Dreaming of majestic icebergs, the ethereal Northern Lights, and vast, untouched Arctic wilderness? Greenland, the world’s largest island, offers an adventure like no other. While it may seem remote, traveling from the United States to this incredible destination is more straightforward than you might think. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of your journey, from booking your flight to packing your bags.
Do You Need a Visa?
Great news for American travelers! U.S. citizens do not require a visa for tourist or business visits to Greenland for stays of up to 90 days . However, you must have a valid U.S. passport that is valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from Greenland .
How to Get to Greenland from the USA
There are no direct ferries or cruise ships that offer regular passenger service from the U.S. to Greenland, so flying is your only practical option .
Your Flight Options
Historically, reaching Greenland from the U.S. required a connection in either Copenhagen, Denmark, or Reykjavik, Iceland. However, a significant development has made travel much easier: direct seasonal flights.
- The New Direct Route: As of recent years, you can now fly directly from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New York to Nuuk Airport (GOH), the capital of Greenland. This is by far the most convenient route for American travelers.
- Connecting Flights: If the direct flight isn’t available for your dates or budget, the traditional routes are still reliable:
- Via Iceland: Fly from a major U.S. hub (like New York, Boston, or Chicago) to Keflavík International Airport (KEF) near Reykjavik. From there, take a short, roughly 2-hour flight with Air Iceland Connect to destinations like Nuuk or Ilulissat.
- Via Denmark: Fly to Copenhagen (CPH) and then connect to Nuuk or other towns on Air Greenland. This route is often longer but can sometimes offer competitive pricing .
The average total travel time, including connections, is typically around 10-16 hours, depending on your route and layover times .
Getting Around in Greenland
Once you’ve landed, be prepared for a unique travel experience. Greenland has no roads connecting its towns and settlements. To explore beyond your arrival point, you’ll rely on a fascinating network of domestic transportation:
- Domestic Flights: Air Greenland operates a fleet of small aircraft that connect major towns along the west coast. This is the fastest way to cover long distances .
- Helicopters: A vital part of daily life in Greenland, helicopters are used for short hops between nearby settlements and for accessing remote areas. They are surprisingly affordable due to government subsidies .
- Ferries: During the summer months (approximately June to September), passenger ferries like the Disko Line operate along the western coastline, offering a scenic and leisurely way to travel between towns like Ilulissat, Aasiaat, and Qeqertarsuaq.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time for most travelers is during the summer months, from June to August . During this period, you’ll experience the magical “midnight sun,” where the sun barely sets, providing endless daylight for exploration. The weather is at its mildest, coastal waters are navigable for ferries and boat tours, and hiking trails are accessible.
If you’re chasing the Northern Lights, plan your trip for the winter, from late September to early April. Just be prepared for extreme cold, limited daylight, and the fact that some transportation options (like ferries) will be suspended.
What to Pack
Packing for Greenland is all about preparation and layering, regardless of the season.
- Summer Packing List: Even in summer, temperatures can be cool and the weather is famously changeable. Essential items include a wind and waterproof outer shell jacket, warm layers (fleece or wool sweaters), long-sleeved shirts, a warm hat, gloves, and good, sturdy hiking boots. Don’t forget sunglasses to protect against the intense glare from the ice and water .
- Winter Packing List: For a winter visit, you’ll need serious cold-weather gear: a heavy-duty insulated parka, thermal base layers, thick wool socks, windproof gloves or mittens, a neck gaiter, and a hat that covers your ears .
- For All Seasons: Always pack your passport, travel insurance documents, any necessary medications, a camera with extra batteries (cold drains them quickly!), and a power adapter (Greenland uses the same as Europe, type C/F) .
Final Tips for Your Journey
- Book Early: Flights, especially the direct route and domestic connections, can fill up quickly during the peak summer season.
- Embrace the Adventure: Schedules for domestic flights and helicopters can be flexible and are sometimes weather-dependent. A sense of flexibility and adventure is key!
- Respect the Environment: Greenland’s ecosystem is fragile. Be a responsible traveler by following local guidelines and leaving no trace.
With its otherworldly landscapes and unique culture, a trip to Greenland is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate your journey from the United States to the heart of the Arctic.
What are The Best times to Visit Greenland
The best time of year to visit Greenland for tourism is overwhelmingly during the summer months, from June to August.
This period is considered the peak tourist season for several compelling reasons:
- Milder Weather: Summer offers the warmest temperatures of the year, making outdoor activities far more comfortable.
- Midnight Sun: Visitors can experience the phenomenon of the “midnight sun,” where daylight lasts almost 24 hours, providing endless opportunities for exploration.
- Accessibility: The snow melts and sea ice retreats from the fjords, opening up the coasts for travel. This makes it the ideal time for hiking, boat tours among icebergs, and whale watching.
- Full Range of Activities: Most tour operators and transportation services (like coastal ferries) are fully operational during these months.
While summer is the most popular time, there is a secondary, smaller peak in late winter, from mid-February to mid-April . This period is primarily for travelers seeking to see the Northern Lights, which are at their most brilliant during the clear, dark nights of this season . However, outdoor activities are more limited due to snow and ice, and some services may be reduced.
What are the top attractions to see in Greenland during the best visiting months?
During the best visiting months of June to August, Greenland comes alive with accessible natural wonders and unique cultural experiences. Here are the top attractions to see during this spectacular summer season:
1. Ilulissat Icefjord
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ilulissat Icefjord is home to the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier—one of the fastest and most active glaciers in the world. In summer, massive icebergs break off and drift into Disko Bay, creating a constantly shifting icy panorama that’s perfect for boat tours, photography, and awe-inspired walks along marked trails.
2. Whale Watching
The nutrient-rich Arctic waters attract humpback, minke, fin, and even blue whales during the summer months. Guided boat excursions from towns like Ilulissat, Aasiaat, and Nuuk offer close encounters with these gentle giants in their natural habitat—an unforgettable highlight for many visitors.
3. The Midnight Sun
North of the Arctic Circle, the sun never fully sets between late May and mid-July. This surreal phenomenon bathes the landscape in golden light all night long, giving you extra hours to hike, kayak, or simply soak in the views without worrying about darkness.
4. Hiking and Glacier Exploration
Summer unlocks Greenland’s vast trail network. Popular hikes include the route from Kangerlussuaq to the edge of the Russell Glacier, where you can walk right up to ancient ice, and coastal paths near Nuuk offering dramatic fjord vistas. The terrain is rugged but rewarding, with wildflowers blooming and birdlife abundant.
5. Nuuk – Greenland’s Cultural Heart
As the capital, Nuuk blends modern Scandinavian influence with deep Inuit roots. Visit the National Museum to see traditional clothing, tools, and the remarkably preserved Qilakitsoq mummies. Stroll through the colorful old quarter of Nuuk (Kolonien), browse local art galleries, and enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.
6. Kayaking Among Icebergs
Kayaking is not just a sport in Greenland—it’s a centuries-old tradition. Join a guided tour to paddle quietly through iceberg-dotted fjords, getting an intimate perspective on the scale and silence of the Arctic landscape. No prior experience is usually needed, as tours cater to beginners.
7. Coastal Ferry Journeys
For a slower, more immersive travel experience, hop on a summer coastal ferry like the Disko Line. These vessels connect western towns such as Sisimiut, Aasiaat, Ilulissat, and Qeqertarsuaq, offering scenic views, a glimpse into daily Greenlandic life, and a chance to island-hop without flying.
These summer-only opportunities make June through August the ideal window to experience Greenland’s raw beauty, vibrant culture, and unforgettable Arctic adventures.