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Nuuk

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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.

Credit: Aningaaq Rosing Carlsen
Credit: Jennifer Latuperisa-Andresen
Credit: Lars H Knudsen
Credit: Aningaaq Rosing Carlsen - Visit Greenland
Credit: Aningaaq Rosing Carlsen
Credit: Peter Platou
Credit: Биљана

How are my chances of seeing the aurora today?

Many factors contribute to your likelihood of viewing the aurora in Nuuk. Geomagnetic activity, cloud cover and the amount of ambient light all play a big part. Check the forecasts for how good the viewing conditions are today.

6%

There is a 6% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Nuuk area (forecast for 6 November 2025 at 5:07pm UTC)

Kp 2.33

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 -3 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 aurora activity.

Density 3.26 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 540.8 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.

Moon

Waning gibbous

Sunrise 9:27am

Sunset 4:54pm

Moonrise 3:15pm

Moonset 12:55pm

Clouds

9°C Feels like 5°C

High: 9°C
Low: 1°C

Chance of precipitation 0%
Cloud cover 80%
Easterly winds 7 km/h gusts of 10 km/h

Book an amazing adventure in Nuuk

Explore this selection of tours and activities to make the most of your visit to Nuuk.

Private tour

Chasing Northern Lights in Nuuk

5.0 (12)

2 hours From £326.76

Chase the dancing Northern Lights and explore every corner of Nuuk city on this 2-hour PRIVATE tour by car! You can join alone or come with a maximum of 4 people! We will drive you to the darkest places in the city for panoramic views of one of the highlights of the Arctic winter. During the tour, your local guide will tell you a little about Nuuk and the Northern Lights, and is always happy to answer your questions about Greenland. It is likely to be chilly. It is the Arctic winter after all! Our car is heated and you can always retreat inside if you get too cold, but make sure you bring heavy outer layers, a woolen hat, scarf, and gloves/mittens so you can stay outside as much as possible. We will also warm you up with a hot chocolate during the tour. Remember Northern lights are unpredictable and may not appear during the tour. If you are unlucky and don't get to see them on the tour, we will rebook you on another night for FREE!
Private tour

Nuuk Greenland Private Guided Tour by Car

4.4 (24)

1 hour 30 minutes From £326.76

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.
Free cancellation Private tour

Private Transfer from Nuuk Airport to Nuuk City Center & Hotels

No reviews

15 - 30 minutes From £100.71

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
Free cancellation Private tour

Nuuk Legends and History Smartphone Guided GPS Walking Tour

3.6 (13)

1 - 1 hour 30 minutes From £7.61

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.
Free cancellation Private tour

Jewels of Nuuk – Private Guided Walking Tour

5.0 (6)

2 hours From £390.45

Skip the crowds this is a private tour for your group only! Planning a trip to Greenland? Looking for Off the Beaten Path Tour? Which are the top sightseeing places in Nuuk? Is Greenland an independent country? The secluded city of Nuuk offers an interesting selection of museums, buildings, and attractions that you must visit once in a lifetime. Which are Nuuk's best attractions? The downtown is just the beginning of the city's charms. The Eskimo town offers you the chance to discover some of the richest examples of Nordic history. Get stunned by the cold streets of Nuuk and its cozy colorful houses. Get ready to experience Greenland from a different perspective. A local charismatic guide will reveal the secrets and interesting facts about the Danish island.
Free cancellation Private tour

Nuuk Fjord Boat Tour with Greenlandic Picnic Experience

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3 hours 30 minutes From £2299.12

Set out on a private boat journey through Nuuk Fjord and experience Greenland’s stunning Arctic landscapes up close. Cruise past Sermitsiaq Mountain, coastal islands, and drifting icebergs as your local guide shares stories about fjord life and culture. Enjoy a Greenlandic picnic tasting on board, featuring local delicacies and drinks. Depending on conditions, you may also go ashore for a light foraging activity or short walk — a chance to connect with nature and learn about Arctic ingredients firsthand. This relaxing tour blends scenery, culture, and food for an authentic taste of Greenland’s fjord life.