How to Travel to Greenland from the USA: Flights, Tips & More

By AirTrackBot • Posted Jan 10, 2025

Jónas Thor Björnsson/Pixabay

Greenland is a truly unique and remote destination, renowned for its untamed wilderness, awe-inspiring icebergs, captivating Northern Lights, and the rich cultural heritage of its indigenous communities. As the world’s largest island, it remains one of the least visited places on Earth, making it a perfect choice for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures and tranquility far from crowded tourist hubs.

If you’re wondering whether you can fly to Greenland easily, rest assured: reaching The Arctic Frontier is simpler than you might think. In this guide, we’ll explore the best flight routes, essential travel tips, and everything you need to know when planning your trip to Greenland from the United States.

How to Fly to Greenland from the US

The most convenient way to travel to Greenland from the US generally involves connecting flights through either Iceland or Denmark. Airlines such as Icelandair offer routes to the capital city, Nuuk, via Reykjavik from major American hubs, including New York, Boston, Chicago, and Atlanta.

Another common path is through Copenhagen, Denmark. You can fly from the United States to Copenhagen with carriers like SAS, Delta Air Lines, or United Airlines, and then catch a direct connection on SAS or Air Greenland to Nuuk. However, traveling via Copenhagen is typically more expensive than flying through Reykjavik with Icelandair, as a round-trip flight from Copenhagen to Nuuk starts at around $500.

Roundtrip Flights:

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Direct Flights to Greenland

Beginning June 14, 2025, United Airlines will launch direct flights to Greenland from Newark Airport (EWR) in New York, cutting the usual travel time to just three to five hours. Ticket prices start at around $1,100, making it easier than ever to explore Greenland’s natural wonders and cultural treasures.

If you’ve been researching how to get to Greenland from NYC, these new direct flights greatly simplify the process.

Major Airports in Greenland

When considering how far Greenland is and which region to visit first, remember that airports in Greenland are limited, with most focusing on regional travel. Below are the major airports in Greenland that handle both international and regional flights:

  • Nuuk Airport (GOH): Located in the capital, this is a critical hub for domestic flights and soon-to-be direct international flights from the US.
  • Kangerlussuaq Airport (SFJ): The largest and most well-equipped airport in Greenland. It often serves as the primary transfer hub for flights arriving from Copenhagen.
  • Ilulissat Airport (JAV): Conveniently situated near the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, this airport is a favorite among travelers exploring massive icebergs and breathtaking Arctic landscapes.
  • Narsarsuaq Airport (UAK): A former US Air Force base, now welcoming tourists, charter flights, and serving as an essential regional gateway.

For most travelers from the United States, flying to Nuuk is both the most convenient and affordable option. With flights available from many major US cities, including New York, Boston, Washington and Chicago, Nuuk simplifies the planning process and serves as an excellent entry point for your Greenland adventure.

Top Destinations Worth Visiting

Greenland offers breathtaking natural scenery, a distinctive culture, and the rare feeling of being truly removed from the rest of the world. If you’re planning a trip and need inspiration, here are three destinations that perfectly balance accessibility, dramatic landscapes, and unforgettable experiences:

1. Nuuk

Ruben/Adobe Stock

As Greenland’s capital, Nuuk is a vibrant blend of modernity and tradition. Explore the National Museum of Greenland, stroll through the historic Colonial Harbor, and admire the striking architecture of the Katuaq Cultural Center. Surrounded by the vast Nuuk Fjord, the city offers boat tours, whale watching, and a growing culinary scene featuring traditional Greenlandic cuisine.

2. Ilulissat

Aningaaq Rosing Carlsen - Visit Greenland/Unsplash

Renowned for its enormous icebergs and the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord, this charming town is a must-visit. Witness icebergs calving from Sermeq Kujalleq Glacier on boat tours or hikes along scenic trails. In winter, Ilulissat becomes a magical spot to experience the Northern Lights, offering Arctic wildlife encounters and stunning landscapes year-round.

