Ilulissat is a small town in western Greenland, located approximately 350 km north of the Arctic Circle. With a population of 4,500, it is the most populous town in the Qeqqata municipality. Ilulissat is a major tourist destination in Greenland, with attractions including the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is also home to the Ilulissat Museum and the Sermermiut ruins, the former settlement of the Greenlandic Inuit.
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Article from October 2023 with 10 places
The remote island of Greenland offers a prime location for Northern Lights viewing. This is true for any place in Greenland, but the third largest town has some special views. The hardy residents total about 4 500 and are outnumbered by sled dogs due to the local reliance on dog sledding.
The Northern Lights, locally known as Arsaniit, often put on a vivid display from September to April. In Ilulissat, the lights are unique as they often contrast with the large icebergs from the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This stark, white backdrop makes the green and pink lights even more pronounced.
One note of caution: the temperatures in Ilulissat can drop below -20 degrees Celsius during winter. So pack plenty of warm clothing, and once you get too cold, Kaffemik, a social gathering with coffee and homemade cakes, is a local tradition that can also warm your insides.
When you’re in Greenland, check out more places like Kangerlussuaq and Sisimiut, just as beautiful as Ilulissat.
