Top things to do in Ilulissat in Winter

Winter in Ilulissat is a season of wonder, running from January to the end of April. During these months, snow blankets the ground, the sea freezes in intricate patterns, and the light paints a photographer’s dream. Dress warmly and prepare to explore the magical winter landscape of Ilulissat, home to Greenland’s famous UNESCO World Heritage Site!

Go dogsledding

Greenland is the only place in the world where sled dogs are still used for traditional purposes, making dogsledding an integral part of its culture. By booking a dogsledding tour, visitors help preserve this ancient mode of transportation. Glide through the snowy landscape behind a team of eager dogs, listening only to the rhythmic panting and the swish of the sled runners.

Tours range from short excursions lasting a few hours to adventurous overnight trips, each offering an unforgettable way to experience Ilulissat’s winter wilderness.

Experience the Northern Lights

Few things compare to witnessing the Aurora Borealis dancing across the Arctic skies. In Ilulissat, clear nights often bring auroral displays, with shimmering curtains of light in hues of green, purple, and pink.

While the Northern Lights can sometimes be seen from town, darker locations offer the best viewing conditions. Join a tour to escape the city lights, or combine aurora viewing with other adventures such as sailing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling for an extraordinary Arctic experience.

Try snowmobiling

For a faster-paced adventure, embrace the thrill of snowmobiling in Ilulissat. Snowmobiles allow you to cover longer distances quickly, offering spectacular views of Disko Bay and the surrounding mountains. Depending on conditions, routes may include the backcountry near Ilulissat, visits to the settlement of Oqaatsut, or even nighttime trips under the Northern Lights.

No prior experience is necessary, and your guide will ensure your trip is both safe and exhilarating.

Explore on snowshoes

If you enjoy hiking, snowshoeing is a fantastic way to explore Ilulissat’s winter terrain. These oversized shoes help you stay atop the snow, and once you get the hang of them, you can comfortably trek across the frozen landscape.

Popular snowshoeing tours include visits to the traditional settlement of Sermermiut and the Icefjord, both part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also join excursions that venture beyond city lights, combining the beauty of winter hiking with Northern Lights viewing.

Immerse yourself in Greenlandic culture

Winter in Ilulissat is not just about outdoor adventures – it is also a time to experience Greenlandic traditions. New Year’s Eve is a spectacular celebration, marked by two impressive fireworks displays: one at 9:00 PM for Danish New Year and another, even grander, at midnight for Greenlandic New Year.

Stay into January to experience Mitaarfik on January 6th. This Inuit tradition sees locals donning elaborate and spooky costumes, going door-to-door in silent visits. Guests try to guess the identities behind the disguises, adding a playful twist to this ancient custom.

Even in the earlier winter months, there are plenty of cultural experiences to enjoy. Join a Kaffemik (a traditional Greenlandic gathering) with a local family, learn about the National Costume from the Women’s Association, or see how seal skins are processed.

Plan your visit

Ilulissat offers countless opportunities to make the most of winter. Whether you prefer the adrenaline of snowmobiling, the tranquility of snowshoeing, or the magic of Northern Lights tours, there is something for everyone.

To explore all the available tours in Ilulissat, see here and select the month of your visit. Winter in Ilulissat is more than a season – it is an unforgettable Arctic adventure!

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