Kangerlussuaq settlement between tundra hills in Greenland

Kangerlussuaq

Greenland's inland expedition gateway

Information about Kangerlussuaq

Kangerlussuaq lies deep inland at the head of a long fjord, where Greenland's vast tundra and ice-sheet landscapes meet a settlement shaped by aviation. Its airport and sheltered setting make it an important gateway for expeditions beginning or ending in western Greenland.

The settlement developed around a United States air base during the Second World War, and transport still plays a central role today. Roads lead into the surrounding Arctic landscape, but weather, surface conditions and the expedition plan determine which experiences are possible on any visit.

Interesting facts about Kangerlussuaq

An inland gateway to western Greenland

Aviation history helped shape the settlement

Excursions and ice access remain condition-dependent

Pictures of Kangerlussuaq

A view across Kangerlussuaq and the surrounding Arctic landscape
Arctic landscape around Kangerlussuaq

Our highlights in Kangerlussuaq

Map of Kangerlussuaq

Highlights in Kangerlussuaq

Kangerlussuaq Airport
Kangerlussuaq

North of the Arctic Circle and deep in the long Kangerlussuaq fjord, it was the site of a WWII airport, then for refuelling for trans-continental flights.

The airport and the fjord are used as pick-up and drop off for cruise ships exploring the remoter parts of west Greenland. There are few roads in Greenland, but a 25 km dirt road connects the town with the mighty ice cap. Nowhere else is there easier access to the Greenland ice cap. Area also good for caribou, Musk Ox (actually introduced to this part of Greenland), and to look out for White-tailed Eagles.

Animals in Kangerlussuaq

Please be aware that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed and depend on seasons, weather, and other factors.
Polartours

Arctic Hare

Polartours

Black Guillemot

Polartours

Black-legged Kittiwake

Polartours

Caribou

Polartours

Glaucous Gull

Polartours

Gyrfalcon

Polartours

Musk Ox

Polartours

Northern Fulmar

Polartours

Parasitic Jaeger

Polartours

Ptarmigan

Polartours

Purple Sandpiper

Polartours

Red-throated Loon (Diver)

Our trips to Kangerlussuaq