Welcome to Ilulissat, a destination that takes you into a world of wonders and enchantment! Located on Greenland's west coast in the heart of the Arctic wilderness, an unforgettable journey awaits you here. Ilulissat is not just a destination; it’s a magical place where nature has created its most impressive masterpiece: the Ilulissat Icefjord. With its majestic icebergs, endless ice fields, and captivating landscapes, Ilulissat offers a unique opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty of the North like nowhere else on Earth. Here's a peak into our favorite things to do in Ilulissat!
Located about 300 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, Ilulissat welcomes travelers with its pristine wilderness and rich Inuit culture. Here, dreams come true, and adventures are born. It’s a place where nature reigns, and humans are merely spectators of its grandeur. Its remote location, away from the hustle and bustle of the modern world, makes Ilulissat an oasis of serenity and a haven for adventurers seeking something extraordinary.
In this article, we will explore the must-see sights of Ilulissat, from the enchanting icefjord to historical sites and breathtaking landscapes. Get ready for a journey that will exceed your imagination and fill your heart with awe. Ilulissat awaits, ready to take you on an adventure that you’ll treasure forever.
7 Best Things to Do in Ilulissat, Greenland
1. Hike through Ilulissat’s UNESCO World Heritage Site
In Ilulissat, you’ll be mesmerized by the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site considered one of the greatest natural wonders on Earth. Here, you’ll encounter icebergs as tall as skyscrapers, drifting majestically over calm waters. The surroundings are like a painting, where the colors of ice merge with the azure water and clear skies. It’s a place where silence is only broken by the creaking of ice and the splash of melting water.
In addition to admiring the majestic icebergs, you can also enjoy beautiful hikes through the enchanting surroundings. There are three different hiking routes, each with unique lengths, views, and difficulty levels. Lace up your hiking boots and let yourself be surprised by the breathtaking beauty of Ilulissat.
2. Wander Through Ilulissat’s Colorful Streets
But Ilulissat offers more than just its icefjord. It’s a town steeped in history and culture, where the old traditions of the Inuit community are still alive. Get to know the warm hospitality of the local people, discover their art and crafts, and taste the traditional dishes made with love.
Exploring the town of Ilulissat is an absolute must-do activity during your stay in Greenland. Walk through the colorful streets of this charming town and be enchanted by the unique atmosphere here. From traditional wooden houses in cheerful hues to local art galleries and craft shops, there’s always something new to discover.
Don’t forget to look for the best viewpoints over Disko Bay, where you’ll have a panoramic view of the majestic bay and its dancing icebergs. It’s an unforgettable experience to enjoy the breathtaking landscape, which constantly changes under the influence of the sun and tides.
3. Meet the Majestic Sled Dogs of Ilulissat
You’ll undoubtedly come across them during your journey through Greenland. These beautiful creatures, with their powerful physiques and impressive stamina, play a crucial role in the daily life of the local people. In winter, they are essential for transport and hunting. Unlike the loyal dogs we have as pets, the sled dogs of Ilulissat are often kept tethered.
The sled dogs in Ilulissat are kept to ensure the safety of both the dogs and visitors. The dogs are naturally territorial and powerful, and tethering them prevents them from breaking free and potentially causing dangerous situations.
We don’t think you need to pay for an organized tour to visit the sled dogs. While a tour will certainly offer you an explanation of the dogs’ role in daily life, if you’re mainly looking for beautiful photos, simply head to the local Dog Fields to catch a glimpse of these magnificent animals. One tip: resist the temptation to pet them, as many tourists have been bitten.
4. Kayak Among Icebergs in the Midnight Sun
Exploring the Ilulissat Icefjord and Disko Bay by kayak is an adventurous and unforgettable experience that lets you get up close to the majestic beauty of these Arctic landscapes. Whether you paddle during the day or under the enchanting midnight sun, this unique excursion offers a breathtaking perspective of the towering icebergs and glimmering waters.
With an experienced guide and high-quality equipment designed for the harsh Arctic conditions, you’ll be assured of a safe and immersive experience. As you paddle through the crystal-clear water, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the impressive icefjord up close. You may even be lucky enough to paddle between majestic whales! Whether you’re an experienced kayaker or trying it for the first time, this excursion offers something for both beginners and advanced paddlers.
5. Cruise Between Ice Giants
A less strenuous way to discover the stunning landscape is by taking an iceberg cruise. These cruises are organized several times a day from Ilulissat, allowing you to choose whether to see the icebergs during the day or under the midnight sun. Whatever cruise you choose, if you're traveling all the way to Greenland, you simply cannot miss a trip between these magnificent ice giants.
As you step aboard a comfortable boat, an adventure begins, taking you into a breathtaking landscape filled with towering icebergs. As the boat glides slowly through the calm waters, you’ll come face-to-face with ancient ice that takes on the most beautiful shades of white and blue, rising to impressive heights that rival skyscrapers. Whether you cruise during the day or at night, it’s always cold in Disko Bay, so make sure you’re prepared for the excursion!
6. Whale Watching in Disko Bay
An unforgettable experience awaits you on a whale-watching cruise from Ilulissat, where you’ll sail through the majestic icebergs of the Ilulissat Icefjord in search of the giants of the Arctic sea. As the boat slowly makes its way through the calm waters, keep your eyes peeled for the characteristic spouts and jumps of humpback whales, minke whales, and even the majestic blue whale, the largest animals on Earth.
As you marvel at these magnificent creatures, you’ll also be enchanted by the breathtaking landscape around you. The icebergs, like frozen works of art, form a dramatic backdrop to your whale adventure. During the cruise, an expert guide will provide fascinating information about the whales and their habitat.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or just seeking an unforgettable adventure, a whale-watching cruise from Ilulissat is an experience you won’t forget. It’s an opportunity to witness the grandeur of Arctic fauna and admire the magic of the icefjord while witnessing the graceful movements of these incredible marine mammals.
7. Visit the Impressive Eqi Glacier
An unforgettable day trip from Ilulissat takes you to the impressive Eqi Glacier, also known as the ‘Calving Iceberg Glacier.’ This majestic ice mass is located about 80 kilometers north of Ilulissat and offers an unforgettable experience for adventurous travelers. A boat trip through the serene waters of Disko Bay will take you to this natural treasure, where you can witness the spectacular sight of icebergs breaking off and crashing into the water. The view of the massive ice wall and the thunderous sound of the calving icebergs will leave you in awe. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture these unforgettable moments. On the return journey to Ilulissat, you can enjoy the stunning surroundings and the soothing sounds of the water, while you reflect on this unique and enchanting experience.
How to Visit Ilulissat
Ilulissat does not have an international airport. Flights from Iceland and Denmark arrive in Greenland at Kangerlussuaq. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Ilulissat. Once at the airport, you can arrange a transfer to the city center through your hotel. Another option is to take a taxi, but this can be quite expensive (over 100 DKK). There is no regular bus service between the city center and the airport. The local bus follows a sort of "call-a-ride" system without a fixed route or stops. You can also walk from the airport to Ilulissat. It’s about a 2.5 km walk to Hotel Arctic or Hotel SØMA iand about 5 km to Hotel Icefiord or Hotel Hvide Falk in the city center. The roads are good and paved, so you can easily travel with a hard-shell suitcase with wheels!
Best Time to Visit Ilulissat
The best time to visit Ilulissat is from June to September, during the Arctic summer. The days are long, and the temperatures are positive during these months, making water expeditions easier to carry out. Ilulissat is also a great place to visit in the winter. During this time, you may have the chance to see the Northern Lights, and dog sledding tours are also available.
