Things To Do
in Nord
Nord, Greenland sits in the far northeastern Arctic and is among the most remote corners of the country. It experiences polar conditions with long daylight in summer and darkness in winter. The landscape features wind-swept tundra, towering ice shelves, and fjords carved by ancient glaciers.
Visiting Nord requires careful planning, a guiding hand, and an appetite for pristine, untamed Arctic scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a guided boat tour of the stunning Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the colossal icebergs that have broken off from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier, while learning about the unique glacial environment from your local guide. Enjoy the fresh Arctic air and scenic views before heading back to the town for lunch.
After lunch, explore the charming town of Ilulissat on foot, visiting local galleries and the fascinating museum that provides insight into Inuit culture and the region's history. Wander through colorful houses and interact with friendly locals, who offer a warm welcome to visitors. As the afternoon sun casts a golden hue over the scenery, take one last stroll along the waterfront for breathtaking views.
As night falls, indulge in an authentic Greenlandic dining experience at a local restaurant, where fresh fish and game from the Arctic are featured on the menu. After dinner, take a walking tour to spot northern lights if conditions are right, as the dark skies provide a canvas for this otherworldly spectacle. Wind down the evening with warm drinks while sharing stories around a fire.
Fly from Ilulissat to Kangerlussuaq and start your day by visiting the fascinating Greenland Ice Cap. Join an expert guide who will lead you through the area, showcasing the magnificent glacial landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see. Capture stunning photographs of the snowy expanse, a perfect introduction to the Arctic environment.
After a hearty lunch, take part in a rugged 4x4 tour of the surrounding landscapes, crossing rivers and rugged terrain. Keep an eye out for Arctic wildlife, such as caribou and musk oxen, as you traverse the breathtaking scenery. The thrill of exploration in the wild will invigorate your spirit as you navigate through the untouched beauty of Greenland.
Return to the lodge for dinner, featuring traditional Greenlandic cuisine with fresh ingredients from the land. Gather with fellow travelers to share experiences and reflect on the day’s adventures. End the evening with a cozy gathering under the stars, where stories and laughter create lasting memories.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🥗Groceries for a day | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $5-8 |
| 🚗Local transport (short rides) | $10-20 |
| 🏨Hotel/guesthouse per night | $150-350 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Spectacular Arctic scenery
- Rare wildlife
- Great Northern Lights viewing
- Remote, limited services
- High travel costs
- Challenging weather
- "Hej" - Hello (Danish)
- "Tak" - Thank you
- "Farvel" - Goodbye
- "Vær venlig" - Please
- "Taler du engelsk?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hvor er toilettet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hvad koster det?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Nord
Visit one of these nice places.
Crystal-blue ice shelves meeting the open sea, with dramatic light during sunrise and sunset.
Wide-angle views of fjords, tidewater glaciers, and floating icebergs.
Blue ice and sculpted ice features accessible with a guide in winter and spring.
Clear polar skies ideal for aurora photography and star trails.
Food in Nord
Nord Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Greenlandic soup made from seal meat (sometimes reindeer) with potatoes and onions.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught halibut prepared simply to let the seafood shine.
Dried and salted meat—an on-the-go snack popular in Inuit communities.
Fermented auk in seal skin; a traditional dish only offered at culturally guided experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Occasional stalls at remote lodges or research stations offering dried fish, berries, and pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Do not disturb wildlife; maintain a safe distance.
Dress in layers for wind and cold; remove outer boots in lodges if required.
Seek consent before photographing people or sensitive sites.
Safety
Tipping in Nord
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 10-15% for guided services is common if service is good.
Cash (DKK) and credit/debit cards are common in lodges; keep some cash for remote areas as card acceptance may vary.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, mild temperatures, and active wildlife; best for boating, hiking, and photography.
Shorter days, cooler temperatures, and migrating birds; good for quiet photography and aurora preparation.
Polar night in deep winter; extreme cold, heavy snows, and prime aurora viewing.
Melting ice and longer days; easier travel with changing ice conditions.
Nord at Night
Hiking in Nord
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hike along the ice edge with iceberg-laden waters; seasonal access.
High-altitude tundra hike offering panoramic Arctic views; requires guides.
Airports
How to reach Nord by plane.
Greenland's main international gateway; access via Denmark and Iceland; limited domestic flights.
Major Greenland hub in central area; frequent connections to southern towns.
Northern gateway with limited seasonal service; closer to far-northern Nord.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Inuit with Danish influence; small populations in remote areas; many researchers and guides serve the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional mode of transport and an adventure sport during winter.
Requires skilled guides and appropriate gear; seasonal.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nord.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist mainly as dairy, eggs, grains, and vegetable sides; plan ahead and inform lodges; consider bringing protein-loaded snacks.