Attractions and Places To See around Greenland - Top 8

Greenland is renowned for its dramatic natural beauty. Key attractions include the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its massive icebergs calving from the Sermeq Kujalleq Glacier. You can also explore the vast Greenland Ice Sheet, the world's second-largest, accessible from points like Kangerlussuaq. Other notable natural features include Disko Bay, known for whale watching and icebergs, and the Scoresbysund fjord system in East Greenland.

To delve into Greenland's history and culture, visit Nuuk, the capital. The Greenland National Museum and Archives showcases the country's past, from ancient Inuit cultures to Viking settlements, and houses artifacts like the Qilakitsoq mummies. Southern Greenland also offers significant Viking history, including the well-preserved Hvalsey Church Ruins near Qaqortoq, and the sites of Erik the Red's settlement in Qassiarsuk.

Yes, Greenland boasts several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Ilulissat Icefjord is recognized for its exceptional natural beauty and geological processes. The cultural landscape of Kujataa in Southern Greenland preserves the Norse and Inuit farming heritage. Additionally, Aasivissuit-Nipisat in West Greenland is a UNESCO site showcasing 4,000 years of Inuit hunting culture.

Greenland offers a wide range of outdoor activities. Popular options include boat tours among icebergs in Disko Bay or Prince Christian Sound, whale watching during warmer months, and dog sledding or snowmobiling in winter. Hiking is also popular, with trails like the Arctic Circle Hiking Trail between Kangerlussuaq and Sisimiut. You can also experience the unique Uunartoq Hot Springs.

While many natural attractions are suitable for families, specific family-friendly activities often revolve around cultural experiences and accessible natural sites. Boat tours to see icebergs or whales are generally family-friendly. Exploring towns like Nuuk with its museums and cultural center, or Qaqortoq with its 'Stone and Man' art project, can also be engaging for families. Many local markets offer a glimpse into local life.

The best time to visit Greenland largely depends on the activities you plan. For hiking, boat tours, and experiencing the Midnight Sun, the summer months (June to August) are ideal. For dog sledding, Northern Lights viewing, and other winter sports, the colder months (September to April) are best. Each season offers a unique Arctic experience.

Yes, Greenland is an excellent place to witness the spectacular Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). This natural phenomenon is best viewed during the darker, colder months, typically from September to April, especially away from city lights.

Several glaciers in Greenland are relatively accessible. The Sermeq Kujalleq Glacier, which feeds the Ilulissat Icefjord, can be viewed from boat tours or hiking trails near Ilulissat. Russell Glacier near Kangerlussuaq is also considered one of the more accessible glaciers, offering opportunities to walk on the ice sheet. Eqi Glacier, north of Ilulissat, is known for its constant calving and can be easily witnessed from boat trips.

Nuuk offers a blend of modern and traditional Greenlandic culture. You can visit the Greenland National Museum and Archives, explore the architectural marvel of the Katuaq Cultural Centre, or see local art at the Nuuk Art Museum. Don't miss 'Old Nuuk' (Nuutoqaq) for its historic colonial charm, and the Hans Egede Church and Statue.

The ancient Inuit settlement of Sermermiut, located near Ilulissat, offers a fascinating insight into the history of Inuit cultures that lived there for thousands of years. You can hike to this site for panoramic views of the Ilulissat Icefjord and learn about the indigenous heritage.

Yes, whale watching is a popular activity in many of Greenland's fjords, particularly in Disko Bay. During the warmer months, various species of whales, including humpbacks, minke, and fin whales, can be spotted. Boat tours are widely available to take visitors to prime whale-watching locations.

East Greenland offers rugged and remote experiences. The Scoresbysund fjord system is the world's largest and provides dramatic scenery with enormous icebergs and steep mountains. Kulusuk Museum offers insights into local culture. This region is also a popular area for dog sledding in winter and experiencing the raw beauty of the Arctic wilderness.