Ice cold Greenland.
Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, is preparing for a transformative leap into global connectivity with the opening of its international airport on November 28. This marks the first of three major airport projects aimed at making the Arctic island more accessible. Nuuk’s compact size contrasts sharply with Greenland’s immense scale, where ice sheets dominate 80% of its land, and its population is just 57,000.
A recent visit by Adrienne Murray Nielsen revealed Greenland’s breathtaking contrasts: rocky terrain, expansive ice sheets, and untouched wilderness. Arriving via Kangerlussuaq Airport, historically Greenland’s primary entry point, travelers used to face complex onward journeys. But with Nuuk’s new airport, direct flights from Copenhagen and New York are set to slash travel time and costs. This is a boon for tourism, an industry poised to supplement the economy’s reliance on fishing.
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Tourist interest is climbing. Ilulissat for example known for its UNESCO-listed Icefjord, will join Nuuk in welcoming larger planes by 2026, alongside Qaqortoq, a picturesque southern settlement. Greenland’s raw beauty offers whale-watching, hiking, dog sledding, and Northern Lights experiences, drawing adventurers seeking escapes off the beaten path.
Nuuk itself is a blend of modernity and tradition, where high-rises coexist with Inuit heritage. Visitors can explore cultural hubs like the national museum, kayak through the fjord, or embark on glamping expeditions. Local businesses, like family-owned Sumut Greenland, are expanding services, anticipating a tourism boom.
Despite optimism, the nation approaches growth cautiously. The tourism industry adopted a sustainable pledge, focusing on preserving Greenland’s pristine nature and spreading visitors across seasons and locations. A new tourism law, set for 2025, will regulate tour operators and introduce measures to protect fragile areas.
Maniitsoq, a smaller town dubbed Greenland’s “Venice,” offers fjord cruises, hikes, and fishing. Locals hope enhanced accessibility will rejuvenate the community, which suffered economic setbacks with the closure of a fish factory.
Greenland’s aim is thoughtful tourism, steering clear of the overcrowding issues faced by destinations like Iceland.
