Kangerlussuaq Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Kangerlussuaq, along with tips on local culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options.


Introduction to Kangerlussuaq

Kangerlussuaq is a small town located in Western Greenland, nestled between the Arctic Ocean and the Greenland ice sheet. With a population of just over 500, Kangerlussuaq has become an increasingly popular destination for travelers seeking an authentic Arctic experience.

Apart from its stunning natural beauty, Kangerlussuaq offers a unique opportunity to witness the rich cultural heritage of the local Inuit population. The town is also an excellent starting point for expeditions into the Arctic wilderness.

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the top destinations, activities, and accommodations to help you plan an unforgettable trip to Kangerlussuaq.

List of Places to Visit in Kangerlussuaq

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Greenland Ice Sheet Trail - A 29-mile hiking trail that starts from the Kangerlussuaq airport and leads you through stunning landscapes of glaciers and mountains.
  • Inuit Culture Centre - A museum that showcases the daily life and traditions of the indigenous Inuit population.
  • Sondrestrom Fjord - A beautiful fjord offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
  • Kangerlussuaq Museum - A museum that gives insight into the city’s unique history and cultural heritage.

Natural Attractions of Kangerlussuaq: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Russell Glacier - A massive glacier that’s easily accessible from Kangerlussuaq, offering a stunning view of the ice cap.
  • Greenland National Park - The world’s largest national park offers hiking trails, wildlife watching, and a chance to experience the vastness of the Arctic.
  • Midnight Sun - Between May and July, experience the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun where the sun is always up even at midnight, creating a surreal and unique experience.
  • Northern Lights - During the winter months, experience the northern lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, with a stunning display of colors that lights up the sky.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kangerlussuaq

Kangerlussuaq is a hiker’s paradise with a vast expanse of wilderness for you to explore. Here are a few hiking and biking routes to consider:

  • Kangerlussuaq Airport to Ice Cap Trail - A 29-mile trail that takes you through breathtaking views of glaciers, mountains, and the ice cap.
  • Valley of the Flowers - A trek that takes you through deep valleys with stunning views of the Arctic flora, fauna, and wildlife.
  • Steep Wall - A hike that takes you to the top of a steep, rocky ridge that offers incredible views of the surroundings.

Best Things to Do in Kangerlussuaq: Activities and Tours

  • Cycling Tour of Kangerlussuaq - Take a bicycle tour to experience the stunning landscapes of Kangerlussuaq at your own pace.
  • Wildlife Watching Tour - Go on safari to spot reindeer, musk oxen, and even polar bears in their natural habitat.
  • Snowmobile Tour - During the winter months, take a snowmobile tour to explore the vast expanse of the Arctic wilderness.
  • Dog Sledding Tour - Experience the thrill of gliding through the snow on a dog sled, led by a team of huskies.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kangerlussuaq

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Kangerlussuaq, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at the hotel

Day 2: Explore Kangerlussuaq town and visit the Inuit Culture Centre

Day 3: Hiking on the Glacier Trail

Day 4: Wildlife watching safari

Day 5: Day trip to the Russell Glacier

Day 6: Dog sledding tour

Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Kangerlussuaq

Must-Try Dishes

  • Suaasat - A traditional soup made with seal, whale, or musk ox meat, potatoes, and different vegetables that is a staple food in Greenland.
  • Kiviak - A Greenlandic delicacy made from fermented sea birds that is usually consumed cold.
  • Mattak - Raw whale skin that’s sliced and served as a delicacy in Greenland.

Local Beverages

  • Blackberry Wine - An alcoholic beverage made from handpicked blackberries that grow in abundance in the summer months.
  • Greenlandic Coffee - Unlike any coffee you’ve had before, the Greenlandic coffee is served with whipped cream and a shot of akvavit, a traditional Greenlandic liquor.
  • Arctic Ice Beer - A delicious beer brewed with glacial water from the Arctic ice cap.

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

Kangerlussuaq offers a wide range of accommodations to suit various budgets and preferences.

  • Hotel Kangerlussuaq - A 4-star hotel located a few minutes away from the airport, offering cozy rooms, excellent cuisine, and stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.
  • Old Camp - A hostel that offers budget accommodation, shared common areas, and outdoor barbeques.
  • Greenland Ice Sheet Lodge - A luxurious lodge situated near the ice cap that offers comfortable rooms, excellent food, and a unique Arctic experience.

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

  • Souvenirs - You can choose from a range of Greenlandic souvenirs like keychains, magnets, and t-shirts that are available at tourist shops around Kangerlussuaq.
  • Qiviut - A soft and warm woolen fabric made from muskox hair that is unique to Greenlandic culture.
  • Walrus Ivory - A traditional handicraft made from the tusks of the walrus that is popular among art collectors.

Local Culture and Customs of Kangerlussuaq

  • Respect for the Environment - The Arctic wilderness is fragile and deserves our respect. Always remember to take your trash with you and leave no trace.
  • Inuit Culture - The local Inuit population has a rich cultural heritage that should be respected. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people and their homes.
  • Language - Greenlandic is the official language of the town. It’s always wise to learn a few words to communicate better with the locals.

Best Time to Visit Kangerlussuaq

The best time to visit Kangerlussuaq is during the summer months between May and September when the weather is milder, and the wilderness comes to life. However, if you want to see the Northern Lights, then the winter months between November and March are the best time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kangerlussuaq

Do:

  • Respect the environment and the local culture.
  • Stay safe and follow established hiking trails.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather conditions.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local customs and culture.
  • Disturb wildlife or plants.
  • Head into the wilderness without proper gear and preparation.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kangerlussuaq

Kangerlussuaq is an extremely safe town, with low crime rates. However, it’s always wise to take precautions and follow common-sense safety measures.

Health in Kangerlussuaq

Kangerlussuaq has a modern healthcare system that offers a wide range of services. However, it’s important to keep in mind that emergency medical services may be limited in remote areas of the Arctic.

Getting to Kangerlussuaq: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kangerlussuaq

The Kangerlussuaq airport is the main gateway to Western Greenland, with regular flights from Denmark and Iceland. It’s also possible to arrive via domestic flights from other parts of Greenland.

Bus Stations Near Kangerlussuaq

There are no bus stations in Kangerlussuaq. However, there are regular bus services between major towns and cities in Greenland.

Other Options

It’s also possible to reach Kangerlussuaq by boat during the summer months when the ice has melted, opening up the seaways.

How to Get Around in Kangerlussuaq

The best way to get around Kangerlussuaq is on foot or by bicycle. There are also taxi services available in the town. However, if you’re planning to explore the Arctic wilderness, it’s best to rent a car or join a guided tour.

Where to Go Next from Kangerlussuaq: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Ilulissat - A town situated north of Kangerlussuaq known for its stunning glaciers and dog sledding tours.
  • Nuuk - The capital city of Greenland that offers excellent museums and shopping experiences.
  • Sisimiut - A town situated south of Kangerlussuaq that offers opportunities for snowmobiling and skiing.

Conclusion

Kangerlussuaq is a unique destination that offers travelers a chance to experience the Arctic wilderness and the rich cultural heritage of the Inuit population. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Kangerlussuaq has become a popular destination among adventure seekers. Plan your trip today, and get ready for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Greenland.

Kangerlussuaq Airport Kangerlussuaq Airport Russel's Glacier Russel's Glacier The defunct Sondrestrom Research Facility The defunct Sondrestrom Research Facility Excursion to Russel's Glacier Excursion to Russel's Glacier