The adventure destination of Greenland

Sisimiut is known for its will to do things its own way. It is the second largest town in Greenland with approximately 5,500 citizens. The town and its surrounding area have a rich history and boast archaeological ruins dating back more than 4,000 years. We are the adventure hub.

Sisimiut is where Greenland’s most famous hiking route, the Arctic Circle Trail between Sisimiut and Kangerlussuaq, begins. People have travelled the route from the coast to the hinterlands for thousands of years, which is why an area south of Sisimiut has earned a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Half of all snowmobiles in Greenland are registered here, and we have more ATVs than any other town – simply because we live on the edge of the biggest back country in Greenland. Similarly, the number of boats per capita is among the highest in the world. We are the southernmost location with a tradition of dogsledding, and you will find most of our sled dogs on the outskirts of town in an area locally known as “Dog City”.

Our tips for you:

• Public conveniences in town are few and far between. We advise you take advantage of the facilities on board before you disembark. Otherwise, please do not hesitate to ask for the restroom at any public building or private business.
• We do not have a tradition of bargaining but sell our products at the same price to any customer all year long.
• Our Arts & Crafts workshop is of the highest standard, and you will not meet any other Greenlandic workshop with a larger selection.
• The designs and techniques of Greenlandic arts and crafts vary across the country, so do not expect to find the exact same selection of items in other towns. The pieces you find here are unique and more than just souvenirs. They are household items used in any Greenlandic home.
• The old town center, now Sisimiut Museum, is very well preserved and maintains a historical atmosphere. Remember to take a photo of the iconic whale bone gate and learn more about our history and culture.
• Sisimiut has local boat operators offering short boat trips to different key sites nearby. Check the information board at the harbor.
• WIFI is available at several places for a reasonable price.

Sisimiut Community Guidelines

• Please ask before photographing locals; some of us are camera shy.
• Our snowmobiles and dogsleds are cool and photogenic. You are welcome to take pictures but please do not touch them.
• Our dogs are beautiful and engaging but please do not feed them or get too close. They are for work, not play or petting.
• Beware of traffic when you walk around town. Please use the sidewalk whenever available.
• Leave only footprints behind, then we won’t have to deal with our ancient spirits.
• Shop and eat locally to experience our culture up close, while supporting our community and traditions.
• Our beautiful atmospheric museum area is a must-see for any visitor. Please remember that entry into the buildings requires a ticket.
• You will find many historical and archaeological remains in and around Sisimiut. Enjoy our past from a respectful distance.
• The harbour is a busy and bustling part of town. Please be careful and, for your own safety, stay out of the way of people working.
• Most shops in Sisimiut take foreign cards and an ATM is available at GrønlandsBanken in the town center. Some places also accept foreign currencies (Euro and US dollars).
• Our shops are very aware of export laws:
  • No restriction for export with products made of Musk Ox, Reindeer and Seal to EU.
  • CITES permit is required for export of Walrus, Beluga, Polar bear and Minke whale from West Greenland. You can easily obtain CITES at all the places that sells these products.
  • Read more at www.naalakkersuisut.gl/cites.

Check www.arcticcircle.gl for more information about Sisimiut and activities.