Greenland, a land of immense glaciers, dramatic fjords, and vibrant Inuit culture, beckons adventurous travelers seeking an experience unlike any other. Situated between the vast Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, and geographically a part of North America, this autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark is the world’s largest island. While its proximity to North America might suggest easy access, reaching and navigating Greenland presents unique logistical considerations. Indeed, at its closest point, only a mere 10 miles of ocean separates the remote northern reaches of Greenland from Ellesmere Island in Canada. Yet, for those yearning to explore this captivating destination, the journey itself becomes an integral part of the adventure. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to How to Get to and Around Greenland by Plane and Boat.
For most travelers, access to Greenland is limited to air travel or cruise ships. This is due not only to practical limitations imposed by the island’s geography but also to conscious efforts by the Greenlandic government to manage tourism sustainably. The aim is to preserve the delicate balance between welcoming visitors and protecting the pristine environment that makes Greenland so special. Thus, careful planning is key to experiencing the magic of this Arctic wonderland.
Reaching Greenland by Air: A Gateway Through Europe
Despite Greenland’s rising appeal among travelers from the United States and Canada, the island remains connected by air exclusively through two European hubs: Copenhagen, Denmark, and Reykjavik, Iceland. This means that North American travelers must first journey across the Atlantic to one of these departure cities. Of the two, Reykjavik generally offers more frequent flight options to Greenland. While the tourism infrastructure in Greenland is constantly evolving, with the potential for new flight routes in the future, Copenhagen and Reykjavik currently serve as the primary gateways.
Flights from Reykjavik: Soaring into the Arctic
From Reykjavik, several flight options are available, offering connections to various destinations within Greenland. Both Icelandair and Air Greenland operate flights from Iceland’s capital.
Icelandair, known for its extensive network and reliable service, operates direct flights from Reykjavik City Airport (RKV), a smaller airport closer to the city center, to:
- Nuuk (GOH), the capital of Greenland, a vibrant hub offering a glimpse into modern Greenlandic life and culture.
- Ilulissat (JAV), famous for its breathtaking Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing colossal icebergs sculpted by nature’s artistry.
From Nuuk, Icelandair provides connecting flights to:
- Paamiut (JFR), a small settlement known for its stunning coastal scenery and opportunities for hiking and kayaking.
Air Greenland, the national airline, also operates flights from both Reykjavik City Airport (RKV) and the larger Reykjavik-Keflavik Airport (KEF), located further outside the city. Air Greenland offers direct flights to Nuuk and connecting flights to the airports previously mentioned, with the exception of Kulusuk. Furthermore, Air Greenland provides direct flights from Reykjavik to the following commercial airports within Greenland:
- Aasiaat (JEG), a charming town nestled amidst a network of islands, offering opportunities for boat trips and wildlife viewing.
- Kangerlussuaq (SFJ), home to Greenland’s largest commercial airport and a gateway to the vast inland ice sheet.
- Maniitsoq (JSU), a picturesque town known for its dramatic mountain backdrop and opportunities for fishing and whale watching.
- Sisimiut (JHS), Greenland’s second-largest town, offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional Inuit culture.
Flights from Copenhagen: A Direct Route to Greenland
Air Greenland holds the distinction of being the sole airline offering flights from Copenhagen to Greenland. This direct route connects the Danish capital with several key destinations in Greenland, providing a convenient option for travelers originating from Europe or those connecting through Copenhagen.
Air Greenland operates non-stop flights from Copenhagen to:
- Nuuk (GOH), the capital city, serving as a major transportation hub and a starting point for exploring other regions of Greenland.
- Narsarsuaq (UAK), located in southern Greenland, known for its lush landscapes, Viking history, and opportunities for hiking and exploring ancient ruins.
- Kangerlussuaq (SFJ), home to Greenland’s largest airport and a crucial entry point for accessing the inland ice sheet and the Arctic wilderness.
- Sisimiut (JHS), the second-largest town in Greenland, offering a mix of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and access to the Arctic Circle Trail.
Additionally, Air Greenland provides connecting flights from Copenhagen to the airports mentioned previously, excluding Kulusuk.
Arriving by Sea: Cruising Along Greenland’s Coastline
While there are no scheduled passenger ferries connecting Greenland to other countries, many travelers experience the island’s beauty by embarking on commercial cruises. These cruises typically originate from Canada, the United States, Iceland, Norway, and other Northern European destinations, offering a unique perspective on Greenland’s dramatic coastline.
These cruise itineraries often fall into two categories:
- Coastal Cruises: These cruises primarily focus on navigating the coastline of Greenland, offering passengers breathtaking views of glaciers, icebergs, and the rugged landscape. Excursions on Zodiac vessels allow for close encounters with wildlife and stunning glacial formations. These itineraries may not involve disembarking at Greenlandic ports.
- Port-of-Call Cruises: These cruises include stops at various ports in Greenland, allowing passengers to explore different towns and experience the local culture. Some itineraries conclude with passengers disembarking at Kangerlussuaq, where they can catch a flight home or extend their stay to further explore the island independently or as part of an organized tour.
Choosing the right cruise depends on your priorities and budget. Expedition cruises, often more expensive than traditional "big ship" cruises, offer a more intimate and immersive experience, focusing on wildlife encounters, scientific exploration, and access to remote areas.
Navigating Within Greenland: A Land Without Roads
Once you arrive in Greenland, you’ll quickly realize that getting around presents its own set of challenges. The absence of roads connecting settlements means that travel within Greenland relies primarily on air and sea transport. Even Nuuk, the capital city, is geographically isolated from other settlements. The only exception is a short 3-mile (5-kilometer) gravel road connecting Kangilinnguit with the abandoned cryolite mining town of Ivittuut. Therefore, travelers have the following options for inter-settlement travel:
- Air Travel: Domestic flights operated by Air Greenland are the primary mode of transportation between towns. This is often the fastest and most convenient option, especially for traveling long distances. However, flights can be weather-dependent and subject to delays.
- Ferries and Boats: Several ferry routes connect coastal towns, offering a scenic and more affordable alternative to air travel. The Disko Line is a prominent ferry operator, providing connections between settlements in the Disko Bay area, known for its stunning icebergs and whale watching opportunities. Local boat operators also offer transportation and excursions to smaller settlements and remote areas.
- Helicopters: Helicopters provide access to remote areas and settlements that are not served by regular flights or ferries. This is often the only option for reaching isolated communities and is frequently used for search and rescue operations. Helicopter travel is generally more expensive than other options.
These transportation challenges often lead travelers to rely on tour companies. These companies simplify the planning process by arranging flights, transfers, tours, and accommodations, making it easier to navigate the complexities of Greenlandic travel. By entrusting the logistics to experienced professionals, visitors can focus on immersing themselves in the beauty and culture of this extraordinary destination.
How to Get to and Around Greenland by Plane and Boat requires careful planning and consideration of the unique logistical challenges. Whether you choose to arrive by plane or cruise ship, and whether you opt for independent travel or a guided tour, the journey to and through Greenland promises an unforgettable adventure.
