Greenland
Is Greenland safe to visit? Advice, scams and health
Yes, Greenland is safe for tourists. Violent crime is rare, and the main risks are weather, remote terrain and the cold. Plan for flight delays, pack for sudden changes, and know that emergency help is far away in the backcountry. Check government advisories before you go.
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Key facts
- Violent crime
- Rare; petty theft is uncommon but keep valuables close (check)
- Main risks
- Weather, cold, remote terrain, flight delays (check)
- Emergency number
- 112 (police, ambulance, fire)
- Tap water
- Safe to drink in towns (check)
- Healthcare
- Basic facilities in towns; serious cases flown to Denmark (check)
- Travel advisories
- Most governments rate Greenland as low risk; check your own (check)
Quick answer
Greenland is safe for tourists. Violent crime is rare, and the main risks are weather, cold and remote terrain. Plan for flight delays, pack for sudden changes, and know that emergency help is far away in the backcountry. Check government advisories before you go.
Safety summary
The table below gives a quick read on the main safety factors for a typical visitor.
| Factor | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Violent crime | Low | Rare; standard precautions apply (check) |
| Petty theft | Low | Uncommon, but keep valuables close (check) |
| Weather | Moderate | Sudden changes; check forecasts and follow local advice (check) |
| Remote terrain | Moderate | No roads between towns; travel with a guide (check) |
| Healthcare | Basic | Serious cases flown to Denmark (check) |
| Tap water | Safe | Drinkable in towns (check) |
Status can change with season and location; always check current conditions.
Crime and scams
Greenland has low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, and petty theft is uncommon, but keep your belongings close in busy tourist spots like Ilulissat. Scams are not a major concern, but be wary of overcharging on tours or transport, and always confirm prices in writing before booking. Use official guides and operators for excursions, especially in remote areas.
Weather and terrain
The weather can change quickly, and the terrain is remote. Always check the forecast before heading out, and tell someone your plans. For hikes or boat trips, use a guide and carry proper gear. Flight delays are common due to weather, so build flexibility into your itinerary.
Health and emergencies
Healthcare facilities are basic in towns, and serious cases are flown to Denmark. Carry any medications you need, and consider travel insurance that covers evacuation. The emergency number is 112. Tap water is safe to drink in towns.
Government travel advisories
Most governments rate Greenland as low risk, but always check your own country's advisory before you go. The US State Department, UK Foreign Office, and others provide up-to-date safety information. See our guide to government travel advisories for how to read them.
FAQ
Answers to common questions about safety in Greenland.
- Is Greenland safe for tourists?
- What are the most common scams in Greenland?
- What do government travel advisories say about Greenland?
Sources and verification
This page was last checked in September 2026. Sources include government travel advisories and official Greenland tourism information.
Questions people ask
Is Greenland safe for tourists?
Yes. Violent crime is rare, and the main risks are weather, cold and remote terrain. Plan for flight delays, pack for sudden changes, and know that emergency help is far away in the backcountry. Check government advisories before you go.
What are the most common scams in Greenland?
Scams are not a major concern, but be wary of overcharging on tours or transport. Always confirm prices in writing before booking, and use official guides and operators for excursions, especially in remote areas.
What do government travel advisories say about Greenland?
Most governments rate Greenland as low risk. Always check your own country's advisory before you go. The US State Department, UK Foreign Office, and others provide up‑to‑date safety information.
What health precautions should I take?
Bring any prescription medicines and a basic first‑aid kit. Travel insurance with evacuation cover is advised. Tap water is safe in towns, but carry bottled water for remote trips.
Is there any risk from wildlife?
Wildlife encounters are rare for tourists. In coastal areas, keep a safe distance from seals and whales, and avoid approaching polar bears on guided tours. Follow local guidance.
Verify with the official source
Draft, not field-verified
- officialUS State Department – Greenland
- officialUK Foreign Office – Greenland
- officialCanada Travel – Greenland
- officialAustralia Smartraveller – Greenland
- officialNew Zealand SafeTravel – Greenland
- officialIreland DFA – Greenland
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- officialUS State Department – Greenland
- officialUK Foreign Office – Greenland
- officialCanada Travel – Greenland
- officialAustralia Smartraveller – Greenland
- officialNew Zealand SafeTravel – Greenland
- officialIreland DFA – Greenland
Ask about Greenland
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