Greenland Guide
On the borders of Europe and America, Greenland is a land that has remained unspoiled, where wide open spaces meet the Inuit people.
Greenland wasn’t always what we think of it today. Studies have revealed that a thousand years ago, this immense ice island was filled with forests and plants. The Scandinavian settlers chose the name Greenland , which literally means “ Green Land .” In any case, the Qinngua Valley remains the only natural forest in the country to this day. But Greenland is also, and above all, an incomparable adventure in the Far North with fjords, icebergs, dog sleds , a people faithful to their traditions and much more.
An extraordinary ice cap
When you travel to Greenland , you immediately feel like you’re lost in time, far from the noise, far from the traffic and the congestion. The entire landscape is covered in immaculate white and its exceptional fauna is particularly adapted to the intense cold that engulfs the country. You can see species that are found nowhere else: polar bears, musk oxen, humpback whales, walruses, sea eagles and reindeer. Greenland is more than an immense ice cap. It is an extraordinary vegetation, an authentic people who know how to brave the extreme cold and manage the survival conditions that this harsh environment brings. Visit this distant country with its unique charm, perched between Iceland and Canada .
Description of Greenland
Area : 2,166,086 km²
Population : 56,421 inhabitants. (2021)
Capital : Nuuk
Main towns : Nuuk, Sisimiut, Ilulissat, Qaqortoq, Aasiaat, Maniitsoq, Tasiilaq, Narsaq
Official language : Greenlandic (Kalaallisut)
Currency : Danish Krone (DKK)
National Day : June 21
Why travel to Greenland?
Greenland is a less popular tourist destination, although it’s seen a marked improvement in recent times. However, its location, its unique environment, the friendliness of its local population, and many other reasons promise you unique adventures. Here are a few reasons that will validate your decision to visit this far northern country at least once in your life.
To go and meet the Northern Lights
You’ve probably heard of the Northern Lights. From September to April , when the polar night gradually sets in, the northern hemisphere of the Earth offers a breathtaking spectacle of light green, sometimes darker or lighter shades, and with ripples all the way to the ground. These are the Northern Lights. It is said that you need to be patient and very humble to see them appear. But once you’re on Greenlandic soil, you’re sure not to miss the opportunity to immortalize this magical moment in the middle of winter.
To find each other
Greenland is a peaceful land, lost in the far north of the globe , nestled among icebergs and glaciers. This country guarantees a complete change of scenery. And in summer, you’ll enjoy a lush green landscape in its southern part, while in the north, the ice floes persist. It’s the ideal place to slow down, reflect on the essential meaning of life, or simply take the time to contemplate.
To fully indulge in various typical winter activities
Since Greenland is a country of extreme cold, it’s practically winter all year round in most of its territory. You’ll therefore be able to try several winter activities like dog sledding, the country’s preferred means of transport. Of course, you can still go snowmobiling, but the feeling won’t be the same: you’ll have much more time to admire the scenery aboard a traditional sled . You should also know that you can also go ice fishing or skiing.
To discover Inuit culture
Greenlanders are considered descendants of the Inuit, an indigenous people originally from the Arctic . The local population has adopted an Inuit culture, which is so rich that you are tempted to discover it. Upon arriving on the island, you will quickly realize that some villages still maintain their own customs, far from the dictates of modern Western society. For a total immersion, staying with a local or sharing a moment with Greenlandic fishermen and hunters is an excellent option.
Activities and places of interest in Greenland
Due to its vastness and unusual climate, traveling to Greenland requires a lot of preparation. Contrary to what one might think, this astonishing territory is full of countless activities and vast places to discover.
Disko Bay
Disko Bay , a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004, is probably the first place you should add to your Greenland travel diary . Located near Ilulissat , in the Central-West region of the country and known for its immense fjord, this place promises an unprecedented spectacle. Admire the formation of icebergs and their journey towards the waters of the Far North . You can see all this up close aboard a boat. Don’t hesitate to participate in the hikes organized on site, and to travel the tundra at the same time for a more intense experience.
Getting to Scoresby Sund
Scoresby Sund is a fjord located in East Greenland , in the municipality of Sermersooq . With an area of 13,700 km2, Scoresby Sund is the largest fjord in the world. A region still little known to tourists in Greenland , climb aboard a boat or a two-seater kayak to observe the glacial fronts and the typical fauna of the Far North up close .
Marvel at the magnificent Jakobshavn Isbræ glacier
The Jakobshavn Isbræ Glacier is located in West Greenland , near Ilulissat . This glacier originates from the Greenland Ice Sheet , the largest ice mass on Earth, after the Antarctic Ice Sheet . It was from this glacier that the famous iceberg that collided with the Titanic in 1912 escaped.
Nuuk
Nuuk is the capital of Greenland and is also the most populated city in the country. It has a population of 20,000. Nuuk has everything you would find in a big city. The Contemporary Art Center is worth a visit and contains architectural works symbolizing Inuit culture , an opportunity for you to learn a little more about the inhabitants of Greenland and their history. You will also be amazed at the sight of Santa’s mailbox. Every year, thousands of letters are sent to him at the same time. This unusual place gives you the opportunity to rekindle your inner child.
Uummannaq
Are you curious to know a little more about the Inuit, their way of life and their culture? Uummannaq is the place to go. This town, built in 1763, has evolved considerably over time. It was after the discovery of 8 mummies, a symbol of Inuit culture, that people became aware of this small piece of Greenlandic territory. You can visit the trading post founded by Knud Rasmussen, the father of Eskimology , also called Thule . Also note that every year during the summer, the town organizes a football championship, an opportunity for you to build closer ties with the locals and familiarize yourself with their culture. It is even said that after visiting Uummannaq, you leave a part of your heart there forever.
