Discover the Best Places to Visit in Summer in Greenland

Greenland, the world's largest island, is a mesmerizing destination to visit during the summer months. This Arctic wonderland transforms into a place of stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unique wildlife. Here's a guide to the best places in Greenland to visit this summer.

Ilulissat Icefjord

One of Greenland's most breathtaking sights is the Ilulissat Icefjord. Located on the west coast, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a spectacular natural phenomenon. The icefjord is filled with massive icebergs that have calved from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier, one of the fastest and most active glaciers in the world.

In summer, the area is perfect for hiking along marked trails such as the Blue Trail, which offers panoramic views of the fjord. Visitors can also take boat tours to get up close with the towering icebergs or embark on a midnight cruise to experience the unique glow of the Arctic summer nights. Photography enthusiasts will be thrilled by the surreal landscapes bathed in the soft light of the midnight sun.

Nuuk

The capital of Greenland, Nuuk, is a vibrant city that blends traditional Inuit culture with modern influences. During the summer, Nuuk comes alive with cultural festivals, art exhibitions, and musical performances. It's the perfect time to immerse yourself in Greenlandic culture.

Explore the Nuuk Art Museum and the Greenland National Museum, where you can learn about the country's fascinating history and see the famous Qilakitsoq mummies. Stroll through the Nuuk Fjord, one of the largest fjord systems in the world, which offers opportunities for kayaking and spotting humpback whales. With numerous cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, Nuuk offers visitors a taste of contemporary Greenlandic lifestyle.

Tasiilaq and the Ammassalik Region

Tasiilaq is the largest town in East Greenland and a gateway to the stunning Ammassalik region. Surrounded by towering mountains and deep fjords, the area is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. In summer, the region becomes lush and green, contrasting starkly with the surrounding ice-capped peaks.

Hiking is a must in this region, with trails offering vistas of pristine rivers, waterfalls, and the magnificent Mount Polheim. During July, the Ammassalik region is blanketed with wildflowers, creating a colorful spectacle. Don’t miss the local handicraft market to purchase traditional East Greenlandic art and souvenirs. Boat tours are available for those interested in exploring the Sermilik Icefjord and spotting seals and occasional polar bears.

Kangerlussuaq

Kangerlussuaq is a small settlement known as the gateway to the Greenland Ice Sheet. It’s one of the best places in Greenland to witness the immense Arctic tundra and wildlife. The settlement has a rich World War II history, with remains of American military relics hinting at its strategic importance.

The area is an excellent spot for trekking, with trails leading to the edge of the ice sheet where you can set foot on Europe’s second-largest ice cap. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy the chance to spot musk oxen, caribou, and Arctic foxes. Kangerlussuaq is also well-known for scenic flight tours, allowing visitors to view the vast Polar Ice from above.

Best Places to Visit

• Ilulissat Icefjord: Witness colossal icebergs and breathtaking fjord landscapes.
• Nuuk: Experience Greenlandic culture in the capital city.
• Tasiilaq and the Ammassalik Region: Explore wild, rugged terrain and traditional East Greenlandic culture.
• Kangerlussuaq: Discover the Arctic wilderness and the vast Greenland Ice Sheet.

Exploring Greenland in the summer is an adventure of a lifetime. With its dramatic landscapes, welcoming communities, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, visiting Greenland offers a unique perspective on life in the Arctic. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, Greenland has something to offer every traveler.