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When to visit Greenland

Greenland offers a unique travel experience year-round, with each season showcasing its rugged landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant culture. Summer brings long, bright days ideal for exploring fjords, hiking verdant valleys, and watching whales near the shore. The midnight sun provides ample daylight for adventures, while late summer offers some of the best whale-watching opportunities.

As autumn arrives, the tundra transforms into a stunning display of reds and gold, creating a picturesque backdrop for photography and nature walks. The Northern Lights begin to make their appearance, offering travellers a glimpse of winter’s beauty while still enjoying mild weather. Winter, on the other hand, turns Greenland into a true Arctic wonderland, perfect for those who enjoy snow sports and want to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights in clear, crisp conditions.

Spring in Greenland is a time of renewal, with melting ice and longer days signalling the arrival of new life. The landscape begins to thaw, and wildlife becomes more active, making it an ideal time for travellers seeking a peaceful and reflective experience. Each season in Greenland offers a distinct and unforgettable way to connect with the island's untamed beauty and natural wonders.

GRE St Greenland Scoresby Sund Shutterstock Agatha Kadar
St Greenland Illulissat Fjord Ice Berg Shutterstock Michael Balada

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The best time to visit Greenland


  • JAN
  • FEB
  • MAR
  • APR
  • MAY
  • JUN
  • JUL
  • AUG
  • SEP
  • OCT
  • NOV
  • DEC

Northern lights illuminate the dark sky. Mid January, the sun appears for the first time in Disko Bay. We do not run Greenland trip during this time.

June to September - Summer

The long, bright, balmy days of summer are the best time to visit Greenland as most of the country’s coasts will become snow-free during these months and, especially in the south, animals like reindeer, Arctic hare and muskox can be seen grazing on the thawed-out vegetation. Visitors can see the Northern Lights as early as August depending on how far south they are, while the midnight sun further north provides plenty of light for travelers wishing to hike into the interior, sail down fjords and explore the local towns. Late summer is the best time for whale watching, with many species passing close to shore.

December to March - Winter

As well as the Northern Lights, when conditions are dark and clear with a decent amount of snowfall lying on the ground, the winter months also provide fantastic conditions for dogsledding expeditions. Although you’ll have to endure short days in freezing conditions, you’ll be thankful to make it out under the open sky thanks to the crisp air and the few precious hours of beaming sunlight, which will turn the snow-covered mountains and ice-bound fjords into a truly magical landscape.

Things to do in Greenland

See the Northern Lights

Viewing the Northern Lights is a bucket-list experience for many visitors to Greenland. The best time to see this natural phenomenon is during the winter months, but the lights can sometimes be spotted as early as late August. Northern towns like Ilulissat and Kangerlussuaq are prime locations for aurora viewing, often combined with other winter activities.

Go Hiking and Trekking In Greenland

Greenland’s vast wilderness is a paradise for hikers. Trails range from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks. The Arctic Circle Trail, stretching over 160 kilometres from Kangerlussuaq to Sisimiut, is one of the most popular and offers stunning vistas of mountains, valleys, and fjords. Other notable hikes include the Sermermiut Valley near Ilulissat, where you can see icebergs calving off the glacier into the sea.

Kayaking In Greenland

Kayaking is a traditional mode of transport in Greenland and offers a unique way to explore the fjords and coastal waters. Paddle through ice-filled waters, past towering icebergs, and along rugged coastlines. Guided tours are available for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced paddlers.

Wildlife & Whale Watching In Greenland

Greenland is home to a variety of wildlife, including musk oxen, Arctic foxes, reindeer, and various bird species. Consider wildlife-watching excursions Observe the incredible marine life that inhabits Greenland's coastal waters, including humpback whales, minke whales, and orcas. Discover more of Greenland's wildlife here