Introduction: Why Greenland is the Ultimate Arctic Destination
Greenland, the world’s largest island, is not just a geographical marvel; it is a destination defined by monumental ice caps, vibrant indigenous culture, and dramatic landscapes that defy expectation. For the intrepid traveler seeking true wilderness and experiences far removed from the mainstream, exploring the top travel places in Greenland offers an unparalleled adventure. It is a land where ancient Viking history meets the powerful forces of nature.
This comprehensive guide delves into the essential destinations, from the bustling capital to remote eastern settlements, ensuring your journey through this magnificent Arctic landscape is well-informed and unforgettable.
1. Ilulissat Icefjord and Disko Bay: The Iconic Ice Realm
No discussion of Greenland travel is complete without highlighting Ilulissat. Located on the western coast, this area is the primary reason many visitors choose this destination. It is home to the stunning Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and arguably the most spectacular natural feature in the entire country.
Ilulissat: Where Icebergs are Born
Ilulissat translates to “Icebergs,” and the name is perfectly fitting. This town sits at the mouth of the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier, one of the fastest and most active glaciers globally. The sheer scale of the icebergs calved here is staggering—some can be hundreds of meters high, drifting slowly through Disko Bay before heading out into the Atlantic.
Must-Do Experiences in Ilulissat:
- Icefjord Boat Tour: Witnessing the colossal ice formations up close during a midnight sun boat tour (in summer) is an unforgettable experience.
- Hiking: Utilize the marked hiking trails surrounding the Icefjord for breathtaking panoramic views, particularly the Yellow and Blue trails.
- Whale Watching: Disko Bay is a prime location for spotting humpback, minke, and fin whales during the summer months (June to August).
2. Nuuk: Capital Culture and Modern Life
While the ice dominates the landscape, Nuuk, Greenland’s capital and largest city, provides a vital contrast, showcasing the nation’s cultural depth and contemporary urban life.
As the administrative and economic hub, Nuuk is often the first major stop for visitors. It is an ideal place to understand the blend of traditional Inuit heritage and modern Danish influence.
Cultural Highlights in Nuuk:
- Greenland National Museum: Home to the famous Qilakitsoq mummies, providing deep insights into ancient Inuit life and history.
- Nuuk Art Museum: Showcases contemporary Greenlandic art, capturing the nation’s unique artistic voice.
- The Old Colonial Harbour: A picturesque area featuring colorful, historic buildings and stunning views of the fjord and surrounding mountains.
For those interested in sustainable exploration, Nuuk offers excellent boat excursions into the massive Nuuk Fjord system, allowing visitors to reach remote settlements and thermal hot springs.
3. Southern Greenland: The Green and Historical Heartland
The southern regions of Greenland offer a dramatically different landscape compared to the icy north. Characterized by lush, green valleys, sheep farms, and deep historical roots, Southern Greenland is where the Vikings first settled.
Qaqortoq: Beauty in Color and Stone
Qaqortoq is often considered the most charming town in the south. Its colorful houses contrast sharply with the dark fjords, and the town is famed for its ‘Stone & Man’ art project—40 different carvings left in the bedrock by Nordic and local artists.
Kujataa: Viking History Reimagined
This agricultural region, also a UNESCO site, encompasses the historical farming landscapes of the Vikings and the later Inuit. Key sites include:
- Hvalsø Church Ruins: The best-preserved Viking ruin in Greenland, offering a tangible link to Erik the Red’s settlement efforts.
- Igaliku: A historically significant settlement featuring restored Norse ruins and contemporary sheep farming. It’s an essential visit for history buffs exploring Greenland travel.
4. East Greenland: Remote Wilderness and Tasiilaq
Eastern Greenland is the definition of remoteness. Sparsely populated and extremely rugged, this region offers the most intense wilderness experience for experienced travelers.
Tasiilaq, the largest town on the east coast, serves as the gateway to unparalleled hiking, kayaking among icebergs, and deep cultural immersion with the local Inuit communities, who maintain strong traditional lifestyles.
Due to its isolation, travel to this region requires more detailed planning, but the reward is pristine, untouched Arctic beauty, spectacular mountain ranges, and fewer crowds.
5. Practical Tips for Exploring Travel Places in Greenland
Watch: Greenland - Hiking Tasermiut Fjord in 2012
Planning a journey to these remote Arctic destinations requires careful consideration of logistics, weather, and infrastructure.
A. When to Go: Seasonal Planning
Season
Typical Experience
Key Activities
Summer (June-Aug)
Midnight Sun, maximum accessibility, average temps 5-10°C
Boat tours, hiking, whale watching, kayaking.
Winter (Dec-Mar)
Northern Lights, cold temperatures (-15°C to -25°C)
Dog sledding, snowmobiling, viewing the Aurora Borealis.
Summer offers the best access and variety of activities, while winter provides the truly iconic Arctic experience.
B. Getting Around Greenland
Greenland has no intercity roads connecting its major settlements. Travel between the travel places in Greenland is exclusively by air (using Air Greenland’s domestic routes) or by boat (coastal ferries or private charters).
- Air Travel: This is the quickest way to cover vast distances, particularly between Kangerlussuaq (the main international hub) and other major towns like Nuuk and Ilulissat.
- Coastal Ferries (Sarfaq Ittuk): A slower, more scenic option connecting towns along the west coast, allowing travelers to experience the fjords at sea level.
C. Essential Packing and Logistics
- Layering is Key: Even in summer, weather changes rapidly. Pack thermal base layers, fleece mid-layers, and waterproof/windproof outer shells.
- Specialized Footwear: Invest in sturdy, waterproof hiking boots suitable for walking on uneven, wet, or icy terrain.
- Book Early: Accommodations and domestic flights, especially to popular areas like Ilulissat, book up months in advance due to limited capacity.
- Currency & Connectivity: The currency is the Danish Krone (DKK). Wi-Fi and mobile services are available in settlements but can be expensive and slow outside of Nuuk.
Conclusion: Your Arctic Expedition Awaits
Greenland is a country defined by extremes—extreme beauty, extreme challenges, and extreme adventures. Whether you are gazing upon the colossal ice fjords of Ilulissat, exploring the vibrant cultural history in Nuuk, or tracing the footsteps of Vikings in the green valleys of the south, the travel places in Greenland offer transformative experiences.
It is a destination that demands respect for its power and resilience, rewarding the prepared traveler with memories of breathtaking scale and profound connection to the natural world. Start planning your unforgettable Arctic expedition today.
