If you're dreaming of icebergs, midnight sun, and wildlife encounters in a place untouched by time, then Disco Bay (Disko Bay) in West Greenland should be on your list.
Let's take a deep dive into this Arctic wonderland together—with all the details you need for a smooth, unforgettable trip.
Disco Bay is located on the western coast of Greenland, within the Arctic Circle. It's most famously known for its massive icebergs calving off the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But there's more—colorful Inuit towns, rich Norse history, Arctic wildlife like whales and seals, and the dazzling Northern Lights in winter.
The main gateway to Disco Bay is Ilulissat, a charming coastal town and the third largest in Greenland.
By Air:
From Copenhagen, Denmark, fly to Kangerlussuaq (about 4.5 hours), then connect to Ilulissat via Air Greenland (approx. 1-hour flight).
In summer, Icelandair also operates seasonal flights from Reykjavik to Ilulissat.
By Boat:
In summer, Arctic Umiaq Line runs coastal ferries from Nuuk to Ilulissat—a scenic but lengthy trip (takes 2–3 days). Expedition cruises also stop here.
1. Ilulissat Icefjord (UNESCO Site)
- Entrance Fee: Free if visiting the viewpoint trails. Guided tours start around $80–$120 USD.
- Activities: Hiking, photography, boat tours, and kayaking among icebergs.
2. Sermermiut Valley
- A short hike from Ilulissat, this ancient Inuit settlement offers breathtaking iceberg views.
- Tip: Visit in the golden hour for the best light.
3. Boat Tours on Disco Bay
- Multiple operators offer tours to see floating icebergs and humpback whales.
- Prices: Boat tours range from $100–$200 USD for 2–3 hour trips.
4. Whale Watching (Summer)
- Best from June to August. Species include humpback, minke, and fin whales.
- Price: Around $130 USD per person.
5. Northern Lights Viewing (Winter)
- From September to April, the skies above Ilulissat are ideal for aurora sightings.
- Bundle up—it's cold!
- Summer (June–August): Midnight sun, whale watching, hiking, and boat tours.
- Winter (November–March): Northern Lights, snowshoeing, and snow-covered scenery.
- Shoulder Seasons (May & September): Fewer tourists, mixed weather.
- Tip: July is the best month for iceberg boat tours and whale watching.
- Hotel Icefiord – Sea-view rooms with balconies, close to iceberg routes.
- Hotel Arctic – Greenland's only 4-star hotel, also known for its igloo-shaped cabins.
- Guesthouses and Airbnb-style stays – Cheaper and local options.
- Prices: From $100 USD/night (guesthouses) to $250+ USD/night (hotels).
- Greenlandic cuisine includes reindeer, Arctic fish, and local herbs.
- Cafes and bakeries in Ilulissat offer coffee and pastries.
- Groceries are available, but expensive—consider bringing some snacks if you're budget-conscious.
1. Currency: Danish Krone (DKK), but many places accept cards.
2. Language: Greenlandic and Danish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
3. Dress Code: Even in summer, layers are essential. Windproof and waterproof jackets are a must.
4. Booking: Hotels and tours sell out quickly in summer—book 3–6 months in advance.
5. Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available in hotels but often slow. Download offline maps.
Because it's not just a place—it's a story. From the ancient Norse and Inuit cultures to the raw power of melting glaciers and drifting icebergs, Disco Bay is nature's open-air museum. We're not just visitors here—we're stepping into a living Arctic history book.
Lykkers, imagine standing on the edge of the Arctic, watching giant icebergs drift by under the endless summer sun—or gazing at the dancing Northern Lights in the quiet of winter. Disco Bay brings us closer to nature in its rawest, most powerful form. Let's pack our curiosity and sense of wonder, and start this unforgettable journey—together.
Is this the most beautiful place on Earth? (Cruising iceberg-filled Disko Bay, Greenland)
Video by Drifter Dave - Travel the Unknow