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