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Planning Your Trip

Planning Your Trip

Greenland

Iconic Landmarks & Historical Sites

The Thule region presents insights into local culture, history, and the natural environment.

Exploring Qaanaaq and Beyond

The Qaanaaq Museum and the Old Thule settlement remain offer connections to the Inughuit way of life and polar exploration.

1

Qaanaaq Museum

Knud Rasmussen's Former Residence

Insight into local Inuit culture, history, and the Thule expedition.

Collection Highlights

Hunting tools, traditional clothing, and artifacts on display.

Practical Access

Variable opening hours, small fee applies. Arrange with local staff for access.

2

Old Thule Settlement

Original Site

Original site of Knud Rasmussen's trading station, approximately 30 kilometers north of present-day Qaanaaq.

Historical Reflection

Community relocation in 1953. This location offers quiet reflection on the past.

Winter Access

Consider visiting during winter for a dramatic landscape and snowmobile access across frozen fjords. This offers an unique perspective.

3

Qaanaaq Church

Function and Community

A simple, modern church serving the local community.

Visitor Welcome

Visitors are welcome respectfully during services.

Significance

Represents a significant social and spiritual hub for the town.

Natural Attractions

The true majesty of the Thule region reveals itself in its pristine natural environment.

Majestic Arctic Landscapes

  • Icebergs: Massive calved icebergs in fjords, impressive in summer boat trips.
  • Glaciers: Several active glaciers flow into the fjords, presenting dramatic ice walls.
  • Fjords: Deep, dramatic fjords with towering cliffs.
  • Midnight Sun/Polar Night: Extreme daylight/darkness cycles to experience.

Hidden Gems & Remote Adventures

The entire Thule region remains largely untouched by mass tourism, making it a hidden gem for intrepid travelers.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

  • Small, Remote Settlements: Villages like Siorapaluk and Qeqertat for traditional Inuit life.
  • Expeditions into the Vast Wilderness: Multi-day dog sled or snowmobile trips for unparalleled solitude.
  • Unique Photo Opportunities: Dog sledding under Northern Lights, wildlife close-ups.
  • Local Hunting/Fishing Spots: Accessible with permission and a guide for cultural insight.

Essential Considerations

All travel outside Qaanaaq calls for a local guide for safety due to extreme environmental hazards, lack of infrastructure, and polar bear presence. Guides possess knowledge, equipment, and safety measures.

Nearby Destinations

Several accessible locations present extended exploration and cultural immersion.

Accessible Day Trips

  • 1
    Siorapaluk

    World's northernmost natural settlement, traditional Inuit life.

  • 2
    Qeqertat

    Small island settlement, insights into remote Arctic village life.

  • 3
    Old Thule (Uummannaq)

    Original trading station site, historical reflection.

Transportation & Safety

  • Winter Transport

    Snowmobile with a local guide is the main mode across frozen landscapes.

  • Summer Transport

    Boat with a local guide for navigation of fjords when sea ice breaks up.

  • Guided Travel

    Organized tours with local guides are fundamental for all excursions outside Qaanaaq.

Natural Escapes

Scenic Landscapes

Icebergs in the fjord, glacier fronts, frozen winter landscapes present awe-inspiring views.

The entire region is wild; no formal parks or reserves are immediately accessible.

Seasonal Phenomena

Northern Lights viewing excursions (winter nights) are a main attraction.

Midnight Sun experiences (summer nights) offer a phenomenon in themselves.

Wildlife Viewing

Spotting marine mammals like seals, whales, and narwhals occurs during seasonal boat trips.

Polar bear spotting from a safe distance occurs with experienced guides.

Trusted Operators

Always book day trips and excursions through reputable local tour operators. Their expertise safeguards your journey and provides a meaningful experience in this challenging environment.

Multi-Day Extensions

For deep Arctic immersion, multi-day extensions present unparalleled experiences.

Extended Itineraries

  • Extended dog sledding or snowmobile expeditions into the wilderness, staying in small huts or tents.
  • Hunting/Fishing Expeditions: Longer trips focused on traditional hunting or fishing, often involving staying in remote cabins.
  • These experiences present profound cultural moments.
  • These journeys call for significant planning and specialized gear.

Next Destinations

  • Other regions of Greenland: Kangerlussuaq (gateway), Ilulissat (Icefjord), Nuuk (capital), South Greenland.
  • Arctic Canada or Svalbard: Other high Arctic destinations for different but complementary experiences.
  • Transportation Connections: Flights are the only way to connect to other regions of Greenland.
  • Longer Regional Travel: A multi-region Greenland trip involves flying from Qaanaaq back to Kangerlussuaq, then connecting to other towns.

Safety and Respect

Show respect for the environment and local culture when exploring.

Always follow your guide's instructions, especially when near wildlife or in remote areas.