Contemplate the Viking ruins
Let’s take a look back at the history of Greenland . It was in 982, during the Viking era, that Erik the Red, forced into exile, founded a territory there. He established a first European colony there, which lasted for nearly five centuries. Then, this civilization suddenly disappeared, leaving only traces. Today, these remains, although in ruins, take you back several centuries, a real gold mine for history buffs and archaeologists. Discover in particular the old church of Hvalsey Fjord or Brattahlid .
Admire the Northern Lights
Everyone enjoys seeing the Northern Lights. The far north of the globe, particularly Greenland , has the advantage of offering this breathtaking phenomenon in the middle of winter. To maximize your chances, choose the periods between November and March. Here are the regions where you will get a magnificent panorama: in the south of Greenland , particularly in Qaqortoq , in the east in the part of Ittoqqortoormiit or in Kangerlussuaq which is further west. Note that this is one of the favorite activities of Greenlanders as well as tourists. So expect not to be alone.
Marvel at the whales
Since Greenland is an island, you can’t miss out on boat trips during your stay in this far northern country . During these trips, you will undoubtedly spot whales of all kinds (blue whales, humpback whales, belugas, etc.) and admire the landscape in a different way. Of course, you can also encounter other marine mammals since the waters of the Arctic Ocean are home to several species of cetaceans. Be patient, though, as the whales can take a while to appear. But when they surface, you can only marvel at such a spectacle.
Try dog sledding
Dog sledding allows you to see Greenland ‘s wildlife up close. Be aware that the distances can be significant, and temperatures can vary from region to region. However, have fun and enjoy every moment. Winter is the ideal time for this type of activity, and start your adventure at Disko Bay or Tasiusaq Fjord .
Participate in various nautical activities
If you enjoy being in contact with water, you can always take a boat trip. You’ll get a glimpse of the surrounding nature of Greenland’s coastline and the young icebergs that dot the waters surrounding the island. You also have the option of other sports activities like kayaking or even diving for the more experienced. The goal is to get off the beaten track.
Try the Arctic Circle circuit
Are you an adventurous soul and never shy away from the slightest difficulty while hiking? If the answer is yes, then you will surely be a fan of trails. In Greenland , the Arctic Circle circuit could be perfect for you. It represents more than 200 kilometers to cover on foot. The start is located in Kangerlussuaq , a small village of 500 inhabitants at most. It will be a great experience for you, because you will have the chance to discover Greenland from a different perspective. However, be careful not to minimize the preparation, both mental and physical. This trail is primarily intended for people in good health. Bring clothing that protects you from the extreme cold and rain, because the weather can be very capricious.
How to visit Greenland?
Flying remains the ideal way to get to Greenland . However, there are no direct flights to Greenland from France . You must either stopover in Copenhagen , Denmark , or in Reykjavik or Akureyri , Iceland . Furthermore, the flight can last up to 20 hours with two or three stopovers. However, if you are flying from Canada , Denmark , or Iceland , you can take a flight that lands directly at Nuuk or Kangerlussuaq International Airports .
Of course, you can always consider the sea route. However, there is no ferry service that operates a round trip between Greenland and its neighboring countries ( Iceland , Denmark , or Canada ). The only way to get to Greenland by sea is to join an organized cruise.
Transportation in Greenland
There are almost no roads in Greenland . Railways and waterways are also non-existent. In fact, there are only 150 kilometers of roads, of which only 60 kilometers are paved. It turns out that only the towns of Ivituut and Kangilinnguit are connected by a road. The others are isolated. As a result, means of transportation vary depending on the season. In the past, the Inuit used coastal shipping in the summer and dog sledding in the winter. Today, you have the choice of traveling by plane or helicopter in the winter and by water in the summer.
Climate and weather in Greenland
Greenland has an arctic climate . However, due to the island’s vast size, the weather can vary considerably from one location to another. For example, coastal areas may not experience any ice during the very short summer season, although the center is permanently ice-covered. Furthermore, during the summer, temperatures range between 5°C and 15°C, with a nighttime low of -5°C. During the winter, expect very cold temperatures, down to -40°C inland and in the north of the island, although the average is around -20°C in the southern part and on the fjords.
When to go to Greenland?
The best time to visit Greenland depends on what you plan to do once you arrive. If you want to see the Northern Lights and go dog sledding, you should go in winter, from late August to April. On the other hand, if you choose summer to admire the midnight sun, among other things, then choose June to August, when the temperature is around 20°C.
Clothes to take away
Choose windproof clothing that protects you from the cold and wind. Also bring long-sleeved t-shirts made of breathable fabrics, which will be useful when you go hiking or in the mountains. The temperature can rise very quickly , and it is more than recommended to wear comfortable clothes for your own well-being. Don’t hesitate to add a second layer of clothing, such as a softshell jacket or a waterproof and breathable jacket , to arm yourself against bad weather, especially when you are going on a cruise. Add a hat, a pair of gloves, a merino wool sweater preferably, hiking pants and overpants during very cold days.
Good to know
Greenland is an overseas territory of Denmark , so it is part of the Schengen Area . Therefore , if you are a European national, it will be easier for you to prepare the administrative formalities for traveling there.
If you’re staying with a local, be aware that it’s customary to always leave your shoes at the entrance. So, bring a pair of sandals for the evening and a good pair of socks.
When it comes to sled dogs, avoid petting them uninvited, as this may result in a bite. They are draft dogs, not companion dogs. Also, comments about the musher’s harshness are not always welcome, so be discreet about this.
Always bring mosquito repellent spray or lotion unless you’re traveling south and encounter sheep nearby. These animals repel these insects.
