North Greenland - Towns and Lodges
The region is home to several small towns and settlements that are characterized by their stunning natural beauty and remote location. While life in North Greenland can be challenging due to the harsh Arctic climate and limited resources, the tight-knit communities make up for it with their warmth and resilience.
In these towns, traditional Inuit culture is still very much alive, and visitors can expect to see many aspects of it reflected in daily life. Fishing and hunting remain essential to the local economy, and you might see locals setting out on dog sleds to hunt seals or fishing for Arctic Char in the icy waters.
Overall, townlife in North Greenland is a unique and rewarding experience, offering visitors a chance to witness the resilience of the human spirit in one of the most challenging environments on Earth.
Uummannaq
One of the highlights of a visit to Uummannaq is the opportunity to see the town’s namesake, the Uummannaq Mountain. This towering peak rises more than 1,170 meters above sea level and dominates the town’s skyline. Visitors can hike or take a helicopter ride to the summit for breathtaking views of the surrounding fjords and icebergs. Uummannaq is also where you find Santa´s mailbox.
Qaanaaq
Qaanaaq is the ultimate destination for those seeking an extraordinary experience. It is the northernmost town in North Greenland where the sun remains below the horizon for 3.5 months during the polar dark time, followed by a continuous 5-month period of the midnight sun. Here, you can witness traditional hunting practices from dog sleds, kayaks, and harpoons that are still essential for survival. The town is surrounded by vast stretches of sea ice, requiring a day’s dog sledding from the coast during winter, while towering icebergs create a majestic backdrop to the colorful coastal houses.
Kullorsuaq
Kullorsuaq was founded in 1928 and is home to around 450 inhabitants. Named after a characteristic mountain that resembles a large thumb, is´s renowned for its rich Inuit culture and traditional way of life. Hunting and fishing remain the primary occupations, with seals, narwhals, and beluga whales being the typical catch. Today, Kullorsuaq is considered one of the most traditional fhishing and hunting settlements in Greenland, providing a unique glimpse into the Inuit way of life.
Upernavik
Nestled in the heart of a maze of small islands, Upernavik is a breathtaking town that boasts of traditional settlements, magnificent icebergs, and an array of bird species. The shy narwhal also calls this place home. Despite the arrival of modern amenities, the town has managed to preserve its cultural heritage, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the traditional way of life of the Greenlandic Inuit. Kayaking through the maze of icebergs or dog sledding across rocky lowlands are just some of the ways visitors can immerse themselves in the town’s rich cultural experience.
Ilimanaq
Ilimanaq is a quaint village renowned for its bountiful fishing opportunities. You can unwind by gazing at one of the most spectacular views in the world, or embark on an adventure in the beautiful hinterland where musk oxen, snow hares, and arctic foxes can often be seen. Indulge in a cruise through the enormous icebergs at the mouth of the UNESCO-protected Ilulissat Icefjord to access one of Greenland’s oldest settlements.
Oqaatsut
Oqaatsut, a traditional village in Greenland, is a small settlement with no roads. One of the best ways to appreciate the stunning surroundings is by kayaking around the colossal icebergs that dominate the area. If you are in Ilulissat, it is easy to visit Oqaatsut by boat. For those seeking an adventurous trek, orange markers guide the way on a walk from Ilulissat to Oqaatsut. During winter, the village can only be reached by snowshoe, ski, dog sled, or snowmobile, making it an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
