Kraulshavn
,Kraulshavn is a picturesque coastal village located in southern Greenland. The stunning landscape is dominated by rugged mountains and crystal-clear fjords. The village is known for its colorful wooden houses and vibrant fishing industry.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching in this remote and charming destination.
- "Aaja" - Yes
- "Ajuga" - No
- "Kissaat" - Please
- "Qujanaq" - Thank you
- "Aluu" - Hello
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $5 - $10
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $7
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $70 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Kraulshavn Adventure
morning
:Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café, fueling up for a day of exploration. Take a leisurely stroll along the fjord to admire the stunning Arctic scenery.
afternoon
:Join a guided kayaking tour to paddle among the icebergs and experience the beauty of the Greenlandic waters. Look out for seals and unique wildlife amidst the pristine landscape.
evening
:Savor a traditional Greenlandic dinner at a cozy restaurant, featuring fresh fish and local ingredients. End your day by watching the sunset over the fjord, a truly breathtaking experience.
Arctic Wildlife Encounter
morning
:Rise early for a guided hike to look for Arctic wildlife, including reindeer and arctic foxes. The crisp, fresh air and scenic views will be invigorating.
afternoon
:Participate in a wildlife photography workshop to capture the stunning landscapes and animals. Learn tips from professionals on how to take breathtaking shots.
evening
:Relax with a warm drink in a lodge, sharing stories of the day's encounters. The quiet of the night will enhance the feeling of being in a wild, untouched place.
Highlights
Good
- Stunning natural beauty with dramatic landscapes and breathtaking fjords
- Rich cultural heritage and unique Inuit traditions
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking
- Low population density offers a peaceful and quiet living environment
- Ecological diversity with a chance to see wildlife such as polar bears and marine animals
Bad
- Harsh Arctic climate with long, cold winters and limited daylight
- Limited access to modern amenities and healthcare facilities
- Isolated location can lead to high transportation costs and logistical challenges
- Economic opportunities may be scarce, leading to reliance on tourism or fishing industries
- Potential impacts of climate change affecting traditional ways of life and the environment
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Hiking
Explore the stunning landscapes and unique geological formations of Kraulshavn with various hiking trails suitable for all skill levels.
Kayaking
Paddle through the pristine waters and enjoy the breathtaking views of glaciers, icebergs, and the surrounding wilderness.
Wildlife Watching
Observe the local wildlife, including birds, seals, and potentially whales, in their natural habitat while enjoying the serene coastal environment.
Fishing
Experience traditional fishing in the rich waters of Kraulshavn, offering opportunities for both saltwater and freshwater fishing.
Camping
Set up camp in the remote areas near Kraulshavn to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of Greenland's outdoors.
Photography
Capture the stunning landscapes, unique cultural aspects, and breathtaking natural phenomena, such as the Northern Lights in the fall and winter months.
Snowmobiling
During the winter months, explore the snowy terrain of Kraulshavn by snowmobile, offering quick travel to more remote areas.
Sailing
Take a sailing trip along the coast to see the dramatic cliffs and icebergs from the water, providing a unique perspective of the area.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Kraulshavn with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Ice Fjord
A breathtaking location with stunning views of massive icebergs and the surrounding mountain landscape, providing numerous opportunities for dramatic photography.
Kraulshavn Harbor
The harbor itself offers picturesque views of colorful houses and boats, making it a perfect spot for capturing the essence of Greenlandic coastal life.
Tasiusaq Valley
Located a short distance from Kraulshavn, this valley provides panoramic views of the fjord and surrounding glaciers, ideal for capturing the natural beauty of the region.
Mount Vang
A moderately challenging hike that rewards adventurers with breathtaking views of Kraulshavn and the ice-filled waters below, perfect for landscape photography.
The Northern Lights Viewing Spot
During the winter months, the clear skies and dark nights create a perfect opportunity for capturing the mesmerizing auroras, best viewed away from city lights.
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fårikål
Fårikål, a traditional Greenlandic stew, is made with lamb, cabbage, and potatoes, creating a hearty and comforting dish. It can be found at local taverns and traditional restaurants like Ulo in Kraulshavn.
Must-Try!
Polar Char
Polar Char, a cold-water fish indigenous to Greenland, is often served grilled or smoked, offering a delicate and flavorful seafood experience. Look for it at local seafood markets or restaurants like North Star Seafood.
Kiviaq
Kiviaq is a fermented delicacy made from auks (small sea birds) stuffed into a seal skin and aged for several months. This traditional dish can be experienced during cultural events or at specialty food shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Kraulshavn Fish Market
Visit the Kraulshavn Fish Market, where you can find a variety of freshly caught seafood including Arctic char, shrimp, and crab. Sample some of the prepared street food offerings like fish skewers and seafood soups.
