A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Ilulissat: The Jewel of Greenland and the Kingdom of Icebergs

Place Description

Ilulissat, also known as Jakobshavn, is a small town located on the west coast of Greenland. It is the third largest settlement in Greenland and is famous for its stunning landscape of icebergs and glaciers. The town is situated about 200 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, which means that during the summer, visitors can enjoy the phenomenon of the midnight sun, where the sun does not set for several weeks.

Tourist Interest

Ilulissat is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning landscape and rich Inuit culture. The main attraction of the town is the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier, which is one of the most active and fastest glaciers in the world. This glacier is one of the main sources of the icebergs that fill the Ilulissat fjord, which has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Sermeq Kujalleq Glacier

The Sermeq Kujalleq glacier is a natural wonder that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Tourists can take a boat or a helicopter to get a close look at the glacier and the huge icebergs that break off from it. There are also several hiking trails that take visitors through the stunning Arctic landscape to privileged viewpoints of the glacier.

Ilulissat Fjord

The Ilulissat fjord is another of the town's main attractions. This fjord is filled with icebergs of all shapes and sizes, creating a stunning landscape that is a dream for photographers. Visitors can explore the fjord by boat, kayak or even on a multi-day cruise.

Inuit Culture

In addition to its stunning landscape, Ilulissat also offers visitors the opportunity to learn about Inuit culture. Visitors can visit the Ilulissat Museum, which offers exhibitions on Inuit history and culture, or they can participate in a hunting or fishing excursion with the locals to get a more authentic insight into life in the Arctic.

Wildlife Observation

Ilulissat is also an excellent place for wildlife observation. Visitors can see seals, whales and a variety of Arctic birds in the Ilulissat fjord. There are also opportunities to see reindeer and Arctic foxes in the surrounding areas.

Gastronomic Products of Ilulissat

• Fish and Seafood

  Ilulissat is famous for its abundance of fresh fish and seafood. Local restaurants offer a variety of dishes including cod, salmon, shrimp, and crab. The fish and seafood are caught daily in the cold Arctic waters, ensuring their freshness and unique flavor.

• Reindeer and Muskox Meat

  Reindeer and muskox meat are two of the most popular meats in Ilulissat. These animals are native to Greenland and their meat is known for its rich and earthy flavor. Dishes based on these meats are usually stews or roasts, often accompanied by local vegetables.

• Arctic Berries

  During Greenland's short summer, Arctic berries such as cloudberries and crowberries are harvested and used in a variety of dishes. These berries are known for their sweet and slightly acidic taste and are used in everything from jams to desserts and liqueurs.

• Seal Fat Ice Cream

  A unique gastronomic product of Ilulissat is seal fat ice cream. This ice cream is made with whipped seal fat, berries, and sometimes fish. While it may not be to everyone's taste, it is an important part of Greenland's culinary culture.

Sporting Activities in Ilulissat

Hiking and Trekking

Ilulissat is famous for its stunning glaciers and icy landscapes. Visitors can enjoy hiking and trekking in the Sermeq Kujalleq National Park, where they can appreciate the beauty of the Jakobshavn glacier.

Cross-Country Skiing

Cross-country skiing is a popular activity in Ilulissat during the winter months. Tourists can rent equipment and explore the impressive views of Greenland's winter landscape.

Dog Sled Rides

One of the most traditional forms of transportation in Greenland, dog sled rides are an exciting way to explore the icy landscape. Visitors can book guided tours and experience this ancient tradition first hand.

Kayaking among Icebergs

For the more adventurous, Ilulissat offers the opportunity to kayak among icebergs. This unique activity allows visitors to get close to the majestic icebergs and experience the immensity of these ice giants.

Places near Ilulissat

If you are in Ilulissat and wish to explore a bit more, here we present some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Qeqertarsuaq, in Greenland, is an impressive tourist destination with Arctic landscapes and unique wildlife. It offers an authentic culinary experience with local dishes such as whale meat, fresh fish and seafood, and locally gathered wild berries.

Aasiaat, in Greenland, is an impressive tourist destination with panoramic views of the Arctic, whale watching and northern lights. Its local cuisine offers delights such as fresh fish, seafood and traditional dishes of seal and whale meat.