In October 2024, the capital of Greenland, Nuuk, inaugurated a modern international airport, marking a milestone for tourism development on the island in its quest to increase its visits.
Since its opening in 1979, the airport had a runway that was too short for large planes. Now, with a runway extended to 2,200 meters and a new terminal, major airlines are ready to connect Greenland with the rest of the world.
The Greenlandic government aims for tourism to represent 40% of the value of its exports by 2035. This means that the sector’s revenues, which reached 250 million euros in 2023, must triple in the next decade.
Nuuk leads this effort, and several international airlines have already announced new routes for 2025. Among them, United Airlines will directly connect Nuuk with Newark, USA, and SAS will offer flights from Copenhagen with larger capacity planes.
Tourism in Greenland: a sustainable economic engine
Tourism is key to diversifying Greenland’s economy, historically dependent on fishing. In 2023, the country recorded record visitor numbers, with almost 40,000 air arrivals (9% more than in 2022) and over 76,000 cruise passengers, doubling pre-pandemic levels.
The official tourism site Visit Greenland estimates that tourism generated revenues of 1.9 billion Danish crowns (250 million euros) and created over 1,000 direct jobs.
Mindful of its impact, Greenland promotes sustainable tourism. An agreement signed in 2023 ensures that sector growth directly benefits the local population and preserves cultural traditions.
In Nuuk, efforts are being made to increase hotel capacity by 50% by 2030, although in the short term, both Nuuk and Ilulissat could face accommodation issues due to the rapid increase in visitors.
Greenland: An Arctic paradise waiting to be discovered
The charm of Greenland lies in its pristine landscapes and the possibility of enjoying unique experiences. From majestic icebergs to ancient glaciers, the island is a hub for adventure tourism.
The Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of its main attractions, with gigantic icebergs breaking off from the Sermeq Kujalleq Glacier.
Furthermore, Greenland offers one of the best environments to observe the Northern Lights, thanks to its minimal light pollution and clear skies. Throughout the year, visitors can enjoy winter activities such as dog sledding in Sisimiut and Kangerlussuaq, skiing, snowboarding, and thrilling heli-skiing excursions.
For wildlife enthusiasts, boat trips to spot whales are a must-do activity. In Disko Bay and Nuuk, it is possible to observe humpback whales, minke whales, and other Arctic giants. Additionally, cities like Nuuk offer rich cultural, historical, and gastronomic experiences that complement the natural beauty of the region.
With a focus on sustainability and new infrastructure improving connectivity, Greenland seeks to increase its visits to establish itself as a dream tourist destination in 2025. Amid stunning landscapes and unforgettable adventures, the Arctic island promises to capture the imagination of travelers worldwide.
Cover photo: Istock/Carsten Brand
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