Things To Do
in Scoresbysund
Scoresbysund is a remote settlement in eastern Greenland, located on the shores of the largest fjord system in the world. The area is known for its stunning scenery, with towering cliffs, glaciers, and icebergs dominating the landscape. The community is small, with a population of around 400 people, primarily consisting of indigenous Greenlandic Inuit residents.
Scoresbysund offers unique opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing in a pristine Arctic environment.
- "Aaja" - Yes
- "Ajuga" - No
- "Kissaat" - Please
- "Qujanaq" - Thank you
- "Aluu" - Hello
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $4 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $80 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a boat tour around Scoresbysund to witness its stunning icebergs. Enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings and keep an eye out for seals and whales.
Visit the nearby settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit to experience local culture. Enjoy a traditional meal and explore the local artisan shops.
Return to your accommodation and relax after a busy day. Enjoy dinner with a view of the fjord as the sun sets.
Embark on a guided hike through the breathtaking landscapes near Scoresbysund. Witness unique rock formations and stunning views of the fjord.
Continue your hike to a viewpoint that overlooks the vast Greenland Sea. Take plenty of photos and soak in the beauty of nature.
Settle down for a campfire dinner with your hiking group. Share stories and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere as night falls.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with dramatic landscapes including fjords and glaciers.
- Low population density, offering tranquility and a chance to escape urban life.
- Rich in biodiversity, particularly in marine and wildlife, making it an attractive spot for nature enthusiasts.
- Unique cultural experiences with the local Inuit community and their traditions.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and iceberg viewing.
- Limited access to modern amenities and services due to its remote location.
- Harsh climate with long winters and limited sunlight, which can be challenging for residents and visitors.
- High cost of living and goods, as most supplies need to be imported.
- Limited job opportunities outside of tourism and fishing industries.
- Infrastructure challenges, including limited transportation options and medical facilities.
Best Activities in Scoresbysund
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore stunning landscapes and dramatic cliffs with a variety of hiking trails suitable for different skill levels, offering breathtaking views of the fjord and surrounding mountains.
Paddle through the pristine waters of Scoresbysund, where you can get close to towering icebergs and experience the natural beauty of Greenland from a unique perspective.
Join a whale watching tour during the summer months to spot various species of whales, including humpback and minke whales, in their natural habitat.
Experience the magical phenomenon of the midnight sun by camping in the great outdoors, surrounded by stunning vistas and the serene sounds of nature.
Take part in guided photography expeditions to capture the amazing landscapes, wildlife, and the unique light of the Arctic environment, perfect for both amateur and professional photographers.
Enjoy fishing in the cold waters of Scoresbysund, where you can catch various species including Arctic char and cod, perfect for a serene and rewarding outdoor activity.
Tours
Uncover the best of Scoresbysund with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Scoresbysund
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its breathtaking vistas, Scoresbysund Fjord offers stunning views of towering icebergs and dramatic cliffs, making it a perfect spot for photography.
This majestic glacier provides spectacular views of blue ice formations and glacial movements, ideal for capturing the beauty of Greenland's nature.
The small town of Ittoqqortoormiit offers scenic views of the surrounding wilderness and the fjords, providing great opportunities for landscape photography.
A less frequented area known for its serene beauty, the Nordvest Fjord is perfect for intimate nature shots and panoramic views of the icy coastline.
This remote location features stunning cliffs and vistas over the fjord, offering a dramatic backdrop for photographers looking to capture the wild landscape.
Famous for its rugged terrain and the contrast of ice against rock, Cape Dan provides spectacular views and unique photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Known for its red-colored cliffs, Rode Fjord provides a unique and stunning backdrop for photography, especially with the reflection of the cliffs in the water.
This small island is a great spot for bird watching and photography, with cliffs that provide remarkable vistas of the surrounding waters and ice formations.
Food in Scoresbysund
Scoresbysund Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Also known as whale skin and blubber, this traditional Inuit dish is often served raw and is a delicacy in Greenland. Try it at local fish markets or traditional Greenlandic restaurants.
Must-Try!
Seal meat dishes, such as grilled seal and seal stew, provide a unique taste of the local cuisine. Look for them at traditional Greenlandic eateries or during local festivals.
This traditional Inuit delicacy consists of whole auks or other small sea birds packed into a seal skin and left to ferment for several months. It's a rare and intense dish worth seeking out in Scoresbysund.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Scoresbysund better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the local market to sample fresh seafood, including fish and shellfish, and to experience the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional Greenlandic market.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Scoresbysund, as in many indigenous cultures, elders are highly respected. It's customary to greet them warmly and listen attentively to their stories and advice.
