Welcome to Aappilattoq

Aappilattoq is a remote village in southern Greenland, offering a unique experience for cruise passengers looking to explore one of the world's most isolated and beautiful landscapes. Known for its striking fjords, towering mountains, and traditional Greenlandic culture, Aappilattoq is a hidden gem. Visitors typically spend their time marveling at the rugged nature, observing wildlife, and learning about local customs. Though small, Aappilattoq leaves a big impression, making it a memorable stop for those on a limited time schedule.

Cruise Docking Information

Aappilattoq is a tendering port, meaning ships anchor off the coast, and passengers are brought ashore via smaller boats. The port sees a limited number of cruise ships each year, with approximately 5,000 tourists visiting annually. Due to its remote location and small size, the port is rarely crowded, giving visitors a peaceful experience. Passengers have around 6-10 hours to explore this charming village before returning to their ships.

Transportation Options

Upon arriving in Aappilattoq, cruise passengers will disembark by tender directly at the village's small pier. Given the compact size of the village, the main attractions are within walking distance. Aappilattoq does not have formal public transportation, but walking paths allow visitors to explore at their own pace.

Nearby Towns and Cities

Aappilattoq is quite remote, and there are no major towns within 100 kilometers. However, Qaqortoq, located about 90 kilometers (56 miles) away, can be accessed by boat or helicopter for those seeking a larger town experience. The journey takes about 2-3 hours by boat, and Qaqortoq offers more modern amenities, including cafes, shops, and a small museum.

Local Foods

Greenlandic cuisine is deeply connected to the natural environment, and in Aappilattoq, visitors can try traditional foods such as:

• Musk ox stew
• Arctic char
• Seal meat
• Greenlandic shrimp
• Freshly caught fish, prepared by locals

Top 5 Attractions

Aappilattoq’s charm lies in its simplicity and stunning natural environment. The top five attractions include:

• Fjord Exploration - A guided boat tour through the nearby fjords offers breathtaking views of mountains and glaciers. Prices typically range from $100-150 USD per person.
• Village Walk - Stroll through the colorful houses of Aappilattoq and interact with the friendly locals.
• Hiking - Trails lead to spectacular viewpoints overlooking the fjords and icebergs. Free to explore.
• Wildlife Spotting - Look out for seals, Arctic foxes, and seabirds along the coast. Tours available for approximately $50 USD per person.
• Local Culture Center - Learn about Inuit traditions and history. Entry is free, but donations are welcome.

Interesting Facts

Here are a few things cruise passengers might find fascinating about Aappilattoq:

• Aappilattoq is part of the Kujalleq municipality, known for its rich Viking history.
• The village is entirely off-grid, relying on solar power and generators for electricity.
• The name "Aappilattoq" means "red" in Greenlandic, referring to the nearby red-hued mountains.

Geographical Position and Surroundings

Located in southern Greenland, Aappilattoq is nestled in the Prince Christian Sound, surrounded by high mountains and icy fjords. The untouched natural beauty includes cascading waterfalls and jagged peaks, making the area a paradise for nature lovers. Passengers should keep an eye out for passing icebergs and, if lucky, whales in the surrounding waters.

Local Customs and Culture

Inuit customs are at the heart of Aappilattoq’s culture. Visitors should be mindful that personal space is highly respected, and it’s customary to ask permission before taking photos of locals. If invited into a home, it’s polite to remove your shoes at the door.

Family-Friendly Activities

Families visiting Aappilattoq will find several activities that cater to different age groups:

• Children up to 6 years old: A gentle village walk with parents to explore the colorful houses and meet friendly local dogs.
• Children 7-12 years old: Wildlife tours where they can spot seals and Arctic foxes, or short hikes to nearby viewpoints.
• Teenagers 13-18 years old: Longer hikes through the mountains or guided kayak tours in the fjords to see icebergs up close.

Google Maps

Aappilattoq

*Notice: Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI, courtesy of ChatGPT. It is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure. Always familiarize yourself with safety aspects when visiting your destination. We have given some pointers under the information button in the main menu of this app.*