Ilulissat Icefjord (Ilulissat Kangerlua)

The basics

The best way to experience the glacier is to start from the Ilulissat Icefjord visitor center, located just south of Ilulissat, the nearest town. During summer, start from the center and explore the fjord on foot via marked hiking trails—hikes can take one hour up to a full day. Seasoned hikers also can join multiday trips into the icy wilderness. Other options include flightseeing tours and seasonal dog sledding and cross-country skiing trips.

Things to know before you go

• Visitors who are not Greenland residents must purchase an annual pass either at the Icefjord Centre or online.

• The visitor center has an on-site cafe; outside food and beverages are not permitted inside.

• The visitor center houses permanent art and science exhibitions.

• During summer and other busy times, visitor center entrance tickets are valid for 1.5-hour visits.

How to get there

The fjord runs about 25 miles (40 kilometers) east from just south of the town of Ilulissat to Disko Bay and the Greenland ice sheet. The Ilulissat Icefjord visitor center lies about 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) from the center of Ilulissat and is easily reached by car or on foot.

When to get there

Although the fjord is in a remote part of the world, it is possible to visit throughout the year. Helicopter flights are available year-round but with less frequency in fall and winter. Visit during summer for the best hiking opportunities and in winter for cross-country skiing. The dog-sledding season runs from October to April.

Hiking trails at the Ilulissat Icefjord Centre

You can access four hiking trails from the Ilulissat Icefjord Centre. The easiest, called the World Heritage Trail, runs to the fjord and back over 1.6 miles (2.6 kilometers). The Red and Yellow trails are of moderate length and lead to panoramic views. The Blue Trail is a 4.5-mile (7-kilometer) hike with viewpoints of the glacier from different perspectives.