Summer in Greenland

June – September

Seasons in Greenland are different to the seasons you probably know from back home. We only really have two definitive seasons – a long winter and a short summer.

Greenland’s summer is short and changeable, and starts proper in June. There is a noticeable shift in the weather in April and May, but we do not really refer to it as Spring, as it’s not characterised by blooming flowers and trees leafing out – it’s more melting snow and higher temperatures. We usually say that summer finishes some time in early September, but sometimes the snow arrives earlier or later.

Why visit Greenland in the summer?

Summer in Greenland is a short burst of excitement. As the snow slides away, suddenly the landscape is revealed in a brand new light. The mountains go from white to grey and green, as waterfalls trickle down their sides to meet melting bodies of water. Sea ice breaks up and the fjords are decorated with magnificent floating icebergs. Flowers bloom and more wildlife comes out to play – birds fill the sky and the seas become alive with whales and fish. People move in new ways – we hike, run, cycle, sail, and kayak over the newly exposed terrain. And we have lots of time, as the days get long – they even never end in places!

Temperatures

Because Greenland is so vast, it is hard to generalise about its weather and temperatures. They vary greatly between – and even within – regions. These temperatures represent the range of average temperatures throughout the summer season in the different regions of Greenland. These temperatures are only advisory and are averages over a period of years. You may encounter considerably colder or warmer temperatures on site. One of the best sources to check the weather day by day once you’re in Greenland is the DMI website.

Despite the relatively low average temperatures, the dry air in Greenland means that summer temperatures will often feel warmer than you might expect. Be prepared for T-shirt temperatures on a sunny summer day. However, the only sure thing about Greenland’s weather is that it is always unpredictable. So even in the summer, bring clothes that are suitable for heavy rain and wind.

Explore winter in Greenland

Summer Activities

Two SUP with Sisimiut in the back. Photo - Aningaaq R. Carlsen, Visit Greenland — Stand Up Paddle boarding
When thinking of the cold and sometimes challenging weather conditions in Greenland, Stand Up Paddleboarding in Arctic waters may seem like an unexpected challenge - but it is totally possible!

Nuuk Water Taxi stopping at a waterfall. Photo by: Aningaaq Rosing Carlsen - Visit Greenland — How to travel safely in Greenland
We will go through a number of risky moments that you, as a guest in Greenland, should be particularly aware of, in order that you can have a safe and secure trip.

Sarfaq Ittuk arriving in Ilulissat in Greenland. By Mads Pihl — Sarfaq Ittuk ferry: All you need to know
Sarfaq Ittuk (Arctic Umiaq Line), is a passenger ship travelling along Greenland’s west coast. Here you can find everything you need to know about the ferry

Raven sitting on the glacier, Qalerillat Sermiat, Narsaq, South Greenland. Photo by Peter Lindstrom – Visit Greenland — Glaciers
Greenland’s coastline is absolutely riddled with fjords and inlets, through which the magnificent ice sheet seeps out into the surrounding oceans.

Mountain biking in the Narsarsuaq backcountry. Photo by Mads Pihl. — Biking
Paved roads are not always necessary to embrace the freedom and flexibility that a bicycle can offer - why not take on Greenland’s backcountry with a good quality mountain bike, or even conquer snow and sea ice on a fatbike!

Hiker on the trail leading down into the valley below Nasaasaaq - Day 8 of Arctic Circle Trail. Photo by Lisa Germany. — Arctic Circle Trail: The Go-To Guide
This go-to guide for hiking the Arctic Circle Trail will give you
all the tools and information you need to prepare yourself from head to toe.

Two hikers in evening light walking past Tasiusaq sheep farm in South Greenland. By Mads Pihl — The Ultimate Greenland Hiking Guide
This ultimate guide to the universe of hiking in Greenland will give you
all the tools and information you need to prepare you from head to toe.

Diving under icebergs in Greenland. Photo by: Morten Beier — Diving
Take an adventure and dive among whales and icebergs in the glow of the midnight sun. Read about the unique diving experiences Greenland has to offer.

Package Tours

Nomad Greenland

6 Days of Solitude in the Heart of Kiattua Valley

This camp offers a retreat into pristine wilderness, dramatic mountain landscapes, midnight sun and unparalleled tranquility.

FROM €8,750

Secret Atlas

Scoresby Sund Northern Lights Photo Tour

Encounter the majestic beauty of Scoresby Sund under the Northern Lights. Small group photo expedition with Virgil Reglioni & 12 Guests.

FROM €9,900

Tasermiut Expeditions

Hiking and Kayaking Adventure

8 days trip, kayaking and on foot: complete contact with nature, kayaking and hiking activities, discover Viking ruins in South Greenland.

FROM €2,150

Tasermiut Expeditions

Kayak & Hiking 8 days

Kayak expedition in total freedom among icebergs & glaciers. Ice-walk, polar fauna, northern lights. Dates: June to Sep. Flight from RKV/CPH

FROM €2,350

Need to know

What to bring for summer in Greenland?

Greenland in the summer is mosquito season! Our special brand of mosquitos are particularly resilient and are often not bothered by repellent, so it’s best to bring a headnet as well as repellent, to minimise disturbance.

What are the best places to visit in the summer?

Where to go in Greenland depends a lot on what you want to do. Take a look at our first-timers page to get some direction in planning your trip.

Will it be light all the time?

As you probably know, the days in Greenland get longer during the summer, and we are privileged to experience the magical midnight sun. But sunrise and sunset vary greatly according to location, so check out the hours of daylight where you’re headed.

Are there any special holidays or events in the summer?

An important summer date is the 21st of June – Greenland’s National Day! This day is a celebration of national identity – the whole country takes the day off and celebrations permeate every town and settlement. It’s a great day to be a visitor – but be prepared for some shops to be closed, especially the smaller ones.

I still have more questions!

Of course you do – that’s totally normal. For answers to more general questions, or for more inspiration, head over to our first-timers page or our frequently asked questions page. If you know where you want to go or what you want to do, head to destinations or things to do, and get planning. See you in the summer!

Winter in greenland

Explore here

Places to stay

Plan your trip

How to get there

Commercial airlines are the only way for travelers to get to Greenland, served by airports in Denmark and Iceland unless you arrive with a cruise ship.

How to get around

Read about boats, helicopters and planes that tie the country together in a web of sea and air connections operated by both large and small scale operators.

Where to sleep

Read about accommodation possibilities in Greenland - where is it possible to stay for longer or shorter period of time.

When to go

Summer is a season of the midnight sun, while winter is for dog sledding, northern lights, ski trips, and star gazing. Read more.

See plan your trip

Summer in Greenland

June – September

Why visit Greenland in the summer?

Temperatures

Summer Activities

Stand Up Paddle boarding

How to travel safely in Greenland

Sarfaq Ittuk ferry: All you need to know

Glaciers

Biking

Arctic Circle Trail: The Go-To Guide

The Ultimate Greenland Hiking Guide

Diving