Qaanaaq Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to stay, local culture, and transportation options in Qaanaaq, Northern Greenland with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Qaanaaq

Located in Northern Greenland, Qaanaaq is a small town inhabited mainly by the Inuit community. Qaanaaq is one of the northernmost towns in the world, known for its stunning natural beauty and unique cultural heritage.

Despite its remote location, Qaanaaq attracts adventurous travelers from all over the world, seeking to explore the unspoiled Arctic wilderness and experience the traditional way of life of the Inuit people.

In this comprehensive Qaanaaq travel guide, we will provide you with useful information to help you plan your trip to this fascinating destination. From places to visit and outdoor activities to local culture and customs, we’ve got you covered!

List of Places to Visit in Qaanaaq

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Qaanaaq Museum

The Qaanaaq Museum is a must-visit attraction for those interested in learning about the history and culture of the Inuit people. The Museum features a collection of Inuit artifacts, such as traditional clothing, hunting tools, and artwork. Visitors can also learn about the town’s history, including the early European explorers who visited the area.

Inukpuk

Inukpuk is an ancient Inuit hunting camp located just outside of Qaanaaq. The site features several stone structures, including meat caches, tent rings, and hunting blinds. Visitors can learn about traditional Inuit hunting techniques and the importance of hunting in Inuit culture.

Uummannaq Ice Fjord

The Uummannaq Ice Fjord is a breathtaking natural wonder located about 60 kilometers southeast of Qaanaaq. The fjord features towering icebergs and crystal clear waters, offering a once-in-a-lifetime scenic experience.

Natural Attractions of Qaanaaq: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Melville Bay

Melville Bay is one of the largest fjords in the world, stretching over 100km into North Greenland. Visitors can enjoy stunning vistas of glaciers and icebergs from the shore while watching whales and seals swimming in the bay waters.

Kangerlugssuaq Glacier

Kangerlugssuaq Glacier is one of the most impressive glaciers in Greenland, located near Qaanaaq. Visitors can arrange a guided glacier hike or take a boat tour to get up close to the glacier and its surrounding scenery.

Qaanaaq Ice Cap

The Qaanaaq Ice Cap is one of the world’s largest ice caps and an adventure destination for hikers and explorers. The magnificent blanket of ice covers 240,000 square kilometers and is a haven for arctic wildlife such as polar bears, caribou, and arctic foxes. Trekking on the vast snowfield would be a legendary experience for those who are into trekking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Qaanaaq

Qaanaaq is ideal for hiking and biking as it offers a serene landscape with no hustle-bustle of the city life.

Kullorsuaq to Qaanaaq

The hike from Kullorsuaq to Qaanaaq takes 3-4 days, covering over 100 kilometers of breathtaking Greenlandic terrain. The route passes through rugged mountains, scenic valleys, and historical Inuit settlements.

Karrat Fjord

The Karrat Fjord stretches more than 60km from Qaanaaq and offers a stunning landscape of mountain peaks, glaciers, and serene lakes. Visitors can hike the Karrat Fjord, taking in the incredible views of the surrounding scenery, abundant wildlife, and vibrant flora.

Best Things to Do in Qaanaaq: Activities and Tours

Dog-sledding

Dog-sledding is an adventure that lets you experience the true Arctic spirit of Qaanaaq. The sleds are pulled by a pack of 6 to 8 dogs running across the snow. This adventure is an essential experience when you visit Qaanaaq.

Northern Lights Tour

The Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, can be seen in the sky over Qaanaaq from September to April. Join a Northern Lights tour and travel with an experienced guide to an ideal viewpoint to witness an incredible natural phenomenon.

Week-Long Itinerary for Qaanaaq

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in Qaanaaq:

Day 1: Arrival and acclimatization Day 2: Visit Qaanaaq Museum and Inukpuk Day 3: Take a boat to Uummannaq Ice Fjord and witness the scenic beauty. Day 4: Go for dog-sledding and explore the town during night-time. Day 5: Trekking in Qaanaaq Ice Cap Day 6: Take a guided boat tour to Kangerlugssuaq Glacier Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Qaanaaq

Must-Try Dishes

Qaanaaq is famous for some of its traditional dishes, which are unique to the Inuit culture. Below are a few must-try dishes:

Kiviak

Kiviak is a dish made from little auks, a small seabird that is caught in the summer and then fermented in sealskin for several months. This dish has been a staple of Inuit cuisine for centuries.

