Things To Do
in Upernavik
Upernavik is a remote town located in northwestern Greenland, situated on an island in Baffin Bay. The town is known for its stunning Arctic landscapes, including icebergs and glaciers that can be seen from the shores. Despite its small population, Upernavik offers a close-knit community with colorful houses clustered along the waterfront.
Residents rely on traditional activities like hunting and fishing to sustain their way of life in this challenging environment.
- "Aaja" - Yes
- "Ajuga" - No
- "Kissaat" - Please
- "Qujanaq" - Thank you
- "Aluu" - Hello
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $20 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $5 - $10
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $100 - $200
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll around the town to admire the colorful houses and scenic views.
Visit the Upernavik Museum to learn about the history and culture of the area. Enjoy a scenic boat tour to spot seals and maybe even whales.
Dine at a local restaurant and savor traditional Greenlandic dishes. Wind down by taking a short walk along the coastline, enjoying the tranquil Arctic atmosphere.
Grab your hiking gear and fuel up with breakfast before heading out. Explore the stunning landscapes nearby, where trails lead you through rugged terrain and breathtaking fjords.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at a scenic viewpoint during your hike. Continue discovering nature's beauty, with opportunities to photograph wildlife.
Return to town for a relaxing dinner. Spend the evening chatting with locals or fellow travelers, sharing stories about your hikes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with glaciers and wildlife.
- Rich Inuit culture and history.
- Low population density, offering tranquility and peace.
- Unique opportunities for adventure tourism such as dog sledding and ice fishing.
- Extreme weather conditions with long, harsh winters.
- Limited access to healthcare and other essential services.
- High cost of living due to remote location.
- Few job opportunities and economic activities available.
Best Activities in Upernavik
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning coastline and nearby icebergs while kayaking in the waters around Upernavik. This activity allows you to get close to nature and observe marine wildlife.
Trek through the beautiful landscape surrounding Upernavik. There are various trails that lead to breathtaking views of the area, including mountains and the fjord.
Experience the traditional mode of transport in Greenland by going dog sledding. This activity is especially popular during the winter months when the landscape is covered in snow.
Try your hand at fishing in the local waters. Upernavik offers opportunities for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, where you can catch various species.
During the winter months, ice fishing on frozen lakes and rivers provides a unique experience. It’s a chance to catch fish while enjoying the tranquil snowy landscape.
Join a tour to view whales during the summer months in the waters near Upernavik. Species such as humpback and minke whales can often be seen during this time.
Set up camp in the wilderness surrounding Upernavik for an authentic outdoor experience. Enjoy stargazing and the serene environment away from city lights.
Participate in photography tours to capture the breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and the unique culture of Upernavik. Ideal for both amateur and professional photographers.
Tours
Uncover the best of Upernavik with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Upernavik
Visit one of these nice places.
A breathtaking natural site featuring immense ice formations and stunning views of glaciers. A perfect spot for capturing the beauty of Greenland's icy landscapes.
Explore the colorful houses and traditional Inuit culture. The vibrant buildings against the backdrop of the Arctic scenery make for memorable photographs.
Renowned for its scenic beauty, the park offers stunning vistas of the fjords and mountains, ideal for photography lovers looking to capture the untouched wilderness.
The museum provides insights into the history and culture of the region. The unique architecture and surrounding landscape also offer great photographic opportunities.
These cliffs are perfect for spotting and photographing seabirds. The high vantage point provides spectacular views of the coastline and the sea.
A popular location for witnessing stunning sunsets over the Arctic horizon. The vibrant colors create incredible photo opportunities.
Though a bit further away, this expansive national park offers awe-inspiring panoramas of untouched Arctic landscapes, perfect for adventurous photographers.
Food in Upernavik
Upernavik Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Inuit delicacy consisting of whale blubber and skin. Best enjoyed at local community events or through direct connections with local hunters.
Must-Try!
A hearty soup made with seal, whale, or other local meats, flavored with onions and sometimes rice or barley. Available at traditional eateries like Kalaaliaraq Market restaurant.
