Upernavik Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local food to try in Upernavik, Greenland. Learn about the cultural attractions, natural wonders, and safety information for a memorable trip.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Upernavik, Greenland

Upernavik is a picturesque town located in Northern Greenland, in the North American region. This unique destination offers a range of cultural, natural, and historic attractions that makes it a worthwhile place to visit. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or food lover, Upernavik has something special for you. In this travel guide, we will explore the top places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Upernavik, along with safety information and other helpful tips for planning your trip.

Introduction to Upernavik

Upernavik is a small town located in the northern part of Greenland, famous for its stunning natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. Home to only around 1200 inhabitants, Upernavik is a charming and welcoming community where visitors can experience the true spirit of Greenlandic life. The town is known for its traditional colorful houses, surrounded by breathtaking vistas of the sea and mountains.

List of Places to Visit in Upernavik

Here are the top places to visit in Upernavik:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Upernavik Museum: Located in the city center, the Upernavik Museum houses a unique collection of artifacts and exhibitions that offer insight into the rich history of the town and its people.
  • The Archipelago: A group of small islands located off the coast of the town that is home to some of the most interesting cultural and historical sites in Upernavik.
  • The Old Church: A historic church that was built in the 19th century and is still in use today.

Natural Attractions of Upernavik: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Icefjord: A magnificent fjord located just outside of Upernavik which offers incredible views of icebergs and other awe-inspiring natural wonders.
  • The Upernavik Glacier: One of the most famous glaciers in Greenland which has become a popular tourist attraction due to its impressive beauty and accessibility.
  • The Midnight Sun: During the summer months, Upernavik experiences the midnight sun phenomenon, where the sun remains visible in the sky 24 hours a day, providing visitors with a unique and unforgettable experience.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Upernavik

Upernavik offers a range of beautiful and unique hiking trails, through which visitors can explore the stunning landscapes and natural wonders of the region. Some of the popular hiking and biking routes in Upernavik include:

  • The Kayaking Adventure: A thrilling kayaking adventure that takes visitors on a journey through the beautiful landscapes and wildlife-rich coastlines of Upernavik.
  • The Arctic Circle Trail: A challenging 165km hiking trail that takes visitors through some of the most stunning and remote parts of Greenland.

Best Things to Do in Upernavik: Activities and Tours

  • Polar Bear Watching Tour: One of the most popular tours in Upernavik is the Polar Bear Watching Tour, which takes visitors on a boat trip to remote islands where they can observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
  • Dog-Sledding Adventure: Another unique and exciting adventure in Upernavik is a dog-sledding tour that allows visitors to experience the thrill and excitement of one of the oldest modes of transport in the Arctic.
  • Northern Lights Tour: Visitors to Upernavik during the winter months can also enjoy a spectacular tour of the Northern Lights, where they can witness this awe-inspiring natural phenomenon.

Week-Long Itinerary for Upernavik

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for Upernavik:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Upernavik, explore the town center and visit the Upernavik Museum
2 Enjoy a hiking tour of the Upernavik Glacier
3 Take a boat tour of the Icefjord and enjoy the views of icebergs and other natural wonders
4 Attend the local cultural festival and enjoy traditional food and music
5 Take part in a dog-sledding tour and experience the thrill of one of the oldest modes of transport in the Arctic
6 Go on a Polar Bear Watching Tour and get up close to one of the Arctic’s most iconic creatures
7 Enjoy a leisurely day exploring the town and its surroundings, and take in the beautiful sights and sounds of Upernavik

Food and Drink Scene of Upernavik

Upernavik has a vibrant and unique food scene that offers visitors the chance to try traditional Greenlandic dishes that are both delicious and nutritious. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to sample while in Upernavik:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kiviak: A traditional Inuit dish made from fermented bird meat that has been wrapped in sealskin and buried underground for several months.
  • Mattak: A dish made from raw whale blubber that is sliced thinly and served with soy sauce and onions.
  • Suaasat: A traditional Greenlandic soup made from seal or reindeer meat, potatoes, onions, and herbs.

Local Beverages

  • Coffee: In Upernavik, coffee is served with musk ox milk, which gives it a unique and delicious flavor.
  • Greenlandic Beer: Greenlandic beer is a popular local beverage that is brewed from barley and other grains, and has a distinctive taste that can only be found in Greenland.
  • Greenlandic Schnapps: Made from fermented berries, Greenlandic schnapps is a strong alcoholic beverage that is often served at official events and gatherings.

