Nuuk Fjord
Explore Nuuk Fjord, a vast Arctic wilderness of towering cliffs, floating icebergs, and serene waters. Experience unparalleled natural beauty and adve...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Longer daylight, milder temps
Nuuk Fjord
Best Time
Longer daylight, milder temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Nuuk Fjord, a vast Arctic wilderness of towering cliffs, floating icebergs, and serene waters. Experience unparalleled natural beauty and adventure.
"The mountain view in Nuuk Fjord is amazing!"
Book Fjord Tours Early
Popular tours like Nuuk Water Taxi fill up fast. Book ahead to secure your spot!
Layer Up for All Weather
Arctic weather changes rapidly. Bring waterproofs, windproofs, and warm layers.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iceberg Gazing
Kangersuneq Ice Fjord
Witness colossal icebergs calved from the ice sheet, a truly awe-inspiring Arctic spectacle.
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Fjord Boat Tours
Nuuk Fjord
Explore the immense fjord system, spotting wildlife and marveling at towering cliffs and floating ice.
Ukkusissat (Store Malena) Hike
Near Nuuk
Conquer this challenging 'rite of passage' hike for breathtaking panoramic views of Nuuk and the fjord.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Nuuk Fjord
Glide through pristine Arctic waters, getting up close to icebergs and enjoying the serene landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Arctic Elements
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Fjord Tours Early
Popular tours like Nuuk Water Taxi fill up fast. Book ahead to secure your spot!
Layer Up for All Weather
Arctic weather changes rapidly. Bring waterproofs, windproofs, and warm layers.
Embrace the Silence
The sheer scale and quiet of the fjord are profound. Take time to just soak it in.
Bring a Good Camera
The icebergs and landscapes are incredibly photogenic. Don't miss capturing the magic!
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Fjord Tours Early
Popular tours like Nuuk Water Taxi fill up fast. Book ahead to secure your spot!
Layer Up for All Weather
Arctic weather changes rapidly. Bring waterproofs, windproofs, and warm layers.
Embrace the Silence
The sheer scale and quiet of the fjord are profound. Take time to just soak it in.
Bring a Good Camera
The icebergs and landscapes are incredibly photogenic. Don't miss capturing the magic!
Consider a Local Guide
Guides offer invaluable insights into local culture and the natural environment.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty of Nuuk Fjord, particularly the majestic icebergs and the vast, serene landscapes. The opportunity for unique adventures like boat tours and challenging hikes is a major draw. Some find the weather unpredictable and activities can be weather-dependent.
"Cruise to Godthabs Fjord. The Mountain View is amazing!"
sarah cheng
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Max Petersen
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Chandler Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nuuk Fjord is best accessed from Nuuk, Greenland's capital. Nuuk has an international airport (GOH) with flights from Denmark and Iceland. From Nuuk, various boat tours and water taxis operate into the fjord.
Boat tours are the most popular way to experience Nuuk Fjord, offering access to icebergs and remote areas. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also fantastic options for a more intimate experience.
Yes, Kapisillit is a settlement accessible by boat from Nuuk. It's known for its ice fjord where drift ice from the ice sheet journeys towards the ocean.
Absolutely! The hike up Ukkusissat (Store Malena) is a popular challenge offering stunning views. Shorter trails also exist, providing access to incredible vistas.
Keep an eye out for whales, seals, and various seabirds, including puffins. The Arctic environment is rich with marine life.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book boat tours and activities in advance, especially during the summer months, as popular operators like Nuuk Water Taxi can book up quickly.
Nuuk Fjord itself does not have an entrance fee. However, costs are associated with boat tours, guided excursions, and any activities you choose to participate in.
Operating hours for fjord tours vary depending on the operator and the season. Most tours run during daylight hours, with some offering extended trips for midnight sun experiences in summer.
While some may attempt it, it's strongly advised to go kayaking or paddleboarding in the ice fjord with a guided tour for safety reasons, especially given the dynamic nature of ice.
Tickets for most activities, especially boat tours and guided hikes, can be booked directly through the tour operator's website or through local tourism agencies in Nuuk.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Dress in warm, waterproof, and windproof layers. Essential items include thermal base layers, fleece, a waterproof outer shell, warm hat, gloves, and sturdy, waterproof boots.
Icebergs can be unpredictable. Always maintain a safe distance when viewing them from a boat or shore. Guided tours will ensure you are kept at a safe distance.
Everywhere! Focus on the dramatic icebergs, the vastness of the fjord, wildlife, and the rugged mountain landscapes. The Kangersuneq Ice Fjord is particularly stunning.
Swimming in Nuuk Fjord is not recommended due to the extremely cold water temperatures, even in summer. It's an Arctic environment where safety comes first.