3. Disko Island

Naja Bertolt Jensen/Unsplash

Located off Greenland’s western coast, Disko Island captivates visitors with its dramatic basalt cliffs, lush valleys, and geothermal springs. Accessible from Ilulissat, the island is a paradise for adventure seekers, offering hiking, whale watching, and unique geological formations. The picturesque town of Qeqertarsuaq adds a touch of local culture, making Disko Island a truly unforgettable destination.

When to Go

The best time to visit Greenland depends on your desired experiences and the prevailing weather conditions.

During the summer months (June–August), average temperatures in coastal areas like Nuuk range from approximately 41°F to 50°F (5°C to 10°C). This period offers continuous daylight, ideal for boating excursions, whale-watching tours, and scenic hikes among icebergs and fjords.

In contrast, the winter months (December–February) bring significantly colder temperatures, with averages in Nuuk ranging from 14°F to 23°F (-10°C to -5°C). This season provides opportunities to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights, embark on dog-sledding adventures, and immerse yourself in an authentic Arctic atmosphere.

Accommodation in Greenland

Lodging options in Greenland may be limited, but you can find suitable places to stay through platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb. While hotels are available in larger towns like Nuuk and Ilulissat, Airbnb offers significantly more options, ranging from cozy apartments to entire homes, making it a popular choice among travelers.

Hotels typically provide comfortable rooms with basic or premium amenities, with nightly rates in Nuuk or Ilulissat ranging from $150 to $500 during the peak season. Airbnb accommodations, on the other hand, are often more affordable and diverse, with prices usually ranging from $80 to $150 per night, depending on the size and location of the property.

How Much Does a Trip to Greenland Cost?

One of the most common questions travelers ask is: how much does a trip to Greenland cost? While prices vary depending on your preferences and travel style, here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect:

  • Flights: Round-trip tickets typically range from $900 to $1,500, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons. Booking early or during off-peak times can help you secure better rates.
  • Accommodation: Depending on your choice of lodging, nightly rates range from $80 for a budget Airbnb to $500 for high-end hotels in places like Nuuk or Ilulissat. Budget travelers can save by opting for guesthouses or smaller rentals.
  • Food & Activities: Meals and tours in Greenland are often pricier due to its remote location and limited infrastructure. However, self-catering options and choosing free or low-cost activities, like hiking, can help lower expenses. Expect to budget extra for guided tours like iceberg boat trips or wildlife excursions.

With thoughtful planning, a more budget-friendly trip is possible. On average, travelers opting for affordable accommodation and self-catering can plan a one-week trip for $2,500 to $4,000, depending on activities, flight costs, and seasonality. Keep in mind that traveling during peak periods, such as summer or winter for Northern Lights viewing, may lead to higher expenses due to increased demand.

Ferry from Canada to Greenland

Currently, there isn’t a regular passenger ferry from Canada to Greenland. However, if you’re eager to explore the Arctic by sea, certain cruise operators offer expeditions between Canada and Greenland. These trips typically last from several days to a week, providing an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in Arctic panoramas, encounter local wildlife, and gain insight into indigenous communities.

The cruise season is relatively short, and spots on these voyages fill up quickly, so advance planning is essential. If you’re specifically seeking a Canada-to-Greenland ferry experience, consult official cruise websites for up-to-date itineraries and booking details.

Visa Information for US Citizens

US citizens do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days in Greenland, provided they hold a valid passport that won’t expire within three months of their planned departure date. Since Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark, it’s advisable to double-check current visa regulations on the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website or by contacting the nearest Danish consulate.

Conclusion

Embarking on a journey to Greenland offers a rare opportunity to experience one of the world’s most remote and captivating destinations. Towering glaciers, the vibrant Northern Lights, and the rich cultural heritage of Greenland’s indigenous peoples create an unforgettable travel experience. With new connecting routes through Iceland and Denmark — and direct flights to Greenland from the United States starting soon — reaching this Arctic wonderland is now easier than ever.

Whether you want to bask in the endless daylight of the summer midnight sun or marvel at the magical Aurora Borealis during the winter, Greenland is ready to captivate you at every turn. Plan ahead, book your accommodations early, and discover why traveling to Greenland from the US could be the adventure of a lifetime.

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