Greenlandic Street Food Festival
During the annual Greenlandic Street Food Festival, you can explore numerous stalls offering local specialties such as dried fish, whale blubber, and seabird dishes along with modern fusion street food. It's a great place to experience the diversity of Greenlandic cuisine.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect Indigenous Culture
Kraulshavn is home to Inuit communities. It's important to show respect towards their customs, traditions, and local practices. Familiarize yourself with their history and engage in cultural events with an open mind.
Practice Environmental Stewardship
In Greenland, the environment is deeply valued. When visiting, be mindful of local wildlife and natural spaces. Avoid littering and follow guidelines for sustainable tourism to help preserve the pristine surroundings.
Engage with Locals Genuinely
People in Kraulshavn are often welcoming, but it's crucial to engage sincerely and respectfully. Take the time to listen, ask questions, and show genuine interest in local life and traditions while respecting personal boundaries.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Kraulshavn, Greenland, tipping is not a common practice as many services include a service charge in the bill. However, it is appreciated for exceptional service, particularly in the hospitality sector, where rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is considered generous.
Payment
Payment methods in Kraulshavn typically include cash and debit/credit cards, with cards being widely accepted in most establishments. The local currency is the Greenlandic krone (DKK), and while some places may accept Danish krone, it is advisable to use local currency for transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Summer
Summer in Kraulshavn lasts from June to August, when temperatures can reach up to 10°C (50°F). This is the best time to visit for long daylight hours, beautiful landscapes, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, including whales and seabirds. Many visitors enjoy hiking, kayaking, and exploring the stunning icebergs.
Autumn
Autumn spans September to October, when temperatures begin to drop and the landscape turns vibrant with fall colors. It's a quieter time to visit, making it ideal for those seeking solitude. Expect cooler temperatures, ranging from 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F), and the chance to see the Northern Lights beginning in late September.
Winter
Winter runs from November to March, characterized by cold temperatures and snow. You can expect temperatures to drop well below freezing, often reaching -10°C (14°F) or lower. This is the season for winter activities, such as dog sledding and snowshoeing, and also offers the best chance to see the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
Spring
Spring lasts from April to May, when temperatures gradually rise but can still be chilly, averaging around -3°C to 5°C (27°F to 41°F). This is a transitional period, with melting snow and the return of wildlife. It’s a good time for photography and appreciating the awakening of nature, though unpredictable weather is common.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Kraulshavn Trail
A scenic hiking trail that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding fjords and showcases the natural beauty of Greenland's landscape.
Nordland Mountain
An adventurous hike that leads to the summit of Nordland Mountain, providing panoramic views over the coast and inland ice fields.
Fjord View Point
A short hike to a viewpoint that overlooks the stunning Kraulshavn fjord, perfect for photography and enjoying the serene environment.
Greenlandic Ice Cap Trail
A challenging hike that gives access to parts of the Greenlandic ice cap, featuring unique geological formations and glacial views.
Arctic Circle Path
A trail that follows the Arctic Circle, offering a mix of coastal scenery and rugged terrain, ideal for experienced hikers.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Kraulshavn by plane.
Kangerlussuaq Airport (SFJ)
The largest airport in Greenland, located in Kangerlussuaq, serving as a gateway for international flights.
Nuuk Airport (GOH)
The second largest airport in Greenland, located in the capital, Nuuk, with limited international connections.
Ilulissat Airport (JAV)
An airport serving Ilulissat, known for its international flights primarily to Copenhagen.
Aasiaat Airport (AUU)
An airport located in Aasiaat, offering regional flights and limited international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Inuit
The largest demographic group in Kraulshavn, comprising the indigenous population of Greenland.
Danes
This group includes Danish expatriates and those of Danish descent living in Kraulshavn.
Greenlanders
Individuals with a mixed heritage of Inuit and European ancestry, often referred to as Greenlandic.
Foreign Workers
A smaller demographic group that includes international workers and expatriates employed in various sectors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice Hockey
Ice hockey is a popular sport in Kraulshavn, played both recreationally and competitively. The sport's fast-paced nature attracts many local players who enjoy both playing and watching.
Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is not only a mode of transport in the snowy months but also a competitive sport in Kraulshavn. Locals participate in races and events, showcasing their dog teams.
Cross-Country Skiing
Due to the snowy environment, cross-country skiing is favored by many in Kraulshavn. The sport provides an excellent way to explore the beautiful Arctic landscapes.
Fishing
Fishing, both for sustenance and sport, is a longstanding tradition in Kraulshavn. Many residents engage in fishing during the thaw, taking to local waters for various fish species.
Curling
Curling is enjoyed by many in Kraulshavn, especially during community events. The sport encourages teamwork and strategy and has a dedicated following in the local community.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
While traditional Greenlandic cuisine is meat-centric, many restaurants and cafes in Kraulshavn offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, often featuring local produce and wild herbs. Look for options like wild mushroom soup, root vegetable stews, and berry-based desserts.
Gluten-Free Dining
For gluten-free dining, establishments like Arctic Restaurant and Piniartut Cafe provide gluten-free versions of traditional dishes and baked goods, ensuring that visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy a diverse range of Greenlandic cuisine.