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Greenland northern lights

Greenland's Best 5 Places to see the Northern Lights

If you're searching for majestic sky views and a real adventure, then you should look no further than Greenland! Home to a vast array of nature, Greenland is known for its rugged coastlines, towering glaciers, and diverse wildlife. But the most spellbinding sights are found up in the sky - specifically the mysterious Northern Lights!

Greenland is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, and the views will take your breath away. Whether you're staying in Nuuk or Qaanaaq, there are plenty of places with great vantage points to witness these stunning and ethereal ribbons of green light. To help out, I've put together 5 must-see spots in Greenland that offer an awe-inspiring view of these spectacular auroras!
Greenland northern lights

Introduction to the Northern Lights in Greenland

Who isn't captivated by the allure of the Northern Lights? A mesmerizing display of bold colors, dancing elegantly across the night sky? It's no surprise that watching the Aurora Borealis is a bucket-list item for many adventurers.

If you're lucky enough to be searching for a place to watch the Northern Lights in Greenland, you're in luck! Greenland is home to some of the most spectacular locations - famous worldwide - where you can witness a mesmerizing show.

Keep reading to discover our top 5 places in Greenland where you can see the Northern Lights, either from one spot or from multiple viewing points!

How to Increase Your Chances of Seeing the Northern Lights?

Did you know that over 80% of tourists miss the Northern Lights due to the lack of Aurora knowledge? Don't let that be you! The right time and the right place are the key. Northern Lights Online Course and Aurora mobile app designed for beginners will significantly increase your chances.

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Greenland northern lights

Disko Bay: One of the Most Beautiful Spots to View the Aurora Borealis

If the thought of seeing the Aurora Borealis in person has crossed your mind, Greenland should be your destination of choice. And Disko Bay should be atop your list for the ultimate Northern Lights experience. While the Northern Lights are visible across Greenland, what makes Disko Bay stand out is its untouched scenery. Whether you admire them from shore or from a boat, you can't beat the picturesque view framed by snow-covered mountains and glaciers.

Here are a few tips to get you started:
  • It's best to go during winter, when night time temperatures drop below -10 Celsius (14 Fahrenheit).
  • Be sure to dress for the weather—this includes hats and gloves in addition to warm clothing.
  • Bring your camera equipment; it doesn't take much special gear to capture stunning aurora photos.
  • Clouds can easily obstruct your view; be sure to check satellite images before heading over so you don't miss out!
aurora borealis in greenland

Disko Island: A Remote Island With No Light Pollution and Outstanding Northern Light Views

If you only have one night to spare, then Disko Island should be your pick. Located in the West coast of Greenland, this remote island is almost completely untouched by light pollution, making it the ideal spot to observe and fully appreciate the beauty of the Northern Lights.

Disko Island is known for its stunningly clear skies and views of the Aurora Borealis, and its location makes it particularly ideal for those that want to use special astronomical cameras or telescopes to get an even better glimpse of this incredible phenomenon.

Besides spectacular Northern Light glimpses, Disko Island also offers plenty of interesting activities like snowshoeing, whale watching and heli-skiing - giving you plenty to do during the day and a romantic outdoor backdrop for when night falls.
aurora borealis in greenland

Ilulissat: One of the Best Viewpoints in Greenland for Spotting the Aurora Borealis

When it comes to seeing the Aurora Borealis in Greenland, there is no better place than Ilulissat. Located in the west of Greenland, Ilulissat offers unbridled views of the Northern Lights. The area is free from light pollution, meaning you can get a clear view of the sky at night. Plus, the area has plenty of hiking, so you can explore during the day and find an ideal spot to take in the light show when it’s dark!

But why should you choose Ilulissat for your Aurora Borealis trip? Here are a few reasons why:
northern lights greenland
  • With great weather conditions and long hours of darkness from late September to mid-April, Ilulissat offers one of the best opportunities for seeing the Northern Lights.

  • The landscape around Ilulissat is beautiful with plenty of mountains and glaciers, which add to the beauty of experiencing Aurora Borealis.

  • The town has a cozy atmosphere which pairs well with its stunning view – perfect for experiencing the Northern Lights without getting too cold or uncomfortable!

  • The local community offers plenty of traditional activities like hunting and fishing which give tourists an insight into life in Greenland while they admire the northern lights.

The combination of great natural views and cozy atmosphere makes Ilulissat one of Greenland's best spots for spotting Aurora Borealis!
northern lights greenland

Uummannaq: A Traditional Fishing Village With Stunning Views of Greenland's Mountains and Frozen Fjords

If you're looking for some of the best views of Greenland and the chance to see the Northern Lights, Uummannaq is your go-to spot. This traditional fishing village gives you stunning mountains and frozen fjords, plus snow-covered villages that look like something out of a fairytale.

The whole area around Uummannaq is truly breathtaking. It's located up in northern Greenland, across a long stretch of icy sea, giving you an amazing view of the mountain landscape and frozen fjords from any angle - plus the Aurora Borealis in the night sky.
Thanks to its proximity to Northern Greenland, Uummamanq also offers some amazing opportunities for wildlife spotting - think arctic foxes, seals and polar bears! Plus, if you time your visit just right, you can catch a glimpse of the local fishing boats returning with their catch for a truly authentic experience.

The best part about Uummannaq is that you don’t need any special equipment nor extensive clothing to enjoy it – simply head outside and take it all in!
greenland aurora borealis

Kangerlussuaq: One of the Darkest Places in Greenland With Views of the Northern Lights

Kangerluussuaq, also known as Søndre Strømfjord, is one of Greenland's darkest places in terms of light pollution, and the perfect spot to view the Northern Lights. Kangerlussuaq is a unique nature destination, surrounded by endless tundra that's home to caribou, musk oxen and Arctic foxes. The small town remains very quiet—since it houses a former US military base—so you'll be able to enjoy the outdoors without disruption or distraction.

The best time to catch the Northern Lights in Kangerlussuaq is around autumn and winter, since it's much darker during this season. This is because during summertime the sun never really sets—it just hangs low on the horizon for a few hours at most.
northern lights greenland
Folks who visit Kangerlussuaq usually spend their time here relaxing in nature, going on hikes and bike rides—or enjoying activities such as river floating or sea kayaking. If you're lucky enough to experience the brilliant colors of an Aurora Borealis while in Kangerlussuaq, you'll also be able to pack your camera and get some stunning photos of these spectacular light shows.

So if you're looking for one of the darkest places in Greenland with views of the Northern Lights, Kangerlussuaq should definitely be at the top of your list!
greenland aurora borealis

Conclusion

It’s a common misconception that you must travel far and wide to experience the Aurora Borealis, but it turns out you don’t even need to leave Greenland to experience one of nature’s most awe-inspiring phenomena. With its unique location within the Arctic Circle, Greenland boasts five of the best places to view the Northern Lights.

Whether you decide to take a cruise, a guided tour, or just drive out and set up camp, one thing is for sure: a trip to see the Northern Lights in Greenland will be an unforgettable experience. So, start packing your bags and get ready for an experience beyond compare!

There is more you need to know about the Northern Lights

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