Experiences
Greenland’s nature is unique but can be difficult to access. Therefore, the area around Kangerlussuaq is something very special, as there is a large road network that leads to i.a. lookout points, lakes and a place where you can get up on the ice sheet itself.
In addition to the road network, there are also other traces of the former US base on the site. For example the former military buildings and barracks. Furthermore, Greenland has chosen to retain the American names on many of the most famous excursion sites, such as Point 660, Russel Glacier, Lake Ferguson, Watson River, Sugar Loaf and Black Ridge.
Wildlife and fauna
There is a large population of reindeer and musk oxen around Kangerlussuaq, and if you are lucky you will see both animal species when you move around in nature. There are arctic hares, polar foxes and a rich bird life, so it is important to keep your eyes open and possibly bring binoculars.
Point 660 and the Ice Sheet
There are not many places in Greenland where you can get up on the ice sheet. But it is possible to drive from the airport into a place called point 660, where you can get in and walk on the ice itself. The name refers to the fact that the place is located 660 meters above sea level. When the road was laid, it went to the edge of the ice, but melting due to climate change has caused the ice to retreat. Where the ice reached before, there are now large piles of earth, clay and gravel, called moraines, you cross to get to the ice sheet.
Russel Glacier
The places where the ice sheet pushes to get out, glaciers of different sizes are formed. Most places are at the bottom of Greenland’s many fjords, but in Kangerlussuaq the Russel Glacier is right next to the green areas.
It can best be described as one huge vertical wall of ice, and in the summer you can hear it working with a lot of crackling when the glacier trembling and pieces of ice fall off. For the same reason, keep a safety distance equal to the minimum edge of the green area.
Dogsledding
When there is enough snow, dog sledding of various durations is offered.
Hiking
There are many hiking trails and animal exchanges you can follow in the area. The most famous route is the 165 km long ‘Arctic Circle Trail’ which goes from Kangerlussuaq to the town of Sisimiut off the coast.
If you walk to the ice sheet yourself, there are approx. 35 km each way. Therefore, it is recommended that you spend the first few days on some shorter hikes, and get used to the terrain.
Golf
There is a golf course which is not maintained but requires polite self-service if you want to try golf in the Arctic.
Camping
If you do not have a tent with you, several companies offer accommodation in the wild. You can sleep in tents in nature, in camps on the ice sheet or in cabins.
Whatever you choose to try, we look forward to seeing you back at the hotel, when most people need a good bed and a warm bath after a stay in nature.
Northern Light
From September to March there are good opportunities to see the northern lights. You have to get a little away from Kangerlussuaq’s city light to see it best.
Seasons
The summer is wonderful in Kangerlussaq. You can hike, bike or take a car or bus to various viewpoints.
You can easily take a holiday here in the winter and experience snow, darkness, starry sky, northern lights, dog sledding and ice fishing.
Other experiences
Take a walk in Kangerlussuaq and visit the small shops, and the museum of the history of the place from being an Inuit settlement, to an American base with 1400 men and all way to today.
In addition, we recommend visiting the Hotel’s restaurant, where you can taste Greenland in many of the dishes varied according to season.
Climate
Kangerlussuaq has a mainland climate which is very stable. It is often around minus 20 degrees in winter and an average temperature around 10 – 15 degrees in summer. Fluctuations with over 27 degrees heat and down to minus 50 degrees have been measured.
Due to the dry air in Greenland, the temperatures are experienced differently than in e.g. Europe. Summer can feel very hot, and a day with minus 10 degrees and sun, can be a super day to be out and about.
Book a room at Hotel Kangerlussuaq
You can book a room online at our hotel, and if you have special needs, please contact us. Call us on (+299) 84 11 80 or send us an e-mail at kangbook@mit.gl.
