Scoresby Sound
Scoresby Sound: Greenland's vast, majestic fjord system, famed for colossal icebergs, dramatic glaciers, and the remote village of Ittoqqortoormiit.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for boat access & milder weather
Scoresby Sound
Best Time
Best for boat access & milder weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scoresby Sound: Greenland's vast, majestic fjord system, famed for colossal icebergs, dramatic glaciers, and the remote village of Ittoqqortoormiit.
"It is great! Also because I own all this ice, but it is still very good!"
Anchor with Care
Navigational charts can be imprecise; anchor with caution and be aware of icebergs. :ocean:
Polar Bear Safety
Polar bears are present and are the top predators. Stay vigilant and informed. :bear:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scoresby Sund Fjords
Explore a labyrinth of stunning fjords, ice shelves, and colossal icebergs. A true Arctic wonderland.

Ittoqqortoormiit Village
Experience life in the world's northernmost settlement, a gateway to the sound's wonders.

Glacier Fronts
Witness the immense power of glaciers calving into the sea, a breathtaking display of nature.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Greenland's Majestic Fjords
Experiencing Ittoqqortoormiit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Last summer voyage through Scoresby Sound to King Oscar Fjord and back along the eastern coast of Greenland
Anchor with Care
Navigational charts can be imprecise; anchor with caution and be aware of icebergs. :ocean:
Polar Bear Safety
Polar bears are present and are the top predators. Stay vigilant and informed. :bear:
Sailing the Kangertittivaq fjord / the Scoresby Sound and the eastern coast of Greenland north into the Arctic
Yours truly in Scoresbysund near Ittoqqortoormiit yesterday [OC]
Resupply at Ittoqqortoormiit
The village has a shop for essential supplies. :shopping_cart:
Embrace the Pace
Take your time exploring the sund; it's a vast and awe-inspiring place. :stopwatch:
Just got back! Polar Bears seen yesterday in Scoresbysund near Ittoqqortoormiit [OC]
Tips
from all over the internet
Anchor with Care
Navigational charts can be imprecise; anchor with caution and be aware of icebergs. :ocean:
Polar Bear Safety
Polar bears are present and are the top predators. Stay vigilant and informed. :bear:
Resupply at Ittoqqortoormiit
The village has a shop for essential supplies. :shopping_cart:
Embrace the Pace
Take your time exploring the sund; it's a vast and awe-inspiring place. :stopwatch:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Scoresby Sound is lauded as a truly fantastic and beautiful fjord system, offering a unique Arctic experience. Visitors appreciate the immense scale of the icebergs and the opportunity to visit the remote settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit. However, the challenging navigation due to imprecise charts and potential fog requires constant vigilance, and the presence of polar bears is a significant safety consideration.
"Approaching East Greenland in August from Svalbard by boat takes 5 days. Entering Scoresby Sund and visit Ittoqqortoormitt. No harbour, need anchoring. There is a shop in village to refill your supplies. Explore the sund, take your time. Some nice anchorplaces, but Terra Incognita, navigational charts are not precise. Watch out for floating icebergs, in particular when fog. Polarbears are present and no.1 predators! Enjoy."
Adrian Birrer
"It is great! Also because I own all this ice, but it is still very good!"
Teodora J
"Another fantastic fjord if that your thing. I love the beauty of the worlds fjords."
Dennis Blum
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to Scoresby Sound is primarily by boat, often as part of expeditions from Svalbard or other Arctic regions. The journey itself can take around 5 days.
There are no direct flights into Scoresby Sound itself. The closest settlement with an airport is Ittoqqortoormiit, which has limited flight connections.
The main entry point is the settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit, which serves as a gateway to the extensive fjord system.
Yes, many visitors arrive via organized expedition cruises that navigate the fjords and visit Ittoqqortoormiit. These tours handle the complex logistics.
Exploring the fjords is best done by boat, whether on a larger expedition vessel or a smaller zodiac for closer access to glaciers and icebergs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While no specific 'entry ticket' is required for the sound itself, access is typically managed through expedition cruise bookings, which include permits and fees.
Ittoqqortoormiit is a living community, so there are no set 'opening hours.' However, the local shop has specific operating times for resupply.
Generally, there are no specific entrance fees for natural areas within the sound. Costs are associated with expedition tours and any services used in Ittoqqortoormiit.
Due to the remote nature and limited expedition options, booking 6-12 months in advance is highly recommended, especially for peak season.
Independent travel is extremely challenging due to navigational hazards, lack of infrastructure, and safety concerns (like polar bears). Expedition cruises are the most common and safest method.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect to see abundant marine life, seabirds, and the possibility of polar bears on land or ice. Whales are also present in the waters.
Walking on glaciers requires expert guidance and proper equipment due to crevasses and unstable ice. It's best done with experienced guides on organized tours.
The primary challenges are floating icebergs, fog, and the imprecision of navigational charts. Constant vigilance is required.
Pack warm, waterproof, and windproof layers, sturdy waterproof boots, gloves, hats, and sunglasses. Binoculars are also recommended for wildlife viewing.
Mobile reception is extremely limited to non-existent within the sound. Satellite communication is typically used on expedition vessels.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options are very limited in Ittoqqortoormiit, often consisting of a small cafe or restaurant. Most visitors rely on their expedition ship for meals.
Yes, there is a shop in Ittoqqortoormiit where you can purchase basic supplies and some local products.
Yes, meals are typically included on expedition cruises, offering a range of options prepared onboard.
Traditional Greenlandic cuisine often features seafood (fish, shrimp, whale) and game (reindeer, musk ox), though modern influences are also present.
Fishing is a traditional activity, but for visitors, it's usually part of organized excursions or done by locals. Check with your expedition provider.
📸 📸 Photography
Icebergs of all shapes and sizes, dramatic fjord landscapes, glaciers, wildlife (birds, seals, potentially polar bears), and the unique settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit are prime subjects.
A wide-angle lens for landscapes, a telephoto lens for wildlife, a sturdy tripod, and plenty of spare batteries (cold drains them faster) are recommended. A waterproof camera or housing is also wise.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for landscapes. However, the dramatic Arctic light can be stunning at any time, especially with fog or unique ice formations.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but always be respectful of the environment and wildlife. Avoid disturbing animals or damaging fragile ecosystems.
Include a human element (if safe and appropriate) or a smaller object in the frame to provide a sense of scale. Shooting from different angles and elevations can also emphasize size.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
Expedition Cruisers
Embrace the adventure and be prepared for variable weather. The beauty of expedition cruising here is that the experts handle the complex navigation and safety protocols, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning Arctic scenery and the thrill of discovery.
Geology Enthusiasts
Focus on understanding the glacial processes at play. Look for evidence of past ice movements, erosion patterns, and the ongoing impact of climate change on these massive ice bodies. Expedition cruises often have onboard geologists or naturalists who can provide invaluable insights into the region's geological history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Ice Labyrinth
The sheer scale of the ice formations is a major draw, with visitors often describing the experience as otherworldly. The fjords themselves are incredibly deep and carved by ancient glaciers, creating dramatic cliffs and sheltered anchorages. Planning a trip during the Arctic summer, particularly August, is often recommended for the best chances of accessible navigation and slightly milder weather conditions, though Arctic weather can change rapidly.
The Charm of Ittoqqortoormiit
Exploring Ittoqqortoormiit allows travelers to interact with the local culture and understand the challenges and beauty of living in such an isolated environment. The community is the primary human element within the vast, wild landscape of Scoresby Sound, serving as a vital hub for those venturing into the fjords.
Wildlife Encounters and Safety
Polar bears are the apex predators of this region, and their presence necessitates a high level of caution. Travelers are strongly advised to be aware of their surroundings, especially when ashore or near the coast. Expedition leaders and guides are trained to manage these encounters safely, ensuring both human and animal well-being. Respecting their habitat and maintaining a safe distance is paramount for a responsible visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit