North America
Tourist scams in Greenland
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Habits that keep you safe
Taxis
- Confirm the fare and destination before starting a taxi ride.
- A taxi from Nuuk Airport to the city centre is listed at about 140 kr. Use this as a guide, not a guaranteed fare.
- The HHE Express airport transfer is listed at 95 kr per adult and 45 kr per child. Confirm the price before boarding.
Money
- Carry Danish kroner as a cash backup. Many businesses do not accept cards.
- Check before trying to pay with another currency. Acceptance varies.
- Arrange your cash before reaching Kangerlussuaq, where no foreign currency exchange is listed.
- Ask for the total price before agreeing to a purchase. High prices alone do not mean a scam.
Cards and ATMs
- Ask whether a shop accepts your card before buying.
- Cover your PIN and decline help from strangers when using an ATM.
- Check the amount on the payment terminal before approving it.
- Keep your card issuer's contact details somewhere you can reach if your phone or wallet goes missing.
Your belongings
- Keep your phone, wallet and travel documents secure despite the low crime rate.
- Check that you have all your bags when leaving a plane, boat, bus or taxi.
- Keep a separate copy of important travel documents.
Where you stay
- Confirm booking details and any transfer charges directly with your accommodation.
- Hotel Kulusuk offers free airport transfers. Confirm the arrangements with the hotel if you are staying there.
Tours and guides
- Check exactly what a package includes before paying, especially flights and transfers.
- Buy Air Greenland tickets through its own website or a travel agent. Its fares are not advertised on flight consolidator websites.
- Keep written booking confirmations and payment receipts.
Nights out
- Check drink prices before ordering. Alcohol can be expensive.
- Greenlandic coffee contains several spirits and can be strong. Drink slowly.
- Keep your drink with you and plan how you will get back to your accommodation.
Questions
Are tourist scams common in Greenland?
The available information describes crime as very rare and identifies no recurring tourist scams. Basic precautions are still sensible.
Are there neighbourhoods I should avoid in Nuuk?
No areas to avoid are identified. Nuuk is described as having very low crime.
Does an expensive flight or tour mean I am being scammed?
No. Travel to and within Greenland can be expensive. Check what is included and get the total price before paying.
How much should a taxi from Nuuk Airport cost?
The listed fare to the city centre is about 140 kr. Confirm the fare before leaving. The HHE Express transfer is listed at 95 kr per adult and 45 kr per child.
Can I rely on cards everywhere?
No. Many businesses still do not accept cards. Carry Danish kroner as a backup and check payment options before buying.
Can I exchange foreign cash in Kangerlussuaq?
No foreign currency exchange is listed there. A small airport transfer facility is described as selling Danish kroner against a credit card. Arrange your cash needs ahead of arrival.
Where should I buy Air Greenland tickets?
Use Air Greenland's own website or a travel agent. Its fares are not advertised on flight consolidator websites.
Should I pay for Hotel Kulusuk's airport transfer?
The hotel offers free airport transfers. If you are staying there, confirm the arrangements directly with the hotel.
Is Greenlandic coffee unusually strong?
Yes. It contains coffee and several spirits. Check the price before ordering and drink slowly.
What should I do if my wallet or passport is stolen?
Secure your cards, save any evidence and report the theft to the police. Contact your insurer if relevant, and your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing.
Reviewed by @snuck