Northern Greenland Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Northern Greenland with this comprehensive travel guide that covers places to visit, things to do, where to stay, local culture, safety, and more.
- Introduction to Northern Greenland
- List of Places to Visit in Northern Greenland
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Greenland
- Best Things to Do in Northern Greenland: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Greenland
- Food and Drink Scene of Northern Greenland
- Where to Stay in Northern Greenland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Northern Greenland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Northern Greenland
- Best Time to Visit Northern Greenland
- Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Greenland
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Northern Greenland: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Northern Greenland
- Where to Go Next from Northern Greenland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Northern Greenland
Northern Greenland, located in North America, is an icy wonderland of stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and fascinating culture. This sparsely populated region of Greenland is a perfect destination for those looking for an adventure off the beaten path.
This comprehensive travel guide to Northern Greenland will help you plan your trip to experience the best of this region. From cultural and historical attractions to natural wonders and outdoor adventures, we’ve got you covered.
List of Places to Visit in Northern Greenland
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Thule Air Base Museum: This museum is located near the Thule Air Base and displays the history of Thule’s military and civilian population. Visitors can see historical artifacts, photographs, and learn about the way of life for locals in the area.
- Qaanaaq Museum: Located in the northernmost settlement in the world, this museum showcases the history and culture of the Inuit people, including traditional clothing, hunting tools, and art made from antlers and bones.
Natural Attractions of Northern Greenland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Ilulissat Icefjord: This UNESCO World Heritage Site features one of the most active glaciers in the world, the Sermeq Kujalleq. Visitors can take a boat tour to witness the massive icebergs that break off from the glacier and drift into the ocean.
- Melville Bay: This remote bay is known for its stunning scenery and abundance of wildlife, including polar bears, narwhals, and beluga whales. It’s the perfect spot for adventure lovers to explore by boat or kayak.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Northern Greenland
- Arctic Circle Trail: This 100-mile trail takes hikers through some of the most scenic parts of Greenland, including rolling hills, glaciers, and fjords. There is no marked trail, and hikers should be experienced and well-prepared for the challenging terrain.
- Qaanaaq Hiking Trail: This 6.4-mile round trip hike takes visitors through breathtaking landscapes and offers excellent chances for spotting wildlife such as musk oxen, reindeer, and arctic foxes.
Best Things to Do in Northern Greenland: Activities and Tours
- Dog Sledding: Experience the traditional way of transportation in Greenland by taking a dog sled tour through the snow-covered landscapes. Be sure to bundle up as temperatures can plummet in this region.
- Northern Lights Viewing: The long winter nights in Northern Greenland offer an ideal opportunity to witness one of nature’s most spectacular light shows, the Aurora Borealis.
Week-Long Itinerary for Northern Greenland
Day 1-2: Arrive in Qaanaaq and visit the Qaanaaq Museum and the local market.
Day 3-4: Travel to Illulissat to explore the Ilulissat Icefjord and take a boat tour to see the towering icebergs.
Day 5-6: Hike the Arctic Circle Trail or take a dog sled tour through the wilderness.
Day 7: Depart from Kangerlussuaq Airport.
Food and Drink Scene of Northern Greenland
Must-Try Dishes
- Kiviak: A traditional Inuit dish made from auk bird which has been buried in sealskin for 3-18 months and fermented until it’s ready to eat.
- Suaasat: A meat soup, typically made with reindeer or lamb, and potatoes. This hearty stew is perfect for the cold weather.
Local Beverages
- Kaffeemik: A traditional Greenlandic coffee gathering that involves serving coffee, cakes, and sweets. It’s a chance to socialize with others and is typically held to celebrate special occasions.
- ** Greenlandic Beer:** Try one of the locally brewed beers, such as the Greenlandic Ale, in many bars and restaurants around the region.
Where to Stay in Northern Greenland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Hotel Nordlys: Located in Qaanaaq, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
- Hotel Arctic: Located in Ilulissat, this hotel offers modern accommodation and beautiful views of the Icefjord.
What to Buy in Northern Greenland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Inuit Art: Bring home a piece of Inuit culture with a beautifully carved soapstone sculpture or a print from a local artist.
- Kamiks: Traditional boots made from animal skin are a unique souvenir and make for a practical gift.
Local Culture and Customs of Northern Greenland
The Inuit culture, which has been in Greenland for over 4000 years, is still very much alive in Northern Greenland. Visitors to the region are advised to be respectful of local customs, such as removing shoes before entering homes, and being sensitive to traditional hunting methods.
Best Time to Visit Northern Greenland
The best time to visit Northern Greenland is from June to September when the weather is milder, and the days are longer. This is also the time when hiking trails are open, and boat tours are available.
Do’s and Don’ts of Northern Greenland
Do:
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Dress appropriately for the weather.
- Try the local cuisine and beverages.
Don’t:
- Disturb the wildlife or environment.
- Ignore safety guidelines when participating in outdoor activities.
- Take photographs of people without obtaining their consent.
Safety and Health
Safety in Northern Greenland
Visitors to Northern Greenland should be aware of the harsh conditions, including extreme cold, and strong winds. It’s important to have adequate gear and be prepared for emergencies.
Health in Northern Greenland
It’s recommended to get all necessary vaccinations and to bring any medication you may need. Visitors should also be cautious when consuming local food and water and should pay attention to any outbreaks of water-borne illnesses.
Getting to Northern Greenland: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Northern Greenland
The closest airport to Northern Greenland is Kangerlussuaq Airport, which has connections to several airports in North America. From there, visitors can take a domestic flight to Qaanaaq or Ilulissat.
Bus Stations Near Northern Greenland
There are no bus stations in Northern Greenland, but visitors can arrange transportation with local tour operators.
Other Options
Taking a boat tour from other parts of Greenland or Canada is another option to reach Northern Greenland.
How to Get Around in Northern Greenland
There are no paved roads in Northern Greenland, and transportation is limited to boats, planes, snowmobiles, and sled dogs. Visitors should book tours or hire local guides to explore the area’s remote landscapes.
Where to Go Next from Northern Greenland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Visitors can travel to other parts of Greenland, such as southern Greenland, to experience a different culture and explore new landscapes. Another option is to take a boat tour to Ellesmere Island in Canada, only a few hundred miles away.
Conclusion
Northern Greenland is a unique destination full of natural wonders, fascinating culture, and incredible outdoor adventures. By using this travel guide, visitors can plan an unforgettable trip to this part of the world. From exploring museums and hiking trails to trying local cuisine and learning about Inuit culture, there is something for everyone in Northern Greenland.
