Greenland is a beautiful island country that lies in the north of North America, just east of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago. It is part of the Kingdom of Denmark and is the largest island in the world. So if you’re looking for somewhere to take a holiday, it might be worth considering visiting this part of the world.
Ilulissat
Ilulissat is one of Greenland’s most picturesque towns. This is due to its stunning scenery of rock, ice and sea. In addition, the town offers visitors an array of activities to keep them busy.
The best way to explore Ilulissat is on a boat. This is a fun and relaxing way to explore the city and see the fjord. When you get close to the ice, you’ll be treated to dramatic sounds of moving ice. You’ll also see magnificent icebergs in the foreground.
If you’d like to learn about Ilulissat’s history, you can take a walking tour. Here, you’ll learn about the town’s fascinating history as well as polar exploration.
You can also see Greenland’s famous Eqi glacier. This is one of the world’s most active glaciers. It can reach 250 metres in height. To see the calving front of the glacier, you can go on a boat trip or even take a helicopter.
Ilulissat is home to around 4,000 sled dogs. These dogs are used by local fishermen to haul their catch to the shore.
There are four main hiking trails that showcase the different sides of the icefjord. Ilulissat is home to hundreds of huts on the ice. For overnight stays, visit the Eqi Glacier Lodge.
Summer is the most popular time to visit Ilulissat. You’ll enjoy the midnight sun and the views of icebergs. Other highlights include a scenic helicopter flight over the icefjord.
Ilulissat is located on the western shores of Disko Bay, one of the most nutrient-rich waters in Greenland. Visitors can also see a variety of whales in the waters of this bay.
The town is known for its quaint, colourful homes. They are painted bright colours and are set against a mountain backdrop.
Small-ship cruises
A small-ship cruise to Greenland offers a unique opportunity to get closer to nature and wildlife. From whales to bears, you can encounter the many species of animals that inhabit the Arctic. The best part is that you’ll travel at a pace that is more manageable than larger cruise ships.
Small-ship expedition cruises are often the best way to see the rugged landscape of Greenland. These ships allow passengers to explore a vast network of fjords, including some of the most remote and beautiful parts of the country. You’ll also be able to get close to the fulmars, humpbacks, bowheads, and other sea mammals that make their homes in these icy waters.
In addition to viewing the wildlife, you can go for a hike through the untouched wilderness of Scoresby Sund. This is one of the world’s largest natural fjord systems. It is also surrounded by steep mountains, which makes it a popular photo spot.
If you’re looking for a longer adventure, you might consider a trip to Kangerlussuaq, which is home to the tallest mountain east of the Rockies. There are many opportunities for exploring the area, including taking a Zodiac tour.
Another option is a cruise to West Greenland. You’ll be able to witness the history of the Northwest Passage and the towering icebergs of Baffin Island. Plus, you’ll encounter fascinating wildlife such as humpback whales, musk oxen, and migratory seals.
Some of the best-loved Greenland cruises include the East Coast Greenland Wilderness Expedition from Natural World Safaris and the West Greenland Cruise from PONANT. Depending on the ship, you’ll have a choice between sailing through fjords and exploring the coast.
Whale-watching
Whale watching in Greenland is an excellent opportunity to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Although there are more than 15 species of whales in Greenland waters, the most common species are minke, fin, and humpback whales.
In addition to these, you can also find blue and bowhead whales. These are the largest animals on the planet. They grow up to 33 meters in length and weigh as much as 170,000 pounds.
If you want to get up close and personal with these whales, you can take a tour of Greenland’s marine wildlife. Tours are offered by several operators. The most popular ones are at Uummannaaq, Nuuk, Disko Bay, and Ilulissat.
A whale safari is a must do activity while visiting Greenland. These guided tours are a great way to see some of the world’s most famous whales in their natural habitat. You’ll get to experience the thrill of sailing along the water while looking for these amazing mammals.
Several tour operators offer whale watching tours in Greenland. Most of them are located in the coastal town of Disko Bay.
Another popular location for whale-watching is Qaanaq. This town is not only home to a rich natural history, but it’s also the location of one of the largest icebergs in the northern hemisphere.
To get the most out of your whale-watching adventure, choose a tour that includes both land and sea excursions. Many tours include kayaking and sailing. Some also include accommodation.
Visiting Greenland in the summer is the best time to go whale-watching. The sun does not set in this area, so you can enjoy the 24-hour sunshine. During the winter, the weather is less predictable.
Northern Lights
The best time to see the Northern Lights is during the colder winter months. There are a number of spots in Greenland where you can get a complete view of the elusive phenomenon. You can also book an excursion to experience the lights.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, consider staying at an Igloo Lodge. These igloos are heated by candles and made in the traditional Inuit style. This place is located in Ilulissat and offers stunning views of the aurora.
The Greenland Ice Cap is a great place to catch the mystical light show. Here, you can see the best of the northern lights while enjoying a sleigh ride through the snow-covered forest.
Another place to see the Northern Lights is the city of Nuuk. It is the capital of Greenland, and is a small enough town to get away from the city lights. While you’re there, you can check out some of the more exciting outdoor activities.
For an even more interactive experience, take a guided tour. Tours typically include hot drinks and interesting stories about the area.
If you’re lucky, you might get a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis, Greenland’s dazzling natural light display. This show is best viewed on a clear night.
As with any arctic location, you need to be prepared for changeable weather. Check the forecast for local conditions. You might be surprised by the changes.
In addition to the Northern Lights, Greenland is home to a number of other winter attractions. From skiing and skating to dog sledding and arts and crafts, there’s plenty to keep you busy.
The best way to see the northern lights in Greenland is to go on a guided tour. These trips often include a bonfire camp. During this experience, you’ll have an opportunity to try your hand at spotting the Northern Lights while you roast marshmallows on a bonfire.
Vikings
In the late 10th century, a group of Vikings began settling in Greenland. These settlements were located in the Eastern Settlement and Western Settlement. At their height, the Norse numbered 5,000. However, by the 15th century, Vikings abandoned their settlements. The reasons for this disappearance are unclear. Some archeologists speculate that the Vikings were wiped out by an unrecorded attack, while others believe they simply abandoned the colony.
In South Greenland, there are several sites that show the impact of the Vikings. One site, Brattahlid, is located inside Eriksfjord. This fjord was named for the famous Viking, Erik the Red.
Another location that shows the impact of the Vikings is Igaliku. This charming village is located on the shore of a fjord. It’s the only place in Greenland that you can easily cross by boat.
During the Medieval Warm Period, which lasted from 900 to 1300, sea ice decreased, making it easier to sail to Greenland. Also, climate conditions were much cooler. As a result, it became increasingly difficult to hunt at sea.
With the arrival of the Little Ice Age, temperatures fell drastically. This forced the Vikings to change their lifestyle. They shifted from a farming lifestyle to one that relied more on the ocean. Instead of having to plant a field for their livestock to graze, they cleared out shrubs and grasses.
Archeologists believe that the Vikings first came to Greenland in search of ivory. They later moved on to hunt harp seals. There are also traces of their presence in the inner warm fjord systems of West and South Greenland.
Although these Norse settlers were successful in their quest for the elusive green land, they failed to learn from the Inuit. By the time they left, they had pushed the land, creating vulnerable areas.