Greenland

Adventure with a capital A

There is more to Greenland than just ice, though a large part of it is covered with kilometres-thick ice sheets. This island offers 100% adventure, with wondrous landscapes and unique animals.

Greenland, locally known as Kalaallit Nunaat and part of Denmark, is incredibly raw, rugged and impressive. A tour of the island is an adventure with a capital A. Those who like adventure travel should visit this immense island. Where you will encounter glaciers, fjords, huskies and locals. These are the best things to see and do in Greenland.

Cruise along the coast of Greenland

A multi-day cruise is a classic way to experience the immense island. There are several options. They vary in length, but also in the route. The west coast is by far the most popular, with attractions such as Ilulissat Ice Fjord and Disko Bay. Take your time, because the distances are often large. So make sure the time you get to land is not too short.

Kayak through Scoresby Sound

Scoresby Sound is a large fjord, which can be found on the eastern coast. It has a tree-like structure and it is one of the largest and longest fjords in the world. It is great to explore the fjord by kayak and see the immense mountain walls in full glory. You feel very insignificant between all this natural violence.

Along the way, you may encounter seals and perhaps a polar bear. In the water, you can see various icebergs. Logically, it depends on the weather whether the tour is possible. But if the weather is fine, be amazed…

Hiking on ice

When you go hiking in Greenland, you should actually also try a route on ice. As the ice can be life-threatening it is recommended to go with a guide. For example, cracks of miles deep can be filled with snow. 

You can get on the ice in countless places in the west and east. And even go camping on or next to it. This gives an extra dimension as you can see the sun go down and rise again … Or at least see the nightfall. There are several ways to get to the ice. You can travel by boat or off-road vehicle. Or on foot, of course.

Nuuk

The city of Nuuk on Greenland.

The town of Nuuk is the capital of Greenland. It is located in the western part of the island. Man has lived in this part of the world for thousands of years. The predecessors of the Inuit moved to Greenland from Canada. You can get acquainted with their culture in various museums in Greenland.

The largest collection is located in Nuuk in the National Museum. Here you will learn everything about their way of life and the smart ways to survive under extreme conditions. The museum is actually a must to understand the Inuit.

Hiking on Greenland

Many tourists plan to hike through the wilderness of Greenland. And rightly so, because it gives you a good idea of the primal forces that have shaped this landscape over the centuries. And you have time to look around at your leisure.

You can go on your own from any village. And of course, you can go on a long trip with a guide. Always tell someone what you plan to do so that people know where you are…

Wildlife of Greenland

The wildlife you’ll find here is amongst others the polar bear, reindeer and musk ox. But also countless whales and dolphins, including the killer whale and the Greenland whale. But also other sea animals like seals live here.

Musk ox in Kangerlussuaq

Kangerlussuaq in the west is the only place on Greenland to see the majestic musk ox. You will be driven to the animals in a jeep or bus. And you can see them eating quietly, frolicking or even fighting. 

But it is much more inspiring to go for a walk yourself. Then you will come across these impressive animals (with a little luck).

Visiting Greenland

Only a part of the coast of Greenland in summer is free of ice, and it’s in this part of this large island that its less than 60.000 inhabitants live. The towns are remarkably colourful, resulting in beautiful scenes; such as bright blue icebergs that float past green and red houses.

Greenland is incredibly rugged, partly inaccessible and very impressive. Traveling across this island is an adventure with a capital A. The south is perfect for walking. The island is officially part of Danish territory, but it is autonomous.

All 6 Bucket List Tips in Greenland