Greenland travel insurance and destination guide
As the world's largest island, Greenland offers travelers an extraordinary arctic adventure unlike anywhere else on Earth. This independent Danish territory offers both unique challenges and incredible opportunities, from witnessing the Northern Lights to exploring vast glacial landscapes. However, because of the island’s remote location, extreme weather conditions and limited medical care, travel insurance for Greenland is recommended for any visitor.
Travel insurance for Greenland
There are many reasons for obtaining travel insurance when traveling to Greenland including the island’s separation from the mainland and the increased risk of personal health issues such as hypothermia or frostbite when exploring the country's wilderness. Travel insurance can cover the costs of emergency medical evacuation, medical care and other disruptions to your itinerary, such as delays and cancellations. The right plan can offer financial protection and support in one of the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring destinations.
Why you need travel insurance in Greenland
Greenland's unique geography and climate creates specific risks that travelers should consider, making travel protection a must-have for your trip.
- Limited medical facilities: Outside of Nuuk, most hospitals are small and minimally staffed. In emergencies, patients often require evacuation to Denmark or Iceland — costing thousands of dollars.
- Extreme weather risks: Sudden snowstorms, freezing temperatures and polar bear encounters are real threats. Weather-related delays and cancellations are common.
- Remote emergency response: Search and rescue operations can be slow and costly in rural areas.
- High travel costs: Without insurance, trip cancellations or interruptions can result in significant financial losses with no reimbursement options.
What to consider when choosing a travel insurance plan
When selecting travel insurance for Greenland, prioritize coverage that addresses the country's specific challenges.
- Medical coverage should include emergency medical evacuation benefits, as local facilities may not be equipped to handle serious injuries or illnesses and evacuations can be extremely costly.
- Support services are invaluable in Greenland, where local infrastructure is limited. Look for plans that provide 24/7 emergency support and can coordinate medical evacuations in remote locations.
- Trip cancellation and interruption coverage is particularly important for Greenland travel, as weather conditions frequently disrupt flight schedules.
- Consider coverage for adventure activities if you plan to participate in activities like dog sledding, ice climbing or glacier trekking.
SafeTrip travel insurance plans
UnitedHealthcare Global's SafeTrip offers travel insurance plans to help make you feel safe and protected during your trip to Greenland.
International Travel Medical Plus
If you’re looking for a combination of travel insurance and travel medical protection, then the SafeTrip International Travel Medical Plus plan is perfect for traveling to Greenland. With the region’s rugged landscapes, unexpected challenges can pop-up when you least expect them. This plan offers coverage for accidents and unexpected illness, emergency medical evacuation benefits, as well as trip cancellation/interruption and 24/7 support services. So when you are navigating the icy fjords or hiking across rugged terrain, this plan can help you protect your expenses and health.
International Travel Medical
When health is your number one priority, the International Travel Medical plan is the protection you need. Focusing primarily on accident and sickness medical coverage, it safeguards you against unexpected illnesses and injuries while in Greenland. With benefits that cover emergency medical treatment, emergency medical evacuation benefits and 24/7 support services, SafeTrip can help you receive timely care in a region where medical facilities are limited. Whether you face a sudden illness or an injury during your arctic exploration, this plan offers a safety net by covering critical health care needs and arranging assistance whenever necessary.
No matter which SafeTrip plan you choose, you can travel to Greenland with added confidence knowing you’re protected against the unexpected. Both plans provide 24/7 support, as well as the coverage needed to stay safe in this unique region.
Traveling to Greenland
Planning a trip to Greenland means preparing for an extraordinary journey.
Places to go and things to do
- Nuuk: Explore Greenland's colorful capital city, featuring the National Museum and modern Nordic architecture
- Ilulissat Icefjord: Witness massive icebergs calving from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Tasiilaq: Experience traditional Inuit culture in East Greenland's largest settlement
- Kangerlussuaq: Gateway to the Greenland Ice Sheet and prime location for Northern Lights viewing
- Uummannaq: Visit this picturesque town built around a distinctive heart-shaped mountain
- Scoresby Sound: Explore the world's largest fjord system and spot arctic wildlife
- Disco Bay: Take boat tours among towering icebergs and watch for whales
- Sisimiut: Discover Greenland's second-largest town and enjoy dog sledding adventures
- Greenland Ice Sheet: Experience the vast inland ice cap through guided expeditions
- Prince Christian Sound: Navigate through dramatic fjords with towering waterfalls and glaciers
Best times to visit
The best time to visit Greenland depends on your interests and activities.
Summer (June through August) offers the warmest weather, with temperatures reaching up to 50°F (10°C) in some areas. This is prime time for hiking, boat tours and exploring the countryside when most accommodations and services are open.
If you’re interested in viewing the Northern Lights, visit between September and March when nights are the longest.
Winter activities like dog sledding are best from February through April when there's sufficient snow and daylight hours begin to increase.
Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) offer fewer crowds but unpredictable weather conditions. Many tourist services may be closed or have limited schedules during these shoulder seasons.
Travel health guidance
Being informed about health risks and precautions will help you make the most of your Greenland adventure.
Emergency contact numbers and local assistance
Country wide general emergencies: 112
Nuuk specific emergency numbers:
- Ambulance and medical emergency services: 25552
- Fire: 000
- Police: 21448
- Main hospital: 27701
Diseases and health risks
Greenland is considered to have an overall healthy environment for travelers, with a low risk of infectious diseases.
Food and tap water in towns and settlements are generally safe for consumption. However, giardia (an intestinal parasite) is present in the country, particularly in natural water sources. Hikers and outdoor enthusiasts should always purify water from streams, lakes or rivers before drinking.
The primary health risks in Greenland are related to its harsh arctic climate, including cold-related conditions like frostbite and hypothermia. These risks are especially relevant during winter months or extended time outdoors, so dressing in warm, layered clothing and staying dry is essential.
While insect-borne diseases are not a concern, mosquitoes and blackflies can be a nuisance during summer in some areas, making insect repellent a useful item to pack.
Medical facilities outside major towns are limited, and even minor health issues can become more serious if left untreated. Travelers are advised to consult a health care professional before departure to ensure they are up to date on routine vaccinations and adequately prepared for Greenland.
Greenland’s health care system
Greenland’s health care system is spread across 18 municipalities, with 16 municipalities having small hospitals staffed by at least one physician. The level of medical staffing varies depending on the size of the community. Larger villages (over 300 people) typically have full nursing stations, mid-sized villages may have a health aide and smaller villages (under 70 people) rely on untrained workers authorized to dispense medication under a physician’s guidance.
Hospital care
The main hospital in Greenland is Queen Ingrid’s Hospital, located in Nuuk. It provides a wide range of emergency and specialty services, including general and orthopedic surgery, internal medicine, psychiatry, obstetrics and gynecology, anesthesiology, radiology, dermatology and dentistry.
The hospital also operates a telemedicine system, allowing district hospitals to consult with specialists based in Nuuk. Specialists from both Greenland and Denmark visit district health centers periodically, but more complex cases that cannot be treated locally are transferred to the University Hospital in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Hospital bed capacity also varies based on local population needs.
Non-urgent medical care
Non-urgent medical care is generally provided by general practitioners working in small district hospitals or clinics. Outpatient clinics in towns often include emergency units, maternity wards, operating theaters, X-ray facilities, laboratories and dental clinics.
Pharmacies and medications
Pharmacies are available in larger settlements and hospitals carry some medications. However, certain drugs may not be accessible, especially in rural areas where pharmacies are often absent. Travelers should bring an adequate supply of any necessary medications.
Emergency care
While emergency medical treatment is free for all, temporary residents and tourists must pay for other medical services, including follow-up care and dental treatment, with payments accepted in cash or by major credit cards.
In serious cases requiring advanced medical intervention beyond what is available in Nuuk, medical evacuation may be necessary. Patients are typically evacuated to facilities in Iceland or Denmark by commercial flights, or via air ambulance to destinations including Iceland, Canada, Denmark or the USA. Given Greenland’s challenging environment, having appropriate travel insurance, such as plans like UnitedHealthcare Global's SafeTrip is recommended for all visitors.
Frequently asked questions about traveling to Greenland
To help you plan your Greenland adventure, we’ve compiled answers to frequently asked travel questions.
Travel insurance is not a legal requirement for U.S. citizens visiting Greenland. However it is highly recommended due to Greenland’s remote location, limited medical facilities and challenging weather conditions. Many U.S. health insurance plans do not provide or have limited coverage abroad, so having travel insurance plans, such as those offered by UnitedHealthcare Global, can help protect you against unexpected expenses while traveling.
As a U.S. citizen, you do not need a visa to travel to Greenland for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. You will need a valid passport that remains valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from Greenland and has sufficient blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
Most travelers reach Greenland via Denmark or Iceland, so be sure to check the transit requirements for those countries, even if you're not staying there.
For the most up to date information on Greenland entry requirements, visit the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Consulate in Nuuk, Greenland for details.
There are no mandatory vaccinations required for entry into Greenland.
It is recommended that travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations before visiting, including measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis (DTP), varicella (chickenpox), polio and the seasonal flu shot.
Additionally, hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccinations are advised, especially if you plan to stay for an extended period, eat local foods or engage in outdoor activities. Although the risk is low, travelers who may be in close contact with animals or visiting off-the-beaten-path areas may also consider the rabies vaccine.
As Greenland’s climate and environment can be physically demanding, it's wise to consult with a travel health professional well in advance of your trip to ensure you're adequately protected.
For the most up-to-date information on recommended and required vaccinations for travel to Greenland, visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark, and its entry requirements follow the Danish immigration rules. While Greenland is not part of the Schengen Area, most travelers will still need to meet similar documentation and visa requirements.
