Qasigiannguit
Discover Greenland’s hidden paradise, where traditional heritage thrives alongside roaming musk oxen and crystal-clear, teeming fishing waters.
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Greenlandic paradise with roaming musk ox and bountiful fishing waters
Nestled amidst a vast backcountry that hides secluded hiking trails, roaming herds of musk oxen, and ancient archaeological sites, Qasigiannguit provides a rare window into Greenlandic life from centuries past. The town sits alongside the breathtaking Disko Bay, a landscape defined by towering, cathedral-sized icebergs and a thriving whale population.The community serves as the home of the Living Settlement Project, an initiative where museum volunteers dedicate themselves year-round to mastering the traditional survival skills of their ancestors. While Qasigiannguit is a modern town at heart, these heritage skills take center stage during the summer months through immersive exhibitions and historical re-enactments that bring Greenland’s rugged history to life.
The Journey to Qasigiannguit
Situated above the Arctic Circle on the southeastern shore of Disko Bay, Qasigiannguit serves as a frequent stop for cruise ships while remaining highly accessible for independent travelers. Reaching the town requires international visitors to fly into Ilulissat or Aasiaat followed by a secondary transfer. During the winter months, this connection is made via helicopter, while boat transfers are used throughout the rest of the year. Travelers can utilize DiskoLine to sail directly from Ilulissat or Aasiaat or opt to settlement-hop from various locations around the bay. Additionally, DiskoBay Tours provides transfers from Ilulissat or Ilimanaq, and Qasigiannguit Tourism & Charter operates routes from Ilulissat and Aasiaat. For those preferring a more adventurous approach, a moderate two-day trek from Ilimanaq allows long-distance hikers to arrive on foot.The ideal time to visit depends entirely on your interests. The summer and early autumn months from June to September are perfect for hiking, sailing, fishing, and whale watching. If you are interested in musk ox hunting, the seasons run from March to April and again from July to October. Winter visitors arriving between January and April can enjoy dog sledding and snowshoeing, while those hoping to witness the Northern Lights should plan their trip between October and March.
Getting Around Qasigiannguit
In the relatively small town of Qasigiannguit, most residents and visitors find it easiest to simply walk from place to place. While several taxis are available for those who need dedicated transportation, guests staying at the Diskobay Hotel benefit from complimentary transfers to and from the heliport and harbor.When exploring the surrounding wilderness, the season dictates the mode of travel; boats and hiking are the primary choices during the summer months, while dogsleds become the standard for winter excursions. For further assistance or travel advice, tourist information is readily available at the Diskobay Tours souvenir shop or directly through your local accommodation provider.
Police
(+ 299) 70 14 23Hospital
(+299) 91 12 11
(8:00-16:00)
(+299) 89 22 11
(after 16:00)
Qasigiannguit Experiences
Blending outdoor adventure with deep cultural roots, Qasigiannguit is best explored starting with a museum-led city walk to discover local history, sled dog traditions, and the intricate National Costume. During winter, the town becomes a hub for Disko Bay’s longest dog sledding expeditions; these multi-day journeys, led by traditional hunters, offer an immersive look at the musher-dog bond and provide front-row seats to the Northern Lights.Summer shifts the focus to the water and the mountains, where hikers can follow marked trails to Paradise Bay or Qaqqarsuaq mountain, though guided treks add invaluable local storytelling. Boat tours unlock nearby islands rich with birdlife and the archaeological site of Qeqertasussuk, while anglers can fish for halibut and cod or join whale-watching excursions. For a premier adventure, a multi-modal trip to the Saqqarleq Glacier combines UTV travel, lake sailing, and a glacier hike. Throughout the year, joining a dedicated safari offers the best chance to spot the area's roaming musk ox.
