Cheapest months to fly to Upernavik
Upernavik isn't exactly a price war destination. With just 9 non-stop routes, most of them short hops between small Greenlandic settlements, you're not going to find budget carriers undercutting each other. Fares tend to stay relatively flat year-round because demand is steady and thin — mostly locals, researchers, and the occasional serious adventurer. That said, summer sees a noticeable bump. July and August bring the midnight sun crowd, and prices reflect that. Winter flights are cheaper, but you're dealing with brutal conditions and limited daylight, so factor that into the math.
Why visit Upernavik?
Upernavik sits at roughly 73 degrees north, which means this is genuine Arctic territory — not Arctic-adjacent, not Arctic-inspired, actually Arctic. The icebergs here are massive and the is raw in a way that stops you mid-thought. People come for dog sledding in winter, kayaking among ice floes in summer, and the kind of silence that genuinely unsettles you after a few days. The local Greenlandic culture is worth paying attention to — hunting traditions, throat singing, food like mattak (raw whale skin) that you either love or politely decline. There's no resort infrastructure here. That's the point. If you're flying into Upernavik, you're not passing through — you're here on purpose.
Popular non-stop routes into Upernavik
Routes with the most airline competition tend to have the best fare options:
- Aappilattoq (AOQ) → JUV — 1 airline
- Ilulissat (JAV) → JUV — 1 airline
- Innarsuit (IUI) → JUV — 1 airline
- Kangersuatsiaq (KGQ) → JUV — 1 airline
- Kullorsuaq (KHQ) → JUV — 1 airline
- Nuussuaq (NSQ) → JUV — 1 airline
- Qaanaaq (NAQ) → JUV — 1 airline
- Tasiusaq (TQA) → JUV — 1 airline
Tips for getting a cheap fare to Upernavik
If you're flying from Copenhagen, which is the most common international jumping-off point for Greenland, book as early as you reasonably can. March tends to offer lower fares before the spring swell of researchers and documentary crews arrives. Air Greenland holds a near-monopoly on these routes, so don't expect a flash sale to save you. Instead, focus on connecting through Ilulissat (JAV) — it's one of the more active hubs and occasionally offers better combined fares. EU and US passport holders don't need a visa for Greenland, and the Danish krone is the currency, so your euros go reasonably far.
Frequently asked questions about cheap flights to Upernavik
What's the cheapest month to fly to Upernavik?
September and October typically offer the lowest fares to Upernavik as summer tourism ends and winter approaches. Avoid July-August peak season when prices are significantly higher.
How far in advance should I book flights to get the best price?
Book 2-3 months in advance for optimal pricing on flights to Upernavik. Last-minute bookings are rarely discounted due to limited flight frequency and small aircraft capacity.
Are there cheaper nearby airports to fly into instead of Upernavik?
Ilulissat Airport (JAV) and Nuuk Airport (GOH) often have more flight options and competitive pricing, though you'd need to arrange additional transport to reach Upernavik. Direct comparison shopping is key as savings vary seasonally.
What's the typical fare range for flights to Upernavik?
Expect to pay $400-$800+ for round-trip flights from North America or Europe to Upernavik, depending on season and how far in advance you book. Winter fares may be lower but flights are less frequent.
Do I need a visa to visit Greenland?
Most visitors from North America, Europe, and developed nations don't need a visa for Greenland as it follows Denmark's visa policy; however, you must have a valid passport. Check your specific nationality's requirements with Danish immigration authorities.