Greenland
About Greenland
| Currency | Danish Krone (DKK) |
| Language | Greenlandic (East Inuit), Danish |
| Capital | Nuuk (Godthaab) |
Greenland, the world’s largest island, is located between the Arctic and North Atlantic Oceans. The population of Greenland is estimated to be approximately 57,000 people (July 2016) and, as such, Greenland has the lowest population density of any country in the world. Due to the subarctic and arctic climate, the population is concentrated primarily in the southwest coast of the island. The interior of Greenland is uninhabited.
First explored by the Icelandic Vikings in the 10th century, Greenland was next colonized by the Danes in the 18th century. In 1979 Greenland was granted self-governance by the Government of Denmark. Today, it forms part of the Kingdom of Denmark, classified as a self-governing overseas administrative division, with Denmark still administering some of Greenland’s affairs. In this parliamentary democracy, the chief of state is the monarch of Denmark (represented by a high commissioner) and the head of government is the premier.
Historically, the economy of Greenland has been heavily reliant on the fishing industry. However, the tourism industry of Greenland is developing, primarily due to the increased number of cruise lines operating in the southern waters of Greenland. Greenland holds the world’s largest national park (representing over 46% of the island’s land mass), stunning arctic landscapes and a unique climate and culture. It is an undiscovered gem for the adventurous traveller.
Recommended Vaccinations For Greenland
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis A Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A in this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis B Vaccine
There is a risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
Rabies Vaccine
Vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers whose activities or employment may bring them into direct contact with bats (i.e. adventure travellers, veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers, etc.).
Recommended Medications For Greenland
There are no recommendations for Greenland at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for Greenland
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis A
There is a risk of exposure to hepatitis A virus in this country through contaminated food or water.
Hepatitis B
There is a risk for acquiring hepatitis B in this country.
For Some Travellers
Tuberculosis
Travellers to this country are at risk for tuberculosis if visiting sick friends or family, working in the health care field, or having close prolonged contact with the general population.
Rabies
Rabies may be present in bats.
Safety & Security in Greenland
Personal Safety
Greenland has very low crime rates. Violent crimes against tourists are rare, and petty theft such as pickpocketing occurs infrequently, mainly in larger towns like Nuuk. Most incidents happen within the local population and rarely affect visitors. The primary safety concern is the harsh Arctic environment. Weather conditions can change rapidly, and the remote terrain makes rescue operations difficult. Emergency services are limited outside major towns, and search and rescue efforts may take several days to reach isolated areas. You need proper preparation, suitable clothing, and experienced guides when venturing into remote areas or engaging in outdoor activities like hiking on glaciers. Wildlife poses real risks. Arctic foxes can carry rabies, so seek immediate medical attention if bitten. Polar bears are active in many regions, and you must follow official safety guidelines in areas they frequent. Muskoxen and walruses can be dangerous if approached. Even sled dogs are working animals, not pets, and can bite strangers. Nature requires respect. Icebergs can roll without warning, and glaciers calve suddenly, creating large waves. Rockfalls occur in mountainous areas, especially after rain or temperature changes. Avalanches are a risk in winter months. GPS devices with emergency signals are essential for anyone hiking without guides. Travel between towns is only possible by air, sea, or dogsled, with no road connections. Arctic weather frequently causes delays and cancellations to transport services.
Extreme Violence
Terrorism threats in Greenland are minimal according to Danish counterterrorism assessments. No terrorist incidents have been reported in recent years. Organized violent extremism does not exist in the territory. While violent crime does occur within local communities, particularly related to alcohol abuse and domestic issues, these incidents rarely involve tourists. The homicide rate is relatively higher compared to Denmark, partly due to lighter firearm regulations and a larger proportion of hunters in the population. However, these crimes occur between people who know each other. Mass violence is extremely rare. The 1990 Narsaq massacre, where seven people were killed, remains the worst mass shooting in Greenland’s history and an isolated incident. Law enforcement is limited, with only three police boats serving the entire territory. Most large towns have police presence, but remote areas have minimal law enforcement coverage. The justice system emphasizes reconciliation between victims and offenders, reflecting the close-knit nature of communities. Dangerous situations for visitors typically stem from environmental hazards rather than human threats. The primary risks involve getting lost or stranded in harsh conditions where rescue operations may take days to reach you.
Political Unrest
Political unrest in Greenland is rare. The territory has a stable democratic system and peaceful political environment. Civil demonstrations are infrequent and typically orderly when they occur. Recent protests in 2025 centered on responses to external political pressures regarding sovereignty, with thousands gathering peacefully in Nuuk and other towns. These demonstrations were expressions of national identity and independence aspirations rather than internal instability. Greenland has been gradually moving toward independence from Denmark, with the 2009 self-government agreement transferring significant control over domestic affairs to the local government. Elections in 2025 proceeded peacefully, with all major parties supporting gradual sovereignty while disagreeing on economic policies, particularly regarding mining and natural resource extraction. Social issues that generate debate include historical injustices related to Danish colonial policies, child welfare cases involving Greenlandic families in Denmark, and questions about economic development versus environmental protection. These discussions happen through democratic processes without violence. The political landscape is characterized by cooperation among parties, as evidenced by the unanimous passage of social legislation including same-sex marriage and anti-discrimination laws. Gang violence is virtually unknown. Protests remain peaceful and do not disrupt tourism or business activities.
Areas To Avoid
Greenland has no dangerous areas in terms of crime. Towns are safe to walk in day and night. The capital Nuuk, along with Ilulissat, Sisimiut, and other settlements, have low crime indexes and friendly populations. Remote areas present environmental rather than human threats. Hiking on glaciers, inland ice sheets, and certain remote regions is dangerous without proper guidance and equipment. Permits are required for exploring glaciers, mountains, and the National Park in northeast Greenland. Arctic conditions make it easy to become disoriented, and rescue operations in isolated areas are extremely difficult. Qaanaaq in the far north is the most remote town, where even drinking water must be produced by melting glacier ice during winter months. This illustrates the challenging conditions rather than any safety threat from people. The interior of Greenland is covered 80 percent by ice sheet and remains largely uninhabited. Most settlements cluster on the southwest coast where conditions are milder. East Greenland settlements are particularly isolated and weather-dependent for access. Areas near glacial fronts and icebergs require extreme caution due to sudden calving events that generate large waves. The Karrat fjord area experienced a deadly landslide and tsunami in 2017, though such events are rare. Regions frequented by polar bears require special precautions and often mandate that visitors carry firearms or flare guns. There are no conflict zones, no-go areas, or regions to avoid due to crime or hostility.