A fermented whole seabird dish, a delicacy typically consumed during special occasions or by making arrangements with local families who prepare it.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub of local food culture where you can sample fresh seafood, traditional Greenlandic dishes, and buy locally made products. Look out for small street food stalls offering hot dishes and snacks showcasing traditional flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Understanding and honoring the Inuit culture is essential in Upernavik. Participate in local traditions and customs with respect, and always be open to learning about their history and significance.
Greetings are important in Greenlandic culture. A simple 'hello' or the traditional Greenlandic farewell 'Kunngisuk' goes a long way in showing respect and willingness to engage with the local community.
Be mindful of discussing topics that may be sensitive, such as politics, colonial history, and personal matters. It’s best to foster friendly conversations that promote positivity and mutual respect.
Safety
Tipping in Upernavik
Ensure a smooth experience
In Upernavik, as in much of Greenland, tipping is not customary and is not expected. Service charges are usually included in the overall bill at restaurants and for other services. However, if exceptional service is received, a small gratuity may be appreciated but is entirely at the discretion of the customer.
Payment methods in Upernavik typically include cash, which is important as not all establishments may accept credit or debit cards. The local currency is the Greenlandic krone (DKK). In more tourist-focused areas, cards may be accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash as a backup. Additionally, mobile payment options are becoming more common but may still be limited in remote areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Winter in Upernavik is characterized by extremely cold temperatures, often dropping below -20°C (-4°F). This season offers a stunning Arctic landscape with snow-covered terrain and opportunities for winter activities like dog sledding and snowmobiling. The Northern Lights can also be seen during this time.
Spring brings slightly warmer temperatures, ranging from -10°C to 0°C (14°F to 32°F). This season is ideal for witnessing the melting ice and the arrival of migratory birds. It is a great time for photography as the sun begins to rise higher in the sky and daylight hours increase.
Summer in Upernavik is mild, with temperatures averaging between 5°C and 15°C (41°F to 59°F). This is the best time to visit for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and exploring the surrounding fjords. The landscape is vibrant with lush greenery and wildlife, including seals and whales.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures as they start to drop again, ranging from 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). The fall foliage provides stunning views of the landscape. This season can be quite windy, and it's a good time to experience the local culture as the fishing season wraps up.
Upernavik at Night
Hiking in Upernavik
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning fjord known for its impressive ice formations and scenic views. Perfect for hiking along the coast and exploring the rugged terrain.
Located close to Upernavik, this island offers several trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding waters and landscape, along with opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Various trails along the coastline provide access to beautiful beaches and cliffs, ideal for hikers of all levels looking to enjoy the Arctic landscape.
Though further away, the trails leading into this park offer extraordinary vistas and a chance to experience untouched Arctic wilderness.
Featuring rugged peaks and varied terrain, this area is excellent for more adventurous hikers seeking a challenging hike with rewarding views.
Aiports
How to reach Upernavik by plane.
The largest airport in Greenland, located in Ilulissat, approximately 338 km south of Upernavik, offering international flights mainly from Copenhagen.
Kangerlussuaq Airport is the main international airport in Greenland, located about 603 km south of Upernavik. It serves as a hub for flights from and to Denmark and other destinations.
Located in Nuuk, about 610 km south of Upernavik, Nuuk Airport offers flights to connect with international flights at larger airports.
Located in Aasiaat, approximately 300 km south of Upernavik, this airport provides access to domestic flights and seasonal international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Upernavik, comprising the indigenous Inuit population who have lived in Greenland for thousands of years.
A smaller demographic group consisting of Danes who have settled in Greenland, contributing to the local culture and economy.
Includes a variety of smaller groups consisting of immigrants and expatriates from various countries.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played on ice, often featuring local teams participating in regional competitions.
Both cross-country and downhill skiing are popular activities during the winter months in Upernavik.
An outdoor activity that is not only a mode of transport but also a competitive sport showcasing endurance and speed.
A widely played indoor sport in schools and community centers, often featuring local tournaments.
While not as prominent as other sports, football is played recreationally in the summer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Upernavik.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Greenlandic cuisine is heavily focused on meat and seafood, many restaurants in Upernavik offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives, especially in cafes and eateries with European influences.
Some establishments in Upernavik cater to gluten-free diets, particularly those influenced by European culinary trends. It's advisable to communicate your dietary needs in advance to ensure a pleasant dining experience.