Mattak

Mattak is whale blubber and one of the most important delicacies in Inuit culture. It has a soft, chewy texture and a flavor that is somewhat similar to coconut.

Local Beverages

Coffee

Greenlanders consume a lot of coffee. All the cafes serve good coffee in a traditional way. It is always a good idea to take your coffee break in the town.

Greenlandic Beer

Greenlandic beer is brewed locally using pure Arctic glacial waters. The three widely available Greenlandic beers are - Ice Cap, Polar Beer, and Godthaab Beer.

Where to Stay in Qaanaaq: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Qaanaaq doesn’t have many options when it comes to accommodation. The major accommodations are:

Hotel Qaanaaq

Located in the heart of the town, Hotel Qaanaaq is the only hotel in town. The hotel offers a comfortable and cozy stay with attached restaurants serving Greenlandic cuisine.

Guesthouses and Hostels

There are some guesthouses and hostels where you can stay with traditional Inuit families, experience local culture, and have a comfortable stay.

What to Buy in Qaanaaq: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Skins and Pelts

Inuit culture relies heavily on hunting and fishing, so hunting and fishing supplies such as pelts, furs and animal skin are popular souvenirs in Qaanaaq.

Handmade Crafts

In Qaanaaq, you can find many unique souvenirs, such as handmade clothing, jewelry and crafts made by the Inuit community. These items are highly prized due to the skill and craftsmanship of the Inuit people.

Local Culture and Customs of Qaanaaq

Inuit people have unique customs and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Here are a few customs to keep in mind when you visit Qaanaaq:

Respect Nature

Greenlanders have a close relationship with nature, and visitors are expected to respect the environment and wildlife. Take great care to avoid littering during your visit, and do not disturb the animals in their habitat.

Respect Local Traditions

Inuit people have a rich cultural heritage, and Visitors should be respectful of local traditions. Dress modestly when visiting historical sites and museums, and ask permission before taking pictures of people you encounter in the town.

Best Time to Visit Qaanaaq

The best time to visit Qaanaaq is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is milder, and there are longer hours of sunlight. This is also when you can experience the unique phenomenon of the midnight sun.

Do’s and Don’ts of Qaanaaq

Do:

  • Dress appropriately for the weather
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Take a guided tour to the Qaanaaq Ice Cap
  • Try traditional Inuit dishes like kiviak and mattak

Don’t:

  • Litter in the environment
  • Take photos without permission
  • Disturb the wildlife or marine life
  • Visit without getting appropriate permissions from authorities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Qaanaaq

Qaanaaq is a safe town, but it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions. Be sure to bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities, and follow safety guidelines when participating in tours and excursions.

Health in Qaanaaq

Inuit people have a unique genetic makeup, and visitors should be aware that certain illnesses are more prevalent in the Inuit population. It’s a good idea to consult with a doctor before traveling to Qaanaaq and bring any necessary medication with you.

Getting to Qaanaaq: Transportation Options and Logistics

Qaanaaq is a remote town, and getting there requires careful planning.

Airports Near Qaanaaq

The nearest airport is in Upernavik, which has direct flights to Copenhagen and Reykjavik. From Upernavik, visitors can take a helicopter or small plane to Qaanaaq.

Bus Stations Near Qaanaaq

There is only one road in Qaanaaq, and no buses operate in the town.

Other Options

One can sail the rivers by boat, but due to the flowing ice in the river and Arctic water, it is only recommended for high-experienced sailors.

How to Get Around in Qaanaaq

The town of Qaanaaq is small enough to explore on foot. Visitors can also consider hiring a local guide for outdoor activities and excursions.

Where to Go Next from Qaanaaq: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Qaanaaq can consider extending their trip to nearby destinations like Uummannaq, Nuuk, and Ilulissat. These towns offer unique experiences and natural beauty that are similar to Qaanaaq.

Conclusion

Qaanaaq offers a unique cultural experience and an exciting adventure in the Arctic wilderness. It is a destination that not only offers stunning views of the sea, mountains, and ice caps but also offers exciting activities and a unique Inuit cultural experience.

We hope this Qaanaaq travel guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan your trip to this incredible destination. Happy traveling!

View over Qaanaaq View over Qaanaaq