Fjord trips, scenic stairways and a museum in historic buildings give a stay in Maniitsoq a range of different focuses. When planning, flight and boat connections, as well as seasonal differences in excursions, are also important alongside these experiences.

Getting Here and Excursions on the Water

There are direct flights from Maniitsoq to Nuuk, Sisimiut and Kangerlussuaq. A fast-boat shuttle connects Maniitsoq with Nuuk from May to November; boat transfers to nearby settlements are available year-round. Maniitsoq is also a stop on the Sarfaq Ittuk passenger ferry route. Before travelling, check the shuttle operator’s latest operating information, the ferry timetable and flight schedules. Flight routes can change.

The large, active marina is a starting point for boat trips into the fjords. Boats are the most common means of transport for excursions in the area around Maniitsoq throughout the year. In summer, it is also possible to get around on foot; in winter, trips by snowshoe, ski or snowmobile are options. Seasonal differences therefore also affect how you get around on excursions in the area.

Stairways and Hikes

The publicly accessible stairways in Maniitsoq offer views over the town, fjord and mountains. A climb up 470 steps leads to the “Eiffel Tower” (Sakkortusaavik) and offers a 360-degree panorama. The number of steps gives you a concrete reference point when working the climb into your day’s plans.

Marked hiking routes lead out from Maniitsoq, most of them without established trails. They are suitable for experienced hikers or those hiking with a guide. Route conditions and the availability of a guide may vary; check both before setting out.

In the wider destination of Qeqqata Kommunia, the Arctic Circle Trail is another, very different hiking option. The marked route is 160 kilometres long and runs between Sisimiut and the end of the 170-kilometre-long Kangerlussuaq Fjord. Hikers usually need eight to nine days to complete the route. Check the latest trail conditions before your trip.

Culture in Maniitsoq and Qeqqata Kommunia

The Maniitsoq Museum is housed in four restored buildings of historical significance. Its exhibition focuses on traditional clothing, art and history. The museum therefore offers a cultural highlight alongside boat trips and scenic stairways.

In the wider destination of Qeqqata Kommunia, the Sisimiut Museum in Sisimiut offers its own focus on cultural history: trade, shipping and industry. A large archaeological exhibition displays finds from Saqqaq culture settlements. The museum also includes a reconstructed turf house, showing how people in Sisimiut lived about 100 years ago. The museum is housed in former colonial buildings, several of which date from the 18th century. The two museums therefore differ in focus by location: in Maniitsoq, the emphasis is on traditional clothing, art and history; in Sisimiut, archaeology, trade, shipping and industry are also covered.

Discover More Destinations

Nuuk, Kangerlussuaq, Uummannaq, Aasiaat, Sisimiut

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