Insider Travel Tips

How long can you vacation in Greenland?

Visitors from Canada and the United States can travel in Greenland for up to 90 days without a visa. To fully explore all of Greenland, a minimum of three weeks is recommended, while shorter itineraries of up to a week offer an excellent opportunity to focus on specific regions and landmarks. 

Do I need to tip in Greenland?

Tipping isn’t customary in Greenland, with any service charges usually included in restaurant, taxi, or hotel bills. While not expected, a tip for exceptional service is very much appreciated. 

What currency does Greenland use?

Greenland uses the Danish Krone (DKK) as its official form of currency. On average, 1 USD is worth 6.5 DKK. However, exchange rates always fluctuate, so check with your travel agency for the latest rates before travelling. ATMs are available, and most common credit and debit cards are used throughout larger towns, though it’s recommended you carry some cash on you for certain purchases in smaller towns and settlements.   

Is Greenland LGBTQ+ friendly?

Greenland is generally considered an LGBTQ+ friendly place, with legalized same-sex marriage and activities. Acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community is high, and LGBTQ+ visitors will likely feel welcomed when travelling to Greenland. 

Do many people speak English in Greenland?

English is widely spoken and understood in Greenland, particularly in larger cities and towns and with younger generations who are taught English and Danish in school. Greenlandic is the official language of Greenland with four dialects: South Greenlandic, West Greenlandic, East Greenlandic, and the Thule dialect.  

Can I drink the tap water in Greenland?

Tap water is safe to drink in Greenland. In fact, since Greenland boasts one of the world’s most pristine natural environments, drinking straight from lakes and rivers is generally safe since the water is so clean. It’s recommended you bring a reusable water bottle with you when travelling to Greenland to act sustainably and protect the country’s natural habitats.

How do I get to Greenland by air?

North American travellers can connect to Greenland by air via various gateways:

• Iqaluit, Nunavut with a connecting flight from Ottawa or Montreal
• Reykjavik, Iceland
• Copenhagen, Denmark (for travellers returning from Europe)
• Newark, New Jersey (for seasonal flights mid-June to mid-July)