Kangerlussuaq, Greenland is your gateway to many Arctic expedition cruises, and the first among many amazing ports you’ll visit while sailing the northern seas. Kangerlussuaq is located at the end of the Kangerlussuaq Fjord, which is the longest in western Greenland, and also set apart by its surprisingly steep mountains surrounding the mouth of the fjord. This region is home to a diverse group of animals, including musk oxen, caribou and snow hare, which far outnumber the small human population of less than 600. Featured below are a few of the best ways to spend your time when cruising to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland:
Welcome to Kangerlussuaq, a small but fascinating town located on the western coast of Greenland. This unique destination, often referred to as the gateway to Greenland’s ice sheet, offers visitors an incredible opportunity to experience the raw beauty of one of the world’s most remote and pristine environments. If your cruise is stopping in Kangerlussuaq for one day, you're in for an adventure filled with dramatic landscapes, rich wildlife, and unforgettable Arctic experiences.
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Visit the Greenland Ice Sheet
Your day in Kangerlussuaq wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Greenland Ice Sheet, the second-largest ice sheet in the world after Antarctica. Kangerlussuaq is one of the few places in Greenland where you can get close to the ice sheet, making it a truly unique experience. You’ll be able to marvel at the vast expanse of ice and snow that stretches as far as the eye can see.
Tip: Join a guided tour to safely venture onto the ice, as the terrain can be harsh. Bring warm clothing and sturdy shoes, as temperatures can be chilly even in summer months.
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Explore the Wildlife of the Area
Kangerlussuaq is home to a variety of Arctic wildlife. One of the highlights is the opportunity to see reindeer. These majestic animals roam freely in the surrounding tundra, and you might even spot them as you make your way to the ice sheet.
Tip: Take a wildlife tour or hike with a guide to increase your chances of spotting not just reindeer, but also arctic foxes and various bird species that inhabit the region.
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Take a Scenic Drive to the Russell Glacier
For breathtaking views of glaciers and rugged terrain, head to the Russell Glacier, located just outside Kangerlussuaq. The glacier is accessible by a short drive, and visitors can walk up to the glacier's edge for some fantastic photo opportunities. The area is also home to stunning landscapes with dramatic mountain backdrops and sweeping views of the ice.
Tip: Wear comfortable, waterproof shoes for walking, as the terrain can be uneven and slippery in parts. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the dramatic scenery.
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Visit the Kangerlussuaq Museum
If you're interested in learning about the town's history, make time for a visit to the Kangerlussuaq Museum. Located in the old airport building, the museum provides insight into the area’s past, from its early Inuit inhabitants to the time it served as a U.S. Air Force base during the Cold War. The exhibits showcase local culture, history, and the natural environment, giving visitors a deeper understanding of life in Greenland.
Tip: Allocate around 30 minutes to an hour to explore the museum. It’s a great way to learn more about the region’s history before heading out to explore the wilderness.
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Hike the Trans-Greenland Trail
If you're up for some outdoor adventure, consider hiking part of the Trans-Greenland Trail. This trail runs from Kangerlussuaq to the eastern coast of Greenland, offering hikers a chance to experience the untouched Arctic landscape up close. You can take a shorter hike if time permits, exploring the vast tundra and towering mountains that surround the town.
Tip: Even for short hikes, be prepared for rapid weather changes and unpredictable conditions. A local guide can help you navigate the terrain and provide important information about the area's geology and ecology.
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Take a Flightseeing Tour Over the Ice Cap
For a truly awe-inspiring experience, consider booking a flightseeing tour over the Greenland Ice Cap. This aerial view offers a completely different perspective of the ice sheet and surrounding landscape, with sweeping views of glaciers, ice fields, and snow-capped mountains.
Tip: Flightseeing tours are available through various local operators and provide a safe way to see parts of Greenland that would be difficult to reach on foot. Be sure to book in advance to secure a spot, especially during the cruise season.
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Enjoy Local Greenlandic Cuisine
After a day of outdoor adventures, treat yourself to some traditional Greenlandic cuisine. Kangerlussuaq has a few local restaurants where you can sample dishes like muktuk (whale blubber), fresh fish, or seal meat. These unique Arctic delicacies offer a taste of Greenland’s rich cultural heritage.
Tip: If you're feeling adventurous, try the local specialties, but be sure to check with your restaurant about dietary restrictions or preferences beforehand.
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Relax and Enjoy the Arctic Serenity
Even if you're short on time, take a moment to simply enjoy the serene surroundings of Kangerlussuaq. The town itself is small and peaceful, and the surrounding Arctic wilderness is perfect for quiet contemplation and relaxation. Whether you’re sitting by the shore of a nearby lake or watching the Northern Lights dance in the sky during the winter months, Kangerlussuaq offers a sense of tranquility that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Tip: Spend some time at a local café or along the shores of Lake Ferguson to unwind and soak in the breathtaking views.
Kangerlussuaq may be small in size, but its natural beauty and fascinating history make it a must-visit destination for any cruise traveler. From standing on the Greenland Ice Sheet to spotting wildlife in the tundra, you’ll experience the untamed wonders of the Arctic in a way that few other places on Earth can offer. Whether you’re looking for adventure, tranquility, or cultural exploration, Kangerlussuaq delivers a truly unique experience. Make the most of your one-day stop and create unforgettable memories in this remote and captivating part of the world.