8 Reasons Why Greenland’s Begging to Be Explored

You’ve probably heard whispers about Greenland’s untamed beauty, but this Arctic giant is transforming from a remote curiosity into a must-visit destination. With new airports opening and sustainable tourism taking root, you’ll find it’s easier than ever to explore this pristine wilderness. From the dancing Northern Lights to authentic Inuit culture, Greenland offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Let’s explore eight compelling reasons why this frozen frontier deserves a spot on your travel radar.

Take Aways

• Pristine Northern Lights viewing opportunities from September through April, enhanced by minimal light pollution and cultural significance to Inuit people.
• New international airports and direct flights from New York make this remote destination increasingly accessible for adventurous travelers.
• Untouched wilderness covers 80% of the land, offering unspoiled landscapes for skiing, hiking, and wildlife encounters without crowds.
• Rich cultural experiences blend Norse and Inuit traditions through local-led activities, traditional meals, and visits to ancient settlements.
• Sustainable tourism practices ensure authentic experiences while supporting local communities and preserving UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Epic Northern Lights Shows All Year Round

While many destinations offer glimpses of the Northern Lights, Greenland’s unique position within the auroral oval makes it an unrivaled location for witnessing this natural phenomenon.

You’ll find ideal viewing conditions between 68° and 74°N latitude, where the lights dance most vividly across the dark sky.

What sets Greenland apart is its vast, uninhabited wilderness. With minimal light pollution across its 2 million square kilometers, you’re guaranteed pristine viewing conditions similar to those of centuries past.

The best shows occur from September through April, but you can spot auroras during dark periods in spring and fall too. Local Inuit stories tell of the lights being souls playing ball, a mesmerizing dance of spirits in the night sky.

Head to spots like Northeast Greenland National Park or Ella Island, where you’ll discover perfectly dark skies and unobstructed views of this magnificent light display.

Groundbreaking Airport Access Makes Travel Easier Than Ever

As Greenland launches its ambitious USD 700 million airport expansion project, you’ll soon have unprecedented access to this arctic wonderland.

With three new international airports in Nuuk, Ilulissat, and Qaqortoq opening by 2026, exploring this pristine destination has never been more convenient.

Three new international airports will transform Greenland’s tourism landscape by 2026, making this untouched paradise more accessible than ever before.

United Airlines will offer twice-weekly direct flights from New York to Nuuk.

Here’s what the new airport developments mean for your travel plans:

• Direct flights from Copenhagen to Nuuk are now available, with more routes coming from Europe and North America
• Modern terminals and 2,200-meter runways can accommodate larger aircraft, making your journey more comfortable
• You’ll reach most parts of Greenland within 1.5 hours, maximizing your exploration time
• More airlines and frequent flights translate to better ticket prices
• Enhanced facilities and connections make year-round travel planning easier than ever

Untouched Arctic Wilderness Without the Crowds

Unlike many popular tourist destinations that struggle with overtourism, Greenland remains one of Earth’s last truly untouched frontiers.

You’ll find nearly 80% of the land covered in pristine ice, with over 964,795 km² of protected areas spanning both land and sea. The island’s extremely low population density means you can explore vast wilderness areas without bumping into crowds.

This isolation isn’t just about solitude – it’s created a sanctuary for unique Arctic species and preserved ancient Inuit cultural sites. However, scientists have detected concerning levels of microplastic in Arctic waters, presenting new challenges for this pristine environment.

While harsh climate and limited infrastructure pose challenges, they’ve helped keep Greenland’s ecosystems remarkably intact.

Whether you’re interested in scientific research, adventure tourism, or witnessing untouched landscapes, you’ll discover opportunities that simply don’t exist in more heavily trafficked destinations.

Sustainable Tourism That Puts Locals First

Greenland’s pristine wilderness doesn’t just protect its natural beauty – it creates meaningful opportunities for local communities. When you visit, you’ll be part of a carefully managed tourism approach that guarantees your adventure benefits local residents while preserving their cultural heritage.

Your visit helps the country reach its goal of making tourism account for 40% of export value by 2035.

• You’ll stay in locally-operated accommodations, supporting the 50% increase in hotel rooms planned for Nuuk by 2030.
• Your tourism dollars help create jobs, as the industry already accounts for over 6% of Greenland’s employment.
• Community-led initiatives let you experience authentic cultural exchanges while guaranteeing fair distribution of benefits.
• Local guides share their traditional knowledge, helping preserve cultural connections.
• Your visit contributes to sustainable practices that protect UNESCO sites like the Ilulissat Icefjord.

