With just under 5,000 inhabitants and more than 2,000 sled dogs, Ilulissat is Greenland’s third-largest town. Most visitors are drawn here by the majestic icebergs, but many are also fascinated by the people and the way of life that has existed here for more than 4,000 years.
Ilulissat Icefjord – a UNESCO World Heritage Site
It is no coincidence that the name Ilulissat means “icebergs,” considering the ice-dominated landscape that surrounds this town on Greenland’s west coast. The nearby icefjord is one of the world’s most spectacular natural phenomena and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004. Here, the glacier Sermeq Kujalleq produces enormous amounts of ice every day, which slowly breaks off and drifts into Disko Bay as gigantic icebergs.
A Living Inuit Cultural Heritage
The icebergs may be Ilulissat’s most recognizable feature, but the town also holds a rich history shaped by thousands of years of close interaction between people and nature. The unique fishing and hunting opportunities created by the icefjord provided ideal conditions for early settlement.
While old Inuit traditions still live on, Ilulissat has evolved into a modern community where culture, tourism, and everyday life come together.
Greenlandic Sled Dogs
Sled dogs have been used for generations for transportation, hunting, and fishing. During the winter season, visitors have the opportunity to experience dog sledding, while in summer it is possible to visit local kennels and learn more about the dog sledding culture.
Greenlandic sled dogs are traditionally working animals and are typically kept outdoors year-round, well adapted to the Arctic climate and life in the North.
Colorful Houses
One of the first things many visitors notice in Ilulissat is the colorful houses scattered along the rocky coastline. Red, yellow, blue, and green wooden facades create a striking contrast against the white snow-covered landscape, the shimmering blue icebergs, and the dark sea.
In the past, the colors of the houses often had practical meanings and could indicate the function of a building. Today, they mainly add to the town’s charm and make Ilulissat one of Greenland’s most photogenic places.
Chances to Spot Whales
The waters around Ilulissat and Disko Bay are rich in marine life, and during the summer months several whale species come here to feed. Humpback whales are especially common and are often seen surfacing close to the boats, showing their fins and blowholes. Sometimes, it is even possible to hear the powerful breaths of the whales from shore.
Modern-Day Ilulissat
Despite its remote location, Ilulissat is a modern and vibrant town where traditional everyday life meets a growing tourism industry. Fishing remains one of the most important industries, and many residents work within the fishing sector. At the same time, tourism has become increasingly important, with many locals today working as guides, in hotels and restaurants, or in various transport and service roles connected to tourism.
The town is home to schools, cultural centers, cafés, modern hotels, and well-regarded restaurants.
Our expeditions in West Greenland begin in this iconic town, where old traditions coexist with a growing modern community.
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© Gunilla Lindh -
Glenn Mattsing –Visit Greenland -
© Gunilla Lindh -
© Gunilla Lindh -
© Gunilla Lindh -
© Gunilla Lindh