The Comprehensive Guide to Greenland Travel Packages
Greenland is a destination like no other, offering breathtaking landscapes, unique cultural encounters, and unforgettable adventures. For many travelers, booking a curated travel package is the perfect way to explore this vast and remote Arctic island without missing its highlights. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker eager for adventure, a nature lover drawn to the pristine environment, or a cultural enthusiast eager to connect with Greenlandic traditions, there’s a travel package to suit every interest. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Greenland travel packages, helping you choose the ideal itinerary for your journey.
Why Choose a Travel Package for Greenland?
Greenland is a land of extremes—geographically remote, sparsely populated, and with limited infrastructure in some areas. Travel packages simplify the logistics, ensuring that your experience is seamless and stress-free. Here’s why they’re a great choice:
- Expertly Curated Itineraries: Packages are designed by local experts who know Greenland’s hidden gems, best activities, and seasonal highlights.
- Hassle-Free Planning: Transportation, accommodations, and guided tours are typically included, eliminating the need to coordinate multiple bookings.
- Access to Remote Areas: Many packages take you to places that are difficult to reach independently, such as isolated fjords or tiny Inuit settlements.
- Cultural Insight: Local guides enrich your experience with stories, traditions, and knowledge of Greenland’s unique way of life.
- Eco-Friendly Travel: Many operators prioritize sustainable tourism practices, helping you explore responsibly while preserving Greenland’s pristine environment.
Types of Greenland Travel Packages
Greenland offers a wide range of travel packages tailored to different interests, budgets, and durations. Below, we’ll explore some of the most popular types:
1. Adventure Travel Packages
Greenland is a dream destination for adventure enthusiasts. From glacier trekking to Arctic kayaking, these packages provide adrenaline-pumping experiences in some of the planet’s most stunning settings.
- Popular Activities:
- Ice climbing on Greenland’s majestic glaciers.
- Kayaking through fjords filled with towering icebergs.
- Multi-day hikes, such as the Arctic Circle Trail, for those who want to immerse themselves in the wilderness.
- Dog sledding and snowmobiling during the winter months.
- Duration: Adventure packages typically range from 5 to 12 days, depending on the intensity and number of activities included.
2. Cultural and Historical Packages
For those interested in Greenlandic traditions, history, and culture, cultural travel packages provide in-depth experiences. These itineraries often include visits to Inuit communities, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and opportunities to learn about Greenland’s Viking history.
- Highlights:
- Visits to traditional Inuit settlements and cultural museums, such as the National Museum of Greenland in Nuuk.
- Opportunities to participate in local traditions, including storytelling, drum dances, and Arctic char fishing.
- Exploration of Norse ruins, such as the Hvalsey Church in South Greenland.
3. Northern Lights Packages
The Aurora Borealis, or Northern Lights, is one of Greenland’s most iconic natural wonders. Specialized packages focus on maximizing your chances of seeing this spectacular phenomenon while incorporating other Arctic experiences.
- Features:
- Nighttime excursions to prime viewing spots away from light pollution.
- Cozy accommodations with large windows or outdoor hot tubs for Northern Lights viewing.
- Daytime activities such as dog sledding, fjord cruises, or snowshoeing.
- Best Time: These packages are typically available from late September to April, during the long, dark Arctic nights.
4. Wildlife and Nature Packages
Greenland’s wildlife is as captivating as its landscapes. For nature lovers, packages focused on wildlife viewing provide unforgettable encounters with Arctic species.
- Common Sightings:
- Whales, including humpbacks, narwhals, and orcas.
- Seals basking on ice floes.
- Reindeer, Arctic foxes, and musk oxen roaming the tundra.
- Rare bird species, such as puffins and snowy owls.
- Activities: Whale-watching boat tours, guided wildlife hikes, and photo safaris.
5. Luxury Travel Packages
For those who want to experience Greenland in style, luxury packages combine comfort with exclusivity. Expect private tours, high-end lodges, and personalized experiences.
- Features:
- Charter flights to remote areas for a private Arctic experience.
- Gourmet meals featuring Greenlandic delicacies, such as reindeer, Arctic char, and musk ox.
- Luxurious accommodations, including glass-domed igloos or boutique lodges with stunning fjord views.
Popular Destinations Included in Greenland Travel Packages
Greenland is a vast and diverse land, offering something unique in each region. When you book a travel package, the destinations included often highlight the best of Greenland's natural beauty, cultural richness, and Arctic adventure. Here’s a closer, more detailed look at some of the most popular destinations that are frequently featured in Greenland travel packages:
Nuuk: The Capital of Greenland
Nuuk, Greenland’s vibrant and growing capital, is the perfect blend of modern culture and traditional Arctic heritage. Despite its small size, Nuuk offers travelers a surprising variety of activities and sights. Many travel packages to Nuuk focus on its cultural landmarks and its spectacular fjord system, one of the largest in the world.
Visitors can explore the National Museum of Greenland, which showcases fascinating Inuit artifacts, including mummies from the Thule era. The Katuaq Cultural Center is another must-visit, where you can enjoy art exhibitions, performances, and a café with local flavors.
Outdoor enthusiasts can venture into the Nuuk Fjord, a sprawling network of waterways surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers. Fjord cruises are often included in travel packages, giving you the chance to see whales, seals, and stunning ice formations. Some packages also offer hiking opportunities in the nearby mountains, which provide panoramic views of the capital and its surrounding wilderness.
Ilulissat: Home of the Ilulissat Icefjord
Ilulissat, one of Greenland’s most famous destinations, is a must-visit for anyone drawn to the Arctic’s icy wonders. This charming coastal town is best known for the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where enormous icebergs break off from the Sermeq Kujalleq Glacier and float into Disko Bay.
Travel packages to Ilulissat often include boat tours to witness the majesty of these towering icebergs up close. Some even offer kayaking excursions for an even more intimate experience. Guided hikes to Sermermiut, an ancient Inuit settlement overlooking the Icefjord, are another highlight. Here, visitors can learn about Greenlandic history while surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery.
In the winter months, Ilulissat becomes a prime spot for Northern Lights viewing, with many packages including nighttime tours to see the Aurora Borealis dancing above the icy landscape.
Kangerlussuaq: Gateway to the Ice Sheet
Kangerlussuaq serves as a primary entry point for many travelers due to its international airport, but it’s far more than just a transit hub. This small settlement is a gateway to the Greenland Ice Sheet, the second-largest ice sheet in the world, and a focal point for adventure travel packages.
Visitors can join guided excursions onto the ice sheet itself, where you can walk on ancient ice and marvel at its immense size. Some packages also include glacier hikes or snowmobiling experiences in the surrounding areas.
For those interested in multi-day adventures, Kangerlussuaq is the starting point of the Arctic Circle Trail, a 165-kilometer trek through untouched wilderness. Wildlife enthusiasts will also appreciate this region, as it’s one of the best places in Greenland to spot musk oxen, reindeer, and Arctic foxes in their natural habitat.
South Greenland: The Fertile Heartland
South Greenland is a region of stunning contrasts, where lush green valleys meet icy fjords. Known as the country’s fertile heartland, this region is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a favorite destination for travel packages that emphasize cultural exploration and outdoor adventure.
Many packages include visits to the Hvalsey Church Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved remnants of the Viking era. This region is also home to Narsarsuaq, where you can hike through the beautiful Flower Valley or explore the Narsarsuaq Glacier.
South Greenland is a hub for kayaking, offering serene fjords surrounded by majestic peaks. The area’s small villages, such as Qaqortoq and Igaliku, provide opportunities to experience local Greenlandic culture, including traditional crafts, farming practices, and culinary delights like freshly caught Arctic char.
East Greenland: Rugged and Remote
East Greenland is the most remote and wild region of the country, perfect for travelers seeking solitude and dramatic landscapes. This part of Greenland is less developed, but its raw beauty and rich traditions make it an unforgettable destination.
Tasiilaq, the largest town in East Greenland, serves as a base for many travel packages. From here, you can explore towering mountains, iceberg-laden fjords, and remote glaciers. Boat tours are a popular activity, offering breathtaking views of icebergs that can rival those in Ilulissat.
East Greenland is also a region where Inuit culture remains strong. Many packages include visits to small settlements where you can learn about traditional hunting and fishing techniques, as well as experience unique activities like dog sledding. This area is also home to some of the most dramatic peaks in Greenland, making it an excellent destination for hiking and mountaineering enthusiasts.
More Remote and Unique Destinations
While the above destinations are the most popular, some travel packages also venture into Greenland’s less-visited areas for those seeking something truly off the beaten path.
