Ice Ice Baby – See Greenland Before Trump Makes It the 51st State

Greenland isn’t just the world’s largest island—it’s also the hottest (okay, coldest) property on America’s radar. And guess what? Things just got serious. Back in 2019, Donald Trump casually mentioned buying Greenland, and the world chuckled. But now, in 2025, it looks like he’s doubling down, with Greenland Prime Minister Múte Egede saying he’s ready to talk “next steps” with the U.S. President-elect. Yep, you read that right—you should visit Greenland before it becomes part of America.

If that happens, brace yourself. The land of glaciers, fjords, and Northern Lights will probably get bombarded with tourists faster than you can say “Greenland McDonald’s.” Picture cruise ships clogging up quiet fjords, chain hotels sprouting in colorful villages, and a Starbucks popping up next to the local fish market. That’s why you need to pack your parka and visit Greenland before it goes full Alaska—or, worse, full California.

This Arctic wonderland deserves to be explored while it’s still rugged, remote, and refreshingly off the beaten path.

Why Greenland Should Be on Your Radar

First off, the USA has been trying to get their hands on Greenland since 1867—and, oh yeah, Greenland is freaking gorgeous. Imagine fjords that could make Norway jealous, mountains so jagged they look like they were designed by a metal band’s album artist, and icebergs just chilling (pun intended) like they own the place.

Plus, it’s one of the least crowded destinations on Earth, with more musk oxen than humans. It’s an adventure seeker’s dream and a nature lover’s paradise wrapped up in one big, snowy bow, and that’s exactly why you should visit Greenland now, while it’s still the untouched paradise it’s always been.

But here’s the catch, Greenland is a bit pricey, similar to Iceland. Flights can make you question your life choices, and the cost of fresh fruit or eating out might have you wishing you packed a suitcase full of instant noodles.

That’s where this guide comes in. Below, we’ll cover the most budget-friendly ways to explore Greenland—because even future-state Greenland shouldn’t cost you your entire savings.

Getting to Greenland on a Budget

Cruise Your Way In

For those who love the idea of their transportation doubling as a floating buffet, cruises to Greenland are a solid choice. Several cruise lines offer cheap Arctic cruises with amazing itineraries, often departing from the USA, Canada, or Iceland.

  • Budget-Friendly Cruise Lines: Norwegian Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises are known for offering more affordable options. There’s also a completely epic transatlantic 16-night Holland America cruise that departs from Boston, Massachusetts and arrives in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
  • What to Expect: On a cruise, you’ll hit multiple Greenlandic ports like Nuuk (the capital), Ilulissat (home to the world-famous Icefjord), and maybe even some remote villages where the population is smaller than your high school graduating class.
🛳️ Cruising for Adventure – Regular vs. Expedition Edition 🐧

A regular cruise with something like Holland America or Celebrity Cruise Lines is your classic floating buffet, where shuffleboard tournaments thrive and matching windbreakers are practically a dress code.

An expedition cruise with Hurtigruten or Seabourn, though, swaps the shuffleboard for zodiacs and the buffet for kayaking with whales. Instead of sipping poolside margaritas, you’re out there mingling with puffins, glaciers, and maybe even a polar bear or two. Regular cruises are like flipping through a travel magazine, while expedition cruises shove you right into the action—snow boots and all.

🚢 Hurtigruten and Seabourn Expedition Cruises – Check Availability

Fly Like You Mean It

The fastest (and often cheapest) way to get to Greenland is by air. And guess what? It’s about to get a whole lot easier!

With the brand new Nuuk International Airport recently opening in late 2024, it’s easier than ever to visit Greenland. Now, thanks to a 2,200-meter runway that’ll handle larger planes—say hello to less “backwoods adventure” and more “Jetsetter vibes.”

You can even catch a quick flight from Reykjavik or Copenhagen, with Icelandair offering surprisingly affordable flights. Starting in June 2025, United Airlines will even offer nonstop flights from Newark to Greenland, taking you straight to the icy edge of adventure in just over four hours.

The only thing that won’t change? Greenland’s still going to be cold as heck, and it’s going to stay just as jaw-droppingly stunning.

  • Budget-savvy Tip: Look out for shoulder-season flights (mid-spring or late summer) when prices drop faster than an iceberg melts in July. Also, use budget airlines to get to Reykjavik or Copenhagen, and then hop on your Greenland-bound flight.

DIY Arctic Expedition (Okay, Kind of)

If you’re the kind of traveler who loves a good logistical challenge, consider piecing together your own Arctic adventure. This could involve flying into Nuuk or Ilulissat and then using ferries like Sarfaq Ittuk, Greenland’s coastal ferry, to hop between towns.

  • Why It’s Cheap: Ferries are less expensive than flights within Greenland, and they give you a chance to see the coastline without committing to a full cruise.
  • Caveat: Ferries are not luxury yachts, so don’t expect champagne and hot tubs. Think more “shared bunk beds” and “cozy common areas.”

Where to Stay Without Maxing Out the Credit Card

Greenland isn’t exactly crawling with budget hotels, but there are some wallet-friendly options if you know where to look.

  • Hostels and Guesthouses: For basic accommodations with a side of Arctic charm, try places like Inuk HostelsEagle View Guesthouse, or Tuukkaq Aparthotel.
  • Hotels: If you’re looking for a cozy escape in Nuuk, Hotel Aurora has got you covered. With friendly faces, comfy rooms, and a kids’ corner that’ll keep the little ones busy, it’s your Arctic home base. Plus, if you’re lucky, you might catch the Northern Lights without even leaving your room—now that’s a bonus.
  • Camping: Feeling rugged? Bring your own gear and camp under the stars or go on a Northern Lights night tour. Just remember that Greenland doesn’t have bears, but it does have chilly temperatures, so pack accordingly.

Exploring Greenland on a Shoestring

Once you’re there, the real adventure begins. Don’t miss out on the free natural beauty that awaits when you visit Greenland—hiking, glacier watching, and ogling fjords don’t cost a dime. That said, guided tours (think dog sledding or helicopter rides) can get pricey, so choose wisely.

  • Free Stuff to Do: Wander the colorful streets of Nuuk, hike to the Ilulissat Icefjord, or chat with locals (seriously, they’re super friendly).
  • Splurge-Worthy: If you can afford just one splurge, go for a boat tour. Seeing icebergs and whales up close is worth every penny.

Pack Your Parka and Go

Greenland is calling, and it’s not waiting for the U.S. to slap its name on the map. Whether you’re flying, cruising, or ferry-hopping, this Arctic wonderland has something for every traveler.

Sure, it’s not the cheapest destination, but with a little planning (and maybe a few skipped lattes), you can make it happen. So, dust off your hiking boots, grab your warmest coat, and get ready to visit Greenland before it becomes the next Alaska—or at least before your friends hear about it and make it totally mainstream.

And hey, if the U.S. does end up buying Greenland, at least you can say you saw it before it was cool.

We Need Your Help

Did you find this article helpful? If so, bookmark it and when you’re planning your next vacation, click on any of the links below before finalizing reservations. You’ll get the best price, we’ll earn a small commission, and you’ll help support future articles.

Thank you!

BEST TRAVEL SEARCH ENGINES

🏘️ Book Accommodation

We use Tripadvisor to compare prices and reviews in advance and check availability

🏨 TripAdvisor

✈️ Book Your Flight

To find the cheapest flight options, use Skyscanner to find the most suitable choice for you

🌎 Skyscanner

🚗 Reserve Rental Car

Use Discover Cars to compare prices and view the largest selection of vehicles

🚙 Discover Cars

Similar Posts