Surprising Greenland

Filed in archive Hidden Gems on December 11, 2007

Greenland is cold. That's a certainty. The world's largest island sits almost entirely above the arctic circle. It is officially an autonomous region of Denmark, but is actually closer to Canada, geographically speaking. The country is mostly populated by Inuit peoples.

Yes, most of the country is home to vast expanses of ground that is very flat and very snowy. Some of the coastal areas, however, are quite scenic; offering rugged hills, rocky beaches and majestic fjords. The southern regions of Greenland are balmy, by Inuit standards (5-15 Celsius during the summer, and only 10 below in winter). You can hire a boat to reach some remote Inuit villages located near fjords, or try your hand a kayaking. There is a dose of Viking history at Qassiarsuk, which is home to a Norse long-house and a church constructed by famed seafarer Erik the Red.

Perhaps the best thing (or the worst, depending on your personality) is the sheer absence of people. Greenland has the least population density of any inhabited place on earth. The capital city, Nuuk, can boast a population of only 15,000. In terms of crime, Greenland is very safe. Violent crime and robbery are virtually unheard of. Tourist offices will be able to help you organize any sort of expedition you'd fancy, though it is also easy to hire a fishing boat or simply hitch a ride.

Inland areas have a harsher climate. There are Inuit villages and chances to travel via dog-sled and traverse land that has not been traveled by very many people before you.

Sure, Greenland is not for everyone. But it is, surely, on of the most unique places you could choose to go. Think about it. How often have you ran into someone who went to Greenland? This largest of islands is virtually unknown except to those who call it home.

Greenland probably isn't as harsh as most people think, but it is imperative to be well prepared. Greenland is a unique place, but it's not a place you just decide to visit on a whim.