Things To Do
in Kulusuk
Kulusuk is a compact Inuit settlement on Greenland's east coast, perched above a rugged Arctic shoreline. The village is painted with colorful houses that pop against snow and sea, framed by towering mountains and shifting ice. Life here blends traditional practices with small-scale tourism, centered on guiding visitors through pristine landscapes.
Expect dramatic light, icy water, and a profoundly quiet environment that feels worlds away from city life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Kulusuk, immerse yourself in the breathtaking Arctic landscape as you settle into your accommodations. Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring local ingredients while gazing out at the stunning fjords and icebergs. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline to soak in the fresh air and the vibrant colors of the surrounding nature.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided walking tour of Kulusuk, where you’ll learn about the local Inuit culture and history. Visit the small museum dedicated to the island's heritage, featuring artifacts and displays that tell the story of its indigenous people. Conclude your tour with a visit to the local grocery store to see how unique Arctic ingredients are sourced and utilized.
As evening falls, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant where you can savor traditional Greenlandic dishes, including fresh fish and reindeer. After your meal, take a moment to bask in the tranquil ambiance of the village under the midnight sun, with the soft glow reflecting off the water. If the night sky is clear, keep an eye out for the spectacular Northern Lights that may dance across the horizon.
After an early breakfast, prepare for an exhilarating day on the ice with a glacier hiking expedition. Meet your experienced guide who will provide safety gear and brief you on the day's adventure. The hike begins as you traverse the rugged terrain, taking in the awe-inspiring views of the glaciers and their deep blue crevasses.
Continue your glacier exploration in the afternoon, where you will have the opportunity to photograph the stunning ice formations and learn about the geology of the region. Enjoy a packed lunch on the ice, surrounded by the serene sounds of cracking glaciers and flowing meltwater. As you hike, your guide will share stories of climate change and its impact on this breathtaking environment.
Return to Kulusuk in the evening, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures. Dine at a cozy local eatery, sampling more of the region's unique cuisine. After dinner, join fellow travelers for a storytelling session around a fire, where you can share your experiences and listen to tales from the Arctic.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏨Lodging per night (budget) | $120-180 |
| 💧Water bottle (1.5L) | $2-3 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-6 |
| 🚶Local transport/short boat trip | $10-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Unique Arctic destination with dramatic landscapes
- Rich Inuit culture and storytelling
- Low crowds and pristine nature
- Remote location with limited services
- Seasonal accessibility depending on weather
- Higher travel costs due to logistics
- "Danish: Hej" - Hello
- "Danish: Tak" - Thank you
- "Danish: Hvor meget koster det?" - How much does it cost?
- "Danish: Hvor ligger toilettet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Danish: Taler du engelsk?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Kulusuk
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful houses along the harbor with ice-sea backdrops and mountain silhouettes—an iconic Arctic village scene.
The church building with surrounding low-rise homes sits against snow-capped peaks, offering classic Greenlandic composition.
Seasonal opportunities to photograph ice floes and drifting icebergs along the coastline with dramatic light.
Access points on nearby hills provide sweeping panoramas of sea, ice, and the tiny settlement below.
Food in Kulusuk
Kulusuk Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Greenlandic soup typically made with seal meat, potatoes, and onions; variations use reindeer or other local proteins.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught Arctic char prepared simply—grilled, baked, or pan-seared to highlight its delicate flavor.
Common Cold-weather staple items found in shops and guesthouse meals; pairs well with coffee or tea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small shops in town carry staples, dried fish, coffee, snacks, and essential supplies; expect limited fresh produce and seasonal availability.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Ask before photographing people; greetings are polite; dress modestly when visiting homes and sacred places.
Safety
Tipping in Kulusuk
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not obligatory; consider rounding up or leaving a small additional amount for guides and service staff.
Cash in Danish krone is commonly accepted; some shops and accommodations accept credit cards, but have backup cash for small vendors and remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, relatively mild temperatures (often near freezing to around 10°C), and good conditions for hiking, boat trips, and photography. Sea ice recedes, making coastal access easier; expect winds and rapidly changing weather.
Cooler days with increasing darkness; migrating birds and crisp skies; opportunities to glimpse the northern lights as nights lengthen.
Polar night with very short daylight; cold, clear, and ideal for northern lights if skies are clear; dog sledding and snow activities are prominent, but warmth and safety gear are essential.
Rising temperatures and longer days with wildlife activity returning; trails can be muddy as ice melts; appropriate footwear and layers recommended.
Kulusuk at Night
Hiking in Kulusuk
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A hike offering panoramic views of the coast, ice fields, and surrounding mountains.
Airports
How to reach Kulusuk by plane.
Closest air connection to Nuuk and Iceland; small, seasonal schedules and weather-dependent operations.
Major hub for western Greenland with broader connections to Denmark and international destinations; often a transfer point for visitors.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Inuit residents with Danish influence; strong cultural traditions and language heritage.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A traditional Arctic activity closely tied to Inuit heritage, offered in winter months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kulusuk.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are limited but can be accommodated by requesting vegetable stews, salads, and dairy or egg-based dishes; communicate dietary needs in advance and ask for substitutions when possible.