13 Cool Things to Do in Ilulissat, Greenland

Last Updated on March 14, 2024

Located along the west coast of Greenland, the town of Ilulissat is known as the iceberg capital of the world. So much so that the icebergs even gave its name: Ilulissat means “iceberg” in Inuit.

Thousands of icebergs fill the famous Ilulissat Icefjord all year round. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is the star of the show in this Arctic town. I too was drawn to Ilulissat because of the Icefjord, but only after visiting did I realise there is more to Ilulissat than the icebergs.

Humpback whales frolic in the waters of the fjord every summer, while Greenlandic dogs race across the slopes of Ilulissat. There are plenty of hiking trails, museums and Inuit cultural experiences. Plus epic glaciers and hunting settlements just a hop away. Ilulissat is indeed paradise for modern-day adventurers.

Guide to Ilulissat Greenland

Why Visit Ilulissat, Greenland?

As compared to other towns in Greenland like Nuuk, Ilulissat has great tourism infrastructure. With the Ilulissat Icefjord drawing in travelers around the world, it definitely is the most popular town in Greenland.

Located on the edge of Disko Bay, Ilulissat is found over 220 miles (350 km) north of the Arctic Circle. That means the sun never dips below the horizon in summer, and never rises in winter!

Despite being Greenland’s third-largest city, it has a population of just 5,000 people. It has a remote, small town feel, and definitely gives you an opportunity to experience Greenland at its most authentic.

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How to Get to Ilulissat

Because of its remote location, it is expensive to travel to Ilulissat, Greenland. Anyone traveling to Greenland has to fly through Reykjavik (Iceland) or Copenhagen (Denmark). 

It is a good idea to combine Iceland and Greenland in one trip, as you will fly through Iceland to get here. Here are some tours from Iceland to Greenland.

Direct flights from Reykjavik to Ilulissat take 3h 15mins and cost around $800-$1000 return. Flights from Copenhagen to Ilulissat make a stop in Kangerlussuaq and cost around $1000-1500 return.

Search for Flights to Ilulissat

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Do You Need to Book a Tour for Ilulissat? 

It is absolutely possible to explore Ilulissat independently. I encourage you to book your own flights, hotels, and then book day tours like boat trips or dogsledding excursions. Day tours cost around US$100-199.

Guide to Greenland is a good resource to book tours directly through an automatic booking system. Here are some Greenland tours that I have been on and highly recommend:

• Sail Amidst Icebergs in the Ilulissat Icefjord
• Dog sledding in Disko Bay
• Kayak in Ilulissat Icefjord
• Traditional Kaffemik in a Local’s Home

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Best Things to Do in Ilulissat

1. Take an Ilulissat Icefjord Boat Trip

Without a doubt, an Ilulissat icefjord boat tour is the #1 thing to do in Greenland. The Ilulissat Icefjord is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, and for good reason! An astronomical 35 billion tonnes (46km³) of ice make its way through Disko Bay in Ilulissat every year.

Some of the icebergs in the Ilulissat Icefjord stand at 100m above the level of the water (remember this is only 7-10% of the total size!). But it is only by looking up at these icebergs from the water that you get a true sense of their massive scale.

Book this Boat Trip here!

2. Kayak in the Ilulissat Icefjord

The Inuit have been using kayaks for thousands of years. In fact, kayaks were invented by the Inuits and the word “kayak” comes from the Inuit language.

Kayaking in the Ilulissat icefjord gives new meaning to iceberg sightseeing from the water as you get up close to the sheer ice towers. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Guide to Greenland runs kayak tours both during the day and in the evening during Midnight Sun. Your local guides will provide all the proper equipment including a dry suit. Whale sightings are a real possibility!

Book Your Kayak Experience!

3. Go on a Whale Watching Safari

In summer (July and Aug), Disko Bay is a mecca for whale watching. Humpback whales, minke whales and fin whales frequent its nutrient-rich waters to feast on large groups of krill and small fish.

