Greenland is an autonomous country within the Kingdom of Denmark. Geographically, it is an Arctic island country connected to the North American continent, but historically it has had close ties to Europe. Greenland is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the southeast, the Greenland Sea to the east, the Arctic Ocean to the north, and Baffin Bay to the west.
About 81% of Greenland's surface is covered by ice, known as the Greenland Ice Sheet, and the weight of the ice has compressed the continent's central landmass into a basin that lies less than 300 m below sea level. Almost all Greenlanders live along glacial fjords in the southwest of the main island, where the climate is milder.
Summer in Greenland
Greenland does not have four distinct seasons, but only two main seasons: a long winter (from October to May) and a short summer (from June to September).
Greenland's summer comes late and goes quickly. It's not until June that the weather really changes. This is when the ice and snow begin to melt and temperatures rise significantly.
Greenland is a large land mass, so the temperature varies from region to region, the further south you go the warmer the climate gets. Temperatures in Greenland are usually quite low, but the air in the summer is drier, giving a feeling of warmth. The climate here is quite erratic, changing constantly from day to day and is difficult to determine specifically.
The most obvious thing about the summer in Greenland is the change in the landscape. The mountain peaks change from white to grey and then gradually become green. The glaciers begin to melt and flow down the fjords in waterfalls. Large icebergs gradually break away from the glacial fjords and drift out to sea. Flowers bloom, and animals leave their winter habitats to enjoy the warm sunshine. Birds fly in the sky, and the calm seas become more bustling with the return of fish.
Summer also brings new life to the people of Greenland. This can be considered the busiest time of the year. The further north you go, the longer the days become, the sun shines even though the clock has struck midnight. People work harder, children play without paying too much attention to the time. Summer is also the time for picnics, whether camping or rafting on the glacier.
Summer Experience
Greenland welcomes tourists all year round. Each season offers a different experience. The cold winters bring snow and ice, perfect for hiking and skiing, while the warmer summers offer more activities.
Cycling to the Russel Glacier
For cycling enthusiasts, the 25km route from Kangerlussuaq to Russell Glacier is an ideal route. The journey is an opportunity to explore the lush green nature of summer. Besides the blooming plants, along the way you will encounter many typical Greenland wildlife such as musk ox, hare and snowy owl.
Full moon at sunset in Kangaamiut (photo: Mads Pihl)
The trip will be a tough challenge for those who are passionate about cycling because the road will not be flat and easy to ride. However, this is an activity that does not require much expense and in Kangerlussuaq there are also many places that offer bicycle rental services.
Conquering Mount Ukkusissat
Greenland is a mountaineering paradise. In Nuuk, those who conquer Ukkusissat are honored as true “Nuummioq”.
Hikers watch the midnight sun atop Ukkusissaq – Store Malene in Greenland (photo: Mads Pihl).
A spectacular view will be the reward for those who make it to the top of Ukkusissat. A small note for first-time visitors to Greenland, you will need a local guide to ensure your safety during the climb.
Kayaking on the Sermilik Glacier Fjord
In southern Greenland, summer is the perfect time to enjoy nature by water. Head to the remote Tasiusaq area, where a single large, green sheep farm sits on the edge of a glacier fjord, rent a small kayak and explore the icy waters and the blue-white icebergs that drift from the glacier into Sermilik Fjord.
Tourists camping on the shore of the Sermilik glacier fjord (photo: Mads Pihl)
Conquer the Arctic Circle route
Connecting Sisimiut and Kangerlussuaq is the 100-mile Arctic Circle Road. The road covers a variety of terrain, from tundra to glens, through low mountain passes along deep lakes. The journey takes 7-11 days, so bring a tent to camp overnight. There are a few hostels along the way, but the locals are not tech-savvy, so booking online or by phone is not an option.
Iceberg on the Russell River along the Arctic Circle (photo: Mads Pihl).
Stroll around Ilulissat Glacier Fjord
This is arguably the easiest experience to do in Greenland. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its majestic rivers. Although it can be visited year-round, summer is the ideal time as it doesn’t require much safety equipment.
Photo: Mads Pihl.
Climbing the mountain after Tasiilaq town
There are quite a few mountains to climb in East Greenland, but the easiest is the Qaqqartivakajik range, just behind the town of Tasiilaq. The trek is easier than it sounds.
Tasiilaq town (photo: Mads Pihl).
Starting from the town of Tasiilaq, walk along the foot of the mountain to the first peak. Here you can admire the impressive view of Kong Oskars harbor. Continue climbing down the gentle pass and then reach the second peak to admire the Arctic Ocean. The journey has a marked trail for visitors to follow easily but it is still recommended to bring a map. If you find it difficult to find the way, do not hesitate to ask the local people, they are very willing to help visitors from afar.
Arctic char fishing in Maniitsoq
Catching Arctic char (photo: Peter Christensen).
There are many fishing spots in Greenland, but Manniitsoq is the most famous. There are lakes, rivers and ice fjords to choose from. Arctic salmon season falls around July and August, which is the best time to fish.
