Tunulliarfik Fjord
A stunning glacial fjord in South Greenland, famous for its icebergs and historical Viking settlements. Accessible by boat, offering unparalleled natu...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Prime iceberg season
Tunulliarfik Fjord
Best Time
Prime iceberg season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning glacial fjord in South Greenland, famous for its icebergs and historical Viking settlements. Accessible by boat, offering unparalleled natural beauty.
"One of the most beautiful places that I have ever seen!"
Book Water Taxis
Essential for fjord crossings. Book in advance, especially during peak season.
Pack for All Weather
Even in summer, conditions can change rapidly. Layers are key for comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iceberg Spectacle
Witness massive icebergs, some from northeast Greenland, dotting the fjord. A truly unique and breathtaking sight.
Qassiarsuk/Brattahlíð
South side of Tunulliarfik Fjord
Explore this historic settlement, once home to Erik the Red. Accessible by water taxi, it offers a glimpse into Viking history.
Kayaking Adventures
Erik Fjord (connected to Tunulliarfik)
Kayak between snow-capped mountains and huge icebergs for an unforgettable, immersive experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Icebergs
Best Time for Iceberg Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Water Taxis
Essential for fjord crossings. Book in advance, especially during peak season.
Pack for All Weather
Even in summer, conditions can change rapidly. Layers are key for comfort.
Capture the Blue Ice
Don't miss the incredible 'blue ice' phenomenon. Bring your camera!
Embrace the Serenity
Experience true remoteness at places like Qaleraliq Camp.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Water Taxis
Essential for fjord crossings. Book in advance, especially during peak season.
Pack for All Weather
Even in summer, conditions can change rapidly. Layers are key for comfort.
Capture the Blue Ice
Don't miss the incredible 'blue ice' phenomenon. Bring your camera!
Embrace the Serenity
Experience true remoteness at places like Qaleraliq Camp.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty of Tunulliarfik Fjord, particularly the stunning icebergs and the unique 'blue ice' phenomenon. The historical significance of Qassiarsuk/Brattahlíð and the remote tranquility of places like Qaleraliq Camp are also highly praised. Some note the necessity of water taxis and the unpredictable weather.
"Unbridged glacial rivers emptying into Tunulliarfik Fjord make it impossible to walk (or drive) from Narsarsuaq to Qassiarsuk/Brattahlið, with water taxis making travel across this fjord possible. Although well south of the Arctic circle, icebergs peppered Tunulliarfik in the early summer (icebergs reportedly drifted a few thousand kilometers from northeast Greenland to southwest Greenland). Photographs taken 28, 29 June and 1, 2 July 2024 from Narsarsuaq, Qassiarsuk/Brattahlið, and the air.
Blue ice is real."
John Quist
"One of the most beautiful places that I have ever seen"
Andy Schwarz
"Fotaza!!!! Incredible photographer!!!!"
Laura Romero
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tunulliarfik Fjord is primarily accessed by boat. The main gateway town is Narsarsuaq, which has an airport. From Narsarsuaq, water taxis are the primary mode of transport to settlements like Qassiarsuk/Brattahlíð.
No, direct driving is not possible due to unbridged glacial rivers. Water taxis are essential for crossing the fjord and reaching destinations like Qassiarsuk/Brattahlíð.
Boat tours and water taxis are the best ways to experience the fjord's beauty, including its icebergs and surrounding landscapes. Kayaking offers a more intimate experience.
Yes, Narsarsuaq (UAK) has an airport with connections, often via Iceland, making it a common starting point for exploring South Greenland. Check flight schedules for Air Greenland or other carriers.
Travel times by water taxi can vary depending on the destination and sea conditions, but expect journeys to be relatively short between Narsarsuaq and Qassiarsuk/Brattahlíð.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no general entry tickets for the fjord itself. However, you will need to purchase tickets for water taxi services and any organized boat tours or kayaking excursions.
Costs for water taxis can vary. It's best to inquire locally or with tour operators in Narsarsuaq for current pricing and to book your transfers in advance.
