Northeast Greenland National Park Travel Guide

Explore Northeast Greenland National Park with our ultimate travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more.


Northeast Greenland National Park is a spectacular natural wonder that covers a large portion of the northern coast of Greenland. The park is the world’s largest national park, encompassing an area of 972,000 square kilometers. It is a truly remarkable place with breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife, and fascinating cultural attractions.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your trip to Northeast Greenland National Park. From must-visit attractions to where to eat, stay, and shop, we’ve got you covered.

Introduction to Northeast Greenland National Park

Northeast Greenland National Park is a protected area that was established in 1974. It is characterized by its rugged, remote landscape, and is home to some of the most fascinating wildlife species in the world. This includes polar bears, musk oxen, Arctic foxes, walruses, and various species of birds. It is also home to the world’s largest fjord system and some of the most spectacular glaciers in the world.

List of Places to Visit in Northeast Greenland National Park

Northeast Greenland National Park is a vast area, and there are plenty of places to explore. Here are some of the must-visit attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Danish Naval Station: This is a historical site that played an important role in the exploration of Greenland. The station was abandoned in 1953, but you can still see the remains of the buildings and equipment.

  • Eskimo Museum: This is one of the oldest museums in Greenland. It showcases the traditional way of life of the Inuit people, with exhibits that include clothing, hunting equipment, and tools.

  • Thule Air Base: This is a US military base that is still in operation. It is located near the town of Qaanaaq and serves as an important airfield for transporting people and supplies to and from the park.

Natural Attractions of Northeast Greenland National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Scoresby Sund: This is the world’s largest fjord system and is a popular destination for boat tours and cruises. You’ll have the opportunity to see stunning icebergs, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes.

  • Renland: This is a mountain range in the park that offers some of the best hiking opportunities. The rugged landscape is home to countless beautiful valleys, glaciers, and peaks.

  • Kap Humboldt: This is a mountain peak that offers incredible views over the park. It is a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and adventurers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northeast Greenland National Park

Northeast Greenland National Park is a paradise for hikers and bikers. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes:

  • Bluie East Two Base Camp: This is a 25-kilometer hike that takes you to the site of the abandoned Bluie East Two US military base. The hike takes you through stunning valleys and offers glorious views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Kangerlussuaq: This is a popular destination for biking and hiking. It is a vast valley with plenty of trails that offer breathtaking views.

  • Kap Brewster: This is a challenging hike that takes you to the summit of Kap Brewster, which offers spectacular views of the park.

Best Things to Do in Northeast Greenland National Park: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in Northeast Greenland National Park, including:

  • Boat Tours: Take a boat tour through the Scoresby Sund fjord system and see incredible icebergs up close.

  • Dog Sledding: Experience traditional Greenlandic transportation and travel through the beautiful landscape of the park.

  • Visit Inuit settlements: There are several Inuit settlements in the park, including Qaanaaq, which offer visitors the chance to experience traditional Inuit culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northeast Greenland National Park

If you’re planning to spend a week in Northeast Greenland National Park, here is a sample itinerary that will help you make the most of your trip:

Day Activity
1 Arrival and settling in
2 Visit Inuit settlements
3 Hike in Kap Humboldt
4 Boat tour in Scoresby Sund
5 Dog Sledding
6 Visit Museums and Historical Places
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Northeast Greenland National Park

Greenland’s cuisine is heavily influenced by traditional Inuit food. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages to try during your visit:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kiviak: This is a traditional Inuit dish made of small birds that are buried in sealskin and allowed to ferment for several months.

  • Suaasat: A traditional Greenlandic soup, made of either seal, muskox or reindeer meat that may include potatoes and onions.

Local Beverages

  • Kaffeikk: This is a traditional Greenlandic coffee that is mixed with whiskey, served hot and enjoyed during social events.

  • Greenlandic Beer: Pilsner, red ale and other varieties are produced locally in Greenland, brewed from imported ingredients.

Where to Stay in Northeast Greenland National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are a few accommodations options in Northeast Greenland National Park, including:

  • Hotel Sisimiut: This is the only hotel in the park, located in the town of Sisimiut.

  • Hostels: There are several hostels in the park that offer affordable accommodation.

  • Camping: If you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature, there are campsites available throughout the park.

What to Buy in Northeast Greenland National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

There are several souvenirs and local products that you can buy in Northeast Greenland National Park, including:

  • Artwork: Greenlandic artists are known for their intricate carvings of wildlife and landscapes.

  • Clothing: Traditional clothing made from animal skins and furs make a unique souvenir.

  • Local handicrafts: At local markets, you can find woven baskets and other handmade crafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Northeast Greenland National Park

Greenlandic culture is heavily influenced by its Inuit heritage. Here are a few customs and cultural practices to be aware of during your visit:

  • Respect the Environment: Greenlands landscape is fragile, and their culture is deeply tied to it. Be mindful of your impact on the environment, their landscape and wildlife.

  • Speak with Respect: It is customary in Greenland to greet elders with a phrase: “Takuss” to show respect.

Best Time to Visit Northeast Greenland National Park

The best time to visit Northeast Greenland National Park is during the summer months, from June to August when the weather is mild, and days are long. The winter months are extremely harsh with limited sunlight, though Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, are visible.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northeast Greenland National Park

To make the most of your visit, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Bring warm, layered clothing for any outdoor activities.

  • Hire qualitfied guides for outdoor activities such as hiking and dog sledding

Don’t:

  • Approach wildlife in the park.

  • Littering or leaving any waste in the park is not allowed; all garbage must be carried out.

Safety and Health

Before travelling to Northeast Greenland National Park, it is crucial to keep in mind the safety tips such as:

Safety in Northeast Greenland National Park

  • Respect community groups: Local customs & traditions must be respected.

  • Bring appropriate layers of clothing to manage cold climate and wet weather.

Health in Northeast Greenland National Park

  • It is recommended to bring all necessary prescription medication with you.

  • Health facilities are limited. If you have medical requirements, be prepared to arrange for your health needs before the trip.

Getting to Northeast Greenland National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Northeast Greenland National Park is remote and inaccessible by road. Here are a few ways to get to the park:

Airports Near Northeast Greenland National Park

  • Kangerlussuaq International Airport: This airport is located in the village of Kangerlussuaq, and it serves as the main gateway to Greenland.

Other Options:

  • Charter Boats

  • By Dog Sled

  • Helicopter

How to Get Around in Northeast Greenland National Park

As Northeast Greenland National Park is a remote location, it is best to travel by:

  • Dogsleds, snowmobiles, or helicopters to get around, as road networks are not available. Ensure you have a professional guide as these modes of transportation are not available for tourist rental.

Where to Go Next from Northeast Greenland National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some suggestions for exciting places to visit after experiencing Northeast Greenland National Park:

  • Ilulissat: Known for its huge ice fjords & amazing landscapes

  • Disko Island: World Heritage Site, fjords and whales watching

  • Tasiilaq: One of the few large towns in Greenland, with colourful handicrafts and good fishing.

Conclusion

Northeast Greenland National Park is truly an awe-inspiring destination that’s perfect for those who crave adventure and seek remote landscapes. With this comprehensive guide, you can explore the best of this park’s offerings with ease. From must-visit attractions to where to eat, stay, and shop, you’ll find everything you need to create a memorable trip in this ultimate travel guide.

Musk oxen can be found in Northeast Greenland National Park Musk oxen can be found in Northeast Greenland National Park