Nanortalik Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Nanortalik, Greenland with our comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking routes, best things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Nanortalik

Located in Southern Greenland, Nanortalik is a remote town that boasts a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions. Set amidst awe-inspiring landscapes, it offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in Greenlandic culture and history, while also providing ample opportunities for outdoor adventures and exploration. In this guide, we’ll outline the best places to visit, hiking routes, must-try dishes, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Nanortalik

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Nanortalik Museum - Learn about the history of Nanortalik and its people, from its Viking past to its present-day traditions.
  • Uunartoq Qeqertaq - A small uninhabited rocky island located on the southern coast of Greenland. A cemetery with numerous runic inscriptions has been identified on the island. You can also see the site of the smallpox epidemic that wiped out Greenland’s Nordic population in the 18th century.
  • Sillisit Museum - Displays Greenlandic culture, history, and marine environment, as well as exhibitions on the local village.

Natural Attractions of Nanortalik: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Nanortalik Waterfall - At 30 meters tall, this waterfall is a breathtaking sight worth seeing up close. Visitors can take a boat tour from the harbor to see it.
  • Qooqqut Fjord - Take a boat tour of the fjord and see icebergs and seals up close.
  • Nanortalik Island - This small island provides a stunning view of the town and surrounding landscape, reached by boat from the harbor.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nanortalik

  • Kingigtoq Hike - A popular hike in Nanortalik, it takes about 6-7 hours and provides a stunning view of the Qooqqut Fjord.
  • Kvanefjeld Hike - This hike takes about 7-9 hours and is great for experienced hikers. It provides a magnificent view of the town and the fjord.
  • Inneruulalik Hike - This hike takes about 4-5 hours and provides a great view of the town and the neighboring mountains.

Best Things to Do in Nanortalik: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Tours - Take a boat tour of the fjord, see icebergs up close, go fishing or visit the nearby islands.
  • Kayaking - Kayak in the nearby waters and fjords.
  • Whale Watching - Take a whale watching tour and see humpback whales up close.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nanortalik

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Nanortalik and explore the town
2 Hike Kingigtoq
3 Visit Nanortalik Museum and Sillisit Museum
4 Take a boat tour of the fjord
5 Kayaking in the nearby waters and fjords
6 Whale watching
7 Depart Nanortalik

Food and Drink Scene of Nanortalik

Must-Try Dishes

  • Suaasat - A traditional soup made with seal, whale or reindeer meat, potatoes, onions and rice.
  • Kiviak - A traditional Inuit dish of fermented bird meat, typically auk, that is buried in the ground inside of a seal skin for several months and is eaten as a delicacy.
  • Mattak - A traditional Inuit dish made of raw whale skin and blubber.

Local Beverages

  • Greenlandic Coffee - A cocktail made with coffee, Greenlandic schnapps, and whipped cream.

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

  • Hotel Seamen’s Home - A cozy hotel located in the heart of Nanortalik, with comfortable rooms and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Sanda Lodge - A guesthouse that offers budget-friendly accommodation and easy access to the town and nearby attractions.

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

  • Qiviut - Made from the undercoat of the musk ox, Qiviut is one of the warmest and most luxurious fibers in the world.
  • Inuit Artwork - From small carvings to large sculptures, Inuit artwork is a unique and beautiful souvenir to bring home.
  • Seal Skin Products - Souvenirs made from seal skin like wallets, keychains, or shoes are good souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Nanortalik

The Inuit culture, also called the Greenlandic culture, is the dominant way of life for most residents of Nanortalik. Its elements include storytelling, mythology, dance, music, and artwork. Cultural events and festivals take place in town throughout the year, with the Kaffemik being a special cultural event unique to Greenland.

Best Time to Visit Nanortalik

The best time to visit Nanortalik is during the summer months of June to August. These months are relatively warm, offering visitors comfortable outdoor adventure opportunities and ample daylight hours, making it convenient to explore and see the stunning surroundings.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nanortalik

Do:

  • Respect Inuit culture and customs.
  • Dress in layers and get waterproof clothes.
  • Get a guide if you wish to explore remote parts of the region.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter.
  • Do not disturb wildlife.
  • Do not trespass or enter someone else’s property without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nanortalik

Nanortalik is generally a safe place to visit, with low rates of crime and an even lower violent crime rate.

Health in Nanortalik

It is important to have a comprehensive travel insurance policy that will cover you in case of any need for medical attention.

Getting to Nanortalik: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Nanortalik

There are no airports in Nanortalik, the closest one is about an hour’s flight from Nuuk in western Greenland.

Bus Stations Near Nanortalik

There are no bus stations in Nanortalik.

Other Options

Ferries are available to reach here a few times per week. An alternative option is hiring a private boat charter to reach the town.

How to Get Around in Nanortalik

There are no cars and buses here, so walking and boating are the primary means of transportation around town.

Where to Go Next from Nanortalik: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Qaqortoq - A beautiful small town in southern Greenland with colorful houses and great views.
  • Igaliku - A small settlement located in the fjord near Nanortalik, known for its beautiful landscapes.

Conclusion

Nanortalik is the perfect destination for those who are looking for a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions. With its stunning landscapes, rich history and culture, and ample opportunities for outdoor adventures, it is a must-visit destination for anyone fascinated by the beauty of Greenland. Follow our travel guide for an unforgettable experience in Nanortalik.

Nanortalik in winter Nanortalik in winter