Town of Aasiaat

Aasiaat is an ideal destination for kayaking with a rich cultural scene, diverse whale population, and stunning waterways. It also hosts events and has a bus...

Aasiaat is a town located on an incredible archipelago, known as the "land of a thousand islands," making it an ideal destination for kayaking. The town has a rich cultural scene, with unexpected galleries showcasing both famous and emerging artists' works, including Per Kirkeby's 24 paintings adorning the local community house. The town is also a hub for education, with many institutions and young people studying here. Aasiaat is home to a large and diverse whale population, including the magnificent Greenland whale, the longest living mammal, and humpback whales that arrive for a summer vacation after the Greenland whales depart in June. In addition to whale watching, visitors can explore the intricate waterways that freeze over during winter and shelter both summer and winter whales. They can also sail north of the town to the Kitsissuarsuit Islands, which are home to a settlement and rich birdlife, making it a jewel for ornithologists. Kayaking in Aasiaat is an unforgettable experience, with kayaks being a Greenlandic invention that originated for seal hunting. Visitors can go on short or week-long tours and kayak along with the enormous whales in the archipelago and Disko Bay. The town hosts several events, including the Midnight Sun Marathon in June and the Nipiaa Rock Festival in August. A visit to the harbor is also recommended, as it is the center of the town's fishing industry.