A Journey to the Edge of the World: My 10-Day Arctic Expedition in West Greenland

Spending ten days exploring West Greenland was one of the most epic and unforgettable experiences of my life. This is a place of unspoiled, untouched nature — a wilderness so vast and still, it feels like stepping into another world. The combination of silence, powerful landscapes, and raw beauty created an adventure I’ll never forget.

The First Iceberg and What Was Yet to Come

The excitement really hit me when I saw my very first iceberg. It was small — nothing compared to what lay ahead — but that moment was pure magic. As we traveled further north, the icebergs became more and more impressive, taking on incredible shapes. Some even looked like princess castles, sculpted by wind and water into towering, icy spires. With the sunlight casting a thousand shades of blue on the ice and the dark, rocky cliffs in the background, the landscape looked absolutely otherworldly.

Hearing the deep, thunderous sound of an iceberg breaking off was a powerful reminder of just how strong and unstoppable nature is. That cracking noise echoed across the stillness, making the vastness of the Arctic feel even more intense.

Exploring the Untouched Fjords

The fjords of West Greenland are places of pure, pristine beauty. Many of them are completely uninhabited, and as we sailed through these dramatic waterways, it felt like we were the only people on the planet. We hiked through landscapes where there was no trace of human presence — no paths, no buildings, just untouched wilderness. It’s unbelievable that places like this still exist.

Nature here has adapted in fascinating ways to the harsh Arctic conditions. Birch trees grow low to the ground, hugging the earth for warmth, and no plants grow very high. Despite the challenges of the climate, the resilience of life here is inspiring.

Meeting the Locals and Their Unique Lifestyle

One of the highlights of the trip was meeting the incredibly friendly locals who have adapted to this different way of life. They live in small communities where the streets don’t have names, but the houses are painted different colors based on the inhabitants' professions. This simple but practical system reflects the close-knit, resourceful spirit of the people.

Even though there are a few cars, the primary mode of transportation here is dog sleds. Dogs aren’t kept as pets but stay outside of town in dedicated dog villages. The relationship with the dogs is very different from what we’re used to — they are working animals, vital for survival in the Arctic environment. If a dog becomes sick, it’s the owner’s responsibility to humanely put the dog down, ensuring it doesn’t suffer. The fur and other parts of the animal are then used for clothing and tools, demonstrating the locals’ deep respect for and reliance on nature.

Life here revolves around the rhythms of the environment. School breaks are even adjusted to the hunting season during the short summer. In summer, when the ocean is unfrozen, neighboring villages can only be reached by plane or boat. In winter, when the sea freezes over, people travel by skidoo or dog sled. It’s a completely different kind of life — one that’s shaped by the elements and filled with warmth and openness.

Wildlife and the Harsh Realities of Nature

While there’s not as much wildlife here as in places like Svalbard, Greenland is still polar bear country — though sightings are rare. We were lucky enough to spot whales and saw countless birds nesting along the cliffs to keep their offspring save from arctic foxes. One of the most unforgettable moments was watching a tiny baby bird fall from its nest into the water, swimming desperately for its life. That’s also why many birds lay two eggs — increasing their chances of at least one chick surviving. It was a harsh but powerful reminder of the wildness of this place.

An Unforgettable Arctic Adventure

This 10-day expedition was a journey into one of the last truly wild places on Earth. The combination of breathtaking icebergs, untouched fjords, resilient wildlife, and warm, resourceful communities created an experience unlike any other. West Greenland remains one of those rare places where nature still reigns, and the human presence is light and respectful. It’s a part of the world I’ll carry with me forever.