Overview
Greenland is the world's largest island, covering roughly 2.16 million square kilometres, of which about 80 percent is permanently covered by the Greenland Ice Sheet. It is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, with its own parliament (Inatsisartut) and government based in the capital, Nuuk.
Despite its vast size, Greenland has a population of approximately 56,000 people, making it one of the least densely populated places on Earth. Most residents live along the ice-free western coast in small towns and settlements connected almost exclusively by boat or small aircraft, as there are no roads between communities.
The landscape ranges from dramatic fjords and towering icebergs to tundra, glaciers, and remote Arctic plateaus. Visitors come for wilderness experiences that are genuinely difficult to replicate elsewhere: calving glaciers, dog sled journeys across frozen sea ice, boat trips among icebergs, and skies that either never darken in summer or blaze with auroras in winter.
Greenland is not a budget destination. Its remote logistics mean most things cost significantly more than in mainland Europe. Planning ahead, booking transport and accommodation early, and being flexible about weather delays are essential for a successful trip.
Before You Go
Visas
Greenland is not part of the Schengen Area despite being part of the Kingdom of Denmark. Visa rules are specific to Greenland and differ from Danish mainland entry requirements. Check the TravelerPulse Visas section and consult the official Greenlandic or Danish immigration authority well before travel.
Health and vaccinations
No vaccinations are specifically required for Greenland, but ensuring routine immunisations are up to date is advisable. Travel insurance that includes medical evacuation is strongly recommended—medical facilities outside Nuuk are very limited, and evacuation by helicopter or aircraft can be required in emergencies.
What to pack
- Layered, windproof and waterproof outerwear is essential year-round
- Thermal base layers even in summer, as temperatures can drop sharply at night
- Sturdy, waterproof boots suitable for uneven, wet terrain
- Sun protection (sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm) for the midnight sun period
- A headtorch and warm hat for shoulder seasons
Money
Credit cards are accepted in Nuuk and larger towns, but smaller settlements often operate primarily on cash. ATMs exist in major towns; verify availability before travelling to remote areas.
Getting There
Greenland has no international flight connections outside of Denmark and Iceland. Air Greenland operates flights from Copenhagen (Kastrup) to Kangerlussuaq and Nuuk, and there are seasonal connections from Reykjavik (Keflavik and Reykjavik City Airport) operated by Air Greenland and formerly by other carriers—verify current routes on the Air Greenland website before booking.
Kangerlussuaq, located on the west coast, functions as the main international hub and has a longer runway capable of handling larger aircraft. Nuuk's airport handles regional and some direct international traffic; a new extended runway has improved connectivity in recent years.
There is no regular passenger ferry service to Greenland from Europe or North America. Cruise ships do call at various Greenlandic ports during summer, and expedition cruises are a popular way to reach remote areas of the east and north coasts that are otherwise very difficult to access.
Once a flight gateway is reached, onward travel within Greenland is exclusively by Air Greenland (domestic flights and helicopter services) or by coastal ferry operated by Arctic Umiaq Line during the summer season. Book both as early as possible, particularly for summer travel, as capacity is limited.
Getting Around
There are no roads connecting Greenland's towns and settlements. All inter-community travel is by small aircraft, helicopter, boat, or in winter by dog sled or snowmobile on sea ice where conditions allow.
Air Greenland operates the domestic network connecting major towns such as Nuuk, Ilulissat, Sisimiut, and Aasiaat, as well as helicopter routes to smaller settlements. Flights can be cancelled or delayed due to weather with little warning—build buffer days into your itinerary.
Arctic Umiaq Line runs a coastal ferry (the Sarfaq Ittuk) along the west coast during summer, calling at numerous settlements. This is a slower but scenic and affordable way to experience the coast and is used by locals as well as travellers.
Within towns, walking is the primary mode of transport. Nuuk has a local bus service; taxis are available in larger settlements. Boat hire and guided tours are the standard way to access fjords, icebergs, and hiking areas around most towns.
Things to See & Do
Ilulissat Icefjord
The Ilulissat Icefjord (Sermeq Kujalleq) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited destinations in Greenland. It is the outlet glacier of one of the fastest-moving and most productive glaciers in the Northern Hemisphere. Boat trips into the fjord and walking trails along the rim offer close views of enormous icebergs. The town of Ilulissat itself is the starting point for most visits.
Nuuk
Greenland's capital is a small but genuinely interesting city. The Greenland National Museum holds important collections of Inuit and Norse artefacts, including the well-preserved Qilakitsoq mummies. The old colonial harbour district (Kolonihavn) has painted wooden houses that are frequently photographed. Nuuk also has a growing restaurant and cultural scene that reflects its role as the country's administrative and commercial centre.
