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All the things you can do in Ilulissat in 2025
Just saying “Ilulissat” might send a chill of excitement through you. The name alone evokes visions of towering icebergs drifting through deep-blue waters under a sun that never quite sets. Tucked along Greenland’s rugged west coast, this small town punches far above its weight in wonder. Home to the UNESCO-listed Icefjord and rich Inuit traditions, it’s an adventure hub in every season. From kayaking beneath glowing skies to dogsledding through silent snowscapes, Ilulissat doesn’t just impress - it leaves a mark. Here’s your guide to what to do in and around Ilulissat and Disko Bay (Avannaata), plus tips to help you plan your Arctic escape. Bundle up, the adventure starts now.
Things to do in Ilulissat during the summer
Between June and August, Ilulissat comes alive under the midnight sun. The light lingers endlessly, and massive icebergs parade through Disko Bay in shimmering blues. With temps hovering between 5–15°C (41–60°F), it’s prime time to be outside. Here’s how to make the most of summer here:
Cruise the icefjord & spot whales
Hop on a boat and weave between iceberg giants -some as tall as 100 meters. From the water, you’ll feel dwarfed by nature’s frozen sculptures. Keep your camera ready: humpback whales love this bay, especially in July. Their tail flips and deep breaths echo off the ice. A guided whale safari ups your odds of close encounters and lets you learn about local species like fin and minke whales.
Kayak beneath the midnight sun
This isn’t just paddling; it’s paddling with history. The Inuit invented the kayak, and gliding silently among icebergs at midnight with the sun still hanging low feels both ancient and surreal. Calm evenings are ideal, and you might just float past seals or hear a whale’s breath nearby. Just dress warmly — the water stays icy, even in July.
Hike to Sermermuit
Prefer to stay on land? Start with the wooden boardwalk to Sermermiut, once home to generations of Inuit. It’s an easy stroll through tundra blooms to a breathtaking Icefjord viewpoint. Listen for the cracks of calving icebergs below. More adventurous? Try the marked yellow or blue trails looping through the hills. You might catch a glimpse of an Arctic fox or hare — and yes, you can hike at 10pm and still have daylight.
Explore Ilulissat from above
A scenic flight over the Icefjord offers a whole new perspective. From above, the vast Sermeq Kujalleq glacier — one of the world’s fastest — looks like a shattered puzzle of ice and snow. Some tours include glacier landings or detours over the ice sheet. Not cheap, but absolutely unforgettable. Aim for a clear day and sit by the window.
Visit the Arctic villages
Want to see how people live in this remote region? Oqaatsut and Ilimanaq are tiny coastal settlements just a boat ride away. Oqaatsut, with its sled dogs and colorful houses, feels like stepping into a postcard. Ilimanaq blends history with modern touches — think 1700s buildings and a luxury eco-lodge. Whether you hike, boat, or kayak there, these side trips offer a rich peek into Greenlandic daily life.
And that’s just the start. You can fish, camp, or simply sit and watch the midnight sun light up icebergs like stained glass. No wonder adventurers around the world are drawn here.
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Winter activities to do in Ilulissat and Disko Bay
From November through March, Ilulissat transforms into something out of a dream. The cold deepens, the days shorten, and the silence becomes almost sacred. If you’re ready for Arctic winter’s magic, here’s what to look forward to:
Dogsledding like a local
This isn’t a tourist trap - it’s a way of life. Ride alongside local mushers across frozen landscapes, led by teams of howling Greenlandic huskies. Whether you’re out for an hour or a full-day trek, it’s raw, real, and unforgettable. Bundle up tight - the wind bites, but the scenery makes it worthwhile.
Chase the Northern Lights
Ilulissat’s long nights are perfect for aurora hunting. Between September and April, chances are high, especially if the skies are clear and cold. Tour operators can take you out of town for even darker skies. Bring a tripod and patience. When those green ribbons start to shimmer across the bay, it’s nothing short of magic.
Snowmobiles, snowshoes and Skiing
Snowmobiling offers speed and access to remote fjords, while snowshoeing lets you quietly explore the backcountry, hearing only your crunching steps and the distant creak of ice. Cross-country skiing is popular with locals — if you're up for a physical challenge, it’s a great way to experience the stillness.
Icefishing, the traditional way
Join a local and learn how they fish through sea ice — halibut or cod are the usual catch. Getting there might involve a snowmobile ride or a sled. It's cold, quiet, and surprisingly peaceful — just dress for hours on the ice.
Simply... Watch the icefjord
In winter, the Icefjord is hauntingly still. Icebergs may be locked in sea ice, buried in snow, glowing under a pale sky. Walk out to a viewpoint, sip hot tea, and soak in the otherworldly quiet. Later, visit the Icefjord Centre to warm up and dive deeper into the science and stories of this frozen realm.