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

Upernavik offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. Here are some popular options:

  • The Hotel Upernavik: A modern and comfortable hotel located in the town center, offering excellent facilities and services.
  • The Guesthouse Upernavik: A more budget-friendly option offering comfortable and simple rooms with basic facilities.
  • The Northern Lights Guesthouse: A cozy and welcoming guesthouse located in a remote location offering stunning views of the Northern Lights.

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

For visitors looking for unique and authentic souvenirs, Upernavik has plenty to offer. Here are some popular items for sale:

  • Traditional Inuit handicrafts, such as carvings and woven baskets.
  • Local products made from sealskin, such as wallets, handbags, and gloves.
  • Greenlandic jewelry made from materials such as bone, reindeer antler, and musk ox horn.

Local Culture and Customs of Upernavik

Upernavik has a rich and unique cultural heritage, which visitors can experience through its festivals, museum, and other attractions. The town is also home to a tight-knit community of Inuit people who have their own beliefs, traditions, and customs. Visitors are encouraged to learn about and respect these cultural differences in order to fully engage with the local way of life.

Best Time to Visit Upernavik

The best time to visit Upernavik depends on your interests and the activities you plan on participating in. For instance, the summer months are better for hiking and outdoor adventures, while winter allows for dog-sledding, Northern Lights viewing, and other winter-specific activities. Regardless of the season, visitors should be prepared for cold temperatures and varying weather conditions, which can change rapidly in the Arctic.

Do’s and Don’ts of Upernavik

Do:

  • Respect the traditions and customs of the local Inuit people.
  • Take part in local festivals and events.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather conditions and activities planned.

Don’t:

  • Take pictures of locals, buildings, or other items without permission.
  • Leave trash or disturb natural habitats.
  • Overlook safety precautions in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Upernavik

Upernavik is a relatively safe place to visit, but visitors should be aware of the following safety concerns:

  • Weather conditions can change rapidly and become hazardous, especially during the winter months.
  • Polar bears can be found in the area and visitors should not approach them.
  • Any outdoor activities, such as hiking and boating, should be done with an experienced guide.

Health in Upernavik

Upernavik has a health clinic and a pharmacy, but visitors should bring any necessary medications and supplies with them. Travelers are also advised to check with their doctor regarding vaccinations and other health concerns before traveling to Greenland.

Getting to Upernavik: Transportation Options and Logistics

Upernavik is accessible via air or sea transportation. The nearest airport is the Qaarsut Airport, located approximately 50km from Upernavik, with daily flights from Nuuk and Ilulissat. Another way to reach Upernavik is by taking a ferry from Ilulissat, which runs a few times a week during the summer months.

Airports Near Upernavik

  • Qaarsut Airport (JQA)

Bus Stations Near Upernavik

There are no bus services in Upernavik, as it is a small town with limited transportation options.

Other Options

Visitors looking for a more unique and adventurous way to reach Upernavik can also consider taking a dog-sledding tour from Ilulissat, which can take up to two weeks.

How to Get Around in Upernavik

Upernavik is a small town, and most places are accessible on foot. Visitors can also take a taxi or arrange a private tour or transportation service. Bike rentals are also available in Upernavik for visitors looking to explore the surrounding area on two wheels.

Where to Go Next from Upernavik: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

For visitors looking to explore more of Greenland, there are several destinations and excursions in the surrounding area that are worth visiting, including:

  • Ilulissat: A beautiful town famous for its stunning ice fjord and other natural wonders, and is also the nearest town for flights from Copenhagen.
  • Disko Island: A remote and pristine island located off the coast of Greenland, offering stunning views and unique natural attractions.
  • Kangerlussuaq: Another popular destination in Greenland, known for its vast stretches of untouched wilderness and incredible wildlife.

Conclusion

Upernavik is a breathtaking and unique destination that offers visitors the chance to experience the true spirit of Greenlandic life. From its natural wonders to its rich cultural heritage and delicious food scene, Upernavik has something special for everyone. Visitors to Upernavik are guaranteed an unforgettable trip that will leave them with memories to last a lifetime.

Upernavik harbour Upernavik harbour Church of Upernavik Church of Upernavik