Nuuk
Nuuk, the vibrant capital of Greenland, is a remarkable destination that offers a unique blend of urban culture and stunning natural beauty, making it an excellent place to experience the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis).
Nuuk is not only the largest city in Greenland but also a center for Inuit culture, featuring museums, art galleries, and local cuisine. The city provides an accessible opportunity to witness the Northern Lights, especially with nearby areas offering darker skies.
The best months for viewing the Northern Lights in Nuuk are from September to April. During this time, the long nights and often clear skies create ideal conditions for Aurora sightings.
A trip to Nuuk for the Northern Lights is a fantastic way to blend cultural experiences with the awe-inspiring beauty of the Arctic sky. Whether you’re interested in the vibrant local culture or simply want to witness the breathtaking Northern Lights, Nuuk offers a memorable adventure.
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Credit: Aningaaq Rosing Carlsen
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Credit: Jennifer Latuperisa-Andresen
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Credit: Lars H Knudsen
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Credit: Aningaaq Rosing Carlsen
How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?
2%
There is a 2% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Nuuk area (forecast for 19 September 2025 at 9:43am UTC)
Kp 0.67
The Kp-index is a scale used to measure geomagnetic activity. It ranges from 0 to 9, with higher values indicating greater geomagnetic activity.
- 0-2 (Very low) Far north, quite dim, and not very active.
- 3-5 (Moderate) Can be seen further south, with increased brightness and activity. Chance of good viewing conditions nearer the pole.
- 6-7 (High) Visible in many northern regions, with vibrant displays.
- 8-9 (Extreme) Widespread visibility, often seen in areas much further south than usual, with intense and colorful displays.
Bz 1 nT
Bz refers to the north-south orientation of the magnetic field embedded in the solar wind. It is measured in nanoteslas (nT).
When Bz is negative (southward), it allows solar wind particles to penetrate the Earth’s magnetic field more easily. A strong negative Bz is often associated with increased chances of seeing the Northern Lights.
Conversely, when Bz is positive (northward), the Earth’s magnetic field tends to block the solar wind, resulting in reduced auroral activity.
Density 0.56 p/cm3
Solar wind density refers to the number of charged particles in a given volume of the solar wind, typically measured in particles per cubic centimeter (p/cm3).
A typical solar wind density is around 2.76 p/cm3.
The density of the solar wind affects how many particles reach the Earth’s magnetosphere. A higher density means more particles are available to interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. When these charged particles collide with the gases in the Earth’s atmosphere, energy is released in the form of light that we see as the aurora.
Speed 424.5 km/s
Solar wind speed refers to the velocity at which charged particles are ejected from the Sun’s outer atmosphere, known as the corona.
A typical solar wind speed is about 375 km/s. When both speed and density are high, the energy transferred to the Earth’s magnetosphere increases, enhancing the chances of seeing vibrant auroras.
Rain
7°C Feels like 6°C
- High
- 7°C
- Low
- 4°C
- Precipitation: 94%
- Cloud cover: 100%
- Wind: 3 km/h
- Rain: 11mm
Moon
Waning crescent
- Sun rises at: 8:01am
- Sun sets at: 8:39pm
- Moon rises at: 4:21am
- Moon sets at: 8:31pm
Book an amazing adventure in Nuuk
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Nuuk Walking Tour with Museum Visit and Greenlandic Tasting
5.0 (1)
3 hours From £224.61
This guided walking tour offers a deep dive into Greenland’s capital. Start in Katuaq Center where your guide introduces the city’s rich history. Stroll past important landmarks like the Hans Egede Statue and Nuuk Cathedral, and gain insights into Greenlandic culture and daily life. Enter the Greenland National Museum for a guided visit, where you’ll encounter artifacts, mummies, and traditional items that tell the story of Inuit life. Afterward, enjoy a curated Greenlandic tasting experience featuring local specialties—both sweet and savory—served in a cozy indoor venue. Perfect for those looking to explore, learn, and taste Nuuk in just a few hours.
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Nuuk Food Tour for Tales and Tastes of Inuit food culture
4.5 (21)
1 - 2 hours From £53.16
Join a lowkey walking tour where Inuit culture comes alive through stories, flavors, and conversation. Visit Nuup Saava, also known as the old Colonial Harbour, and the hunters market. Taste traditional delicacies with a twist, and explore everyday life—one step, one bite, one story at a time.