Dress modestly and appropriately for the weather, especially when visiting local communities. Casual but respectful clothing is appreciated, and it's advisable to avoid overly revealing outfits.
Take the time to learn about local customs and practices, including social etiquette and communication styles. For example, it is polite to wait for a local host to begin meals or ceremonies.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Scoresbysund with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Scoresbysund
Ensure a smooth experience
In Scoresbysund, as in much of Greenland, tipping is not a customary practice. Service charges are often included in the bill, especially in restaurants and bars. However, it is appreciated if a customer chooses to leave a small tip for exceptional service or to round up the bill.
Payment methods in Scoresbysund typically include cash (Danish krone) and credit/debit cards. Many establishments accept cards, making transactions convenient for visitors. However, smaller local businesses may only accept cash, so it's advisable to carry some krone for those instances.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Scoresbysund.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Scoresbysund runs from late May to early June, offering milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. This is a great time for wildlife viewing, including migrating birds and seals. The landscape begins to bloom with wildflowers, creating picturesque scenery.
Summer, from June to August, is the warmest time to visit Scoresbysund, with temperatures reaching up to 10°C (50°F) or slightly higher. This season offers the best hiking opportunities, beautiful fjords, and breathtaking views of icebergs. It's also ideal for kayaking and exploring the nearby remote areas.
Autumn, from September to early October, brings vibrant fall colors to the landscape. The temperatures start to drop, but this season is excellent for Northern Lights viewing as the dark nights return. Wildlife such as whales may also be seen during this time as they migrate.
Winter in Scoresbysund lasts from late October to March, characterized by extreme cold and polar nights. Temperatures can plummet below -20°C (-4°F). Although it's quite cold, winter is the best time for those interested in snow activities, dog sledding, and experiencing the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
Scoresbysund at Night
Hiking in Scoresbysund
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Explore the stunning landscapes around Scoresby Sund with a variety of trails that offer breathtaking views of fjords, glaciers, and wildlife.
A scenic trail that leads through diverse terrains and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges and waterways.
This route takes you along Isafjorden, with opportunities to see unique geological formations and the chance to spot local fauna.
A trail that winds through areas known for wildlife spotting, including reindeer and various bird species.
A challenging hike that rewards you with close-up views of the nearby glaciers and the chance to experience the raw beauty of the Arctic landscape.
A long coastal hike that takes you along the rugged coastline, perfect for those who enjoy the sound of the waves and remote natural beauty.
Aiports
How to reach Scoresbysund by plane.
Located approximately 322 kilometers from Scoresbysund, Kangerlussuaq Airport is the largest airport in Greenland, providing access to international flights primarily from Denmark.
Situated about 570 kilometers from Scoresbysund, Nuuk Airport is the main airport serving Greenland's capital city and offers regional flights with some international connections.
Approximately 880 kilometers from Scoresbysund, Ilulissat Airport caters to international tourists visiting the Ilulissat Icefjord and offers flights primarily to and from Greenland's capital and Kangerlussuaq.
About 950 kilometers away, Thule Air Base is operated by the U.S. Air Force but also accommodates some civilian flights. It serves as a significant air transport hub in northern Greenland.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Inuit are the indigenous people of Greenland, comprising a significant portion of the population in Scoresbysund, with a deep-rooted cultural heritage and community structure.
Danish citizens and immigrants form a notable demographic group in Scoresbysund, contributing to the socio-economic landscape.
Individuals from other Nordic countries may also reside in Scoresbysund, although they represent a smaller portion compared to the Inuit and Danish populations.
This group includes scientists and professionals who come to Scoresbysund for research or work opportunities, often linked to environmental and geological studies.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular water sport in Scoresbysund, allowing participants to explore the fjords and coastline.
With stunning landscapes, hiking is a favored activity, featuring various trails in the surrounding areas.
Fishing is a common pastime, particularly among locals, who take advantage of the rich marine life in the region.
During the winter months, dog sledding becomes a thrilling activity for both residents and tourists.
Cross-country skiing is enjoyed during the long winter months on the snow-covered trails available in the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Scoresbysund.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Greenlandic cuisine is meat-heavy, some restaurants in Scoresbysund offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, particularly those with an international menu. Look for options like salads, soups, and vegetable-based dishes.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can find options such as grilled fish, seafood, and rice-based dishes at restaurants specializing in local cuisine. Additionally, cafes often provide gluten-free pastries and snacks.