These responsible tourism practices help Greenland triple its tourism revenue while keeping its unique identity intact.

Rich Cultural Heritage Meets Modern Adventures

From ancient Norse settlements to thriving Inuit communities, Greenland’s affluent cultural tapestry spans over a millennium of human history.

You’ll discover well-preserved sites like Brattahlid, Erik the Red’s former home, and the stunning Hvalsey Church, which offers a glimpse into Norse religious life.

In Kujataa, you can witness the unique blend of Norse and Inuit farming traditions, where ancient agricultural practices still shape the landscape today.

The region’s five components showcase everything from historic farms to archaeological treasures.

Don’t miss Qoornoq village, where Paleo-Eskimo ruins date back to 2200 B.C., or Nuuk’s colonial architecture.

These sites aren’t just tourist attractions – they’re living museums where you’ll experience how traditional crafts, seasonal rituals, and ecological knowledge continue to influence modern Greenlandic life.

The Greenland National Museum in Nuuk houses fascinating artifacts, including the remarkably preserved mummies from Qilakitsoq that provide invaluable insights into ancient Inuit life.

World-Class Whale Watching and Wildlife Encounters

Beyond the cultural opulence of Greenland’s settlements lies an incredible marine spectacle that draws nature enthusiasts from around the globe.

You’ll find yourself mesmerized by up to 16 different whale species in their natural habitat, with prime viewing opportunities from May through October. These gentle giants consume impressive amounts of food, with humpbacks eating up to one tonne of krill and fish daily.

• Spot massive humpbacks performing acrobatic displays in Disko Bay
• Listen to haunting bowhead whale songs during winter months
• Watch elegant fin whales, the world’s second-largest mammals, glide through southern fjords
• Encounter playful belugas in their winter territory
• Witness minke whales feeding along the coast during summer migrations

Whether you’re stationed in Qeqertarsuaq or cruising through Uummannaq’s waters, you’ll experience these magnificent creatures in their truly wild state, completely free from captivity – a reflection of Greenland’s commitment to natural marine encounters.

Unforgettable Winter Activities in Nature’s Playground

When winter blankets Greenland’s vast landscapes in snow, the country transforms into an adventurer’s paradise with an array of exhilarating activities.

You’ll find yourself gliding through pristine Arctic terrain on traditional dog sleds in places like Sisimiut and Tasiilaq, where local guides share authentic Inuit experiences.

If you’re seeking aerial thrills, try heli-skiing on untouched slopes near Nuuk, or tackle varied terrain perfect for all skiing abilities. As night falls, you’re treated to one of Earth’s most spectacular shows – the Northern Lights dancing across crystal-clear skies.

Don’t miss out on winter hiking through ice fjords, snowmobiling across expansive terrains, or trying your hand at traditional ice fishing. The growing interest in adventure tourism activities offers visitors unique opportunities to experience Greenland’s untamed wilderness while supporting local communities.

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or nature enthusiast, Greenland’s winter wonderland delivers unforgettable adventures.

Growing Tourism Scene With Authentic Experiences

As Greenland’s tourism scene evolves, you’ll discover an array of authentic cultural experiences that go far beyond typical sightseeing. You can learn about genuine Inuit traditions through local-led activities, from drum dancing to crafting workshops, while learning the intricacies of Greenlandic culture firsthand. Savor the flavors of the Arctic at a traditional Greenlandic BBQ feast featuring locally sourced reindeer and musk ox prepared on flat stones.

Visit these remote settlements to experience:

• Traditional home visits where you’ll share meals and stories with local families
• Ancient burial grounds that showcase the fascinating blend of pre-Christian and Christian practices
• Historic wooden houses and museums featuring abundant archaeological discoveries
• Cultural workshops teaching Greenlandic language basics and survival skills
• Community-based tourism initiatives that directly support local economies

The best part? These experiences are thoughtfully integrated with Greenland’s breathtaking Arctic landscape, creating an unforgettable journey that connects you with both the land and its people.

The Last Word

You’re witnessing Greenland’s transformation into the Arctic’s next big destination, with tourism growing by 30% in the past five years alone. It’s still wonderfully uncrowded – you’ll find just 50,000 annual visitors spread across the world’s largest island. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights or connecting with Inuit culture, now’s the time to explore this pristine wilderness before the secret gets out.