120 kilometers of world-class hiking

Hiking in the Nuup Kangerlua (Nuuk Fjord) offers a spectacular way to experience the majestic landscapes surrounding Greenland’s capital.  Whether you’re up for a relaxing walk near the city or a challenging multi-day trek, Nuuk offers hiking opportunities suitable for all experience levels.

The stunning backcountry of Nuuk holds immense potential as a hiking destination. That’s why Visit Nuuk, in collaboration with local hiking guide Valdemar Wilhjelm Geisler, has marked the trail between Nuuk and Kapisillit. This 120 kilometer hiking route takes you through breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and the feeling of being completely secluded from the rest of the world. Hiking in the Nuuk fjord isn’t just an activity; it’s an unforgettable adventure that awakens your senses and leaves you longing for more.

A unique route

Valder Wilhjelm Geisler has hiked in most parts of Greenland. He explains that the newly marked route is something truly special:

“The route between Nuuk and Kapisillit has it all. Beautiful surroundings, good trails, challenging terrain, and you get to experience the diverse backcountry with towering mountains, glaciers, and stunning valleys.”

The new route can be hiked in either direction. You can start at the Anstalten in Nuuk and hike to Kapisillit, then take a boat back to Nuuk with one of Nuuk’s tour operators or Disko Line. Alternatively, you can sail to Kapisillit and hike back to Nuuk.

Be well prepared

The terrain on the hiking route is mountainous, so it’s important to be in good shape before setting off. The journey typically takes about 5-6 days, and there are several safety precautions you should take before embarking. Local experts like Valdemar recommend checking weather conditions, understanding the local landscape, and ensuring you have proper navigation tools. A visit to local stores for maps or a consultation with hiking experts in Nuuk can provide extra safety tips and guidance.

It’s essential to be thoroughly prepared for any hiking trip, whether it’s a short day hike or an extended multi-day trek. Make sure you have the appropriate gear and navigation tools, and always let someone—whether it’s your lodging or a personal contact—know about your hiking itinerary, especially if you’re going solo. Be sure to check weather conditions in advance using reliable sources like Windy, DMI, or YR before setting off.

Visit Nuuk plans to have maps and GPS points for the marked routes ready for the next season. These will offer detailed descriptions of hiking routes around Nuuk, along with all the necessary precautions and safety measures hikers should be aware of, as well as GPS tracks to follow throughout the journey.

Nuuk’s vast potential

The hiking trail is part of a larger effort by Visit Nuuk to develop the city as a prime hiking destination. This development is being carried out in close collaboration with local tour operators and residents of both Nuuk and Kapisillit. The collaboration has led to the marking of several specific routes, including the trail from Kapisillit to the Ice Fjord.

“We are seeing a high demand for hiking tourism in Nuuk. The route between Nuuk and Kapisillit takes you through Nuuk’s unique backcountry and offers much of what hikers are looking for. Some visitors are experienced hikers, while many prefer to have a guide with them,” says Sara Nissen, Destination Manager at Visit Nuuk.

The respectful hiker

Recommended reading material

Abermann, Jakob. Trekking Around Nuuk

Local hiking maps (Atuagkat)