Greenland is the world’s largest island and boasts beautiful landscapes, yet tourists are not something the country regular sees. Now it is making moves to change that, as part of a plan to diversify its economy. Currently, Greenland relies heavily on one industry, wishing makes up around 90% of the country’s exports.
Towards the end of last year, the huge country already made the first steps by officially opening up its new international airport in the Nuuk, the capital city. The previous airport was not fit for larger airliners to use. However, today the Nuuk International Airport’s runway stretches 2,200 metres and it has a new terminal, both features have broken the limitations the capital had when it came to connecting with other destinations across the world. Airline route analyst says that airport’s “enhanced facilities will be vital for tourism and economic development.”
A number of airlines have started serving in Nuuk as of this year and United Airlines will is set to launch a nonstop flight from Newark, just outside New York on the East Coast of the US. The route starts from 14 June, initally scheduled to operate seasonally until September 25, Euro News reports.
As well as the exciting new plans for Nuuk, Ilulissat in the north and Qaqortoq in the south both have plans to house an international airport by next year with similar facilities.
Tourism in Greenland is already starting to grow. In 2023, the country hit a record number of international visitors. Nrealy 40,000 flew over to the country whilst a huge 76,000 travelled on a cruise ships.
According to Visit Greenland, foreign tourism contributed around DKK 1.9 billion (£268 million) of revenue to the economy, it also directly accounted for more than 1,000 jobs.
So what is there to actually do on the massive island? Well one of Greenland’s strongest advantages is the natural surroundings and uncrowded space. Its location within the Arctic Circle also means travellers can be justifiably proud of venturing that far north.
The country’s landscapes also make it a great destination for those seeking adventure – with towering icebergs and ancient glaciers that can explored by boat or kayak, visitors are in for a treat.
For those who opt to relax, the country has you covered too. The capital boasts a number of cultural and historical experiences, from taking a dip in the harbour, visiting one of its many spas or taking a hike and observe the diverse wildlife found across the country.