- Disko Island: Known for its black sand beaches and towering basalt columns, Disko Island is a geologically unique destination. Some travel packages include whale-watching tours and hiking excursions here.
- Thule Region: Located in the far north, this area is one of Greenland’s most remote regions. It’s a place of stark beauty, where you can see polar bears, narwhals, and the remnants of ancient Inuit cultures.
- North Greenland: Packages to this region often include visits to Qaanaaq and other small settlements where traditional ways of life are still practiced.
Choosing the Right Destination for Your Interests
When selecting a travel package, it’s essential to consider what aspects of Greenland excite you most. Do you want to marvel at towering icebergs and glaciers? Ilulissat and Kangerlussuaq are excellent choices. Are you eager to connect with Greenlandic history and culture? South Greenland and Nuuk should be at the top of your list. If you’re seeking solitude and dramatic landscapes, East Greenland and the Thule Region are ideal.
Each destination in Greenland offers its own unique magic, and no matter where your journey takes you, you’ll leave with memories of a lifetime.
How to Choose the Right Travel Package
Choosing the right travel package depends on your interests, budget, and travel style. Here are some tips:
- Define Your Priorities: Are you drawn to adventure, culture, wildlife, or a mix of everything? Choose a package that aligns with your interests.
- Consider Your Fitness Level: Some packages involve physically demanding activities like glacier hiking or multi-day trekking. Ensure you’re prepared for the level of activity required.
- Seasonal Considerations: Greenland’s experiences vary greatly by season. For the Northern Lights, visit in winter, while summer is ideal for hiking and fjord kayaking.
- Group vs. Private Tours: Decide whether you prefer a group experience or a private, tailored package. Group tours are often more affordable, while private packages offer exclusivity and flexibility.
- Check Sustainability Practices: Look for operators committed to eco-tourism and responsible travel to minimize your environmental impact.
What’s Typically Included in Greenland Travel Packages?
- Accommodations: Ranging from budget hostels to luxury lodges, depending on the package.
- Transportation: Flights within Greenland, boat transfers, or helicopter rides, depending on your itinerary.
- Guided Activities: Tours led by local experts, covering cultural sites, natural landmarks, or adventure activities.
- Meals: Many packages include traditional Greenlandic meals, offering a taste of the local cuisine.
Why Greenland Travel Packages Are Worth It
Greenland is a land of unparalleled beauty and adventure, but its remoteness and vastness can make independent travel challenging. A well-curated travel package removes the guesswork, allowing you to focus on immersing yourself in this incredible destination. Whether you’re navigating icy fjords, hiking among glaciers, or learning about Inuit culture, travel packages provide an all-encompassing way to experience the magic of Greenland.
Start planning your trip today, and let Greenland’s wonders leave you forever changed.
Explore Greenland with Raw Arctic’s Tailored Travel and Tour Packages
At Raw Arctic, we specialize in creating unforgettable journeys that bring you closer to the heart of Greenland. Our expertly curated Greenland travel packages and Greenland tour packages are designed to showcase the very best of this extraordinary Arctic destination while prioritizing sustainability and authenticity. Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures, cultural connections, or serene moments in nature, Raw Arctic ensures your trip is seamless, meaningful, and truly transformative.
With Raw Arctic, you gain access to:
• Customizable Itineraries: Our travel packages are tailored to fit your interests and travel style. From exploring the iconic Ilulissat Icefjord to kayaking through iceberg‑filled fjords or embarking on multi‑day hikes, we design experiences that match your passions.
• Local Expertise: As Greenland specialists, we know the land like no one else. Our guides bring a deep understanding of the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders, offering insights that make every moment unforgettable.
• Sustainable Travel: Raw Arctic is committed to responsible tourism, ensuring our tours and travel packages leave a minimal footprint while preserving Greenland’s pristine environment.
• Hassle‑Free Planning: From accommodations and transportation to guided tours and activities, we handle all the logistics so you can focus on soaking up Greenland’s awe‑inspiring beauty.
Whether you’re traveling solo, with a group, or planning a family adventure, Raw Arctic offers Greenland tour packages that cater to every type of traveler. Let us take you beyond the ordinary and connect you with the raw, untouched magic of Greenland.
Ready to start your Arctic adventure? Explore our vacation packages to Greenland today and let us guide you through a journey you’ll never forget.
