Exploring Greenland: The Ultimate Arctic Adventure
- Helen Bateman
- Sep 11, 2024
- 4 min read
Greenland, the world's largest island, is a place where nature’s raw beauty takes centre stage. For adventurous travellers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience, an expedition cruise to Greenland offers an unparalleled journey into one of the planet's most remote and awe-inspiring destinations. From majestic icebergs and towering fjords to fascinating wildlife and rich Inuit culture, Greenland is a destination like no other.
Why Greenland?
Greenland is a land of extremes. With its rugged landscapes dominated by vast ice sheets, dramatic fjords, and striking glaciers, it is a place where nature is still in its purest form. For those drawn to the polar regions, Greenland offers a unique blend of breath-taking scenery, indigenous culture, and abundant wildlife. An expedition cruise with Quark Expeditions allows you to explore areas that are otherwise inaccessible, offering you a front-row seat to some of the most pristine environments on Earth. Whether you're an avid photographer, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking to escape the ordinary, Greenland promises to deliver an unforgettable experience.
History
Greenland’s history is a fascinating blend of Viking exploration and Inuit resilience. In the late 10th century, Viking explorer Eric the Red, exiled from Iceland, set sail westward and discovered Greenland. He named it to entice settlers, and Norse colonies thrived on the island’s southern coast for centuries. Ruins of their stone structures, such as Hvalsey Church, still stand as a reminder of their presence. By the 15th century, the Viking settlements had vanished, possibly due to climate change, a rise in sea levels and isolation.
Greenland’s story continued with the arrival of the Inuit in the 13th century, and records suggest that meetings between the Viking and Inuit people. Migrating from the Canadian Arctic, the Inuit adapted perfectly to Greenland’s challenging environment, relying on hunting marine mammals for survival. Today, their rich culture, traditions, and connection to the land remain central to Greenlandic life. Visitors to Greenland can explore remnants of both Norse and Inuit history, offering a deep dive into the island’s unique past.
When to Go
The best time to visit Greenland is during the Arctic summer, from June to October. During these months, the ice begins to melt, revealing the stunning landscapes beneath and opening up routes through the fjords. The Midnight Sun bathes the region in continuous daylight, allowing for longer days of exploration. July and August are particularly popular as they offer the best conditions for wildlife viewing and accessing more remote parts of the island.
Quark Expeditions offers a variety of itineraries during this season, each designed to showcase the very best of Greenland. Whether you're interested in exploring the western coast, where colourful villages dot the shoreline, or the eastern coast, known for its untouched wilderness, there’s a perfect itinerary for you.
Activities and Excursions
A Quark Expeditions cruise offers a wide range of activities designed to immerse you in the Arctic environment. Zodiac cruising is a highlight of any expedition, allowing you to get up close to towering icebergs, calving glaciers, and secluded fjords. Kayaking is another popular option, offering a more intimate experience as you paddle through crystal-clear waters alongside icebergs and possibly even whales.
For those interested in hiking, Greenland’s rugged landscapes provide plenty of opportunities to explore on foot. Guided hikes take you through breath taking scenery, from coastal trails with panoramic views to inland routes that pass through verdant valleys and past ancient Inuit ruins.
Cultural experiences are also a key part of the journey. Quark Expeditions often includes visits to small Inuit communities where you can learn about the traditional way of life that has sustained these people for centuries. Engage with local artisans, listen to stories passed down through generations, and gain a deeper understanding of the connection between the Inuit people and the land.
For the truly adventurous, some expeditions may offer the chance to participate in polar plunges or camp overnight on the ice – a thrilling experience that few can claim.
Wildlife Encounters: Greenland’s Diverse Arctic Fauna
The island’s icy waters are home to a variety of marine mammals, including majestic humpback whales, orcas, and the elusive narwhal, often called the “unicorn of the sea.” Seals, such as the harp and bearded seals, can be spotted lounging on ice floes, while birdwatchers will delight in seeing species like Arctic terns and white-tailed eagles soaring through the skies.
On land, the tundra is home to musk oxen and Arctic foxes, and although polar bears are more elusive in Greenland, they can occasionally be seen in the northern regions, particularly in more remote areas.
While Greenland offers wildlife encounters, if spotting polar bears is a top priority, Svalbard would be your ultimate destination. Located in the High Arctic, Svalbard is renowned for its large polar bear population, with opportunities to see these apex predators along with walruses, reindeer, and various seabird colonies. Svalbard’s unique position north of the Arctic Circle makes it a hotspot for diverse wildlife, and an expedition cruise to this archipelago often provides more concentrated opportunities for wildlife viewing.
For those focused on Arctic wildlife, Greenland offers fantastic experiences, but for a true wildlife adventure, a cruise to Svalbard can provide even more remarkable encounters.
Conclusion
An expedition cruise to Greenland is more than a holiday – it’s an adventure into one of the most remote and pristine corners of the Earth. From the jaw-dropping landscapes to the rich cultural experiences, Greenland offers something for every type of traveller. Whether you’re navigating through towering icebergs, or simply soaking in the endless Arctic daylight, your journey to Greenland will be one you’ll remember for a lifetime.
If you’re ready to embark on an Arctic adventure like no other, Quark Expeditions is your ticket to the extraordinary.
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