Highlights of North Greenland
‘Northern Greenland’ actually sits – to look at a map – in the middle of the West Coast of this massive island. This is due to the fact that the majority of the population live South of the Arctic Circle as the terrain above is largely uninhabitable. In the winter; Northern Greenland provides all of the amazing one-of-a-kind experiences you would associate with this beautiful country – Dog Sledding, Northern Lights and lots of icebergs!
Ilulissat with it’s impressive icefjord is the main town of Northern Greenland and is a popular tourist destination. Disko Island sits off the West Coast and is a magical place to explore the diverse landscape of volcanic rocks and glaciers. In the summer you can kayak, go whale watching and hike the coastline.
© Holly Park
Suggested Itineraries in North Greenland
Unique properties in North Greenland
Ilimanaq Lodge
Stay in a unique cabin overlooking Disko Bay in Greenland.Igloo Lodge
Spend a night in a real igloo made out of snow and ice in the far reaches of Northern Greenland!Getting there
There are several airports locally within Northern Greenland however most are too small for large aircraft and therefore flights are usually via one of the main hubs such as Kangerlussuaq. Ilulissat has an airport 2.8km away from the town centre and is one of the only airports serviced with a direct flight from Iceland.
Ferries are also present and this is the best way of travelling between towns on Greenland during the summer (unless you are into some serious hiking!), as there are no roads connecting the different towns. In the wintertime travel is generally by dog sled or snowmobile.
Climate
Ilulissat & the Disko Bay area can have very low temperatures in the winter months averaging around -14°C in the winter and reaching 8°C in the summer. Daylight hours range from zero in December and January, to over 10 in mid-summer.
Geography
Much of Greenland is covered in a large ice sheet and all major settlements, including Ilulissat, are located on its west coast.
Due to the glaciers in the area many icebergs can be found in the waters around Ilulissat and boat tours can be taken to view them up close.
Plants and Animals
There are many animals that live on Greenland. Many species of whale can be spotted from Humpback whales to Narwhales, from the coastline all year round, with some even entering the harbours.
Walruses and Seals can also be spotted on the coast. It is estimated that there are over 2 million seals in Greenland’s waters.
On land there are many reindeer herds and polar bears can also be spotted usually in regions further north, although they occasionally come closer to the settlements.
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