Winter in Ilulissat isn’t easy. Storms, delays, and deep cold are part of the deal, but those who come in winter often leave the most changed.
Understanding the seasons
The chart below shows at a glance which adventures shine under Ilulissat’s midnight‑sun summers and which come alive in its aurora‑lit winters, helping you match your travel dates to the experiences you care about most.
Culture & Community in Ilulissat
Ilulissat’s natural wonders may steal the show, but don’t overlook the town’s culture and history – experiencing these is just as rewarding. This is a living Inuit community of about 4,700 people, and spending time with the local culture will enrich your visit beyond the postcard views. Here are some cultural things to do in Ilulissat and ways to connect with Greenlandic life:
Explore the Ilulissat Icefjord Centre:
Opened in 2021, the Ilulissat Icefjord Centre (Ilulissat Kangia Center) is a stunning new museum and visitor center right at the edge of town, dedicated to the icefjord’s story. The building itself is an architectural gem – a curved wooden structure that almost looks like a wing or wave rising from the landscape. Inside, you’ll find interactive exhibits about the geology of ice, the history of the Sermermiut Inuit settlement, and how climate change is impacting Greenland. It’s a perfect first stop to give context to all those icebergs you’ll see. You can even walk on the center’s sloping roof, which forms the start of the boardwalk trail to the Icefjord!
The Icefjord Centre also has a cafe and often hosts cultural events or films, and it’s a meeting point for guided hikes. It’s open year-round (with shorter hours in winter), offering a warm refuge on cold days and loads of fascinating information. Don’t miss it – you’ll come away with a deeper understanding of why this area is so special.
Visit the museums (Ilulissat Museum & Art Museum):
For a town its size, Ilulissat has some noteworthy museums. The Ilulissat Museum is set in the former home of Arctic explorer Knud Rasmussen – one of Ilulissat’s most famous sons. The museum showcases local history, traditional clothing, tools, and exhibits on polar expeditions (Rasmussen’s sled journeys are legendary). You’ll learn about Inuit culture, colonial-era Greenland, and see artifacts like kayaks and dog sleds.
An annex focuses on the archaeology of Sermermiut and the different indigenous cultures that have inhabited the area for 4,000+ years Just above the harbor, the small Ilulissat Art Museum is worth a look too. It’s in a historic building (the old colony manager’s house) and features a collection of paintings by Emanuel A. Petersen, a Danish artist known for Greenland landscapes. His vintage paintings of icebergs and village life are beautiful, and the museum often has contemporary exhibitions as well. These museums are modest but provide great insight into Greenlandic art, history and daily life – a nice complement to the outdoor adventures.
See Zion’s Church and meet the sled dogs:
Strolling through town, you’ll undoubtedly notice Zion’s Church, a charming wooden church (dating to 1779) down by the waterfront. It’s one of the most photographed buildings in Ilulissat, and for good reason – its dark timber frame and white belfry make a striking contrast with the bright icebergs floating in Disko Bay behind it. The church isn’t regularly open to tourists except during services, but you can walk around it and read the plaques (and snap that iconic photo). From the church, take a walk along the harbor docks to watch local life: fishermen unloading halibut, locals zipping by on snowmobiles or ATVs, and row upon row of sled dogs lounging just outside town. Ilulissat’s sled dogs are a cultural hallmark – there are hundreds of Greenlandic huskies here. In summer, you’ll see them chained in designated dog areas on the hills, resting and howling in chorus at feeding time. While they might look cute, remember these are working dogs, not pets; ask a local musher if you want a closer look or to pet puppies.
Some tours or hotels offer kennel visits where you can learn about dog keeping and even cuddle the fluffy pups (spring is puppy season!). Hearing the eerie howls of sled dogs echoing at night reminds you that you’re truly in the Arctic.
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Take a town walking tour (and try a Kaffemik):
One highly recommended thing to do early in your trip is a guided city walk around Ilulissat. A local guide will show you landmarks like the fish market, the old colonial harbor, the power plant (interesting in a place with no roads to the outside world), and historic buildings, all while sharing stories. You’ll gain context about how people live here – from education and healthcare to how groceries arrive by ship. Such a tour helps you get your bearings and appreciate that Ilulissat is not just icebergs, but a vibrant town with supermarkets, schools, and sleds parked outside. Many guides are born-and-raised locals happy to answer questions. Often, a city tour might end with a Kaffemik, which is a traditional Greenlandic social gathering.
