Uunartoq Hot Springs
Soak in naturally heated pools amidst Greenland's stunning fjords, with icebergs drifting by. A remote, magical escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for icebergs
Uunartoq Hot Springs
Best Time
Best light for icebergs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Soak in naturally heated pools amidst Greenland's stunning fjords, with icebergs drifting by. A remote, magical escape.
"Imagine stripping down in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by mountains and floating chunks of ancient ice, and slipping into a pool that feels like bathwater heated by the breath of the Earth itself."
Boat is Key 🚢
Access is primarily by boat from Qaqortoq or Narsarsuaq. Book in advance!
Pack a Towel! 🧖♀️
No amenities here. Bring your own towel and be prepared for a basic changing shed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Natural Geothermal Pools
Uunartoq Island
Soak in naturally heated pools (37-38°C) with breathtaking views of fjords and icebergs. Pure, unadulterated relaxation.
Iceberg Spectacle
Surrounding fjords
Witness massive icebergs drifting by while you soak – a surreal and unforgettable contrast.
Viking History Echoes
Uunartoq Island
Imagine Vikings soaking here centuries ago. Feel the ancient connection to this wild, beautiful landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Remote Journey
Pack for Solitude and Nature
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Boat is Key 🚢
Access is primarily by boat from Qaqortoq or Narsarsuaq. Book in advance!
Pack a Towel! 🧖♀️
No amenities here. Bring your own towel and be prepared for a basic changing shed.
How to get to the hot springs?
Offline Maps Essential 🗺️
Cell service is spotty. Download maps before you go.
Embrace the Wild 🦌
This is a natural setting. Enjoy the solitude and the chance to see local wildlife.
Tips
from all over the internet
Boat is Key 🚢
Access is primarily by boat from Qaqortoq or Narsarsuaq. Book in advance!
Pack a Towel! 🧖♀️
No amenities here. Bring your own towel and be prepared for a basic changing shed.
Offline Maps Essential 🗺️
Cell service is spotty. Download maps before you go.
Embrace the Wild 🦌
This is a natural setting. Enjoy the solitude and the chance to see local wildlife.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Uunartoq Hot Springs as a surreal and magical experience, highlighting the unique combination of warm geothermal waters and stunning iceberg-filled fjords. The remote, undeveloped nature is a major draw, offering unparalleled solitude and a connection to ancient landscapes. However, the challenging journey and lack of amenities require significant preparation.
"Reaching Uunartoq by boat from Qaqortoq felt like slipping into a lost world. A simple path led to perfectly warm (37‑38 °C) natural pools under open sky, rimmed by silent fjords and drifting icebergs. No spa bells, just solitude, epic views, ancient legend—and the pure magic of soaking in nature’s own bathtub."
Axel
"Difficult to reach unless you know both the dock and walking trail. There is a semi-private shed for changing near the hot springs. Water is about 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Views of icebergs in the distance."
Brian Krueger
"Imagine stripping down in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by mountains and floating chunks of ancient ice, and slipping into a pool that feels like bathwater heated by the breath of the Earth itself. That’s Uunartoq. A hot spring so far off the grid it might as well be in a different century.
There’s no lifeguard, no towel service, no fence keeping the reindeer out. Just you, the steam, and the creeping suspicion that if you died there, nobody would find you until next spring. It’s perfect.
You soak in this geothermal womb while icebergs drift by like confused ghosts. It shouldn’t make sense, but it does. Vikings probably did the same thing, minus the selfies.
Getting there’s a haul — boat, hike, maybe a deal with a local who knows the way. But once you’re in that water, toes pruned and brain melted, it all fades. Just hot water and cold sky.
One of the weirdest, most beautiful contradictions I’ve ever sat in."
Jason Braun
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Nuuk, you can take a ferry to Qaqortoq (approx. 2 days) or a flight to Narsarsuaq. From Narsarsuaq, you'll need to take a boat to Uunartoq. The journey is part of the adventure!
The most common way is by boat from Qaqortoq. Some tours also depart from Narsarsuaq. It's a scenic journey through fjords.
No, Uunartoq Hot Springs is not accessible by car. It requires boat travel and a short hike from the landing point.
Yes, it's highly recommended to book boat tours or private charters in advance, especially during peak season, as options can be limited.
The hike from the boat landing to the hot springs is typically short and relatively easy, often described as a simple path.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is generally no entrance fee for the hot springs themselves, as it's a natural, undeveloped site. However, you will pay for the boat transportation to get there.
Uunartoq Hot Springs is a natural attraction and is accessible 24/7. However, boat access is dependent on daylight and tour schedules.
No tickets are required for the hot springs. The cost is associated with the boat trip to reach the island.
As a natural site, there are no strict restrictions, but visitors are expected to be respectful of the environment and leave no trace.
While technically accessible, visiting in winter can be challenging due to sea ice and weather conditions. Summer is the most practical time.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The water temperature is naturally maintained around 37-38°C (98-100°F), making it comfortably warm for soaking.
Yes, there is a basic, semi-private shed available for changing clothes. It's very simple, reflecting the natural setting.
Definitely bring a towel, swimwear, and perhaps water shoes. A waterproof bag for your belongings is also a good idea.
The springs are naturally warm and safe, but there are no lifeguards. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Absolutely! The scenery is stunning. Just be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, Uunartoq Hot Springs is a completely natural and undeveloped site. You'll need to bring all your own food and drinks.
Both Qaqortoq and Narsarsuaq have limited dining options, typically local cafes or restaurants serving Greenlandic specialties. Plan meals before or after your trip.
Yes, it's highly recommended to pack snacks and water for the boat journey and your time at the hot springs, as there are no facilities.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offer the best light for capturing the dramatic landscapes and icebergs. Golden hour is particularly magical.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast scenery. A waterproof camera or protective case is advisable due to the steam and water.
No specific restrictions, but always be respectful of the environment and other visitors. Avoid drone usage unless you have explicit permission.
The pools themselves with icebergs in the background, the surrounding mountains, and the changing light on the water are all prime subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's essential to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities. Consider the travel time and potential for seasickness on the boat. While the hike is short, ensure children are comfortable walking on uneven terrain. This experience is best suited for families who appreciate nature and are prepared for a rustic adventure.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Remember to protect your gear from moisture and cold. The raw, untouched nature of the location means you'll capture images that are truly unique and evocative of Greenland's wild beauty. Be patient, as the light and iceberg movements are constantly changing, offering new perspectives.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Journey to Uunartoq
For those arriving in Greenland via Narsarsuaq, a flight connection is necessary. From Narsarsuaq, a boat transfer is required to reach Uunartoq. This remote location means that services are minimal, and visitors should be prepared for a journey that feels truly off the beaten path. Downloading offline maps is crucial, as cell service is notoriously unreliable in the region.
An Unspoiled Natural Wonder
The most striking feature is the juxtaposition of the warm, soothing water with the cool, crisp Arctic air and the majestic sight of icebergs drifting in the nearby fjords. This surreal contrast creates a profoundly memorable experience. There are basic changing facilities, often a simple shed, but no other amenities, reinforcing the sense of being immersed in pure nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit