Why You Need to Travel to Greenland Now
By Michael Bennett, co-founder of Explorer X
I’ve had the opportunity to explore Greenland twice, and it’s not hyperbole to say that each visit was one of the most profound travel experiences I have ever had. The first time I visited was in September 2017; I was so inspired that I returned in early 2018. Both times, I traveled with my business partner at Explorer X, Jake Haupert.
On those adventures, I saw the Northern Lights for the first time — an experience that nearly brought me to tears. I also had the opportunity to embark on a small boat tour of Disko Bay near Ilulissat, where I was able to touch an iceberg — an experience that was equally powerful. I spent time at the remote settlement of Ilimanaq, which is home to fewer than 50 residents, and ate at Koks Restaurant, a Michelin-starred restaurant that has since relocated to another of my favorite destinations, the Faroe Islands.
Hell, Jake and I even got matching tattoos of the Explorer X logo on our forearms at a small tattoo shop in Nuuk. (We are nothing if not committed :)
Both visits were as eye-opening as they were exhilarating. The impact that my travels to Greenland have had on my life is hard to quantify, but I can tell you this: I encourage anyone even considering going to stop thinking and just go. Those friends and clients who have taken me up on that advice have not regretted it.
Greenland has been in the news a lot in the past few months — Be sure to check out this informative recent AFAR article that addresses ‘everything you always wanted to know about Greenland but were afraid to ask’ for more about why. With that article in mind, I wanted to take this opportunity to share 5 reasons why you should seriously consider traveling to Greenland now.
Greenland: An Introduction
Greenland, a vast island under Danish sovereignty, is a land of icy extremes. Its immense ice sheet, covering 80% of its surface, dominates the landscape, leaving coastal fringes of rugged mountains and deep fjords. The Arctic climate brings long, harsh winters and brief, cool summers, with dramatic weather shifts. The Inuit people, the island's primary inhabitants, maintain a rich cultural heritage tied to traditional hunting and fishing. Greenlandic (Kalaallisut) is the official language, alongside Danish. Nuuk, the capital, is a hub of modern life amidst the wilderness. Greenland's economy relies heavily on fishing, while its strategic location and mineral resources attract increasing international interest, particularly amidst the backdrop of climate change and shifting global politics.
Astounding Natural Beauty
Greenland's natural beauty is breathtakingly stark. Towering icebergs calve from colossal glaciers, drifting through deep, sapphire fjords. The midnight sun paints the icy expanse in hues of pink and gold, while the aurora borealis dances across the night sky in vibrant greens and purples. Rugged, snow-capped mountains pierce the horizon, contrasting with the vast, white wilderness. Coastal tundra bursts with wildflowers in the brief summer, attracting Arctic wildlife. The sheer scale of the ice sheet, the deep blue of the glacial meltwater, and the raw, untamed landscape create an unforgettable visual experience.
A Fascinating Mix of Cultures
Greenland's cultural fabric is a blend of ancient Inuit traditions and modern Danish influences. Inuit culture, with its deep connection to the land and sea, persists in language, art, and hunting practices. Kalaallisut, the Inuit language, thrives alongside Danish. Contemporary Greenlandic society embraces modern amenities, yet traditional values remain strong. This mix is visible in everything from architecture to cuisine. You'll find traditional kayaks alongside modern fishing vessels, and hear Greenlandic folk songs alongside contemporary music. This cultural fusion creates a unique and evolving identity, reflecting Greenland's position between tradition and modernity.
A World of Endless Adventures
Greenland offers unparalleled Arctic adventures. Kayaking among icebergs, dog sledding across frozen tundra, and hiking through untouched wilderness are just the beginning. Witnessing the northern lights, spotting whales in fjords, and ice climbing frozen waterfalls provide unforgettable thrills. Remote settlements offer unique cultural experiences, while multi-day treks challenge even seasoned adventurers. The vast, untamed landscape demands respect, but rewards with breathtaking beauty and a sense of profound solitude. From fishing for Arctic char to exploring hidden ice caves, Greenland delivers a raw, immersive adventure unlike any other.
Increased Accessibility
Greenland's aviation landscape is undergoing a transformation with the development of new airports, most notably in Nuuk and Ilulissat. The Nuuk Airport, with its expanded 2,200-meter runway, opened in November 2024 and can accommodate larger aircraft, enabling direct international flights from places like New York and Copenhagen, Denmark. This significantly enhances connectivity, reducing travel times and costs for both residents and tourists. Similarly, the Ilulissat Airport's expected opening in 2026 aims to boost tourism by improving access to the stunning Ilulissat Icefjord.
It should be noted that while these developments bring economic opportunities, they also raise considerations about environmental impact and the balance between progress and preserving Greenland's culture and pristine natural beauty.
Note: Be sure to check out this Skift article for more on the intersection of economic growth and environmental conservation in Greenland.
An Uncertain Future
There are a series of forces and factors that could change Greenland in the foreseeable future. First, it is considering its independence from the Kingdom of Denmark, which would have a myriad of social, political, and economic effects. As mentioned above, the new airport in Nuuk is set to make Greenland much more accessible for travelers – and tourists. And finally, the current US president’s obsession with Greenland for its natural resources and strategic geopolitical location could lead to increased tension and even military action.
The Bottom Line: The Time is Now
Greenland is a remarkable and largely untouristed destination in an era of overtourism. It’s landscapes and scenery – from icebergs to mountains to the Northern Lights – will take your breath away. Engaging with the complex mix of cultures will leave you with profound and exciting questions. And in the birthplace of kayaking, hiking and dogsledding will have your heart pumping.
But it’s also clear that Greenland is on the verge of potentially dramatic change. ‘Change for the better?,’ you ask? Time will tell. But if you want to see the real Greenland before it’s too late, the time to visit may be right now.