Greenland 7 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Nuuk

  • Arrival: Fly into Nuuk Airport (GOH) from Reykjavik, Iceland or Copenhagen, Denmark
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in the city center, such as Hotel Hans Egede or Inuk Hostels
  • Explore Nuuk: Visit the National Museum of Greenland, which showcases the country’s history and culture. Take a stroll along the colorful waterfront and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
  • Things to know:
    • Greenland is part of Denmark, but has its own self-government and language (Kalaallisut).
    • The country is vast, with limited infrastructure, so be prepared for adventure!
    • Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is also useful.

Day 2: Nuuk

  • Boat Tour: Take a morning boat tour to the nearby Qoornoq Island, known for its scenic coastline and ancient Norse ruins.
  • Hiking: In the afternoon, hike to the nearby Ukkusissaq mountain, offering breathtaking views of Nuuk.
  • Inuit Culture: Visit the local market to see traditional Greenlandic clothing and handicrafts.

Day 3: Ilulissat

  • Flight: Fly from Nuuk to Ilulissat (JAV) in the Disko Bay region
  • Icefjord Cruise: Take a guided cruise among the majestic icebergs of the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Hiking: Hike to the nearby Sermermiut viewpoint for stunning views of the fjord.

Day 4: Ilulissat

  • Dog Sledding: Experience traditional Greenlandic dog sledding, where you’ll learn about the importance of sled dogs in Inuit culture.
  • Whale Watching: Take a guided tour to spot humpback and minke whales in their natural habitat.

Day 5: Tasiilaq

  • Flight: Fly from Ilulissat to Tasiilaq (AGM) on the east coast
  • Sermilik Fjord: Explore the picturesque Sermilik Fjord by boat, surrounded by towering glaciers and mountains.
  • Inuit Settlement: Visit a traditional Inuit settlement to learn about their way of life.

Day 6: Tasiilaq

  • Hiking: Hike to the nearby Flower Valley, known for its vibrant wildflowers and scenic views.
  • Kayaking: Paddle through the icy waters of Sermilik Fjord, getting up close to glaciers and icebergs.

Day 7: Departure

  • Flight: Fly from Tasiilaq back to Nuuk (GOH) and then connect to Reykjavik or Copenhagen for your onward journey.
  • Last-Minute Shopping: Grab some last-minute souvenirs before departing Greenland.

Visa Requirements:

  • Citizens of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden do not need a visa to enter Greenland.
  • Other nationalities should check with the Danish Immigration Service or consult with their local embassy for requirements.

Transportation:

  • Flights: Connect through Reykjavik (KEF) or Copenhagen (CPH) to reach Nuuk (GOH).
  • Domestic flights are operated by Air Greenland.
  • Boats and ferries connect coastal towns, but services may be limited.

Other Essentials:

  • Language: While many locals speak some English, learning basic Kalaallisut phrases will enhance your experience.
  • Currency: The Danish krone (DKK) is the official currency, although credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Clothing: Pack warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy hiking boots for outdoor adventures.
  • Safety: Always travel with a guide or experienced tour operator, especially when engaging in outdoor activities.

Tips and Variations:

  • Consider adding an extra day to explore Nuuk’s surrounding mountains and fjords.
  • For the adventurous, try heli-hiking or ski mountaineering in the Arctic wilderness.
  • If you’re interested in Northern Lights, plan your trip between September and April.