Greenland Wheelchair Travel Tips

Greenland is a North American island autonomous territory of the Kingdom of Denmark. Known for its stunning glaciers, vast wilderness, and vibrant Inuit culture, Greenland a destination like no other. While its remote and rugged terrain presents some challenges, Greenland is increasingly accessible to wheelchair travelers. 

Nuuk

• Nuuk Old Harbor: Greenland’s capital, offers a blend of traditional Inuit culture and modern life. The Old Harbor is a lively area where you can observe fishing boats, visit local shops, and enjoy waterfront views. The harbor area has wide, flat pathways that are relatively easy to navigate. Some cafes and shops have ramps for wheelchair access. The uneven cobblestone areas and occasional steps can be challenging to navigate. Some older buildings do not have ramps. Accessible toilets are available at nearby public buildings and some cafes.
• Katuaq Cultural Center is the cultural heart of Nuuk, hosting exhibitions, concerts, films, and events. The building’s design reflects Greenland’s dramatic landscapes and cultural heritage. The center is fully accessible, with ramps, elevators, and spacious interiors. It’s a great place to experience Greenlandic art and culture. Accessible toilets are available on all floors of the center.
• Nuuk Art Museum showcases a diverse collection of Greenlandic art, including traditional carvings, paintings, and contemporary works. The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators for easy navigation. Some exhibit areas might have slightly narrow spaces, but they are generally accessible. Accessible toilets are available within the museum.

Accommodations

• Hotel Hans Egede: Accessible rooms with roll-in showers and grab bars. Rooms offer king-size or twin beds.
• Hotel Nuuk: Accessible bathrooms with roll-in showers and grab bars. Rooms include king-size or twin beds.

Ilulissat

• Ilulissat Icefjord: A UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Greenland’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. It’s known for its massive icebergs and stunning glacial landscapes. The Icefjord Center, a visitor center near the Icefjord, is fully accessible with ramps and smooth pathways leading to observation areas. The main walking trail has sections that are wheelchair-friendly. Some parts of the trails may be difficult due to gravel or uneven terrain. Accessibility is limited in certain areas. Accessible toilets are available at the Icefjord Center.
• Zion Church is the oldest church in Greenland, located in Ilulissat. It’s a beautiful example of Greenlandic wooden architecture and offers insight into the region’s religious history. The church has a ramp for wheelchair access and a spacious interior that allows for easy movement. Some areas around the church have uneven surfaces, but the main entrance is accessible. Accessible toilets are available near the church in public facilities.

Accommodations

• Hotel Arctic: Accessible rooms with roll-in showers and grab bars. Rooms include king-size or twin beds.
• Hotel Icefiord: Accessible bathrooms with roll-in showers and grab bars. Rooms offer king-size or twin beds.

Kangerlussuaq

• Russell Glacier located near Kangerlussuaq, is a breathtaking natural attraction where visitors can witness the raw power of nature up close. Accessible tours to the glacier are available via specially adapted vehicles. Viewing areas near the glacier are generally accessible, with some gravel paths. Access to the glacier itself may be limited due to rugged terrain. Close access to the glacier requires navigation over uneven ground. Accessible toilets are available at the starting point of the tours.
• Kangerlussuaq Museum focuses on the area’s history, including its role as a key airbase during World War II and the Cold War. The museum is accessible, with ramps and wide doorways. Exhibits are placed at heights that are easy to view from a wheelchair. Some older parts of the building may have narrow hallways, but most of the museum is accessible. Accessible toilets are available within the museum.

Accommodations

• Polar Lodge: Accessible rooms with roll-in showers and grab bars. Rooms include king-size or twin beds.
• Søndre Strømfjord Hotel: Accessible bathrooms with roll-in showers and grab bars. Rooms offer king-size or twin beds.

Qaqortoq

• Qaqortoq Stone & Man Walking Tour: Qaqortoq, the largest town in Southern Greenland, is known for its “Stone & Man” art project, where sculptures are carved directly into the town’s rocks. A guided walking tour is the best way to explore these unique artworks. The walking tour has sections that are accessible, especially in the town center, where pathways are relatively smooth and flat. Some parts of the tour include steep inclines and rocky terrain, which may be difficult for wheelchairs. However, key sculptures in central areas are accessible. Accessible toilets are available in public buildings and cafes along the tour route.
• Qaqortoq Museum is housed in one of the oldest buildings in Greenland and displays artifacts related to Greenlandic culture, history, and Norse exploration. The museum has been adapted for accessibility, with ramps and spacious galleries that allow for easy movement. Some exhibits are on upper floors, which may not be accessible due to the building’s age. Accessible toilets are available on the ground floor.

Transportation

• Air Greenland is the main airline serving Greenland, connecting it with Denmark and other destinations. It operates flights between the major towns within Greenland. Air Greenland offers assistance for wheelchair users, including boarding and deplaning. Aircraft are equipped to accommodate a limited number of wheelchairs. Smaller regional airports in Greenland may have limited accessibility features, such as ramps or elevators. Aircraft toilets are standard size; however, assistance is available if needed.
• Boats and Ferries: Greenland’s coastal towns are connected by a network of ferries and boats, which are essential for travel between remote areas. Some ferries are equipped with ramps and accessible cabins. Larger boats may have elevators and accessible toilets. Smaller boats and ferries may not be fully accessible, with steep steps or narrow doorways. It’s advisable to check accessibility when booking. Accessible toilets are available on larger ferries.
• Taxis and Local Transportation: In Greenland’s larger towns, taxis are a common mode of transportation. Some taxi companies offer accessible vehicles with ramps or lifts. Availability of accessible taxis may be limited, especially during peak times or in smaller towns.