Things To Do
in Qaanaaq
Qaanaaq, Greenland sits on the edge of the Arctic Circle in the far northwest of the country. This remote town is inhabited by Inuit communities and surrounded by vast pack ice, fjords, and rugged mountains. Daily life centers on subsistence traditions, warm hospitality, and a strong connection to the land and sea.
Visitors should be prepared for profound quiet, dramatic skies, and authentic Arctic experiences that feel miles from everyday life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Qaanaaq Airport and experience the stunning arctic landscapes that surround this small town. After settling into your accommodation, take a moment to absorb the serene, pristine environment. Grab a traditional Greenlandic breakfast at a local café, savoring the flavors of the North.
Embark on a guided tour to explore the nearby Thule Air Base, where you can learn about its historical significance during the Cold War era. The stark contrast of military structures and the surrounding natural beauty make for fascinating contrasts. Capture photographs of unique flora and fauna you encounter along the way.
Enjoy a cozy dinner at a local eatery, where you can sample dishes made from freshly caught fish and reindeer. As night falls, gather around a communal bonfire with locals to share stories under the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Listen to the silence of the arctic night, punctuated only by the crackling fire.
Set out early for a hike in the stunning landscapes surrounding Qaanaaq, with breathtaking views of glaciers and rugged mountains. Your guide will point out local wildlife and interesting geological formations as you trek through the untouched wilderness. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, taking in the fresh arctic air.
Continue your hike towards the ancient Inuit hunting grounds, discovering artifacts and learning about the traditional ways of life. The serenity of the environment allows for deep reflection and appreciation of the arctic ecosystem. Relish in the vast spaces, where silence reigns except for the sounds of nature.
Return to Qaanaaq and participate in a cooking class where you can learn how to prepare traditional Greenlandic meals. Share the fruits of your labor with fellow travelers and locals, fostering a sense of community. End the evening with stargazing, as the clear arctic skies fill with countless stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $4-6 |
| 🛏️Hotel per night | $180-280 |
| 🧭Local transport within town | $5-15 |
| 🛒Groceries (1 week) | $120-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning Arctic scenery and unique Indigenous culture
- Low crowds and highly authentic experiences
- Access to pristine seafood and traditional cuisine
- Safe and welcoming small-town atmosphere
- Remote location with limited amenities and higher costs
- Extreme cold and weather can disrupt plans
- Limited healthcare options and longer travel times for emergencies
- "Aluu" - Hello
- "Qujanaq" - Thank you
- "Sila" - Please
- "Aap" - Yes
- "Naamik" - No
Places to Visit in Qaanaaq
Visit one of these nice places.
Long stretches of ice and sky meeting a quiet harbor, ideal for silhouettes and reflection shots.
Cliffs with sweeping views of pack ice, inlets, and distant mountains—panoramas in shifting light.
Spectacular ice formations where glaciers meet the sea, especially dramatic in low sun or polar twilight.
Architectural contrasts between traditional materials and snow-covered surroundings, great for exterior portraits and context shots.
Working harbor scenes with fishing boats, nets, and winter seas—an authentic slice of town life.
Food in Qaanaaq
Qaanaaq Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Greenlandic soup usually made with seal meat, potatoes, onions, and spices; commonly served in homes and guesthouses.
Must-Try!
A traditional delicacy featuring whale skin and blubber, often eaten raw or lightly seared in small portions.
Freshwater fish prepared simply to highlight the clean, mild flavor of Arctic char.
A traditional, fermented birds dish wrapped in seal skin (rare outside of special occasions and shared with caution and cultural sensitivity).
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small market area where locals sell dried fish, marine products, berries, and seasonal staples; great for sampling regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Ask before photographing people or private spaces; respect privacy and local sensitivities.
Respect wildlife and avoid disturbing wildlife or nesting areas; follow 'leave no trace' principles in tundra and coastal zones.
Safety
Tipping in Qaanaaq
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service. About 5–10% is common for restaurants or guided experiences when service is satisfactory.
Cash (Danish Krone) is widely used in remote towns; some places accept cards, but always carry cash as a backup. Inform hosts ahead of time about preferred payment methods.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Short, bright days with 0–8°C temperatures. Seasonal accessibility improves, but hitching flights and boat schedules can still be weather-dependent; pack layers and windproof outerwear.
Polar nights prevail with long periods of darkness and extreme cold (-20°C or colder at times). Travel becomes more challenging; emphasize safety, warm clothing, and guided excursions. Northern lights are commonly visible on clear nights.
Qaanaaq at Night
Hiking in Qaanaaq
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hike with views of pack ice and distant peaks; suitable for a moderate day hike with proper gear.
Moderate hike across alpine tundra with opportunities to observe Arctic flora and wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Qaanaaq by plane.
Remote Arctic airstrip serving Qaanaaq with seasonal flights to Ilulissat and other Greenland towns; weather can affect schedules.
Regional gateway with connections to Nuuk and other towns; commonly used for access to northern Greenland.
Main Greenlandic international gateway with connections to Europe and other Greenland towns; longer travel times to Qaanaaq but a key hub for southern routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant community with strong Inuit cultural traditions and language use.
Smaller presence, including researchers, guides, and occasional tourists.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple Arctic activity and traditional mode of transport, popular among locals and visitors.
Common indoors or on frozen surfaces during winter; a favorite local pastime.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Qaanaaq.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options can be limited. Plan ahead by requesting dairy, eggs, seaweed, berries, soups, and vegetable-based dishes; communicate dietary needs to hosts or guides in advance.