While Qassiarsuk/Brattahlíð is a historical site, specific entrance fees are not typically mentioned. Access is usually via water taxi, and the experience is more about exploring the area.
Yes, booking boat tours, kayaking trips, and water taxi services in advance is highly recommended, especially during the peak tourist season, to secure your spot.
Operating hours for water taxis and tours can vary based on the season and demand. It's advisable to confirm schedules directly with the service providers.
📸 📸 Photography
The fjord offers incredible opportunities to photograph icebergs, dramatic mountain landscapes, and the unique 'blue ice.' The settlements like Qassiarsuk/Brattahlíð also provide cultural and historical photo subjects.
Early morning and late afternoon light often provide the most dramatic and beautiful illumination for photographing the fjords and icebergs. Golden hour can be spectacular.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details on icebergs or wildlife. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions.
From the water, you'll have panoramic views. From settlements like Qassiarsuk/Brattahlíð, you can capture the fjord with historical context. Aerial views from flights also offer stunning perspectives.
While not as common as in some other Arctic regions, keep an eye out for seabirds. The main photographic draw remains the icebergs and landscapes.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include boat tours to see icebergs, kayaking between mountains and ice, visiting historical settlements like Qassiarsuk/Brattahlíð, and enjoying the remote tranquility.
While direct hiking from Narsarsuaq to Qassiarsuk is not possible, there are opportunities for hiking around settlements once you arrive via water taxi. The terrain can be rugged.
The primary natural spectacle is the icebergs. You might also spot seabirds. The focus is more on the dramatic glacial landscape than abundant wildlife.
Accommodations are available in Narsarsuaq. For a more remote experience, consider places like Qaleraliq Camp, which offers a unique escape from civilization.
Qassiarsuk/Brattahlíð was the settlement of Erik the Red, marking the beginning of Norse settlement in Greenland. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a family-friendly boat tour that highlights the icebergs and the historical significance of places like Qassiarsuk/Brattahlíð. While direct hiking might be limited, the boat journeys themselves provide ample opportunity for exploration and wonder. Ensure children are dressed warmly, as fjord weather can be unpredictable.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a variety of lenses, from wide-angle for sweeping landscapes to telephoto for capturing details on icebergs. Early morning and late afternoon light will be your best friends for dramatic shots. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light conditions and consider waterproof gear for your equipment.
🛶 Adventure Seekers
Guided kayaking tours are available and highly recommended for safety and to maximize your experience. This is an opportunity to get up close and personal with the fjord's raw beauty, creating memories that are both exhilarating and deeply rewarding.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Majesty of Icebergs
Witnessing these icebergs up close, whether from a boat or kayak, offers a unique perspective on the power and beauty of glacial processes. The way sunlight interacts with the ice, creating dazzling reflections and deep shadows, is a spectacle that many describe as unforgettable.
Pro Tip: Early summer (late June to early July) is considered the best time to see a significant number of icebergs in Tunulliarfik Fjord. Be prepared for a truly awe-inspiring natural display.
Navigating the Fjord: Water Taxis and Boat Tours
Booking water taxis in advance is crucial, especially during peak season, to ensure you can reach your desired destinations. These services offer not only transport but also a scenic journey, allowing you to appreciate the fjord's grandeur from the water.
Organized boat tours offer a more comprehensive experience, often focusing on iceberg viewing or guided excursions to historical sites. For those seeking a more intimate connection with the environment, kayaking between snow-capped mountains and icebergs provides an unparalleled sense of adventure and immersion.
A Glimpse into Viking History
Visiting Qassiarsuk/Brattahlíð allows you to step back in time and imagine life as an early Norse settler. The reconstructed turf houses and the surrounding landscape evoke the spirit of the Viking Age. It's a tangible connection to a pivotal period of exploration and cultural exchange.
Key takeaway: The historical significance of Qassiarsuk/Brattahlíð, combined with the dramatic natural setting of Tunulliarfik Fjord, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit