Travel, experience, conserve with
Phone:
Jump to main menu

Greenland is an Arctic gem, home to rugged mountains, dramatic fjords and gigantic icebergs. Offering a unique and breath-taking experience, Greenland promises splendid wildlife encounters with musk oxen, ringed seal, and black guillemot as particular highlights.

The world's largest island and a true icy wonderland, Greenland is known for its remarkable landscapes, expansive ice sheets, towering peaks and tabular icebergs. Whether you're an enthusiastic wildlife observer, a passionate photographer, or an explorer seeking new horizons, Greenland promises an unforgettable journey.

Greenland wildlife

Musk oxen, with their thick fur and impressive horns, are iconic symbols of Greenland's tundra. These resilient creatures can be spotted grazing in the remote valleys and plains, showcasing their immense strength and endurance. Nearby, agile reindeer migrate across the landscape in search of food, presenting a picturesque scene against the rugged backdrop.

Greenland’s icy waters host an abundance of marine life, including ringed, harp, and hooded seal. These playful and curious animals are a delight to observe, whether basking on the ice or swimming gracefully in the cold waters. Meanwhile, the mighty walrus can often be seen lounging on ice floes or diving for food, providing a spectacular sight for wildlife enthusiasts.

Whale watching in Greenland

In the sea around Greenland, there are as many as 16 species of whales – from the smaller narwhal, beluga and porpoise to gigantic baleen whales such as blue, fin and humpback. In the summer, narwhal can be seen in numerous fjords and coves in North-west Greenland and along the coast of East Greenland whereas the beluga is more common off West Greenland. 

Birdwatching in Greenland

During the summer breeding season, birders will delight in viewing the diverse range of bird species, including the striking black guillemot, graceful northern fulmar, charming snow bunting, and the common eider. 

Polar bear watching in Greenland

The polar bear is another iconic Greenland animal and the world’s largest land predator. Polar bear are most frequently found in North and North-east Greenland but travel along the entire east coast, and they can travel all the way to South Greenland with the drifting ice. 

Wildlife holidays to Greenland

Our collection of Greenland wildlife trips can be tailor-made to suit your exact requirements and dates - just contact our wildlife specialists who will be happy to help.

View suggested itineraries

Key info

  • Ideal for viewing: musk ox, reindeer, harp seal, hooded seal, black guillemot
  • Where: Greenland, Arctic

Wildlife trips

This wildlife location is featured in the following itineraries:

East Greenland

Sailing north from Reykjavik, this voyage explores Greenland and its surrounding waters, home to an impressive array of wildlife – you will undoubtedly be accompanied by fulmars, kittiwakes and rafts of guillemots. The autumn scenery is dramatic, with vivid colours by day and the spectacular northern lights by night. Find out more about East Greenland

  • Price (exc. flights): 9-11 days from £6,330
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • J
    • J
    • A
    • S

Greenland Odyssey

Embark on an intimate Greenland expedition through the pristine landscapes of Scoresby Sund, with Zodiac cruises and shore landings revealing colossal icebergs and diverse Arctic wildlife. Immerse yourself in East Greenland's untamed wilderness on this small-ship wildlife cruise. Find out more about Greenland Odyssey

  • Price (inc. flights): 10 days from £13,300
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • A
    • S
    • O

Northern Lights & Wildlife Odyssey

Traverse the Norwegian coastline, explore the remote island of Jan Mayen, and witness Greenland's vast fjords on this epic Arctic voyage. Along the way, encounter dramatic shores, fascinating Arctic wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and with luck the mesmerising glow of the aurora borealis. Find out more about Northern Lights & Wildlife Odyssey

  • Price (exc. flights): 18 days from £17,695
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • S

Spitsbergen, Greenland & Iceland

Sailing amid awe-inspiring scenery of fjords and glaciers, this comprehensive itinerary starts in Spitsbergen, home to the world's highest population of polar bears. Continuing across the Greenland Sea, orcas and dolphins follow in your wake, and there are chances to see walrus, Arctic hare and musk ox. Find out more about Spitsbergen, Greenland & Iceland

  • Price (exc. flights): 14-16 days from £12,895
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • J
    • J
    • A
    • S
Recommended cruise vessels:

Greg Mortimer

Greg Mortimer LUXURY VESSEL

The Greg Mortimer introduces an exciting new generation of ship for cruising in the Polar regions. Purpose-built for expedition cruising with a uniquely designed ice-strengthened hull to provide a more comfortable voyage, this small ship can venture into remote areas that larger vessels cannot reach. Find Out More about Greg Mortimer

Ortelius

Ortelius EXPEDITION VESSEL

The ice-strengthened Ortelius is an excellent vessel for expeditions in the Arctic and Antarctic. With the highest ice-class notation, it offers possibilities to travel to remote locations such as the Ross Sea and Franz Josef Land. Flexibility assures maximum wildlife opportunities. Find Out More about Ortelius

Plancius

Plancius EXPEDITION VESSEL

The Plancius accommodates a maximum of 108 passengers in cabins ranging from triple to superior, all with outside view and private facilities. She offers a range of itineraries in Antarctica and the Arctic, and the large open deck spaces offer excellent opportunities to watch wildlife. Find Out More about Plancius

Polar Athena

Polar Athena MICRO VESSEL

Polar Athena is a beautifully refurbished micro expedition vessel designed for wildlife encounters and true polar exploration. With just 44 guests, generous deck space, a strengthened ice-class hull, and swift Zodiac operations, she combines comfort, agility, and adventure to reach remote regions. Find Out More about Polar Athena

Vikingfjord

Vikingfjord MICRO VESSEL

Vikingfjord is a small expedition ship, blending comfort and sustainability. The ship features eight spacious cabins, a large open plan observation lounge, and a new energy efficient engine. It's the perfect option for those seeking a more intimate wildlife cruise, sleeping a maximum of 12 guests. Find Out More about Vikingfjord