Ilulissat is a perfect place to seek them out – especially with the backdrop of the Ilulissat Icefjord and its enormous icebergs. The Ilulissat whale safari is educational and interactive, allowing you to learn all about the gentle giants in their natural habitats.

4. Explore the Town of Ilulissat

As Ilulissat is the main tourist town of Greenland, it definitely has the most interesting sights and best tourism infrastructure in Greenland. The town is located next to the sea filled with icebergs, and a stroll around town will reveal lots of beautiful viewpoints.

If you’re looking for a local guide to show you around, I highly recommend Jan Cortsen (pictured), an experienced guide born and raised in Ilulissat. He’s fun and engaging, and is passionate about Greenlandic culture and history.

5. Visit the Museums of Ilulissat

Besides having lots of scenic spots for photo opps, Ilulissat also has two great museums. One of them is the Ilulissat Museum, housed in an building that dates back to 1848. The museum is centered on showcasing the history of the town and the story of explorer Knud Rasmussen.

The other is the Inuit Art Museum, which features paintings from Greenland, Faroese and Denmark, with the most notable by Emanuel A. Peterson. In summer, the museum also opens its beautiful Arctic kitchen garden for visits.

6. Hike the Ilulissat Trails

Ilulissat is one of the best places to visit in Greenland, mainly because of the range of outdoor activities you can do in the area. Hiking in Ilulissat is a great way to explore the backcountry without spending much.

There are three marked routes just outside of Ilulissat. Each one offers hiking with spectacular views of both Ilulissat and the ice fjord. Below is a hiking route map from Ilulissat Guesthouse.

• Yellow Route – 1.7 miles or 2.7 kilometers (1.5-2 hours). This is the most popular route as you get fantastic views of the Ilulissat Icefjord without doing a long or difficult hike.

• Blue Route – 4.3 miles or 7 kilometers (4 hours). A relatively challenging trail that offers amazing views of the ice and surrounding area.

• Red Route – 0.6 miles or 1 kilometer (30min). This is not a loop trail i.e. you need to walk back the same way you came from. If you are short on time, this route will take you directly to a viewpoint where you can see the icefjord.

7. Explore the Old Inuit Settlement of Sermermiut

Sermermiut is an old Inuit settlement located on the outskirts of Ilulissat. The entire area has been designated as part of the Ilulissat Icefjord UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In summer, it is possible to make this short hike from the center of town. There is not much to see here per se, just a few stone ruins to mark an area. But there are spectacular views of the Ice Fjord from Sermermiut.

8. Go Dogsledding in Ilulissat

Dog sledding in Greenland has been a mode of transportation and hunting for approximately 5000 years. Contrary to other Arctic locations, dog sledding in Greenland is a way of life, by choice if not by necessity.

Ilulissat is known for having almost the same number of sled dogs as people, currently the town is home to 4600 people and nearly 3500 sled dogs. This is definitely one of the best places to go dog sledding in Greenland.

During the dogsledding tour, you will first meet a local musher who introduces you to his dogs. The Greenlandic sled dog is the purest dog race, due to is isolation from other dog races. The dogs are raised as work dogs, and therefore it is not safe to approach the dogs on your own. 

Book Your Dogsledding Tour here!

9. Go Snowmobiling to Oqaatsut

The snowmobile has become a very frequent form of transport in Greenland, because it adapts to a wide variety of terrains and allows quick access to the remotest places.

On a guided snowmobile tour, you can get a taste of how Greenlanders live and also experience the backcountry of Greenland. The settlement of Oqaatsut is just 20km north of Ilulissat, but it is very remote with no road access. Only 37 Inuits live there all year round.

Originally known as Rodebay, it was established in the 18th century as a trading post for Dutch whalers. Its main industry now is fishing and tourism. It is possible to hike to Oqaatsut from Ilulissat, but I recommend hiring a guide.

Book Your Snowmobile Tour!

10. Chase the Northern Lights

Thanks to its location close to the Arctic Circle, Ilulissat is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. The Aurora Borealis are visible here for over eight months a year, from early September to the end of April. I saw them in Greenland during my March trip.

