While most travelers associate Scandinavia with Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, the nearby Arctic island of Greenland offers a truly unique adventure for those willing to venture beyond the mainland. Known for its dramatic landscapes, vast ice sheets, and indigenous Inuit culture, Greenland is an unforgettable destination that can easily be added to a Scandinavian itinerary. Here’s a guide to exploring Greenland, a bonus destination for any intrepid traveler in the region.
1. Getting There: How to Reach Greenland from Scandinavia
- Why Visit: Greenland is just a short flight away from Copenhagen, making it a convenient extension to your Scandinavian adventure.
- Flight Options:
- Copenhagen to Nuuk: Air Greenland and other carriers offer direct flights to Greenland’s capital, Nuuk. The flight takes about 4-5 hours.
- Copenhagen to Kangerlussuaq: Another popular entry point to Greenland, especially for those looking to explore the inland ice cap.
- Cruise Options: Greenland is also accessible via Arctic cruises departing from Denmark, Norway, or Iceland.
- Insider Tip: Book flights or cruises well in advance, as Greenland’s remote location means that availability can be limited.
2. Nuuk: Greenland’s Capital and Cultural Hub
- Why Visit: Nuuk is a small but vibrant city, offering a fascinating mix of traditional Inuit culture and modern Scandinavian influences.
- What to Do:
- Explore the National Museum of Greenland, which showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage, including Inuit artifacts and a mummified Viking corpse.
- Visit the Greenlandic Art Museum to view contemporary Greenlandic art, including works by local artists.
- Stroll around the Old Town, where you can admire colorful houses and get a glimpse of traditional Greenlandic life.
- Insider Tip: Take a boat trip to Nuuk Fjord for spectacular views of glaciers, icebergs, and wildlife.
3. Ilulissat: Icebergs and the Ilulissat Icefjord
- Why Visit: Ilulissat is one of Greenland’s most popular tourist destinations, renowned for its awe-inspiring glaciers and icebergs.
- What to Do:
- Visit the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take a boat tour to get up close to massive icebergs that calve off the Sermeq Kujalleq Glacier.
- Hike along the Icefjord Trail, which offers incredible views of the glacier and surrounding landscapes.
- Explore the Kangia Glacier by kayak or take a scenic flight for an unforgettable aerial view.
- Insider Tip: June to August is the best time to visit Ilulissat for optimal iceberg sightings, although winter also offers a magical experience with the Northern Lights.
4. Greenland’s Unique Wildlife and Natural Wonders
- Why Visit: Greenland’s wildlife and untouched landscapes are some of its most captivating features.
- What to Do:
- Go whale watching: Greenland is known for its rich marine life, including humpback and minke whales, as well as narwhals and orcas.
- Visit Kangerlussuaq for an opportunity to explore the Inland Ice Cap, one of the largest ice sheets in the world. You can hike or even take a snowmobile tour.
- Explore the Scoresbysund Fjord: A UNESCO biosphere reserve and the longest fjord system in the world, known for its dramatic cliffs and wildlife.
- Insider Tip: For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, book a dog sledding tour or snowmobile safari in Greenland’s Arctic wilderness.
5. Greenlandic Culture: Meet the Locals
- Why Visit: Greenland’s indigenous Inuit culture adds a rich layer to the travel experience.
- What to Do:
- Learn about traditional Greenlandic life through the Kalaallit people, who have lived on the island for thousands of years.
- Try local Greenlandic dishes such as muktuk (whale blubber) and seal meat, and enjoy dishes made with fresh fish and Arctic berries.
- Visit small towns and villages to see how the Greenlandic people live in harmony with nature.
- Insider Tip: Consider visiting Tasiilaq, Greenland’s largest settlement in the eastern part of the island, to experience a more remote and traditional way of life.
Conclusion
Greenland is a stunning bonus destination for anyone exploring Scandinavia, offering an Arctic adventure like no other. Whether you’re drawn to its remote villages, breathtaking icebergs, or opportunities for adventure and wildlife viewing, Greenland offers something for every type of traveler. Its dramatic landscapes, unique culture, and emphasis on sustainability make it a perfect addition to any Scandinavian itinerary, providing memories that will last a lifetime.
