Essential Guide for Foreign Travelers Visiting Greenland

When planning a trip to the vast and breathtakingly beautiful Greenland, it is crucial for foreign travelers to be well-informed about various aspects of the region. Whether you are a casual tourist visiting a northern village for a day or a trekking enthusiast interested in the extreme North, understanding the local environment and challenges is paramount.

Understanding the Climate and Conditions

First and foremost, you should be prepared for extremely cold weather throughout the year. The climate in Greenland is one of the most challenging in the world. The Arctic region experiences long, harsh winters and short, cool summers. During winter, temperatures can drop to as low as -30°C, and summer might see a mild 7°C. Snow onset and duration are very similar to locations like Barrow, Alaska, or Prudhoe Bay, which are known for their perpetual snow cover even in June. The combination of cold temperatures and sparse human population means that you need to be self-reliant with your survival needs.

Adequate Preparation and Knowledge

The knowledge you need varies significantly based on your travel plans and duration. For the casual day visitor or a brief stay in a village, a guidebook likeLonely Planet can provide essential information. However, if you are planning an extended trip or venturing into wild areas, you should be more prepared.

For Adventure Enthusiasts and Glaciologists

Those who are interested in glaciology, field biology, or adventure sports will require specialized knowledge and skills. Skiing, crevasse rescue, and survival training are necessary. In the more northern regions, it's advised to undergo polar bear survival training, which might include carrying weapons or hiring armed guides. The harsh terrain demands that you are equipped to handle the unpredictable nature of the Greenlandic landscape.

In addition, winter night-time travel presents a unique set of challenges. Long polar nights and icy conditions require thorough planning and equipment to ensure safety. It is imperative to know how to set up camp, navigate using starlight, and maintain warmth. These skills are not only crucial for your survival but also for preventing potential accidents that could harm others in your group.

Logistical Considerations

Another critical aspect of your preparation involves logistical challenges. With a population density of around 0.005 inhabitants per square kilometer, the human settlement in Greenland is sparse. Consequently, almost everything, from basic survival supplies to expensive expedition gear, needs to be imported and can be very expensive.

Shopping malls and large stores such as Walmart are non-existent in Greenland. Daily necessities, including perishables, need to be brought from Denmark or other European countries, making them premium commodities. Since truck traffic is limited, road networks are minimal, and public transportation is scarce, travel options are limited. Any vehicle you bring must be rugged and equipped for off-road terrain.

Cars are not typically available for rent, even in the tourist towns. The nearest official roads to somewhere like Nuuk, the capital, are just a few. Most of the time, you will be traveling by plane or helicopter, which is costly but necessary for reaching remote areas.

Final Thoughts and Safety Precautions

In conclusion, traveling to Greenland requires extensive preparation and a deep understanding of its unique environment. The potential for danger is high, and your actions could cause significant harm or death to yourself and others. Therefore, make sure you do your homework, carry the right equipment, and comprehend the risks associated with your activities.

Remember, Greenland is a place that can easily kill you if you don't look after yourself. However, with the right knowledge and preparation, your adventure can be both safe and rewarding.