Essential West Greenland

The modern town of Ilulissat sits approximately 200km above the Arctic Circle, mid way along the west coast at the mouth of a 56km long ice fjord, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ilulissat’s population numbers around 4,500 people and at least 4,000 sled dogs, which underlines the importance of the sledge as a means of transport, even in a large modern town. The harbour is full of fishing boats and trawlers as naturally, fishing remains hugely important to the community.

Ilulissat is also home to the new ‘Kangiata Illorsua’ Icefjord Centre. The Icefjord Centre’s excellent ‘Tale of Ice’ exhibition is well worth a visit and explains the history of the region’s glaciers, its indigenous culture, and the impacts of climate change.

Explore Disko Bay

Why not make the most of your trip to west Greenland and extend your stay in the smaller towns and settlements in the Disko Bay surroundings. Located just South of Ilulissat, Ilimanaq is a remote and authentic Greenlandic destination.

Combine Ilulissat with Qasigiannguit, a small hiking town located in the eastern corner of Disko Bay. Qasigiannguit is Greenland’s second oldest town, founded in 1734. North of Ilulissat is the settlement of Qqaatsut/Rodebay and the Eqip glacier, two more places you have the option of exploring during this trip.