For higher chances of seeing the Northern Lights, I recommend booking a Northern Lights tour. After all, these tour operators have been chasing the Northern Lights for years and know the best spots for viewing the Northern Lights.

They will take you to the outskirts of Ilulissat where your guide will explain how the Northern Lights are formed, while you watch them dancing above. There is nothing quite like watching the ribbons and curtains of light flowing silently across the backdrop of crystal stars.

Book Your Northern Lights Tour!

11. Go Flightseeing over Ilulissat

There is no better way to see Ilulissat than on a scenic flight over the amazing glaciers and icebergs around Ilulissat Icefjord. Only from the sky can you truly get a sense of how massive the Ilulissat Icefjord is.

On a flightseeing tour, the small aircraft flies slow and low, all the way to the glacier wall. And with only a handful of seats, everyone has the best view in the cabin. You might even feel the rumble of the glacier calving beneath you, and then it really feels like an adventurous ride!

When flying over the giant icebergs, you will get close to them in a different way and sometimes see azure blue lakes with melted water on the icebergs. You might also be lucky to spot a whale or other Arctic wildlife while flying around the area.

Book a Flightseeing Tour!

12. Go to a Local’s Home for Kaffemik

The Greenlanders are extremely proud of their kaffemik, a local tradition that’s a huge part of their culture. Greenlanders hold kaffemik to celebrate special events of all kinds – births and birthdays, first days of school and confirmations.

Most people start preparing days in advance and reserve fine china and decorative table linens for such occasions. When the big day comes, their home becomes a revolving door of celebration with old friends, family, and colleagues all through the day.

I was lucky to join a kaffemik — it was an incredibly fun and immersive experience going to a Greenlander’s home and talking to the family about their food and traditions. 

Book a Kaffemik Experience here!

13. Take a Day Tour to Eqi Glacier

Located 80km from Ilulissat is Eqi Glacier, one of the most active glaciers in Greenland. On this Greenland tour, you will sail north, passing the small settlement of Oqaatsut/Rodebay, the huge fjord system of Pakitsoq, and through the Ataa Strait lined with tall mountains.

This journey is beautiful in and of itself and you may be lucky and see whales and seals along the way. You will also most likely see chunks of the glacier face break off and fall into the fjord. Just make sure you are hanging onto the railing when the resulting wave reaches the boat!

Book Your Glacier Day Trip here!

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Best Time to Visit Ilulissat

The best time to visit Ilulissat is in summer (July and August), when temperatures are comfortable and conditions are good for outdoor activities.

Summer in Greenland is glorious: everything turns green, while lakes and fjords will shine under the midnight sun. The midnight sun is a natural phenomenon that Greenland experiences between May 25th to July 25th. The sun does not set at all.

If you visit Ilulissat in spring (April-June) or autumn (Sept-Nov), expect lots of snow. The temperature ranges between 5°F (-15°C) and 40°F (5°C). Ilulissat has extremely harsh winters and the sun does not rise for months. The temperature can go as low as -49°F(-45°C).

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How Much Time Do You Need in Ilulissat?

I recommend spending at least 5 days in Ilulissat to have enough time to explore the town and surrounding areas.  During my winter trip, I had 4 days planned in Ilulissat but it was extended to 6 days after our return flight was cancelled due to a snow storm.

Because of the harsh weather conditions, flights in Greenland are often cancelled/rescheduled. When booking your flights, make sure to add a buffer of 1/2 extra days to your Ilulissat itinerary before your flight home.

If you have time, I suggest spending at least 2 weeks in Greenland to get a good sense of what Greenland is all about. With 2 weeks, you will have time to explore Ilulissat, Nuuk, and Kangerlussuaq. Check out my Greenland itinerary.

5-Day Ilulissat Itinerary

• Day 1: Wander around Ilulissat town & go hiking
• Day 2: Take a boat trip into Ilulissat Icefjord
• Day 3: Go dog sledding in Ilulissat
• Day 4: Take a day tour to Eqi Glacier
• Day 5: Home!

