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In recent years, memes have flooded the internet because Greenland looks a lot more like Iceland and Iceland looks a lot like, well, Greenland. The two Artic neighbors offer stunning beauty and unparalleled expeditions.
But with Greenland becoming more popular, what do we know about it? Well, you can see it for yourself on the EYOS exclusive Greenland trip. Let’s dive in and take a glimpse into Iceland’s Arctic neighbor.
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Greenland Has Remained Untouched
Looking into the land of extremes, Greenland has more than 80% of its surface covered by an ice sheet. But it doesn’t end there. The coastal waters have some of the most picturesque inlets in the world.
These waters are surrounded by monstrous glaciers where you can find humpback whales swimming along. If you get a chance to see the midnight summer sun, it will be bright nearly 24 hours a day while winter time shows off the beautiful Northern Lights.
This makes Greenland the ultimate adventure for thrill seekers and sightseers. You can find yourself participating in activities like hiking, kayaking, and dog sledding. These are just a few ways to explore the large island. It’s also home to some of UNESCO’s most popular world heritage sites.
Don’t Forget the People
Inuit traditions are deep in Greenland and have been shaped by their environment and centuries of surviving the Arctic. Among some of the most amazing activities visitors can attend is traditional storytelling of their history, accompanied by drum dances.
Let’s not forget their cuisine by trying whale skin or mattak and suaasat, which is a very heavy soup made of reindeer meat.
Since the population is not dense, there are a few island towns worth noting. The capital Nuuk boasts modern architecture and traditional housing. They also have a number of art galleries and education centers to help spread knowledge of culture. These are some of the best ways to understand Greenlandic daily life.
How to Plan a Greenland Expedition
It’s not as simple as hopping on a plane and going to Greenland. Thought and consideration need to occur. Here are some good tips and tricks to plan out your visit.
- Be sure to coordinate with experts when it comes to booking your flights and the time of year you choose to go. Specific times of the year are too cold for most visitors, which is why most recommend going June through September.
- • Packing the right clothes is important. Moisture-wicking clothes will keep you warm but not damp. Losing up in frosty temperatures is important for staying healthy in extreme weather conditions.
- Going with a guided tour or expedition company will allow you to see the world’s natural wonders a lot closer because it’s safer. Ice Fjord is incredible to visit, and seeing the polar bears is a must. But the last thing you want to do is put yourself in danger.
With some of these tips in place, a trip to Greenland can be enjoyed and explored rather than stressed and mishandled.
Greenland Over Iceland?
There are some notable differences when it comes to comparing and contrasting the two. One, however, does not simply blow the other out of the water. Iceland is often called the “Land of Fire and Ice” because of its volcanoes, geysers, and sweeping waterfalls. Consider Gullfoss and Skógafoss, for starters.
Iceland has a lot more land terrain and greenness than Greenland itself. Greenland, ironically, is 80% ice sheet. While both are islands worth adventuring to, they have different seasonalities. This is why most don’t do a two-for-one trip.
Either way, both islands are for adventurists who are looking to take in natural beauty and stay active on their vacation and exploration.
Jón Heiðar Ragnheiðarson — Reykjavík-based Iceland Travel Editor since 2012
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Iceland travel advice from someone who actually lives here
I'm Jón, a native Icelander who has called Reykjavík home for over 30 years. Since 2012, I've been running this magazine the way a knowledgeable local friend would — giving you the honest advice, the real discounts from 50+ partners in the Icelandic travel industry, and 200+ expert interviews you won't find anywhere else. This is Iceland from the inside.
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