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Nuuk Greenland Private Guided Tour by Car
4.4 (23)
1 hour 30 minutes From £322.00
If you ever find yourself in the capital of Greenland, Nuuk, and have limited time, but want to see as much as possible, this tour is something for you. We will start the tour by picking you up in our 4x4 car wherever you are located in Nuuk - at your ship, at your accommodation, or at the airport! On this tour, you will see everything from where it all began in the charming colonial harbor to the new different areas and see the historical development of Nuuk city with the new modern buildings. We will stop by the very best photo sights in the town such as "The end of the world", a viewpoint from where you can see the Kook Islands and mount Kingigtorsuaq, North of Nuuk, where you can see parts of the world's second-largest fjord system and look at Nuuk's landmark, Sermitsiaq mountain. You will have the option of stopping by a souvenir shop (within opening hours). If you have any special wishes or places you would like to see, it becomes your very own tailor-made tour.
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Nuuk Legends and History Smartphone Guided GPS Walking Tour
3.6 (13)
1 - 1 hour 30 minutes From £7.30
Nuuk is a place where ancient history and contemporary culture live side by side. Our tour begins at the Katuaq Cultural Center, a striking, wave-shaped building inspired by the northern lights and we’ll finish our walk at Orsiiviup Nuunngua, a scenic spot where you can soak in sweeping views of the fjord and mountains. You'll hear legends, history and stories of the city, and see it's sites. Go at your own pace, anytime. Stop and go as you please. The tour is location aware, GPS, playing as you walk. Keep you phone in your pocket and your head up.
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Nuuk City Highlights by Car with Greenlandic Tasting
No reviews
3 hours From £666.33
Discover the best of Nuuk from the comfort of a heated vehicle on this relaxed, guided city tour. Ideal for guests who prefer minimal walking, this 3-hour experience covers the capital’s key sights—from historical landmarks to local neighborhoods and breathtaking viewpoints. Along the way, your driver-guide will share stories about Greenlandic culture, daily life, and the city’s development. You'll make photo stops at scenic overlooks, pass by colorful houses, and get a glimpse into Nuuk’s unique blend of tradition and modernity. After the drive, unwind at the cozy Café Nuan where you’ll be treated to a Greenlandic tasting set. Sample traditional bites like smoked Arctic char, dried muskox, local berry compote, and herbal teas while learning about the culinary heritage behind each item. This intimate and comfortable experience is perfect for families, couples, seniors, or anyone seeking a culture-rich tour at an easy pace
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Private Transfer from Nuuk Airport to Nuuk City Center & Hotels
No reviews
15 - 30 minutes From £59.15
Start your Greenland adventure seamlessly with a private transfer from Nuuk Airport to the bustling city center. Skip the hassle of taxis and public transport as you settle into a comfortable, modern vehicle tailored to your group size. Your friendly English-speaking driver will greet you at arrivals, assist with your luggage, and ensure a smooth journey to your accommodation within 25 minutes. Embrace the charm of Nuuk as you transition from airport to city, ready to explore the culture and beauty that awaits you. - Direct, hassle-free transfer from Nuuk Airport to city center - Comfortable private car or minibus based on group size - English-speaking driver with luggage assistance included - Quick 15 to 30-minute journey ensuring timely arrival
Places to check out around Nuuk
Discover Restaurants, Shopping Malls, Movie Theaters and more…
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Bellevue strand
Beach
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Cafétuaq
Scandinavian Restaurant
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Charoen Porn
Thai Restaurant
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Esmeralda
Café
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Grønlands Nationalmuseum
History Museum
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Hans Egede
Sculpture Garden
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Havets Moder
Monument
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Iggu
Café
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Katuaq
Movie Theater
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Nuuk Center
Shopping Mall
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Nuuk Harbour
Harbor or Marina
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Pascucci
Café
Other places in Greenland
See also
Aurora ForecastPlanning Your Northern Lights AdventureNorthern Lights PhotographyScience Of The AuroraNorthern Lights Playlist
