Aasiaat
Playful whales, a thousand islands, and small colourful houses hide an impressive collection of custom artwork at the edge of Disko Bay in Aasiaat.
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Aasiaat is the land of thousands of islands
Known as the "land of a thousand islands," Aasiaat is Greenland’s fifth-largest town, yet it remains a hidden gem, seeing far fewer tourists than its neighbors in Disko Bay. Beyond its quiet charm, the town surprised visitors with impressive galleries featuring both renowned and local art.Though the surrounding archipelago lacks the towering peaks found elsewhere in Greenland, its vast, intricate coastline more than compensates. These winding waterways—which freeze solid in the winter—provide a sanctuary for whales year-round and offer a sprawling playground for explorers traveling by boat, kayak, or dogsled. Against a backdrop of brightly painted houses, the resident sled dogs wait for the ice, their howls echoing through this unique coastal maze.
The Journey to Aasiaat
Located on an island in southwest Disko Bay, Aasiaat is accessible via direct flights from Kangerlussuaq or Ilulissat. Most of the year, visitors can also arrive by sea via the Sarfaq Ittuk ferry or local Disko Bay transfers.February – April: Dogsledding, snowshoeing, skiing, and Northern Lights.June – September: Hiking, boat tours, fishing, and whale watching.May & Oct – Jan: Ideal for off-season conferences.Key Events
Midnight Sun Marathon: Held annually in June.Nipiaa Rock Festival: Every August.
Getting Around Aasiaat
Most central attractions are walkable, though bicycles are available for rent if you prefer more speed. For airport transfers, book a taxi (especially with luggage) via phone or the App-Taxa app.Summer: Transport is primarily by boat or on foot.Winter: Travel via dogsled, ski, or snowshoe.While there is no official tourist office, we know the staff at Hotel Søma Aasiaat provide local guidance and assistance.
Essential ContactsTaxi (+299) 49 94 99 or 89 27 00
Police (+299) 70 14 48
Hospital (+299) 89 22 11
Aasiaat Experiences
To truly experience Aasiaat, follow the local lead by embracing the surrounding wilderness throughout the seasons. During the summer, life centers on the water; you can kayak or sail through an archipelago of thousands of islands, passing massive icebergs and searching for the whales that give the town its nickname. Whether you are hiking to the abandoned settlement of Manermiut, brave enough to dip into a lukewarm spring, or fishing for Atlantic wolffish and halibut with a required license, the coast offers endless exploration.As winter takes hold, the focus shifts to the frozen landscape. You can swap boats for dog sleds and skis to traverse the tundra, or join local fishermen as they wait patiently by holes carved into the sea ice. While Bowhead whales frequent these waters in the colder months, the sky provides its own spectacle after dark. By walking just a short distance from the town’s lights, you can witness the Northern Lights dancing across the Arctic sky.
