Greenland Uncovered: 80% Ice-Covered Land, No Intercity Roads and Air Links via Denmark and Iceland

Greenland: 80% Covered in Ice, No Roads Between Towns and Home to Just 56,000 People

Greenland, the world’s largest island, is a land of extraordinary contrasts. Despite its enormous size, it has a population of only around 56,000 people, with vast stretches of ice, rugged mountains and isolated coastal settlements defining its landscape. Located in the Arctic region, Greenland attracts attention for its unique geography, unusual transport system and rich Indigenous heritage.

From travelling between towns by boat or aircraft to witnessing towering icebergs and the Northern Lights, this remote destination offers experiences rarely found elsewhere.

Greenland’s Enormous Size and Tiny Population

Greenland covers an immense area, yet most of its territory is unsuitable for conventional settlement. Approximately 80% of the island lies beneath a massive ice sheet, which reaches more than three kilometres in thickness in some locations.

Most residents live in settlements along the coast, where fishing, hunting and other local activities remain important. The island’s low population density and challenging environment make it one of the most sparsely populated places in the world.

For travellers, this combination of vast wilderness and small communities creates a distinctive atmosphere of isolation and natural beauty.

Why There Are No Roads Connecting Greenland’s Towns

One of Greenland’s most surprising features is the absence of roads linking its towns and settlements. Mountains, deep fjords and extensive ice-covered terrain make building a conventional road network impractical.

Instead, residents depend on boats, ferries, aircraft and helicopters to travel between communities. Within towns, local roads are available, but there is no continuous highway system across the island.

Traditional dog sleds and snowmobiles are also used in certain regions during winter. These transport methods reflect the practical adaptations required to live in an Arctic environment.

Travelling to Greenland generally involves flying through international gateways such as Copenhagen in Denmark or Reykjavík in Iceland. Available routes depend on the season and airline, so visitors should check schedules before departure.

Why Is Greenland Called Greenland Despite Its Vast Ice Sheet?

The island’s name is traditionally linked to Erik the Red, a Norse explorer who is said to have chosen the name while encouraging settlers to move there around the late 10th century.

Its Indigenous name is Kalaallit Nunaat, meaning the Land of the Greenlanders. The name reflects the island’s cultural identity and the long history of Inuit communities in the region.

Greenlandic culture combines traditional practices with contemporary life. Hunting, fishing, handicrafts and sled-dog traditions remain important in many communities.

The Greenlandic kayak, known locally as qajaq, is another example of this heritage. Developed by Inuit communities for travel and hunting in Arctic waters, it demonstrates how local knowledge evolved to meet the challenges of the environment.

Icebergs, Arctic Hiking and the Northern Lights

Greenland is renowned for its dramatic scenery and outdoor adventures. The Ilulissat Icefjord is among its most famous attractions, with enormous icebergs breaking away from the Sermeq Kujalleq glacier and moving through the surrounding waters. The area is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Hiking enthusiasts can explore the Arctic Circle Trail, a remote route of approximately 160 kilometres between the Kangerlussuaq area and Sisimiut. The trail crosses lakes, valleys and open tundra, making it suitable primarily for well-prepared hikers.

Summer brings exceptionally long daylight hours, including the midnight sun in northern areas. During winter, darker skies can provide opportunities to see the Northern Lights, depending on cloud cover and solar activity.

Weather conditions can change rapidly, and temperatures vary considerably by location and season. Visitors need appropriate equipment and should plan excursions carefully.

Greenland’s Vast Protected Wilderness

Northeast Greenland National Park is one of the island’s defining natural features and is widely recognised as the world’s largest national park. Its immense, remote landscape supports wildlife adapted to Arctic conditions.

Animals found in Greenland include musk oxen, Arctic foxes and polar bears. However, wildlife encounters are not guaranteed, and travel in remote areas requires careful preparation.

Greenland also has several UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Ilulissat Icefjord, Kujataa and Aasivissuit–Nipisat. These locations highlight the island’s geological importance, agricultural history and longstanding human connection with the Arctic landscape.

Greenlandic Cuisine and Local Experiences

Food in Greenland reflects the island’s climate and coastal lifestyle. Traditional cuisine may include fish, seal, reindeer and musk ox, with ingredients and dishes varying between communities.

Visitors may also encounter Greenlandic coffee, a distinctive drink prepared with coffee and spirits such as whisky, Kahlúa and Grand Marnier, traditionally topped with whipped cream.

Beyond its food, Greenland offers colourful coastal settlements, local cultural experiences and opportunities to learn about contemporary Inuit traditions. These experiences provide a deeper understanding of life in one of the world’s most isolated regions.

Why Greenland Continues to Fascinate Travellers

Greenland stands apart for its extraordinary size, extensive ice cover, tiny population and lack of roads connecting its towns. Its glaciers, wildlife, remote hiking routes and Indigenous heritage make it a distinctive destination for adventurous travellers.

Although reaching and exploring the island requires careful planning, Greenland offers an opportunity to experience the Arctic’s vast landscapes and unique way of life firsthand.