Ibiza on ice: why is Greenland suddenly throwing open its doors to tourists?
It’s 80% frozen and there are no roads outside towns, but that’s not stopping the territory welcoming more visitors than ever before with three new airports
TL;DR
- Greenland has opened three new airports in Ilulissat, Nuuk, and Qaqortoq to boost tourism.
- The territory is 80% ice-covered, with no roads connecting towns.
- Visitor numbers reached nearly 180,000 in 2025, with expectations for growth.
- Concerns exist about the impact of increased tourism on the isolated population and pristine environment.
- Economic growth through tourism is seen as crucial for Greenland's independence from Denmark.
- Unique tourist attractions include whale watching, dog sledding, hot springs, the northern lights, and the midnight sun.