Northeast greenland national park

Around 200 million years ago, when the supercontinent of Pangaea started to break apart, a large landmass known as Laurasia started its drift north, from which the island of Greenland eventually split around 60 million years ago. Today, this incredible pristine island harbors a unique Arctic ecosystem and functions as an Arctic wildlife reserve for iconic animals such as polar bears, Arctic walrus colonies, seals and rare seabirds. In the far north of the island, you’ll find Northeast Greenland National Park, the largest national park in the world and a must-see for any wildlife and wild nature enthusiast! It’s one of the last remaining areas in the world functioning as an Arctic marine sanctuary safeguarding the unique Northeast Greenland biodiversity, and also plays a crucial role in Arctic wilderness protection and Arctic tundra preservation. Find out why this place is worth a visit and what you can expect from a northeast Greenland expedition.

Park Overview and Establishment

Did you know that the world’s largest national park is located in Greenland? Established by the Danish government in August 1974 to protect the incredible biome and indigenous peoples’ culture, Northeast Greenland National Park spans over 972,000 square kilometers (375,000 square miles). That’s roughly four times the size of the UK, covering the interior and northeastern coast of Greenland. The entire territory is Sirius Patrol area. The Sirius Patrol, an elite Danish naval unit in charge of surveillance, policing and law enforcement, safeguards Northeast Greenland National Park and its coastline with boat patrols during the summer and on dog sleds during the winter.

Location and Geography

Located in North Greenland, between 74°30' and 81°36' north latitude, Northeast Greenland National Park stretches over a significant portion of the Greenland ice sheet. It covers the remote interior of Northeast Greenland, as well as the northeastern coast with its incredible Arctic ecosystem and iconic wildlife. The closest city is Ittoqqortoormiit, an isolated community with only around 363 inhabitants (2024 estimate), at the southern border of the national park. Not far from the park’s southern limits, you can find Scoresby Sund, the largest of Greenland’s fjord systems. As there are no roads in Greenland, this Arctic national park can only be reached by air or water. The best way to explore this unique Greenland wildlife sanctuary is by expedition ship! Check out our upcoming cruises to East Greenland and discover this gem of the Arctic.

The Spectacular Fjords

As one of the largest fjord systems in the world, Scoresby Sund is a must-see on your Greenland expedition! Imagine a landscape with snow-covered mountain peaks, crystal-clear waters and gigantic icebergs, stretching over 350km (220 miles). And it’s not only snowscapes that will fascinate you here! Scoresby Sund is famous for its wildlife such as polar bear, narwhal and seal. It’s also a major Arctic musk oxen habitat in Greenland.

Mountain Landscapes

While Greenland features some of the most exceptional landscapes on the planet, it’s difficult to explore the remote parts, as the island does not have a road system. Discover Greenland just as ancient explorers did and board a small but comfortable expedition ship. From deck, you can enjoy the most spectacular views of high mountains in East Greenland of up to 3,000 meters (9,800 feet) in height, colorful layered cliffs at Segelsällskarpet Fjord, pristine bays and waterways that will leave you speechless.

Ice Formations and Icebergs

See how icebergs are born! Witness the outlet glaciers of Greenland’s ice sheet calving and marvel at their sheer size, with some of them reaching the size of a football field. The best spot to catch this spectacle is from the sea, so we recommend a boat trip or expedition ship.

Wildlife and Biodiversity

With its grand size, Northeast Greenland National Park functions as a refuge for Greenland’s wildlife and protection zone for the delicate Northeast Greenland ecosystem. Whether you explore on water in search of Greenland’s iconic marine life, or on land, you’ll be amazed by the biodiversity of this cold and remote region.

Marine life to look out for:

• Greenland polar bears
• Walruses
• Seals (harp, harbor, hooded ringed and bearded seals)
• Whales (around 16 species, including narwhals, blue and beluga whales)

Terrestrial wildlife to spot:

There are a few unique experiences you can only enjoy right at or north of the Arctic Circle. Its intensity varies depending on your latitude:

• Musk oxen (an estimated 5,000 to 15,000 animals reside in the park)
• Arctic wolves
• Arctic hares
• Arctic foxes
• Collared lemmings
• Arctic birds (such as black guillemot, northern fulmar, kittiwake and pink-footed goose)

Natural Phenomena

A visit to Northeast Greenland is not only about its iconic wildlife and pristine landscapes, but you’ll also get a chance to see some of the most incredible celestial phenomena on the planet. Imagine experiencing the northern lights in the sky above the incredible snowscapes, fjords and mountains of Greenland. For photographers, the sunsets and sunrises in early and late summer will make for incredible pictures and memories. And then there are once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to catch, such as the total solar eclipse that will traverse East Greenland on August 12, 2026. Mark your calendars and book a spot on our epic solar eclipse cruise here:

Visitor Information and Access

The closest airport (Nerlerit Innat) is located around 80km (50 miles) from the park’s southern border. Before you go, ensure that you’ve received official permission from the country’s authorities. There are no roads, villages, infrastructure, hotels or other accommodations in the park. While pitching a tent is allowed, you will have to follow strict regulations on where to set up your camp (e.g. not near the breeding, foraging or resting sites of mammals and birds). A great and comfortable way to experience the national park is with an expedition cruise. You can visit the highlights of the national park and see iconic wildlife from the ship’s deck and while cruising on small Zodiac boats. Some of the cruises even offer kayaking, where you can immerse yourself further into this Greenlandic paradise. There are various cruise options which board/depart in Longyearbyen or Reykjavik. Choose your cruise here:

The Wilderness Experience

Few places in the world offer an experience like a visit to Northeast Greenland. Nowhere else can you immerse yourself deeply into majestic Arctic nature and enjoy the tranquility of the wild north, far away from crowds and civilization. Aboard a small expedition ship, you’ll explore in a group of only up to 100 travelers. It’s the ultimate trip to recharge your energy and connect with unspoiled nature.

FAQs

What is the Northeast Greenland National Park famous for?

Unparalleled beauty and pristine landscapes, iconic wildlife and Arctic flora preservation are the main reasons why travelers choose this destination. It’s the largest national park in the world, with no road access, which makes it one of the most difficult parks to access for visitors. Northeast Greenland National Park also hosts several Greenland scientific research stations focusing on atmospheric, marine and terrestrial scientific projects, as well as Arctic environment monitoring.

What can you do at Northeast Greenland National Park?

You can not only spot wildlife and enjoy pristine nature, but also see well-preserved archeological remains such as turf houses, tools and tent rings belonging to the Neo-Inuit Cultures (Thule cultures) from around 1,300 to 1,850 AD.

What animals are in the Northeast Greenland National Park?

You can find polar bears, walruses, various species of seals and whales, as well as musk oxen, collared lemmings, Arctic wolves, hares and foxes in the national park and along its coastline.

How big is Northeast Greenland National Park?

The national park covers a surface of 972,000 square kilometers (375,000 square miles). To compare: it is more than 100 times larger than Yellowstone National Park, roughly four times the size of the UK and larger than Spain and Portugal combined.