Winter Trips to Ilulissat
Winter Experiences
The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are undoubtedly one of the top attractions for anyone visiting Ilulissat during the winter months. Watching the vibrant, dancing lights in the dark sky is an unforgettable experience, and Ilulissat’s location makes it an ideal spot for aurora sightings. With clear skies and minimal light pollution, you’ll have great opportunities to witness this natural spectacle. Hotel Icefiord even offers Deluxe rooms with skylights, allowing you to enjoy the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed.
Dog sledding is another iconic winter activity in Ilulissat. Gliding across the snowy landscapes, pulled by a team of sled dogs, provides a truly authentic Greenlandic experience. Dog sledding has deep cultural roots in Greenland and remains a vital mode of transportation during the colder months. Trips can range from a few hours to several days, taking you deep into the Arctic wilderness, where the serenity and shimmering beauty of the snow-covered landscapes reign supreme.
Winter is also an excellent time for ice fishing. Local guides can take you out onto the frozen fjord, where you’ll have the chance to try your hand at catching fish through a hole in the ice. This activity is both relaxing and thrilling, offering a glimpse into the traditional Greenlandic way of life.
What to bring for a winter trip to Ilulissat
The winter weather in Ilulissat is harsh, with temperatures dropping as low as -20 degrees Celsius or even lower. Therefore, it’s essential to pack warm and functional winter clothing. Layering is key to staying comfortable, as it allows you to adjust your warmth based on your activity level. You’ll need a thick, windproof winter jacket, thermal underwear, insulated gloves, a hat, and sturdy winter boots to keep warm, especially when participating in outdoor activities like dog sledding or aurora hunting.
A good headlamp is also crucial, as Arctic darkness prevails during the winter months. Although there are a few hours of daylight, extra lighting is often necessary, particularly when exploring outside the town’s illuminated areas.
You can find our detailed winter packing list for Ilulissat here.
Accommodation on a winter trip to Ilulissat
In winter, Ilulissat remains a bustling town with various accommodation options, from hotels to private rentals. Hotel Icefiord is a popular choice, offering warm and comfortable rooms with views of the ice fjord. From our Deluxe rooms, you can enjoy the northern lights dancing across the night sky from the large skylight, all from the comfort of your bed.
Winter is also a time when many hotels and restaurants create a cozy atmosphere with warm food and drinks – perfect after a day out in the cold. At Restaurant Icefiord you can always enjoy a hot cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa, or a delicious dinner made with local Greenlandic ingredients with a Nordic twist.
Getting to Ilulissat in the winter
If you dream of visiting Ilulissat in winter, there are several travel options available. The Danish travel agency Topas Travel offers group tours to Disko Bay in Greenland, with Ilulissat often being one of the key destinations. These trips usually feature active itineraries, including scenic hikes as part of the program.
For travelers seeking more control over their trip, Greenland by Topas can help you customize your winter vacation to Ilulissat according to your preferences. Their Greenland specialists are ready to provide advice and recommendations, and together with you, they’ll create a unique travel program that meets your desires and dreams.
Alternatively, if you prefer to plan your trip independently, you can arrange your own accommodations, flights, and guided tours.
Topas Travel
A Danish tour company specializing in guided trips to Greenland with beautiful hikes and a danish speaking guide.
Greenland by Topas
Offers tailor made travel packages to Greenland, with your unique preferences and wishes in mind.
Air Greenland
Greenland’s national airline provides domestic flights as well as international connections from Denmark and Iceland.
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