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How to Get Around Ilulissat

The Ilulissat airport is slightly out of town, but most hotels will pick up and drop off guests at the airport. Hotel Arctic, a landmark hotel in Ilulissat, offers regular van service to the city center (although it’s only a 20 minute walk should you prefer to go on foot.)

Once you’re in Ilulissat, it is relatively easy to get around on foot as the town is pretty small small. Just dress warmly and be prepared to walk in the snow even in summer.

There is an Ilulissat town bus (10 DKK or $1.50), which operates like a communal taxi and has no fixed route and timetable. It runs every 10-15 minutes from 7:30am to 10pm Mon-Fri. There are plenty of taxis in Ilulissat and a taxi ride usually costs around 40-50 DKK ($6-8) each way.

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Where to Stay in Ilulissat

Ilulissat hotels are the best in Greenland, and I recommend splurging on one with views of the Ilulissat Icefjord. But accommodation is still limited in Ilulissat and can get booked up a few months in advance, especially in summer. Be sure to book early to ensure availability! 

Luxury: Hotel Icefiord

One of the best hotels in Ilulissat, Hotel Icefiord has awesome views of the ice fjords from most rooms. I loved waking up to see icebergs right outside my window. Its dining room has a great menu and excellent views. Well worth splurging to stay here! Check rates here.

Luxury: Hotel Arctic

This landmark hotel is probably the most famous hotel in town, because of their iconic metallic igloo suites (pictured). Despite its location outside of town, the hotel provides a free shuttle to Ilulissat centre for all guests. With the waterfront location, most of its rooms offer spectacular views of the icebergs. Check rates here.

Midrange: Hotel Avannaa

Also offering panoramas of the Ilulissat Icefjord, Hotel Avannaa has slightly outdated interiors but its lower rates might make staying here worthwhile. Each floor of the hotel has a balcony walkway to which you can access each room. There is also a penthouse apartment with kitchen facilities. Check rates here.

Budget: Icefjord Apartments

One of the most affordable Ilulissat hotels, this guesthouse has modern and beautiful studio apartments with a kitchenette and a communal terrace with BBQ. Great value for money! Check the latest rates.

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What to Eat in Ilulissat

Because of its location, you can expect to find lots of incredibly fresh seafood in Greenland. There are quite a few good restaurants in Nuuk and Ilulissat that serve amazing fish stews and fillets.

Food is expensive in Greenland. If you’re looking for a proper fish or lamb meal in a nice restaurant, expect to fork out at least $50 for a full meal. There are cafes and Asian diners that serve more affordable options that cost $15 for a meal.

For those on a shoestring budget, check out local supermarkets like SPAR and Pisiffik for ready-made hot dogs and sandwiches. You can also get groceries to cook yourself if you’re staying at a guesthouse with a kitchen.

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Where to Eat in Ilulissat

Restaurant Icefiord

Since I stayed at the Hotel Icefiord, I ate at their in-house restaurant several times for both lunch and dinner. Their lunch menu is limited, offering just a Greenlandic snack plate (with cold cuts and cured meat). The dinner menu is impressive though, and includes grilled fish and Asian dishes. Read Tripadvisor reviews.

Brasserie Ulo

The in-house restaurant at Hotel Arctic is one of the most famous restaurants in Ilulissat. It serves gourmet Greenlandic food, albeit at high prices, but in a cosy setting and spectacular backdrop. Read Tripadvisor reviews.

Hvide Falk Restaurant

For more traditional flavors, head to this vintage restaurant that is decorated with polar bear hide and an old kayak. On its menu are fresh out-of-the-sea food, including their signature fish soup. The crabs were the freshest I’ve ever had! Read Tripadvisor reviews.

Cafengguaq

A casual cafe and diner that serves healthy and sumptuous salads and paninis. They have excellent shakes and lunch dishes. We ended up coming here almost everyday! Read Tripadvisor reviews.

