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  • A field of flowers in front of snow capped mountain peaks in South Greenland. Photo by Mads Pihl.

8 summer activities you can do yourself in Greenland!

Those visiting Greenland in the winter will expect to experience the country in its white snowy coat! But even though it is white for a large part of the year, Greenland also has a warmer side.

Think: lush, blooming, and full of life! Below are 8 different self-guided activities that are worth trying out during the summertime.

1. CYCLING TO RUSSELL GLACIER IN KANGERLUSSUAQ

For those who don’t mind some hardcore biking, it is possible to cycle 25 kilometers from town to Russell Glacier – the only glacier in Greenland with a road to its doorstep! The journey will take you through scenery that echoes the Scottish highlands, while you keep an eye out for local wildlife, which includes musk ox, hares and birds.

Cycling won’t exactly be easy, but anyone who is reasonably fit can manage it and it is relatively cheap. There are a few bike providers in Kangerlussuaq including Butik Sara and WOGAC.

2. CLIMBING UKKUSISSAT MOUNTAIN IN NUUK

Greenland is a hiker’s paradise. In Nuuk, it is said that you are not a true ‘Nuummioq’ until you’ve climbed Ukkusissat (a.k.a. Store Malene), which is just outside the city center.

At the summit, you’ll be treated to a stunning view of Nuuk and the surrounding fjords. Please note: If you haven’t climbed the mountain before, this is an adventure you should do with someone who knows the route, for safety reasons. Ask Tupilak Travel for advice.

3. KAYAKING IN SERMILIK NEAR TASIUSAQ SHEEP FARM

In Southern Greenland, summertime presents ideal conditions to enjoy nature on foot or by kayak. Tasiusaq is a truly remote place, inhabited by only two sheep farmers. As with the other sheep farming areas, you might feel like you’re entering ‘The Shire’ in ‘Lord of the Rings,’ as it is so green and welcoming.

What is different, however, is the dramatic backdrop of Sermilik fjord, which is full of gigantic blue and white-colored icebergs originating from a nearby glacier. You can rent kayaks at Tasermiut South Greenland Expeditions.

"Experience Greenland's warmer side."

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Package Tours

Blue Ice Explorer: South Greenland Backpacking & hiking. 13 days

Blue Ice Explorer

South Greenland Backpacking & hiking. 13 days

A backpacking trip where you get off the beaten track! Experience life at sheep farms, settlements and the town Narsaq.

FROM €1,046
Greenland Travel: Summer impressions in Greenland

Greenland Travel

Summer impressions in Greenland

Greenland’s most popular sites: the Greenland Ice Sheet at Kangerlussuaq, the capital of Nuuk and, the world-famous Ilulissat Ice Fjord.

From €3,625
Greenland Travel: Summer paradise in the Arctic wilderness

Greenland Travel

Summer paradise in the Arctic wilderness

Experience the incredible UNESCO listed Ilulissat Ice Fjord! Fantastic icebergs. Sailing in the midnight sun. See the Ice Cap and much more

FROM €2,820
Greenland by Topas – Summer tour: Disko Island, Icebergs and Eqi Glacier

Greenland by Topas

Summer tour: Disko Island, Icebergs and Eqi Glacier

Experience Disko Island’s glaciers, Disko Bay’s huge icebergs and legendary whales, then further north, Eqi Glacier's deafening calving events.

FROM €3,617
Show More

4. HIKING THE ARCTIC CIRCLE TRAIL

This hidden gem connects the settlement of Kangerlussuaq with the town of Sisimiut. The 160 kilometer hike takes you through tundra and narrow valleys, over low mountain passes, along big deep lakes, and from an inland to a coastal climate in the space of 7 – 11 days.

If you are planning on hiking the Arctic Circle Trail, you should bring along a tent and sleep under the stars. There are also huts scattered along the route, although they cannot be booked in advance.

  • Remember, safety first!
    When exploring Greenland’s wilderness it is always better to err on the side of caution and consider safety first.

5. WALKING AROUND THE ILULISSAT ICE FJORD

The hikes around this northerly UNESCO World Heritage Site, which includes the Ilulissat Icefjord, are an easy to organise do-it-yourself experience.

Walk the Blue Route for a stunning view over the icefjord. You can do this all year around if you have the appropriate footwear!

6. HIKING BEHIND TOWN – TASIILAQ

There are many hiking and trekking opportunities in eastern Greenland, but an easy one is Qaqqartivakajik (Sømandsfjeldet) just behind Tasiilaq, a town with a population of 2,000. Walking this trail is easier than pronouncing its name!

To join this trail, leave Tasiilaq and follow the ridge up to the first summit. From here, you already have a great view – primarily over the Kong Oskars Harbour by Tasiilaq. Climbing from there down to the saddle and on to the next summit, the view over the Arctic Ocean gets even better. The hike is relatively easy and follows a marked trail, but we recommend bringing a map. The folks at Destination East Greenland will be happy to help you!

7. ARCTIC CHAR FISHING – MANIITSOQ

Greenland offers many excellent fishing spots, and Maniitsoq’s many rivers, fjords, and lakes offer ample opportunity for angling. The season for fly-fishing Arctic char runs from July to August.

8. Berry picking in the mountains

An activity that locals look forward to in late summer; picking herbs and berries in Greenland’s nature. It’s a great excuse to get away from the city, either by boating or hiking, but without any high expectations of burning too many calories. Best of all, you can breathe in nature’s fresh air while stuffing your face with juicy crowberries and blueberries!

Explore related articles, offers and tour providers:

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By Tanny Por

Tanny Por is Head of International Relations at Visit Greenland with responsibility for international market development, press and PR. She loves building and nurturing ideas and connections that will help to contribute to the sustainable tourism future of Greenland. Her favourite experience of Greenland is one winter in East Greenland where she saw purple northern lights overlooking the icefjord one completely silent evening!

https://thefourthcontinent.com/

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