How to get to Kangerlussuaq

Kangerlussuaq is not merely a settlement, but the main aerial gateway to the icy heart of Greenland, situated at the end of a long fjord north of the Arctic Circle. This unique village, which emerged around a former military airfield, serves as the starting point for most travelers seeking to witness the majestic ice sheet or embark on an expedition deep into the island. Reaching here is possible almost exclusively by air, as the settlement is a key transport hub connecting the region with the outside world.

The fastest and most reliable way to reach this Arctic region is to take a flight to Kangerlussuaq Airport (SFJ). It is the country's main international hub and receives regular flights from Copenhagen, while also serving as a central node for domestic flights across the island. Thanks to its status as a former military facility, the runway here is capable of accommodating large airliners, which is a rarity for other Greenlandic towns.

The terminal is located most conveniently: it is situated literally in the center of the settlement, so upon arrival, you immediately find yourself in the midst of activity. The infrastructure here is compact, and long transfers will not be required — most hotels and tourism offices are within walking distance or a few minutes' drive from the terminal.

Railway connections in Greenland are completely absent due to harsh climatic conditions, permafrost, and complex mountainous terrain. In Kangerlussuaq, there is no railway station or tracks linking it to other settlements.

Tourists planning a trip should not rely on trains as a mode of transport. Major movement between towns is carried out by air or, during the summer season, by water, while travel within the region is done on specialized motor vehicles.

Reaching Kangerlussuaq by intercity bus is impossible, as in Greenland there is no unified network of roads connecting settlements to one another. Each town and village on the island represents an isolated enclave that cannot be reached by land from a neighboring region.

Buses here exist only as a local form of transport for moving within the settlement or for organized tourist groups heading to attractions, for example, to the ice sheet. Therefore, when planning your route, exclude the bus as a means of arriving in the town from the outside.

You cannot arrive in Kangerlussuaq by car or taxi from other cities in Greenland due to the absence of intercity highways. The road network here is local and limited to the settlement itself and a few dirt roads leading into the tundra and to the glacier.

The only long route available for vehicles is the famous gravel road to the ice sheet (Point 660); however, it is a dead-end tourist attraction, not a transport artery. You can rent a car for trips around the vicinity, but arriving here by car "from the mainland" or from a neighboring town is physically impossible.

A trip to Kangerlussuaq requires careful preparation, as this is a place with a harsh yet beautiful Arctic character. To ensure your journey is comfortable and safe, please follow these recommendations.

1. Layered clothing. Even in summer, the weather can be unpredictable. Be sure to bring thermal underwear, a fleece sweater, and a windproof jacket. Footwear should be comfortable and waterproof for walks across the tundra.
2. Transport within the settlement. Distances here are small, and many places can be reached on foot. For longer trips (for example, to the glacier), it is necessary to book seats in specialized off-road tourist buses in advance.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Danish Krone (DKK). Cards are accepted at hotels, the airport, and the supermarket, but keeping some cash for small souvenirs or gratuities will be useful.
4. Protection from insects. In summer (especially in June and July), there is a huge number of mosquitoes and midges. Be sure to bring a strong repellent and, preferably, a mosquito head net.
5. Connectivity and language. Most local residents working in tourism speak English well. Mobile coverage and the internet can be expensive, so check roaming conditions in advance.
6. Wildlife. Musk oxen are often encountered in the vicinity. Never approach them closely — they can be aggressive and very fast. Observe from a safe distance.
7. Food and water. Tap water is safe to drink and tastes good. Groceries in the local supermarket can be expensive due to complex logistics; please consider this when planning your budget.

By following these simple rules, you will be able to fully enjoy the unique nature and tranquility of this amazing Greenlandic corner.