The 'rite of passage' hike refers to the challenging ascent of Ukkusissat, also known as Store Malena or Big Malena, a steep mountain offering incredible views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Some longer fjord tours may offer light refreshments or packed lunches. It's best to check with your tour operator in advance or bring your own snacks.
In Nuuk, try local seafood like Greenlandic halibut and shrimp. Reindeer and musk ox are also traditional meats. Look for restaurants serving authentic Greenlandic cuisine.
Some unique experiences in Nuuk offer the chance to enjoy a drink with ice harvested from glaciers, a truly memorable Arctic treat.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for photographing the icebergs and landscapes. Summer's midnight sun provides extended opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the fjord and icebergs. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
When on a boat tour, listen to your guide about safe viewing distances. If on shore, be aware of the tide and potential for ice to shift.
The Kangersuneq Ice Fjord is renowned for its dense concentration of icebergs. Sailing towards settlements like Kapisillit also offers excellent photographic opportunities.
If visiting in winter, find a spot away from city lights for the best chance to photograph the aurora borealis. Clear, dark nights are essential.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids will be mesmerized by the sight of icebergs and the chance to spot seals and seabirds. Ensure you pack plenty of warm, waterproof clothing for everyone, as Arctic weather can be unpredictable. Consider shorter boat trips to keep younger children engaged. While challenging hikes like Ukkusissat might be too strenuous for very young children, there are often easier walking paths near Nuuk that offer beautiful fjord views.
Always prioritize safety and choose activities suitable for your children's ages and stamina. Bringing snacks and drinks is also a good idea for longer excursions. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Capture the interplay of light on the ice, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, or the extended daylight of the midnight sun in summer. +1Don't forget to bring a wide-angle lens to capture the vastness of the fjord and its surrounding mountains.
A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. For those visiting in winter, the Northern Lights offer another spectacular subject. 🏞️ Nature & Adventure Seekers
+1 Consider kayaking or paddleboarding for an even more immersive experience, gliding through serene waters surrounded by majestic ice formations. The challenging hike up Ukkusissat (Store Malena) provides an adrenaline rush and rewarding panoramic views, a true test for any adventure enthusiast.
The opportunity to explore remote settlements like Kapisillit and witness the unique phenomenon of the ice fjord adds to the allure. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Nuuk Fjord: Boat Tours & Water Taxis
+1 These tours are essential for experiencing the sheer scale and beauty of the fjord, allowing you to get up close to icebergs and potentially spot Arctic wildlife like seals and whales. +1When choosing a tour, consider the duration and what you want to see. Some tours focus on wildlife spotting, while others explore specific ice fjords like Kangersuneq, where icebergs calved from the ice sheet make their journey to the sea.
Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during the summer months, as these excursions are incredibly popular and offer a unique perspective on Greenland's raw, natural beauty. For a more adventurous experience, consider kayaking or paddleboarding in the fjord. This allows for an even more intimate connection with the environment, gliding silently between ice formations.
However, due to the cold temperatures and dynamic ice conditions, it's crucial to do this with a reputable guide who can ensure your safety and provide the best experience. Hiking Adventures: Conquering Ukkusissat and Beyond
This steep ascent is considered a rite of passage for new residents and offers a rewarding sense of accomplishment along with breathtaking panoramic vistas of Nuuk and the surrounding fjord. The hike typically takes between 4 to 6 hours round trip, so be prepared for a substantial effort. Beyond Ukkusissat, the mountains surrounding Nuuk Fjord offer numerous other hiking opportunities, from shorter, more accessible trails to more demanding routes.
When planning a hike, always prioritize safety. Wear appropriate footwear, carry plenty of water and snacks, and check the weather forecast as conditions can change rapidly. Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time.
The Magic of Ice: Icebergs and Ice Fjords
This is where massive icebergs, having broken off from the Greenland ice sheet, begin their slow journey towards the ocean. Witnessing these colossal, sculpted giants up close is a truly awe-inspiring experience, with each iceberg possessing its own unique shape and hue, from brilliant white to deep, mesmerizing blues. The presence of ice is a defining characteristic of Nuuk Fjord, and it shapes the entire landscape.
+1 Whether you're viewing them from a boat, a kayak, or a hiking trail, the icebergs create a surreal and unforgettable visual spectacle. +1 The sound of cracking ice and the sheer scale of these frozen monoliths are humbling reminders of nature's power and beauty. For a truly unique experience, some tours offer the chance to enjoy a drink with ice harvested directly from glaciers, a testament to the pristine Arctic environment.
Remember that icebergs can be unpredictable, so always maintain a safe viewing distance and follow the guidance of your tour operators. 
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