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Essential Preparations

Essential Preparations

Greenland

Detailed Planning Timeline

A structured approach to your trip planning for Nuuk, ensuring every aspect is covered.

Phased Preparations for Your Trip

Breaking down your pre-trip actions into manageable steps.

1

+ Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity and research visa requirements, beginning the application process if needed.

Flight Bookings

Secure international flights to Copenhagen or Reykjavik and connecting flights to Nuuk (GOH).

Accommodation & Insurance

Reserve your main accommodation and purchase comprehensive travel insurance.

2

Month Before

Tour & Itinerary Planning

Book major tours and excursions. Outline your daily itinerary, allowing for flexibility.

Health & Vaccinations

Consult your doctor for routine vaccinations and discuss health precautions.

Packing List Assembly

Begin gathering your climate-appropriate clothing and gear.

3

Week Before

Booking Confirmation

Double-check flight times, accommodation, and tour schedules.

Currency & Packing

Decide on DKK cash or credit cards; inform your bank of travel. Pack appropriate layering and waterproof gear.

Offline Resources

Download offline maps (Maps.me or Google Maps), weather apps, and currency converters.

Required Advance Bookings

Flights and popular accommodation options fill quickly, especially in summer. Tours also benefit from advance booking.

Reservations

  • International flights to Greenland.
  • Internal Greenland flights.
  • Popular accommodation options.
  • Popular tours.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Deepen your knowledge before you go.

Areas of Study

  • Deep dive into Greenlandic culture, history, and current events.
  • Research unique challenges and rewards of Arctic travel, including weather patterns.
  • Familiarize yourself with limited infrastructure in some areas and involved costs.
  • Familiarize yourself with basic Greenlandic or Danish phrases.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Prepare your home for your absence.

Security

  • Secure your home: lock windows and set alarms.
  • Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
  • Pay any bills due during your travel dates.
  • Inform a trusted friend or family member of your itinerary.

Pet Care

  • Arrange for pet care if needed.
  • Ensure your pets have sufficient food and water during your absence.
  • Provide contact details for your pet sitter or boarding facility.
  • Leave clear instructions for pet care.

Emergency Contacts

  • Leave emergency contact information readily accessible.
  • Provide details of your travel insurance to a family member.
  • Designate someone with a spare for emergencies.
  • Prepare for unforeseen circumstances.

Important Note

Flights (especially international flights to Greenland and internal Greenland flights) and popular accommodation options fill quickly.

Arrival & Departure

Ensure a smooth arrival and departure from Nuuk.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Immigration

    Proceed through immigration at Nuuk Airport. Have your passport and any required visa documents ready.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage

    Retrieve your checked bags from the baggage claim.

  • 3
    Local Currency & SIM Card

    Find an ATM for Danish Krone (DKK) cash, or locate a Tele Greenland shop for a local SIM card.

Orientation & Getting Around

  • Neighborhood Walk

    Take a short walk around your immediate neighborhood to get your bearings. Note nearby shops, bus stops, and landmarks.

  • Tourist Information

    Visit the local tourist information office for maps, brochures, and current event information. They often have helpful local advice.

  • Airport Transportation

    Taxis are available outside Nuuk Airport. The public bus (Nuup Bussii, Route 3) is a more economical option for transfers to the city center.

Departure Checklist

Souvenirs

Purchase souvenirs in advance to avoid a last-minute rush, as local shops may have limited hours.

Inquire about shipping costs and customs regulations for bringing items home, especially for products made from animal materials.

VAT Refund

Greenland is not part of the EU VAT system.

Therefore, tax refund procedures for tourists are not typically available.

Airport Timing

Allow ample time for airport check-in and security, especially for international flights.

Consider potential weather delays; arrive at Nuuk Airport at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure.

Return Travel Reminders

Confirm your onward travel details and ensure all necessary documents for your next destination or re-entry into your home country are ready.

Home Preparation

Final tasks before you lock up and leave for Nuuk.

Security & Utilities

  • Secure your home: lock all windows and doors.
  • Set home alarms if you have them.
  • Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
  • Pay any bills that will come due during your travel dates.

Pet & Personal Contacts

  • Arrange for pet care if needed, providing detailed instructions.
  • Inform a trusted friend or family member of your itinerary.
  • Provide your emergency contact information to a reliable person.
  • Ensure someone knows about any medical conditions or needs.

Financial Preparedness

Manage your finances for seamless travel.

Money Matters

  • Credit Card NotificationInform your bank of travel plans to prevent card issues.
  • Local CurrencyDecide whether to withdraw DKK cash upon arrival or rely on credit cards.
  • Emergency FundsHave a small amount of emergency cash accessible.
  • Budget PlanningReview your budget to account for Nuuk's expenses.

Essential Documents & Copies

  • Create physical and digital backups of all important documents.
  • Store copies separately from your original passport, visa, and flight details.
  • Keep digital copies on your phone or in a cloud service for easy access.
  • Ensure sensitive information is stored securely.

Pre-Booking Importance

Failure to book flights, accommodation, and popular tours early can lead to disappointment or higher last-minute costs.

Popular choices sell out quickly, especially in high season.