Nestled on the iceberg-spotted north-western coast of Greenland, Ilulissat offers an enchanting, isolated experience of Arctic culture. Admire the crystalline landscape, marvel at iceberg sculptures or try dog-sledding as you explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Ilulissat was founded in 1741 after colonial exploration of Greenland's northern coast. Today, Ilulissat’s 4,500 inhabitants survive in this harsh icy landscape by fishing or hunting with their sled dogs.
Downtown Ilulissat defies the settlement's small-population status by offering many shops, bars and restaurants. Admire the traditional red Ilulissat Church or browse Greenlandic paintings at the Ilulissat Kunstmuseum (Art Museum). Browse displays of items from the life and expeditions of famous explorer Knud Rasmussen at the Ilulissat Museum.
Experience the glistening Greenland wilderness as you explore the Ilulissat Icefjord. Navigate this UNESCO World Heritage Site on foot or cruise past towering ice floats on a boat tour. Alternatively, get sweeping bird’s-eye views on a plane ride.
Be sure to see the Eqi Glacier, where building-sized chunks of ice have been known to break off and crash into the water. Alternatively, visit the fast-moving Sermeq Glacier which feeds into the Ilulissat Fjord. Take a day to hike the scenic path to Rode Bay and spend some time meeting local Inuits at the Oqaatsut Settlement.
For another daytrip, boat to Disko Island and explore the town of Qeqertarsuaq. Hike to the majestic Lyngmark Glacier, which carves through the mountains above town, or try fast-paced dog sledding across the icy landscape. Take a sailing trip and look out for bowhead whales harvesting these waters.
Fly to Ilulissat from Keflavik in Iceland and get into town via taxi. These taxis and tourism operators offer the best transport around town.
When it gets late, enjoy tasty reindeer and musk ox dishes at the Hotel Arctic which has sweeping views of the fjord. In summer, the midnight sun keeps the views visible all night. In winter, take a midnight boat cruise and watch the northern lights dancing in the skies above.
