Ice Sheets & Inuit Heritage. Ilulissat Icefjord, Hotel Arctic igloo cabins, and dog-sled expeditions under aurora.
Greenland is the world's largest island, an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, geographically part of North America. Approximately 80 percent of its surface is covered by the Greenland Ice Sheet. Travellers are drawn to its vast, ice-filled landscapes, expansive tundra, and the opportunity to experience contemporary Inuit culture. Key attractions include dramatic icefjords, viewing the aurora borealis, and observing arctic wildlife. Its remoteness and pristine natural environment are central to its appeal.
Situated on the west coast by Disko Bay, this area is the primary access point for the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a major hub for tourism with infrastructure for boat tours and flights.
As the capital, Nuuk offers a blend of modern Greenlandic life and cultural institutions, including the Greenland National Museum. The surrounding fjord system provides opportunities for boat excursions and exploration.
This settlement serves as the main international air gateway and is located at the eastern end of a deep fjord. Its inland position provides direct, road-based access to the edge of the Greenland Ice Sheet.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is the sea mouth of Sermeq Kujalleq, one of the most active glaciers in the world. Visitors can observe the calving icebergs from land, by boat, or by aircraft.
The northern lights are frequently visible across Greenland from approximately September to April. Viewing is best during periods of clear, dark skies away from the light pollution of settlements.
A traditional mode of winter transport in northern and eastern Greenland. Guided expeditions are available in many towns north of the Arctic Circle, offering a means to traverse the snow-covered landscape.
The second-largest body of ice in the world can be accessed from certain locations. Kangerlussuaq offers vehicle and guided walking tours directly onto the ice cap's margin.
June–August and December–March. Summer offers milder temperatures and the midnight sun, suitable for hiking and boat tours. Winter provides conditions for viewing the aurora borealis and for activities such as dog sledding, though days are very short.
The primary international airport is Kangerlussuaq Airport (SFJ), with some international flights also serving Nuuk (GOH) and Ilulissat (JAV). As there is no road network between settlements, onward travel within Greenland is conducted by domestic propeller aircraft or by sea.
The official currency is the Danish Krone (DKK). Credit cards are widely accepted in larger towns and hotels, and ATMs are available in most settlements.
No roads connect Greenland's towns and settlements. All domestic travel over any distance must be undertaken by air or, where schedules permit, by coastal ferry.
A layering system is essential in all seasons. All trips require waterproof and windproof outer layers, thermal base layers, warm mid-layers, sturdy boots, a hat, and gloves.
All destinations · Best hotels · Compare hotels · Plan & Book
Back to Luxury Travel Guides
Hotel reviews · Destinations · Best hotels · Compare hotels · The Journal · Plan & Book
Published by Peters Signature Travel.