildlife and in communal spaces.

Dress for the climate

Layered, windproof clothing is essential; scarves, hats, and gloves are practical for most conditions.

Ask before wildlife viewing

Stay with guides when close to wildlife and maintain safe distances; disrupting wildlife is discouraged.

Safety Guide

Safety

Travel safety centers on preparedness for Arctic conditions: dress in layers, monitor weather and ice conditions, travel with a local guide for remote excursions, and carry emergency signaling devices. Wildlife encounters should be treated with caution; always maintain a respectful distance. Have travel insurance and plan for possible emergency evacuations to Nuuk or other regional hubs if needed.

Tipping in Kraulshavn

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; 5–10% is a common range if service exceeds expectations.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted in towns; Danish kroner (DKK) is the local currency; ATMs are limited in remote settlements.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

24-hour daylight and milder temperatures (often 5–12°C). Ideal for hiking, sea kayaking, and wildlife watching; winds can be brisk, so layered clothing is essential.

Winter

Polar night with very short days and frequent snow squalls; temperatures can drop well below -15°C. Excellent for northern lights and snow activities, but travel is more challenging and requires preparation and local guidance.

Shoulder Seasons

Spring and autumn bring variable weather, wind, and fog; crowds are lighter, but conditions can change rapidly. Pack versatile layers and be prepared for shifts between sun, wind, and rain.

Nightlife Guide

Kraulshavn at Night

In a small Arctic town, nightlife centers on intimate bars, cozy cafes, and occasional community gatherings or live music. Social time often revolves around shared meals, storytelling, and aurora watching rather than bustling club scenes. Expect a warm welcome and a few hardy local traditions after dark.

Hiking in Kraulshavn

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Coastal Cliff Trail

A scenic coastal hike with ocean views and occasional berry patches, best in calm conditions.

Glacier Overlook Path

A day trek to a vantage point overlooking a calving glacier; rocky sections require sturdy footwear.

Icefjord Path

Trail along a glacial icefjord featuring striking blue ice and panoramic water views.

Airports

How to reach Kraulshavn by plane.

Nuuk Airport (GOH)

Greenland’s capital airport with domestic and limited international connections; common gateway for reaching Kraulshavn.

Kangerlussuaq Airport (SFJ)

Major gateway with year-round flights and connections to Denmark and other destinations; often used for longer journeys to western Greenland.

Ilulissat Airport (JUU)

Regional hub near Disko Bay for domestic flights; convenient for side trips to the Disko region.

Narsarsuaq Airport (UAK)

Southern Greenland gateway for regional flights; useful when combining trips across Greenland.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kraulshavn is compact and easy to walk within the town limits, but broader exploration often relies on boats or snow vehicles. Sidewalks may be uneven, and winter ice can be slick; a good pair of waterproof, insulated shoes is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Greenlandic Inuit (Kalaallisut-speaking)

The majority of residents identify as Greenlandic; Danish residents and researchers also contribute to the population mix.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Dog sledding

A quintessential Arctic experience that doubles as transportation in winter and a thrilling ride for visitors.

Ice fishing

Seasonal cold-weather activity along the frozen coastline.

Cross-country skiing

Extended treks across open, snowy terrain for those seeking endurance and solitude.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is light in Kraulshavn. The town relies on a few service roads and boats for transport; public transit is minimal. In winter, some routes may be intermittently affected by ice and weather, so plan flexible itineraries and consider guided options for longer excursions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kraulshavn.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options can be limited but are available at main eateries as soups, salads, rye-bread plates, and veggie sides; communicate clearly about avoiding fish broths or meat stocks and ask for vegetable-based dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

There is a small health clinic in town for routine care and emergencies; major medical treatment typically requires evacuation to Nuuk or another regional hub. International travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance and know emergency contact procedures.

Discover Greenland

Read more in our Greenland 2025 Travel Guide.

Greenland Travel Guide