Things To Do
in Scoresbysund
Scoresbysund, also known as Ittoqqortoormiit, sits at the head of Scoresby Sund in eastern Greenland, one of the world’s largest fjord systems. The town is intensely remote, reachable mainly by seasonal flights or chartered boat journeys, and surrounded by towering ice and rugged mountains. Daily life centers on hunting, fishing, and provisioning in a stark, almost pristine Arctic landscape.
Visitors who come prepared to embrace the isolation will be rewarded with dramatic scenery, wildlife encounters, and a welcoming community steeped in tradition.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a boat tour through the stunning Scoresbysund fjord, the largest in the world. As you glide past towering icebergs and steep cliffs, keep your camera ready for breathtaking views. Learn about the unique geology and wildlife that thrive in this remote Arctic environment from your knowledgeable guide.
After lunch, embark on a guided hike along the cliffs overlooking the fjord. The trails here offer unparalleled views of the icebergs drifting by and the rugged terrain that defines this beautiful region. Look out for seals and seabirds as you explore the pristine wilderness.
As the sun sets, return to your cozy lodge for a traditional Greenlandic dinner featuring fresh fish and local ingredients. Spend the evening sharing stories with fellow travelers by the fire, or venture outside to watch for the Northern Lights if the sky is clear. The tranquility of the Arctic night will leave you in awe of nature's beauty.
Head to the small settlement of Ittoqqortoormiit, the gateway to Scoresbysund, to delve into the local culture. Start your morning by visiting the local museum, where you can learn about the Inuit history and the community's connection to the land. Interact with the locals and gain insights into their traditional lifestyles and customs.
Join a workshop to try your hand at traditional hunting skills or craft making, guided by community members eager to share their knowledge. Enjoy a homemade lunch at a local café, sampling traditional dishes and fresh produce sourced from the area. Later, take a leisurely stroll through the colorful houses and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this unique settlement.
Return to Scoresbysund and spend the evening on a stargazing tour, where the clear Arctic skies provide an incredible backdrop for celestial observations. Your guide will help you identify constellations and share stories from Inuit mythology related to the stars. End the night with a warm drink as you soak in the serene beauty of the Arctic night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-6 |
| 🧥Winter clothing rental | $20-40 per day |
| 🛏️Hotel night | $150-350 |
| 🛍️Souvenir or basic groceries | $10-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Incredible Arctic landscapes and wildlife encounters
- One of the most remote, authentic Greenlandic communities
- Limited facilities and services compared to major towns
- Weather and transport can be highly unpredictable
- "Qujanaq" - Thank you
- "Qanoq ippit?" - How are you?
- "Hej" - Hello
- "Tak" - Thank you (alternative, Danish loanword)
Places to Visit in Scoresbysund
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic view of one of the world’s largest fjord systems; dramatic ice, narrow waterways, and distant mountains provide striking compositions.
Early morning light illuminating pastel houses against ice and black rock—classic Arctic townscape photography.
Close-up and distant shots of shifting ice with varying textures; golden hour reflections add depth.
Backdrops for portraits or landscape shots, especially with the sun low on the horizon in winter or during the midnight sun in summer.
Open skies and minimal light pollution make for clear northern lights photos on clear winter nights.
Food in Scoresbysund
Scoresbysund Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Greenlandic stew typically made with seal meat, potatoes, and onions; a hearty starter or main in cooler months.
Must-Try!
Fresh or smoked Arctic char served simply with potatoes or greens; a light, local seafood option.
Fermented seal or auk wrapped in seal skin and buried to age; extremely traditional and rarely offered—usually only for special occasions or in very remote settings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small shops sell dried fish, frozen seafood, canned staples, tea, coffee, and basic snacks; seasonal berries sometimes appear in summer markets.
Occasional street-style stalls or market displays offering warm drinks and simple pastry options when tourists or researchers are present.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Hunters’ traditional knowledge is valued; ask before photographing people or hunting gear, and avoid disrupting wildlife or fishing activities.
Arctic communities value calm tones and consideration for others’ space and routines; modest dress and behavior are appreciated in public.
Safety
Tipping in Scoresbysund
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; a few extra kroner for a meal or guided service is customary if you’re pleased with service.
Cash (Danish krone or Greenlandic kroner) is widely accepted in remote towns; credit cards may be accepted at larger guesthouses or via card terminals, but carry cash for small purchases and tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Midnight sun, milder temperatures, and active birdlife. Trails are more accessible, sea routes open for boat trips, and photography benefits from long daylight and soft light.
Polar night with opportunities to see the aurora, deep snow, and ice-covered landscapes. Travel becomes weather-dependent and daylight is limited, but the quiet is stunning.
Transitional periods with variable weather; shoulder-season traffic is lighter but weather can be unpredictable. Great for fewer crowds and dramatic seasonal changes.
Scoresbysund at Night
Hiking in Scoresbysund
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible coastal route offering dramatic sea-ice views and mountain backdrops; best in late spring to early autumn.
A moderate hike providing sweeping views of Scoresby Sund and the town; suitable for a photography session at golden hour.
Short to moderate hikes to vantage points where waterfalls and glacial streams feed into the fjord system.
Airports
How to reach Scoresbysund by plane.
Small airstrip offering seasonal flights to Nuuk and other hubs; schedules are weather dependent.
Regional airport serving East Greenland with seasonal connections; a common link to the broader network.
Main gateway airport for Greenland; provides access to long-haul connections and further domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A close-knit, multi-generational community with strong ties to hunting, fishing, and coastal life.
Researchers, adventurers, and travelers attracted by Arctic wilderness and cultural immersion.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple winter activity with cultural significance; often guided and suitable for all ages.
Seasonal ice-fishing experiences on frozen waterways; learn safe techniques with an experienced guide.
Popular in snowy months; accessible trails around the town and fjord regions.
Calm fjord waters in summer provide opportunities for paddling with a guide.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Scoresbysund.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are limited in remote Greenlandic towns. Plan ahead by requesting vegetable dishes, dairy, and grains at guesthouses; consider bringing high-protein snacks and speaking with hosts about flexible menu options.