Ittoqqortoormiit, Explained

Ittoqqortoormiit, formerly known as Scoresbysund, is a settlement in the Sermersooq municipality in eastern Greenland. Founded in 1925 by Ejnar Mikkelsen and some 80 Inuit settlers, it has been described as one of the most remote settlements on Earth. The name “Ittoqqortoormiit” means “Big-House Dwellers” in the Eastern Greenlandic dialect. The region is known for its wildlife, including polar bears, muskoxen, and seals.

The Inuit people have lived in Greenland for thousands of years and have developed a unique culture that is closely tied to the land and sea. The traditional Inuit way of life is based on hunting, fishing, and gathering, and it has been passed down through generations. The Inuit people have a deep respect for nature and believe that all living things are connected. They have developed a complex system of beliefs and practices that help them survive in the harsh Arctic environment.

Ittoqqortoormiit is located on Liverpool Land, east of Hurry Inlet near the mouth of the northern shore of the Kangertittivaq fjord, which empties into the Greenland Sea. Liverpool Land is surrounded by towering mountains and glaciers. It is embraced by the world’s largest fjord system and the largest national park in the world. The settlement’s backyard is an unspoiled, pristine wilderness where wild animals thrive, millions of seabirds nest, and enormous icebergs form a constantly changing sculpture gallery.

The region is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including polar bears, muskoxen, Arctic foxes, and whales. Visitors can take guided tours to observe these animals in their natural habitat or explore the surrounding wilderness on their own.

Ittoqqortoormiit experiences a subarctic climate characterized by harsh winters and cool summers. The average temperature throughout the year ranges from -1°C to 1°C1. Winters in the region are long and cold, with temperatures dropping well below freezing. Snowfall is common during this time, creating a picturesque winter landscape1. Summers, on the other hand, are relatively cool, with temperatures rarely exceeding 10°C1.

Ittoqqortoormiit offers a unique experience for adventurous travelers seeking to explore remote destinations. The town’s isolation makes it an ideal place to experience traditional Inuit culture and witness Arctic wildlife up close. Visitors can embark on guided tours to observe polar bears, muskoxen, and seals in their natural habitat. Ittoqqortoormiit is also home to Greenland’s highest mountain - Gunnbjørn’s Mountain (3,694m), located in the North-East National Park.