WHEN TO TRAVEL TO GREENLAND

Location

Climate

THE Greenlanda land of contrasts and adventure in the North Atlantic, attracts travelers in search of unique experiences every year.

Aurora borealis season: between September and April

One of Greenland's most famous attractions is undoubtedly the the magic of the northern lights. The nights are long between September and April, giving visitors the best chance of seeing this spectacular natural phenomenon. The ideal season for viewing the aurora borealis depends largely on the weather. temperatures and clear weather, but it's generally advisable to visit during autumn or winter.

The best regions for viewing the northern lights

• Ilulissat: this town on Greenland's west coast is famous for its spectacular fjords and offers breathtaking views of the northern lights.
• Kangerlussuaq: this inland village is an excellent starting point for exploring Greenland's ice cap and admiring the northern lights.
• Tasiilaq: This picturesque town on Greenland's east coast offers ideal conditions for viewing the northern lights.

Endless days: May to August

Between May and August, the sun never sets above the horizon in Greenland, providing visitors with an unforgettable experience. endless days to take advantage of the many activities available. During this period, temperatures are generally milder, and melting ice makes it possible to access parts of the country that were previously inaccessible in winter. However, it's important to bear in mind that the weather can be unpredictable, with variations of temperaturesof snow and of ice.

Popular summer activities

• Hiking : Summer is the ideal time to explore Greenland's many hiking trails, such as those around Sermeq Kujalleq National Park or in the Arctic Mountains.
• Kayaking : Sailing between icebergs and fjords in a kayak is a unique and exciting experience not to be missed during your stay in Greenland.
• Animal observation : Summer is the best time to observe local wildlife, including whales, seals and migratory birds.

Major cultural events and public holidays

Greenland's rich Inuit culture is reflected in its many events and festivals throughout the year. Here are some of the major cultural events not to be missed on your trip to Greenland:

Nuuk National Film Festival (March)

The festival celebrates the creativity and talent of Greenlandic filmmakers, as well as international films dealing with Arctic or polar subjects. The Nuuk National Film Festival offers visitors the opportunity to discover Greenlandic cinema and meet local filmmakers.

Greenland National Day (June 21)

June 21 is the longest day of the year, and also marks the celebration of Greenland's National Day. On this occasion, various festivities are organized throughout the country, including parades, concerts, sports competitions and exhibitions of local crafts.

Aasivik Music Festival (July)

This annual festival takes place in the town of Aasiaat, bringing together local and international artists for a series of open-air concerts. The Aasivik Music Festival is a not-to-be-missed event for music lovers, and an opportunity to discover the cultural diversity of Greenland.

Low and high season periods

There low season in Greenland generally runs from November to February, due to the harsh weather conditions and low light levels. During this period, some activities may be limited, but accommodation and flights are often cheaper. On the contrary, the high season runs from June to August, when visitors flock to enjoy the warmer temperatures and summer activities. It is therefore advisable to book your accommodation and flights in advance during this period to avoid disappointment.

Greenland immigration statistics

Due to its isolated geographical location and extreme climatic conditions, Greenland has not always been a popular destination for immigrants. However, recent years have seen a gradual increase in the number of foreigners wishing to settle here.

Number of immigrants to Greenland

According to Greenlandic government data files, approximately 10% of total population (around 5,600 people) are foreigners, mainly from Scandinavia and Western Europe. This proportion has risen steadily since the early 2000s, despite a low overall population of 56,000.

Reasons for immigration

The main reasons that bring immigrants to Greenland are :

• employment opportunities, particularly in the fishing, construction and service sectors;
• family reunification with a spouse or other family members already settled in the country;
• looking for a different way of life, away from the stress and bustle of big cities.

Most popular visas in Greenland

In order to stay and work in Greenland, it is generally necessary to obtain an appropriate visa. Here is a brief overview of the most commonly requested visas:

Residence and work visa

This combined visa allows foreigners to settle and work in Greenland for up to four years, renewable under certain conditions. Applicants for this visa must have a valid job offer and meet various criteria, such as proficiency in the Danish language and no criminal record.

Family reunion visa

People wishing to join a family member living in Greenland can apply for a family reunion visa. Conditions vary according to the relationship and financial resources of the applicant, but generally include requirements similar to those for residence and work visas.

Student Visa

Although Greenland's education system is relatively small, some international students choose to pursue their higher education in this unique country. Student visas are issued for a maximum of two years, and can be renewed if the student continues to meet the required conditions.

International tourism figures for Greenland

Alongside the increase in immigrant arrivals, Greenland is also experiencing a boom in international tourism. Its spectacular landscapes, ancient Inuit culture and unique Arctic experiences attract more and more tourists every year.

General tourism trends in Greenland

In 2019, Greenland welcomed approximately 90,000 international visitorsThis represents an increase of almost 10% over the previous year. This positive trend has been maintained for several years, reflecting the growing interest in the Arctic region as a tourist destination.

Profile of tourists to Greenland

The majority of tourists visiting Greenland come from Europe (mainly the United States). Denmarkof Norway and ofGermany) and North America (notably UNITED STATES and Canada). Travellers' main motivations include :

• discover nature and breathtaking landscapes;
• aurora borealis viewing;
• outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking and dog-sledding;
• Inuit culture and Viking history.

Economic impact of tourism in Greenland

The tourism sector is a major source of revenue for Greenland, generating around 100 million euros per year. This sum is helping to support local jobs and diversify Greenland's economy, which relies mainly on fishing and subsidies from the Danish government.

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