- All visitors must carry a valid passport. It is recommended that your passport remain valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date.
- Citizens of Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden) can enter Greenland without a visa or passport, though proof of identity is required.
- Citizens of EU/EEA countries can travel to Greenland with a valid passport or national ID card for stays of up to 90 days without a visa.
- Travelers from countries with a visa-free agreement with Denmark may enter Greenland without a visa for short stays (generally up to 90 days within a 180-day period).
- Travelers from countries without a visa-free agreement must apply for a specific Greenland visa through a Danish embassy or consulate. A standard Schengen visa is not valid for Greenland — visitors must request entry specifically for Greenland when applying.
- Anyone planning to work, study or stay for longer than 90 days must apply for the relevant permit through the Danish Immigration Service.
When entering Greenland, visitors should be aware of the country’s customs regulations, which differ from those of Denmark and the EU.
There are strict limits on alcohol and tobacco, typically up to 1 liter of spirits, 2.25 liters of wine and 200 cigarettes per person. Fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and dairy products are also restricted, with some items banned entirely to protect local ecosystems. Firearms, ammunition and certain types of knives are prohibited without special permits. It’s a good idea to check the official allowances before you travel to avoid fines or confiscations at the border.
Travelers should be aware that products made from marine mammals or other protected wildlife may be illegal to bring into many countries, including EU member states, the UK and the U.S. Always check your home country’s import rules before purchasing souvenirs such as sealskin clothing, whale bone carvings or certain types of coral.
For more information, visit the Government of Greenland website.
Greenland travel tips and safety information
Stay prepared and safe with these practical travel tips for exploring Greenland.
Local laws and customs
Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark and its laws closely reflect Danish legal standards.
- Drug possession and use are strictly prohibited and can result in serious penalties
- Alcohol is available but may be restricted in certain towns, so it’s important to be aware of local regulations before consuming or purchasing it
- Greenlandic society values respect for nature and the environment, littering or disturbing wildlife is strongly discouraged
- Tipping is not customary in Greenland, as service charges are typically included, but small gestures of appreciation are always welcomed
- When visiting smaller communities, it’s courteous to ask before photographing people or private property
- Almost all of the rural roads are unpaved, suitable transportation should be used when traveling around the island
- If traveling into the out-country a local guide is recommended, ideally with expertise in dealing with polar bears
- Homosexuality is legal in Greenland and same-sex marriage has been recognized since 2016. The society is generally tolerant, particularly in larger towns, though attitudes may be more conservative in smaller communities
Overall, Greenlanders are friendly and welcoming. Showing respect for their traditions, language and way of life will enrich your travel experience.
Staying safe in urban and rural areas
Greenland is considered a very safe destination with low crime rates, both in urban areas like Nuuk and in smaller settlements.
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing or theft, is rare but can occur, so it’s still wise to take standard precautions, such as keep your belongings secure and avoid leaving valuables unattended.
In rural areas, the primary safety concerns are environmental rather than criminal. The harsh arctic conditions, unpredictable weather and vast, isolated landscapes can pose serious risks if you're not properly prepared. Always travel with appropriate gear, inform someone of your plans before heading out and consider hiring a local guide for excursions.
Whether you're in town or exploring the wilderness, staying aware of your surroundings and respecting nature will go a long way in ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.
Additional tips for traveling to Greenland
These additional travel tips will help you have a smooth and memorable Greenland trip:
- The official language of Greenland is Greenlandic.
- Consider learning basic Danish phrases, as Danish is widely spoken alongside Greenlandic. Many health care workers are Danish, which can be helpful in medical situations. English is also widely spoken, particularly by younger generations.
- Pack appropriate clothing for arctic conditions, including waterproof and windproof outer layers, warm insulation and proper footwear. Even summer temperatures can be unpredictable with weather conditions changing rapidly.
- Budget for high costs associated with travel in Greenland. Accommodation, food and transportation are significantly more expensive than in most destinations due to its remote location and limited infrastructure.
- Book accommodations and activities well in advance, especially for summer travel. Many facilities have limited capacity and may be fully booked during peak season.
Choose SafeTrip for your Greenland travel insurance
When exploring the breathtaking wilderness and rural communities of Greenland, having reliable travel insurance for Greenland is strongly recommended. UnitedHealthcare Global's SafeTrip offers tailored insurance plans designed to meet the unique challenges of this arctic destination. From robust medical coverage and emergency medical evacuation to trip cancellation protection and 24/7 support, SafeTrip can help you to prepare for whatever your adventure brings.
With SafeTrip by your side, you can travel with added confidence, knowing that expert assistance and financial protection are just a call away, letting you focus on making unforgettable memories in Greenland’s stunning landscapes. Get a quote today and protect your adventure.
Share
Get a travel insurance quote
Your itinerary is fully planned and all you need is your travel insurance? Get started with your quote here.