Dog Sledding
Winter dog sledding—travelling by traditional qamutit sled pulled by Greenlandic sled dogs—is one of the most culturally significant and experientially distinctive activities available. Sisimiut and Ilulissat are common bases. Trips range from short introductory runs to multi-day expeditions. Verify current season dates with local operators as sea ice conditions vary year to year.
Northern Lights and Midnight Sun
Greenland's far-north latitude makes it one of the world's prime northern lights destinations from late August through April. The midnight sun is visible from roughly late May to late July depending on latitude. Both phenomena require no special equipment to enjoy, though photography enthusiasts should bring appropriate kit.
Hiking and Wilderness
The Arctic Circle Trail (Arktiske Vandring) is a well-known multi-day route between Kangerlussuaq and Sisimiut, approximately 160 kilometres, crossing open tundra with no huts or facilities in the conventional sense—wilderness camping experience is required. Shorter hikes around most towns are accessible independently; guided options are widely available.
Food & Drink
Traditional Greenlandic cuisine is rooted in what the land and sea provide: seal, reindeer (caribou), muskox, whale (where regulated), Arctic char, halibut, and shrimp feature prominently. These ingredients appear both in traditional preparations and in contemporary Greenlandic cooking, which has developed significantly in recent years particularly in Nuuk.
Nuuk has the widest dining choice, including restaurants serving modern interpretations of Arctic ingredients alongside more international options. In smaller towns, the selection is more limited—a supermarket, a snack bar, and perhaps one or two small restaurants is typical. The Danish-owned Brugseni and Pisiffik supermarket chains operate in most towns and carry a reasonable range of groceries.
Kaffe mik (coffee gathering) is an important social tradition in Greenlandic communities. If invited to one, it is a meaningful cultural experience. Alcohol is available in hotels, restaurants, and shops, though it is heavily taxed and expensive. Note that some smaller settlements have restrictions on alcohol sales—verify locally.
Practical Information
Emergency services
Greenland has a single emergency number: 112 for police, fire, and medical emergencies. The national hospital is Queen Ingrid's Hospital in Nuuk. Medical infrastructure outside the capital is limited to health centres with basic facilities; serious cases are evacuated to Nuuk or Denmark.
Communications
Mobile coverage (provided mainly by TELE Greenland) is reasonable in towns but largely absent in wilderness areas. Satellite communicators or PLBs (personal locator beacons) are strongly advised for anyone venturing into backcountry areas. Wi-Fi is available at hotels and some cafes in larger towns.
Weather and planning
Weather in Greenland can change very rapidly and unpredictably. Be prepared for tour or flight cancellations and factor this into your schedule. Never underestimate cold, wind, and the time distances take in Arctic conditions.
Respect for the environment
Greenland's ecosystems are extremely fragile. Follow Leave No Trace principles, do not disturb wildlife, and stay on marked trails where they exist. Hunting and fishing require permits; check with local authorities.
Safety
Greenland is generally a safe destination in terms of crime. The main risks for travellers are environmental: rapidly changing weather, hypothermia, avalanche risk in mountainous areas, unstable sea ice, and the consequences of being injured or ill far from medical facilities.
Always register your intended route with local authorities or your accommodation if heading into the backcountry. Several outdoor activity companies and the local police in larger towns can advise on current conditions. Never travel on sea ice without local guidance on its safety.
Boat trips in iceberg-heavy waters carry inherent risks; use reputable, licensed operators. Respect barriers and safety instructions at viewing points near calving glaciers—falling ice and waves generated by calving can be dangerous at considerable distances.
Local Culture & Etiquette
Greenland's Inuit population (Kalaallit) have inhabited the island for thousands of years, and their culture, language, and relationship with the natural environment remain central to Greenlandic identity today. The Greenlandic language, Kalaallisut, is the primary language of daily life and is taught in schools alongside Danish.
Traditional practices such as dog sledding, kayaking (the qajaq originated in Greenland), drum dancing, and throat singing are still practised and celebrated. Several towns host cultural festivals, particularly in the summer months; the Nuuk Nordic Culture Festival and local national day celebrations on June 21st (Ulloriarsualiorfimmut Ullumi / National Day) are among the most accessible for visitors.
When visiting smaller communities, be respectful and observant. Ask before photographing people. Settlements are real communities, not tourist attractions, and visitors are guests. Many residents speak Greenlandic as a first language and Danish as a second; English proficiency is generally higher among younger people and those working in tourism.
