Greenland Opens Up To Australian Tourists Looking For The Ultimate Adventure

As overtourism continues to shape global travel trends—and as seasoned globetrotters tick off the world’s most iconic destinations—Greenland stands out as one of the few remaining frontiers yet to be fully explored.

Now, Australian-based adventure tour operator Intrepid Travel is preparing to contribute to Greenland’s vision of building a sustainable and responsible tourism future in the Arctic.

Thrust unwillingly into the spotlight by global power plays, Greenland found itself the focus of international attention when former U.S. President Donald Trump floated the controversial idea of purchasing the mineral-rich island, an autonomous territory under Danish rule.

That interest hasn’t waned. This week, U.S. Vice President JD Vance and his wife Usha planned a visit to a military space installation in Greenland’s remote northwest. However, broader travel plans were scrapped after local communities pushed back against what many saw as unwelcome foreign interference.

Despite the political friction, Greenlanders appear eager to open their doors to a different kind of visitor. With its otherworldly landscapes, polar wildlife, northern lights, dog sledding, and pristine hiking trails, the island is positioning itself as a rare and untouched destination for adventurous travelers. Tourism remains relatively new here, drawing in approximately 140,000 visitors annually.

Tourism already contributes significantly to Greenland’s economy, generating around 1.9 billion Danish Kroner (roughly A$435 million), or about 10% of the territory’s economy, which still heavily relies on fishing.

With a new government taking office following the March elections, diversifying the economy is a top priority—part of a long-term ambition for greater autonomy and eventual independence from Denmark.

A major step in that direction is the recent upgrade of Nuuk’s international airport, now capable of welcoming large commercial aircraft. For the first time, Greenland’s capital has the capacity to offer direct flights to major cities like New York and Copenhagen—raising hopes for a tourism boom.

Still, experts caution that without robust policies, environmental safeguards, and community-led planning, Greenland could find itself on the same path as other destinations overwhelmed by unchecked tourism.

Greenland is expected to retain its status as a premium travel destination due to its isolation and logistical challenges. With no road networks linking its towns and settlements, getting around typically requires traveling by small aircraft, helicopters, or boats—factors that naturally keep tourism costs high.

Although Nuuk’s newly upgraded airport can now process up to 800 travelers per hour, the rest of the infrastructure is still lagging behind. Basic amenities like public restrooms, signage, seating areas, waste disposal options, and access to Wi-Fi remain limited or underdeveloped.

Adding to the growing pains are a limited supply of hotel accommodations and strict regulations that make it difficult for foreign investors to contribute to the tourism sector’s expansion.

Starting in July, Australian-based Intrepid Travel—known for its commitment to ethical tourism and environmental sustainability—will launch its first-ever small group expeditions to Greenland, marking a new chapter in the company’s Arctic adventures.

Intrepid began considering Greenland as a potential destination about five years ago, but the idea posed a challenge to the company’s strong environmental commitments and carbon reduction goals.

Since its focus has shifted toward minimizing trips that rely on internal flights—a necessity in Greenland due to its lack of connecting roads—the destination initially raised concerns.

Still, Greenland’s largely undeveloped tourism sector presented a rare opportunity to help shape sustainable travel from the ground up, making it an enticing option despite the logistical hurdles.

Home to just 57,000 people, the world’s largest island is dotted with remote communities—some with fewer than 50 or 100 residents. In addition to partnering with Greenland’s larger towns, Intrepid is building relationships with these small, often overlooked villages.

At the heart of its efforts, the company emphasizes a listening-first approach, working closely with locals to ensure tourism aligns with community needs and values.

Beyond training local tour guides, Intrepid is deeply focused on creating genuine cultural experiences. The company is collaborating with small family-run businesses and grassroots entrepreneurs to help craft original, community-driven travel offerings from the ground up.

Travelers with Intrepid will also get the opportunity to taste traditional Greenlandic fare, including dishes featuring reindeer, seal, and whale.

Along the journey, guests will delve into the rich heritage of Greenland’s Inuit communities—exploring whale bone artistry, age-old folklore, and the complex history of colonization under Danish rule.

Antoníusdóttir admitted that the harsh climate and freezing conditions of Greenland might not appeal to every type of traveler.