Experiences in Ilulissat
Welcome to World of Greenland's tour universe. Here you will find the best experiences in Ilulissat, operated by ourselves or other handpicked local operators. We take responsibility for your trip from start to finish, and look forward to welcoming you to Ilulissat.
Welcome to Ilulissat
Ilulissat was founded in 1741 and was previously called Jakobshavn. Ilulissat is the capital of Avannaata Kommunia, which means the northern municipality. The entire municipality has a population of approx. 10,650. In Ilulissat itself there are approx. 4,500 inhabitants and 1,500 sled dogs.
Ilulissat is located about 300 km north of the Arctic Circle. Therefore, there is midnight sun from about May 20 to July 20. In addition, winter darkness begins at the end of November and lasts until the sun returns on January 13. During this period, we have the most beautiful pastel-colored skies and some of the finest northern lights in the world.
Experience the midnight sun, the Ice Sheet, giant icebergs and calving glaciers. Experience whales, seals, sled dogs, permafrost and the northern lights. A world so far from your everyday life that the experience becomes an adventure.
Greenland is big, and there are many beautiful and exciting places to visit. But there is nowhere where the experience is as complete as here in Ilulissat – the town by the Icefjord.
Ilulissat offers experiences by helicopter, boat, dog sled, snowmobile and on foot. An area so beautiful and unique that UNESCO listed it as a World Heritage Site in 2007.
The hinterland is incredibly beautiful, and in winter, when the snow cover has settled, there are opportunities for sledding, snowmobiling, skiing and snowshoeing.
Although Ilulissat itself is amazing, even greater experiences await those who dare to venture a little further from Ilulissat, and out into Disko Bay. Out here, away from the crowds, you will experience a different, more authentic side of Greenland. Visit our lodges, each with a focus to convey and a story to tell about our beautiful country.
Welcome to Ilulissat – the land of adventurers.
Read more about Summer Excursions
Read more about Winter excursions
Sustainability
Sustainability and consideration are part of our DNA.
We are a Greenlandic company with a Greenlandic CVR. This means, among other things, that all our corporate tax and personal tax are paid locally in Avannaata Municipality. It also means that everything we do is based on the local environment and commitment.
In our lodges, we have, among other things, installed our own solar panels, which supply us with green electricity; we have marked hiking routes in the lodge areas, to protect the fragile Arctic nature; and we have a goal of being 100% free of single-use plastic. In addition, we employ local labor to the best extent possible, and every year we offer internships to guide students or service economists from the Greenlandic tourism school Campus Kujalleq.
We believe that locally rooted projects and democratic community participation will create a fertile ground for sustainable growth in the company and in local as well as national development. We are happy to contribute to society with a helping hand, sponsorship support and social responsibility. We are members of the Greenland Business Association, and we always actively participate in labor market council meetings and municipal strategic planning. We involve ourselves in the local culture, both as a company and in our free time, and we are always available with ideas and thoughts.
Highlights - recommended tours in Ilulissat
Dog sledding
The dog sled is a deeply rooted symbol of Greenland, and has an incredible history spanning over 2000 years.
The image of dogs harnessed to a simple wooden sled has become synonymous with Greenland. The hiss of the sleds against the packed snow and the creaking of the lashings as the sled twists with the terrain break the total silence. The experience cannot be explained – it must be experienced.
Experience the Northern Lights
The Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights, is undoubtedly the most spectacular phenomenon in the night sky.
When dark evenings arrive with clear skies, there is a magical event that often unfolds over Ilulissat – the breathtaking Northern Lights. Join us on a short tour that takes you away from the city’s worst light pollution and out into the darker areas. This is where the darkness is most intense. Under the starry sky, your guide will tell you a lot about how this phenomenon occurs, while a welcome hot drink is served.
Go hiking
There are many exciting hikes in the area near Ilulissat.
Hiking is most popular in the summer from June to September, due to the harsh, arctic conditions. However, some of the most popular hiking routes can easily be hiked all year round. We have compiled the most popular hikes below.
Go on boat trips
There are many exciting sailing trips in the area.
Due to the harsh conditions, most sailing trips only take place during the summer period from June to the end of September. We have compiled the most popular boat trips departing from the capital of Disko Bay, Ilulissat, in the list below.
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Ilulissat?
You can only get to Ilulissat by plane or ship.
There are direct flights from Iceland with AirIceland. If you travel to Greenland from Copenhagen in Denmark, you will need to stop in Kangerlussuaq, and from there take a small propeller plane to Ilulissat.
How many days should I stay in Ilulissat?
You can easily spend a week in Ilulissat. The area offers many different activities within hiking, sailing, culture and flightseeing.
We strongly recommend that you also venture out of town to explore the nearby areas, such as our lodge areas in Eqi, Ilimanaq and Nalluarsuk.
When is the best time to visit Ilulissat?
There are exciting things to see in Ilulissat all year round.
World of Greenland is one of the few operators that offers excursions all year round.
In the summer we have many visitors and a great variety of activities. We have mild temperatures, whales, midnight sun and good opportunities for sailing and hiking.
In the fall and early winter we have some of the deepest darkness and the most beautiful northern lights. These are the least busy months, but you can still go on short hikes, go ice fjord sailing, fly helicopters and visit local residents. Visit Ilulissat in the fall for a very authentic Greenland experience and experience the calming darkness.
From February the spring season begins, offering winter adventures such as dog sledding, snowmobile tours and our popular Igloo Lodge. Icefjord sailing is also usually possible during this period, as are helicopter tours, northern lights tours and visits to locals.
All seasons have something special to offer.
What should I bring on my trip to Greenland?
At World of Greenland, we know that the right clothing is crucial for a top-notch experience.
If you are unsure about what to pack for your Greenland trip, you can find a selection of different packing lists and good advice on Greenland Travel's website here.
