Whether you want an off-the-grid adventure amid ice fjords or cultural discovery with the comfort of a cruise, there’s plenty to see in this northern outpost.
Upernavik is the perfect destination for travelers who want to experience the rugged beauty of the Greenlandic north without straying too far from a lively township. With a name that translates to the Springtime Place, the town has long been associated with Inuit traditions of ice fishing and hunting for sea mammals. Cruise around iceberg-flecked waters on a fishing trip or experience a kayaking expedition with an Inuit guide and traverse the mesmerizing waters of the Upernavik Icefjord. Explore the snowy slopes of the surrounding mountains with the northern lights guiding your path.
Explore the heart of town to find the world’s northernmost open-air museum, which tells of the town’s colonial history and Viking heritage. In summer, witness the muskox-hunting season in the backcountry regions of Upernavik. Don’t miss exploring the Upernavik Archipelago and the pristine waters of Baffin Bay. See thousands of islands interspersed with icebergs stretching off into the distance as you kayak or sail around the waterways. Go island hopping to visit outlying villages and learn about the different dialects from island to island. Cruise north to see the monumental Upernavik Icefjord up close or head south to see Apparsuit, the world’s largest bird cliffs.
In winter, you can explore the icy terrain by dogsled or snowmobile. Check out the inland river systems and warm up with a meal of freshly caught grilled trout or Arctic char.
The town does not have a hotel, but there is a range of guesthouses that accommodate visitors year-round and present the chance to enjoy warm local hospitality.
Upernavik can be reached by cruise boat or by small propeller plane to a hilltop airport that overlooks the town. Fly into Upernavik from the international airport in Kangerlussuaq. Visit the town in winter to experience the magic of the northern lights or in summer to make the most of endless daylight hours. The town has plenty of maritime traffic in the summertime and convenient connections to some of the surrounding tourist destinations.
