Things To Do
in Qasigiannguit

Qasigiannguit, a picturesque town located in Greenland, is known for its stunning views of the surrounding fjords and mountains. The town is characterized by colorful wooden houses and a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its vibrant community life. As a hub for traditional Greenlandic culture, Qasigiannguit offers visitors unique opportunities to engage with the local Inuit population and experience their customs.

With a population of around 1,000, it serves as a gateway to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of Greenland's landscapes.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering the Town
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to the Qasigiannguit Museum to learn about the town's history and culture.

afternoon
:

Take a guided walking tour of the town to admire the traditional architecture and picturesque views, then enjoy a picnic lunch by the harbor.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant specializing in Greenlandic cuisine, then stroll along the waterfront to enjoy the sunset over the fjord.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

After breakfast, embark on a boat tour to explore the nearby fjords and spot wildlife such as seals and seabirds.

afternoon
:

Return to town for lunch, then hike the scenic trails around Qasigiannguit, taking in the stunning views of the landscape.

evening
:

Enjoy a relaxing evening with a traditional Greenlandic dinner, followed by engaging with locals in a community gathering or cultural event.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$30
Coffee$5
🍕Pizza Slice$10
🏨Hotel Night$150
🚌Local Bus Fare$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural beauty and unique landscapes.
  • Rich cultural experiences with local Inuit traditions.
  • Opportunities for outdoor activities year-round.
  • Limited access to modern amenities and services.
  • High costs of living and travel.
  • Extreme weather conditions, especially in winter.
  • "Aluu" - Hello
  • "Qujanaq" - Thank you
  • "Ullaaq" - Good day
  • "Suli" - How are you?
  • "Takk" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Qasigiannguit

Visit one of these nice places.

Qasigiannguit Harbor

Capture stunning views of colorful houses against the backdrop of the fjord and mountains.

The Old Church

An iconic building in the town, perfect for architectural photography and landscape shots.

Fjord Overlook

A hiking trail leads to an overlook with panoramic views of the fjord, ideal for breathtaking sunset shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Qasigiannguit

Qasigiannguit offers a delightful array of traditional Greenlandic cuisine, characterized by fresh seafood, game, and unique local ingredients.

Qasigiannguit Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Seal Meat

A traditional dish enjoyed by locals, seal meat is often served smoked or stewed.

Must-Try!

Muktuk

A delicacy made from whale skin and blubber, typically served raw and considered a cultural staple.

Fish Soup

A hearty soup made from fresh fish, often enjoyed during the colder months.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Fish Market

Visit the local fish market to sample fresh seafood and traditional Greenlandic snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Qasigiannguit experiences a subarctic climate with long, cold winters and short, cool summers. Average winter temperatures range from -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F), while summer temperatures can reach up to 10°C (50°F). Snow is common in winter, while summer brings milder conditions suitable for outdoor activities. Rainfall is more frequent in late summer and early autumn, bringing a mix of weather patterns.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Nature

It is considered essential to respect the natural environment, including wildlife and plants.

Greetings

A friendly greeting and a smile go a long way; locals appreciate politeness and friendliness.

Inuit Culture

Show appreciation for Inuit culture and traditions, as many locals take pride in their heritage.

Safety Guide

Safety

Qasigiannguit is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is important to take precautions when engaging in outdoor activities, such as informing someone of your plans and being aware of the weather conditions. Wildlife encounters, such as with polar bears, should be approached with caution.

Tipping in Qasigiannguit

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in Greenland, but it is appreciated for good service. A tip of around 10% is common in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter

Expect cold temperatures and snowfall, making it perfect for winter sports like snowmobiling and dog sledding.

Spring

Temperatures begin to rise, and the landscape comes alive with melting snow and blooming flora, great for photography.

Summer

Mild temperatures and long days allow for hiking, boating, and fishing, with the possibility of experiencing the midnight sun.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage create stunning landscapes, ideal for outdoor activities and photography.

Nightlife Guide

Qasigiannguit at Night

Qasigiannguit's nightlife is relatively low-key, with a few bars and cafés offering a relaxed atmosphere. Local gatherings and cultural events often feature traditional music and dance, providing visitors with a unique experience. Socializing typically takes place in homes or community centers rather than in nightclubs, allowing for a more intimate interaction with locals.

Hiking in Qasigiannguit

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Nattoralik Trail

A scenic trail that offers breathtaking views of the fjords and is suitable for hikers of all levels.

The Old Settlement Trail

This trail leads to the ruins of an old Inuit settlement, providing a historical perspective along with stunning natural scenery.

Airports

How to reach Qasigiannguit by plane.

Aasiaat Airport

Located approximately 60 km from Qasigiannguit, Aasiaat Airport offers regular flights to and from Greenland's capital, Nuuk, and other towns. It serves as the primary gateway for visitors traveling to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Qasigiannguit is a small town that is quite walkable, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops located within walking distance. The streets are relatively flat, making it easy to navigate. However, be prepared for some uneven terrain and weather conditions that may affect walking in winter.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Inuit Population

The majority of Qasigiannguit's residents are of Inuit descent, preserving their cultural heritage and traditions.

Settlers and Immigrants

A smaller percentage of the population includes settlers and immigrants who contribute to the town's diversity and economic activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Dog Sledding

A popular traditional sport in Greenland, allowing visitors to experience the landscape in winter while being pulled by a team of sled dogs.

Ice Fishing

A favorite pastime for locals, ice fishing offers a unique way to engage with the environment during the winter months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Qasigiannguit is minimal, with most residents relying on walking or bicycles for transportation. There are no traffic lights, and vehicles are few. Public transportation options are limited, but local taxis and arranged transport services are available for longer distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Qasigiannguit.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Greenlandic cuisine is meat-heavy, some restaurants offer vegetarian dishes and salads.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, but local vegetables and meats can be incorporated into meals.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Qasigiannguit is limited, with a small local clinic providing basic medical services. For more serious medical needs, residents often travel to larger towns or cities. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Greenland

Read more in our Greenland 2025 Travel Guide.

Greenland Travel Guide