Greenland is a vast, remote land of striking contrasts—an island nearly the size of Mexico, yet home to fewer than 60,000 people. With most of its surface covered by ice, human settlements cling to the coast, scattered like colorful gems along the rugged shoreline. It doesn’t take much effort to find wilderness here; even from the largest towns, the untamed Arctic is just minutes away.
Nuuk: The Capital of Greenland
The capital, Nuuk, is by far the largest community, home to around 20,000 residents. It’s a lively, modern city that blends Scandinavian design with Inuit culture, complete with excellent restaurants, museums, and a growing art scene. From the harbor, travelers can set out on fjord cruises, go whale watching, or simply take in views of distant mountains that rise straight from the sea. Hans Egede statue looking over Nuuk (Jeff Rottschafer)
Sisimiut: Adventure North of the Arctic Circle
Next is Sisimiut, with about 6,000 people, known for its outdoor adventures and deep cultural heritage. Located just north of the Arctic Circle, it’s one of the few places where visitors can experience both summer’s midnight sun and the potentially aurora-filled eternal nights of winter.
Mountain biking around dog town Sisimiut (Jeff Rottschafer)
Ilulissat: Gateway to the Ilulissat Icefjord
Ilulissat, slightly smaller at around 5,000, is a true highlight—famous for the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord (a true wonder of the world!), where towering icebergs drift slowly out to sea. Any trip to Greenland would not be complete without seeing the incredible icefjord in person.
Expanse of the incredible Ilulissat Icejord! (Jeff Rottschafer)
Greenland’s Small Villages and Local Culture
Outside of these main towns, Greenland’s population drops sharply, with many small villages accessible only by boat, plane, or helicopter. Each community has its own personality, shaped by isolation, weather, and tradition. The brightly painted houses—reds, yellows, and blues—stand out vividly against the rocky landscapes and icy waters, creating postcard-perfect scenes at every turn.
Summer & Winter Activities in Greenland
For travelers, Greenland offers a rare mix of raw nature and authentic culture. Summer brings endless daylight, with opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and chances to look for wildlife and take in the diverse natural landscapes. In winter, adventure shifts to dog sledding, snowmobiling, and Northern Lights viewing, when the long Arctic night can transform the land into a glittering snowscape.
Artistic kayak through ice sculpture (Kayaking Team)
Why Visit Greenland
Whether arriving by expedition ship or small plane, visitors quickly discover that Greenland isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience in scale, silence, and serenity. It’s a place where modern life meets ancient tradition, and where the landscape itself seems alive, constantly shifting with the seasons and light. For those seeking true wilderness and genuine connection, there are few places on Earth quite like Greenland.
We offer small ship cruises and custom land tours designed around your interests. Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable Greenland adventure!
