About
Narsarsuaq is a village in South Greenland, on the southern edge of North America, and for many travellers it is the first place they reach on the island. Its airport serves as the main air hub for the south of Greenland, so a visit often begins with arrival here before the journey continues elsewhere.
A place with layered history
The village was once a major United States military base during the Second World War, and traces of that period remain in the landscape. Today its role is quieter, but the setting still carries weight. Narsarsuaq is also a gateway to Viking history. Nearby Brattahlid was the historic home of Erik the Red, and the Norse ruins in the area give visitors a direct link to the Norse settlers who once lived in this part of the world.
What to see and do
- Look out over the surrounding fjords and glaciers, which give the village its scenery.
- Visit the Norse ruins and learn about the Viking settlement at Brattahlid.
- Walk the scenic trails that lead into the hills and along the water.
- Experience the blend of Inuit culture and Nordic heritage that shapes life in the region.
Because Narsarsuaq is small, most visits centre on the landscape and the history around it rather than on a busy town. It suits travellers who want to combine time outdoors with an encounter with Greenland's past, and who are happy to explore at an unhurried pace.