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Internet and Data in Ilulissat, Greenland

Getting connected in Greenland is sadly not easy or cheap. The harsh weather conditions often disrupts the internet network. Sometimes the internet connection in Greenland can drop for a few days, and there is no way of going online except to wait.

Most hostels charge for their WiFi service, and they can cost up to $10/hour. If getting high speed connection is essential, I suggest staying at upscale hotels to make sure you can get a stable internet connection.

Alternatively, you can get the prepaid SIM cards of Tele Greenland (called Tusass) at every post office in Ilulissat. Note that even EU SIM cards do not work in Greenland.

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What to Pack for Ilulissat

Regardless of the time of year you are visiting Greenland, be sure to bring high quality winter gear. I have been in Greenland both in summer and winter, and can assure you you’ll need proper warm gear.

For those traveling Ilulissat in summer, I advise wearing 3 layers: wool bottom, fleece and a waterproof jacket.

If you are visiting Ilulissat outside of summer, I recommend wearing 4-5 layers: thermals, wool bottom, fleece and a thick winter parka.

My Ilulissat Packing List

1. Long Sleeve Moisture Wicking Tees: The key to staying warm in Greenland is layering. Bring some long sleeve t-shirts that are great for hiking, that you can easily remove throughout the day and night. 

2. Fleece-lined Long Sleeve Thermal Underwear: Pack thermals even if you’re traveling in summer. Temperatures can dip below zero – and they’ll be particularly useful if you’re kayaking or dogsledding.

3. Fleece Base: This is my favorite gear for cold climates. It’s thick but lightweight, and keeps me warm even in sub-zero temperatures. Plus most fleece are cheap and easy to find everywhere. 

4. Soft Shell Jacket: Pack a thin waterproof, soft shell jacket regardless of the season you’re traveling. I used this almost everyday on my summer trip in Greenland.

5. Waterproof Ski Jacket: It may be heavy and a pain to travel with, but you’ll need it if you’re traveling outside of summer. Don’t skimp on a quality coat as it will keep you comfortable. 

6. Quick-Dry Pants: These pants are lightweight, thin, comfortable and waterproof. I can wear them in winter and summer, without feeling too warm or cold.

7. Fleece-lined Leggings:  For ladies, these are brilliant to keep warm and comfortable. You can use them as they are in summer, or as a base layer in winter.

8. Beanie:You’ll definitely need something warm on the top of your head in winter.

9. Ski Gloves: Bring thick ski gloves as they’re good for snow and rain. I would recommend getting a pair of gloves with touchscreen pads so you don’t need to take them off to snap photos on from your smartphone.

10. Wool Socks: Invest in some high quality wool socks that can keep your feet dry and warm when hiking in the mushy tundra of Iceland.

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Practical Tips for Ilulissat, Greenland

• Because of the harsh weather conditions, flights in Greenland are often cancelled/rescheduled. Be sure to add 1/2 free days to your Greenland itinerary to compensate for flight delays. On both of my trips to Greenland, cancellations on domestic flights made me miss my  flight home.

• Air Greenland operates a very strict checked baggage policy. Excess baggage fee applies for bags that weigh more than 44 lbs (or 20kg). They also weigh your carry on luggage, the limit is 8kg and excess baggage fees apply too.

• There are no ATMs at the Ilulissat airport. Try to get Danish Kroner at the Copenhagen airport in advance or you will have to wait until you get into town to withdraw some.

• Almost every taxi, supermarket, hotel and restaurant in Ilulissat take major credit cards like VISA and Mastercard.

Planning Your Trip to Greenland

Are you planning a trip to Ilulissat, Greenland? I have tried my best to cover all the things to do in Ilulissat, and best Ilulissat hotels and restaurants. Let me know in the comments field below if I have missed out anything!

Here are more of my Greenland articles:

• Greenland Travel Guide
• 13 Cool Things to Do in Nuuk
• Summer in Greenland: Cruising Nuuk Fjord
• Svalbard Photo Essay
• Iceland Travel Guide

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to companies I use and trust. I get a small commission when you click on my links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU.

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