Saqqarliit Beach : Nuuk : Seek The Aurora

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 centre 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.

Aurora Probability and Atmospheric Conditions

There is a 7% chance of seeing the aurora overhead in the Nuuk area (forecast for 21 February 2026 at 6:30am UTC)

Kp 4.33

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.

HPI 15 GW

The Hemispheric Power Index (HPI) is a vital measure used to assess the strength of auroral activity at the poles. It estimates the total auroral energy input, with values above 20 GW indicating an aurora-active state. When the HPI reaches levels of 100 GW or more, it signifies a very significant geomagnetic storm, which can lead to spectacular auroral displays.

Bz 9 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.

Bt 12 nT

Bt measures the overall power of the Interplanetary Magnetic Field (IMF) from the Sun; higher numbers (e.g., above 20 nT) mean more energy available for aurora.

Density 2.27 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 centimetre (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 521.4 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.

Light Levels

Moon

Waxing crescent 28%

Sunrise 9:02am

Sunset 6:18pm

Moonrise 8:55am

Moonset 9:00pm

Weather Forecast for Nuuk

Clear

-9°C Feels like -15°C

High: -9°C
Low: -20°C

Chance of precipitation 0%
Cloud cover 9%
North-Easterly winds 4 km/h

Book an amazing adventure in Nuuk

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

Free cancellation Private tour

Nuuk Fjord Boat Tour with Greenlandic Picnic Experience

No reviews

3 hours 30 minutes From £444.97

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.
Free cancellation Private tour

Nuuk City Highlights by Car with Greenlandic Tasting

No reviews

3 hours From £300.68

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.
Free cancellation Private tour

Nuuk Legends and History Smartphone Guided GPS Walking Tour

3.6 (13)

1 - 1 hour 30 minutes From £8.88

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.
Private tour

Nuuk Greenland Private Guided Tour by Car

4.4 (24)

1 hour 30 minutes From £323.72

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

Jewels of Nuuk – Private Guided Walking Tour

5.0 (6)

2 hours From £387.49

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.
Private tour

Chasing Northern Lights in Nuuk

5.0 (13)

2 hours From £323.72

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!

Places to check out around Nuuk

Cafétuaq

Scandinavian Restaurant
Charoen Porn

Thai Restaurant
Esmeralda

Café
Grønlands Nationalmuseum

History Museum
Hans Egede

Sculpture Garden
Havets Moder

Monument
Iggu

Café
Katuaq

Movie Theater
Nuuk Center

Shopping Mall
Nuuk Harbour

Harbor or Marina
Pascucci

Café
Saqqarliit Beach

Beach

Explore more nearby Nuuk

Credit: Enno82

Kangeq

64°6'49"N, 52°3'19"W

Aurora probability in Kangeq: 7%

Kangeq is a small, abandoned settlement located on an island off the coast of Nuuk, Greenland. Once a thriving community, it was deserted in the 1970s due to harsh living conditions and limited resources. Today, Kangeq stands as a ghost town, offering visitors a chance to explore it’s weathered buildings in beautiful Arctic surroundings.
Credit: Visit Greenland

Qoornoq

64°31'59"N, 51°6'0"W

Aurora probability in Qoornoq: 6%

Qoornoq is a hauntingly beautiful abandoned fishing village near Nuuk. It offers a glimpse into Greenland’s past, with its deserted houses and serene atmosphere set against a backdrop of stunning fjords.
Credit: David Stanley

Itilleq

66°34'38"N, 53°29'54"W

Aurora probability in Itilleq: 4%

Itilleq is a small settlement located on the coast of Greenland, known for its stunning natural beauty and traditional Inuit culture. Surrounded by fjords and mountains, Itilleq offers visitors opportunities for fishing, hiking and experiencing the unique landscape of Greenland.