MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Ilulissat

How to Get to Ilulissat

Ilulissat Greenland Travel Guide

Air Travel

Airports and Airlines

Ilulissat Airport (JAV) is the main airport, handling domestic and international flights from Iceland.

Airlines & Routes

  • Air Greenland: Main airline for flights to and within Greenland.
  • From Copenhagen (CPH): Direct flights to Kangerlussuaq (SFJ) by Air Greenland and SAS.
  • From Kangerlussuaq: Connecting flights to Ilulissat (JAV) via Air Greenland.

Reykjavik Connections & Seasons

Non-stop flights to Ilulissat (JAV) are available from Iceland.

Flight Information

  • Air Greenland from Keflavík (KEF) to Ilulissat.
  • Icelandair from Reykjavík Domestic Airport (RKV) to Ilulissat.
  • Summer (June-Aug): Highest flight frequency and prices. Book 6-12 months ahead.

Price Fluctuations

Winter (Nov-Apr) flight frequency decreases; prices may be lower, but weather delays are more likely.

Airport Facilities

Ilulissat Airport (JAV) is small and functional. It has a modest terminal, check-in, waiting area, and a small cafe.

Airport Transfers

Many hotels offer pre-arranged airport transfers. Taxis are available; the ride to the town center is short (10-15 mins).

Flight Booking Resources

Flight Deal Services

  • Dollar Flight Club: Email alerts for cheap flights.
  • Skyscanner: Comprehensive flight search engine.
  • Always consider layover times, especially for connections through Kangerlussuaq or Reykjavik.
  • No direct flights from major global hubs outside Copenhagen or Reykjavik.

Travel Insurance Resources

  • World Nomads: Travel insurance for adventurous travelers.
  • SafetyWing: Insurance designed for digital nomads.
  • IVisa & VisaHQ: Consumer visa application services.
  • AirHelp: Assistance with flight compensation.

Land Transportation

Inter-Town Travel

Greenland's unique geography means land transportation between settlements is almost non-existent. No border crossings, trains, or long-distance buses operate.

Self-Driving

Self-driving between towns is not possible due to lack of connecting roads. Within Ilulissat, car rental for tourists is generally not available or necessary.

Road Conditions

The roads in Ilulissat are paved but can be steep and winding. In winter, roads become icy or snow-covered. Traffic is minimal.

Sea/River Arrivals

Coastal Ferry Service

The Arctic Umiaq Line operates a coastal ferry service, Sarfaq Ittuk, connecting towns along Greenland's west coast, including Ilulissat.

Ferry Experience

  • Serves as both a passenger and cargo vessel.
  • Travel is slow, offering a relaxed way to see the coastline.
  • Runs mainly in summer, with reduced winter frequency.

Cruise Ships & Immigration

Ilulissat is a popular port of call for expedition cruise ships. Passengers disembark via zodiac boats.

Port Information

  • Cruise ships anchor in Disko Bay.
  • Immigration: Standard procedures for international cruise ship arrivals.
  • Connections: From the harbor, town center and places to stay are within walking distance or a short taxi ride.

River Transportation

No significant river transportation options exist in Greenland. Rivers are generally short, swift, and often glaciated, not suitable for navigation.

Points

  • Rivers are not conducive to navigation.
  • No river-based tours or transport.
  • Focus on sea-based tours for water experiences.

Useful Affiliate Resources

Hyperlinks to services for car rentals, flights, and more.

Travel Booking Resources

Departure Information

  • Exit Fees: No specific fees beyond ticket price.
  • Departure Timing (Air): Arrive at Ilulissat Airport 1-1.5 hours before domestic flight departure.
  • Build in flexibility for weather conditions delays.
  • Departure Timing (Ferry): Arrive at harbor well in advance; schedules can vary.
  • Airport/Harbor Facilities: Both have basic facilities. Complete purchases in town beforehand.
  • Always confirm schedules locally, as weather can change rapidly.

Health & Safety Resources

Online Health & Safety Tools

Utilize these digital platforms for health, safety, and connectivity abroad.

Digital Nomad & Travel Safety

Connectivity & Security

Stay connected and protect your devices and data while traveling.

Digital Essentials

  • NordVPN & ExpressVPN: Consumer VPN services for secure internet access.
  • Airalo: eSIMs for easy mobile data access abroad.
  • Pacsafe: Anti-theft bags and travel security products.

Medical Kits

Bring a well-stocked first aid kit for minor injuries and common ailments.

Water Filtration

For backcountry trips, your own water filter like LifeStraw could be useful.

Photography Gear

For camera and electronics, consider retailers like B&H Photo for specialized equipment.

Visa & Insurance Resources

Visa Application Services

These services simplify the visa application process for travelers.

Online Visa Platforms

  • IVisa: A consumer-focused service for applying for a visa.
  • VisaHQ: Direct visa and passport services online.
  • These platforms help navigate complex visa rules and submission.

Travel Insurance Providers

Securing travel insurance is a protective a move for your trip.

Coverage for Your Journey

  • World Nomads: Popular for adventurous travelers.
  • SafetyWing: Tailored for digital nomads and remote teams.
  • Insubuy: Medical and travel coverage for US visitors (Note: focus on general travel for Ilulissat).

Airline Compensation & Gear Retailers

Flight Compensation

AirHelp: This service assists passengers in receiving reimbursement for flight disruptions. This may be up to €600.

Travel Gear

Amazon: A main consumer retail platform for various travel items. Nordace: Offers modern travel bags and accessories.

Electronics

B&H Photo: A well-known retailer for cameras and other electronics. Airalo: Provides eSIMs for global connectivity.

Final Tip

Planning for weather-dependent trip interruptions is important. Flexibility in your itinerary is a good idea. Always carry hard copies and electronic copies of your passport, visa, and insurance policy, storing them separately.