Explore Avannaata (Greenland)

Explore Avannaata

What is the best time to travel to Avannaata

The best time to travel to Avannaata depends on your interests and what you want to experience in the region.

If you are interested in experiencing the midnight sun, when the sun does not set during the summer months, then the best time to travel to Avannaata is between May and July. During this time, the weather is generally milder, with temperatures averaging around 0°C (32°F) in Ilulissat, and the natural scenery is stunning.

If you are interested in seeing the Northern Lights, then the best time to travel to Avannaata is during the winter months, between November and March. During this time, the skies are often clear and the darkness allows for optimal viewing of the Northern Lights. However, it is important to note that the winter months can be extremely cold, with temperatures averaging around -20°C (-4°F) in Ilulissat.

Regardless of when you travel to Avannaata, it is important to be prepared for the weather conditions, as they can be harsh and unpredictable at any time of year. It is also important to note that travel to Avannaata can be challenging due to its remote location and limited infrastructure, so it is important to plan ahead and be prepared for potential delays and unexpected changes.

How to get to Avannaata

Avannaata is located in Greenland, which is a remote and sparsely populated area. The most common way to get to Avannaata is by air, as there are several airports within the region that provide connections to other airports in Greenland and Denmark. The main airport in Avannaata is Ilulissat Airport (JAV), which is located in the town of Ilulissat and has connections to other airports in Greenland and Denmark.

There are also ferries that operate between some of the towns and settlements in Avannaata, which can provide a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the region. However, ferry schedules can be irregular and dependent on weather conditions, so it is important to plan ahead and be flexible.

Travelers can also use helicopters or small planes to access some of the more remote settlements in the region. These flights are often provided by local airlines and can be arranged through tour operators or travel agencies. It’s important to keep in mind that travel to Avannaata can be challenging due to its remote location and harsh climate, so it is important to plan ahead and be prepared for potential delays and unexpected changes.

How to get around Avannaata

Avannaata is a remote region of Greenland with limited infrastructure, so getting around can be challenging. Here are some options for getting around:

Hiking: Hiking is a popular way to explore the natural scenery of Avannaata. There are several trails in the region, including the popular Arctic Circle Trail, which runs from Kangerlussuaq to Sisimiut. However, it is important to be prepared for the weather and terrain, as conditions can be unpredictable.

Boat: Boats are a common mode of transportation in Avannaata, as many communities are located along the coast. There are several boat tour operators that offer trips to see glaciers, icebergs, and wildlife.

Dog sledding: Dog sledding is a traditional mode of transportation in Greenland, and it is still used by many people in Avannaata. There are several tour operators that offer dog sledding trips to explore the region.

Helicopter: Helicopters are used to transport people and supplies to remote communities in Avannaata. There are also helicopter tour operators that offer scenic flights over the glaciers and icebergs.

Car: There are very few roads in Avannaata, but cars are still used for transportation within some of the larger communities. It is important to note that rental cars are not widely available in Greenland, so it may be necessary to arrange transportation through a tour operator or local guide.

It is important to plan ahead and be prepared for potential delays and unexpected changes when traveling in Avannaata, as the region’s remote location and limited infrastructure can make travel challenging.

National Airports

The Avannaata region is located in Greenland, and there are several airports within the region that provide access to the towns and settlements in the area. These include:

Ilulissat Airport (JAV): Located in the town of Ilulissat, this airport provides connections to other airports in Greenland and Denmark.

Qaanaaq Airport (NAQ): Located in the town of Qaanaaq, this airport provides connections to other airports in Greenland.

Upernavik Airport (JUV): Located in the town of Upernavik, this airport provides connections to other airports in Greenland.

Saqqaq Airport (QUP): Located in the settlement of Saqqaq, this airport provides connections to other airports in Greenland.

Qeqertarsuaq Heliport (JGO): Located on the island of Qeqertarsuaq, this heliport provides connections to other airports in Greenland.

Trains in Avannaata

There are no trains in Avannaata, as it is located in Greenland, and the terrain and weather conditions do not permit the use of trains as a mode of transportation. Instead, air travel, boats, and snowmobiles are common ways to get around the region.

Buses in Avannaata

There are no buses in Avannaata, as the region is located in Greenland and has a small population and limited infrastructure. However, there are some local taxi services available in some of the towns and settlements, which can be used to get around within the area. Additionally, some of the towns have small roads that can be traversed by car, ATV or snowmobile during certain times of the year.

Accommodations in Avannaata

Accommodation options in Avannaata are limited due to its remote location and small population. However, there are some options available for visitors:

Guesthouses and hostels: There are a few guesthouses and hostels in the larger communities of Avannaata, such as Uummannaq, Qaanaaq, and Ilulissat. These are usually basic accommodations with shared facilities, but they offer a budget-friendly option for travelers.

Hotels: There are a few hotels in the region, particularly in the larger communities like Ilulissat and Upernavik. These offer more comfortable accommodations with private facilities, but they are generally more expensive than guesthouses and hostels.

Camping: Camping is a popular option for visitors who want to explore the natural scenery of Avannaata. There are several campsites in the region, and it is also possible to camp on public land with permission from the local authorities.

Remote cabins: Some tour operators offer accommodations in remote cabins in the wilderness of Avannaata. These can be a great way to experience the natural beauty of the region, but they are usually more expensive than other options.

It is important to book accommodation well in advance, as availability can be limited in the remote communities of Avannaata.