If you get the chance to attend a Kaffemik with a local family – jump at it! It usually involves visiting someone’s home for coffee, tea, and lots of cake and pastries, in honor of a celebration (birthdays, etc.) or sometimes just because. It’s informal and super friendly; you’ll sit in the living room, chat (most Greenlanders speak at least some English), and experience true Greenlandic hospitality. Over coffee, you might hear personal stories or perspectives on life in the Arctic, making for a rich cultural exchange. Sharing a Kaffemik is often a trip highlight for visitors because it’s so genuine and heartwarming.
If a full Kaffemik isn’t available, you can still sample local foods at restaurants – try Greenlandic specialties like reindeer, muskox, or “suaasat” (soup) at eateries like Restaurant Mamartut or the Hotel Icefiord restaurant. And pop into the few souvenir shops in town for handicrafts like tupilak figurines or sealskin products, often handmade by local artisans.
Immersing yourself in Ilulissat’s culture will give you a deeper appreciation of the land and the people who call it home. As much as the icebergs wow you, it’s the human stories and warm community that round out the experience. So take the time between adventures to enjoy a slower pace in town: chat with a shop owner, watch a local soccer game at the field, or simply enjoy a Greenlandic beer at a cafe with a view of the harbor. You’ll find that Ilulissat’s cultural experiences are humble but very rewarding – a beautiful blend of tradition and modern Arctic life.
What is the best time to visit Ilulissat?
The best time depends on what you want:
- Summer (June–Sept): Midnight sun, whale watching, kayaking, and hiking. High season — book early.
- Winter (Dec–Mar): Dog sledding, Northern Lights, snow adventures. February–April offers balance: longer days, deep snow, and auroras.
- Shoulder seasons (Apr–May, Oct–Nov): Fewer tourists and lower prices, but limited tours and unpredictable weather.
Want a sweet spot? Late March or late September — good light, fewer crowds, and still plenty to do.
How to get to Ilulissat
Despite Ilulissat’s remote location above the Arctic Circle, getting there has become relatively straightforward – though still an adventure. There are no roads connecting Ilulissat to other towns (or to anywhere, for that matter), so you’ll be arriving by air or sea. Here’s how to reach Ilulissat:
Flying to Ilulissat
Most travelers fly into Ilulissat. Air Greenland operates daily domestic flights from Greenland’s primary hub Kangerlussuaq (SFJ) to Ilulissat Airport (JAV). If you’re coming from outside Greenland, you’ll typically first fly to Kangerlussuaq – which has direct flights from Copenhagen, Denmark several times a week – then connect to Ilulissat on a 45-minute propeller plane flight. (Enjoy the view from the window: you’ll pass over endless icecaps and coastlines on the way!) There are also flights from Nuuk (Greenland’s capital) to Ilulissat, often stopping in Kangerlussuaq as well.
When you arrive in Ilulissat, you’ll land at a tiny airport just a few kilometers from town. Taxis meet flights, and many hotels offer transfers. The airport road literally ends at the runway – from there it’s a short drive into the heart of town. Stepping off the plane or boat, you’ll be greeted by crisp Arctic air and likely a view of icebergs in the bay as a welcome sight. Welcome to Ilulissat!
In the summer, an exciting option is the seasonal direct flight from Iceland to Ilulissat: Air Greenland (in partnership with Icelandair) has routes from Keflavík International (KEF) to Ilulissat, usually a few times a week in summer.
Traveling to Ilulissat by boat
The other way to reach Ilulissat is by boat or ship. The Arctic Umiaq Line runs a passenger ferry, the Sarfaq Ittuk, along Greenland’s west coast from Qaqortoq (in the far south) all the way up to Ilulissat, weekly during summer. It’s essentially a coastal voyage that takes about 4–5 days end-to-end (Nuuk to Ilulissat is ~2.5 days). The ferry is basic but comfortable, with cabins and a cafeteria. It’s a leisurely, scenic route – you’ll stop at coastal towns and sail through fjords, possibly spotting whales. If you have the time, it’s a memorable way to arrive in Disko Bay.
In winter, the ferry doesn’t run all the way north due to sea ice. Another possibility is arriving on an expedition cruise ship. Many cruises around Greenland include Ilulissat as a port of call, especially in summer. You might embark in Canada, Iceland, or southern Greenland and disembark in Ilulissat (or vice versa).
Let us help plan you trip to Ilulissat, start here by getting in touch
How long should you stay in Ilulissat?
With so many experiences on offer, you might be wondering how many days to allocate for Ilulissat. The town itself isn’t huge, but the adventures surrounding it can easily fill up a week or more if you’re keen. Most travelers find that 3–4 full days in Ilulissat is the sweet spot, allowing time for an Icefjord boat tour, a hike, a cultural walk, and maybe an extra activity like kayaking or a flightseeing trip. In fact, travel experts often say Ilulissat “deserves at least a three-day stay” on any Greenland itinerary, given its significance and the number of must-do experiences.
Here’s a rough guide:
Also consider your overall Greenland trip: If you’re only visiting one place in Greenland, Ilulissat is perfect to spend the bulk of your time. If you’re touring multiple places (say Nuuk, Ilulissat, and South Greenland), allocate accordingly. Remember that flights between towns eat up at least half a day with check-in, etc.
One more thing – plan some buffer time if possible. Weather can delay your inbound or outbound flight (especially in winter or if flying via coastal helicopters). Spending an extra day in Ilulissat rather than missing your international connection is the way to go! And frankly, having an unscheduled day to just wander, watch icebergs from your hotel, or revisit your favorite spot is a joy. Many people fall in love with Ilulissat’s vibe and wish they had more time.
In summary, aim for 3–5 days in Ilulissat for a well-rounded experience of nature and culture. If you’re an avid photographer, adventurer, or just don’t want to feel rushed, lean towards the longer end. It’s not often you get to chill out (literally) next to a field of icebergs – so savor it.
What to pack for your trip to Ilulissat?
Packing for Ilulissat requires some thought – Greenland’s climate can be unpredictable and often colder than you expect, even in summer. The key is layers and good outerwear so you can adjust to changing conditions. Also remember that there are limited shopping options in Ilulissat, so it’s best to come prepared with the essentials. Here are some packing tips for both summer and winter:
Screenshot, print, or copy this grid into your own checklist before zipping up your bag. And remember: wearing your bulkiest boots and jacket on the plane both beats airline weight limits and gets you Greenland‑ready the second you land.
Why Ilulissat deserves your bucket list
Ilulissat isn’t just another travel destination – it’s a place that touches your soul. Where else can you watch the birth of icebergs the size of skyscrapers, or hear the howl of sled dogs echo across a frozen bay? Each day in Ilulissat offers moments that make you pinch yourself: the golden glow on an iceberg at midnight, the hearty laughter of locals sharing stories at a Kaffemik, the thrill when a whale breaches next to your boat, or the silence of a polar night broken only by the crack of distant ice. It’s no wonder this town has become Greenland’s “only real tourism hotspot,” as CNN Travel noted, yet it never feels overrun – it’s remote and authentic in a way that adventurous travelers cherish.
By now, you’ve seen that the things to do in Ilulissat span both summer and winter, nature and culture, adrenaline and tranquility. You can tailor the trip to your interests – be it hardcore trekking or cozy cultural immersion – or better yet, enjoy a bit of everything. And if you’re looking to explore beyond Ilulissat, the whole Disko Bay and Avannaata region beckons with possibilities, from the volcanic landscapes of Disko Island to the northerly charm of Uummannaq.
One of the best aspects of traveling here is how friendly and proud the locals are – you’ll likely leave with new friends or at least fond encounters, gaining insight into life in the Arctic. Tourism is growing, and facilities are improving (with new airports and hotels on the horizon), but Ilulissat still retains a wild, end-of-the-world feel. It’s safe, walkable, and welcoming to visitors, yet thrillingly different from anywhere else you’ve been.
Ilulissat inspires: It inspires photographers, nature lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone who’s ever dreamed of the far north. As you stand at the Ilulissat Icefjord viewpoint, gazing at those endless ice sculptures glowing in the low sun, you might feel a profound connection to our planet – its past (eons of ice), its present (climate changes visible in real-time), and its sheer capacity to awe. Many travelers come away describing their trip as life-changing or at least life-affirming.
If you’re ready to answer the call of the Arctic, Raw Arctic is here to make your dream trip a reality. We offer extensive expertise in Greenland – whether you want guided tours hitting all the highlights, or prefer to create your own custom Greenland tour packages. (For instance, we can craft a private Disko Bay itinerary focusing on exactly the experiences you desire, be it kayaking with icebergs or spending a night at a remote lodge – check out our custom tour packages to get started) We’re also constantly expanding our offerings: keep an eye on our coming soon page for upcoming Ilulissat and Disko Bay tours in development. Our passion is to share Greenland’s raw beauty with you in a genuine, responsible way.
Ilulissat truly is the crown jewel of Greenland’s tourism for a reason. It’s accessible yet adventurous, developed yet deeply connected to nature and tradition. From summer’s endless daylight to winter’s aurora nights, there’s never a bad time to visit – only different flavors of an Arctic paradise. So pack your camera, your curiosity, and your sense of wonder, and set course for Ilulissat. Wander among the icebergs, play with the sled dogs, dance under the Northern Lights, and let this special corner of the world ignite your spirit of exploration.
Qassuserpoq – that’s “bon voyage/have fun” in Greenlandic. We can’t wait to hear about the incredible things you do in Ilulissat and the memories you’ll make. Safe travels, and welcome to the adventure of a lifetime in Disko Bay!
