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Greenland: Icy Wilderness and Arctic Quiet Year-Round

Greenland: Icy Wilderness and Arctic Quiet Year-Round

Greenland feels like the edge of the world—in the best possible way. It’s the kind of place where icebergs drift silently through blue fjords, where you can dog sled across a frozen bay, and where the silence is so deep it becomes a sound of its own. The land is massive, yet the human presence is light. Nature dominates, humbles, and surprises at every turn.

While often overlooked by travelers, Greenland offers one of the most unique travel experiences on the planet. This is where cultures are shaped by snow and sea, and where everyday life still follows the rhythm of the weather. It’s not polished or easy—but it’s raw, real, and unforgettable.

 

Do You Know?

  • There are no roads between towns in Greenland. People travel by boat, small plane, dog sled, or snowmobile—depending on the season.
  • Nuuk, the capital, has fewer than 20,000 residents. Despite its size, you’ll find modern art galleries, cozy cafés, and some of the cleanest air in the world.
  • Ittoqqortoormiit is one of the most remote inhabited settlements on Earth. Reaching it involves flying to a nearby airstrip, then continuing by helicopter or boat.
  • The Greenland Dog is so vital to local culture that it’s illegal to bring in other breeds to certain areas, preserving the sled dog tradition.
  • Greenland offers Northern Lights visibility for up to 300 nights a year, especially in autumn and winter—one of the highest rates anywhere in the world.


Must-See Attractions in Greenland

Ilulissat Icefjord

A UNESCO World Heritage site where towering icebergs calve off the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier. Hike along the fjord trail or take a boat through iceberg alley.

Nuuk

The tiny yet fascinating capital is full of contrasts—colorful homes, Nordic architecture, Inuit art, and open sea views that stretch for miles.

Disko Island

Known for its red basalt cliffs, black sand beaches, and whale sightings in summer. A short ferry ride from Ilulissat, but a world of its own.

Kangerlussuaq

One of the best places to walk on the Greenland Ice Sheet. Guided treks take you onto the endless frozen expanse.

East Greenland Fjords

Dramatic, jagged landscapes cut by deep blue fjords. Home to fewer visitors and richer in raw, untouched scenery.

Qaqortoq & Southern Greenland

Explore Viking ruins, hot springs, and green pastures that defy the icy reputation. Summer here feels almost soft.

 

What to Eat in Greenland

Mattak

Whale skin with a layer of fat, traditionally eaten raw. Chewy and rich in vitamin C—a polar survival food turned cultural staple.

Suaasat

A hearty soup made from seal, reindeer, or seabird, often with potatoes and barley. Warming and deeply traditional.

Halibut & Arctic Char

Fresh and often smoked or pan-fried. These cold-water fish are local favorites—mild, flaky, and delicious.

Greenlandic Lamb

Grazed in the wild, the lamb is lean and flavorful. Often served roasted or stewed.

Crowberries & Angelica

Arctic herbs and berries that locals forage and use in sauces, jams, and desserts.

 

Essential Travel Tips for Greenland

Best Time to Visit

June to September for hiking, sailing, and midnight sun.

February to April for dog sledding and Northern Lights.

 

Money & Payments

Currency: Danish Krone (DKK)

Cards: Accepted in towns and most tourist services.

Cash: Handy for remote settlements.

Tipping: Not expected, but small gratuities are appreciated.

 

Getting Around

No roads connect towns—flights, ferries, and boats are the main ways to move.

Book domestic flights in advance—they’re limited and fill up quickly.

Local outfitters provide dog sled, snowmobile, or guided hiking transport.

 

Staying Safe

Greenland is extremely safe, but nature is unforgiving.

Dress for changing weather and never hike without telling someone.

In remote areas, guides are not optional—they’re essential.

 

What to Wear

Layered, windproof, waterproof clothing.

Insulated boots, thermal base layers, gloves, and hats are non-negotiable—even in summer.

Bring sunglasses and sunscreen—glacier light is intense.

 

Staying Connected in Greenland

Connectivity in Greenland is limited but improving. You’ll find Wi-Fi in most hotels, guesthouses, and airports—but speeds can vary wildly. Mobile networks cover towns, but there’s no service at all in many remote areas.

Buying a local SIM requires registration and often doesn’t work outside major hubs. And roaming? Extremely expensive and often unreliable.

JetSet eSIM solves the problem.

With the Greenland JetSet eSIM, you can connect instantly in covered zones like Nuuk, Ilulissat, and Kangerlussuaq—without tracking down a SIM vendor or dealing with paperwork. Whether you're checking the ferry schedule, sending photos of drifting icebergs, or messaging your guide, JetSet gives you stable data when you need it most.

Go remote—with peace of mind.

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