Ammassalik Island
Island Large East Greenland island within Sermersooq municipality
Ammassalik Island is an island in eastern Greenland within the Sermersooq municipality, located off the island-dotted southeastern coast of Greenland. It lies in the North Atlantic and the adjacent waters and fjords of the eastern Greenland coast.
The island hosts the town of Tasiilaq on its southeastern shore, which is the largest settlement in East Greenland and a local center for services, transport and tourism. The island’s coastline is characterized by steep shores, fjords and nearby smaller islands.
The island’s population and infrastructure are concentrated around Tasiilaq while much of the island remains sparsely inhabited and used for hunting, fishing and seasonal activities. The local economy and travel are closely linked to maritime and helicopter connections to other Greenland communities.
Geographically it sits off Greenland’s eastern coast at roughly 65.7 degrees north latitude and 37.6 degrees west longitude, within the broader coastal archipelago of Sermersooq municipality.
- Main settlement: The main settlement on the island is the town of Tasiilaq, located on the southeastern coast and serving as the region's administrative and transport hub.
How to Get to Ammassalik Island #
Ammassalik Island’s main settlement, Tasiilaq, is reached by air or sea. Flights operate from Kulusuk Airport (via Reykjavik or Nuuk on international legs) with helicopter or boat transfers to Tasiilaq when available. In summer there are also seasonal ferry connections from other East Greenland ports. Arrange transport in advance through Greenlandic airlines or local tour operators.
Tips for Visiting Ammassalik Island #
- Boat transport is the only practical way to reach settlements on the island - arrange passage with a local operator from Tasiilaq (Tasiilaq is often spelled Ammassalik).
- Pack windproof layers and waterproof gear; conditions change quickly even in summer.
- Hire a local guide for any inland hikes - trails are informal and weather can alter river crossings.
- Be mindful of local Inuit customs and private property; ask permission before photographing villages and people.
Best Time to Visit Ammassalik Island #
Visit in summer for access and milder weather; outside June-August conditions are harsh and transport limited.
Weather & Climate near Ammassalik Island #
Ammassalik Island's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with cold summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in February). Temperatures range from -14°C to 8°C. Moderate rainfall (989 mm/year).
January
January is freezing with highs of -6°C and lows of -13°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (121 mm).
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February
February is the coldest month with highs of -6°C and lows of -14°C. Significant rainfall (103 mm).
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March
March is the coldest month with highs of -6°C and lows of -14°C. Regular rainfall (85 mm).
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April
April is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -10°C. Moderate rainfall (66 mm).
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May
May is freezing with highs of 2°C and lows of -4°C. Moderate rainfall (63 mm).
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June
June is cold with highs of 6°C and lows of -1°C. Moderate rainfall (40 mm).
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July
July is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (51 mm).
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August
August is cold with highs of 8°C and lows of 2°C. Regular rainfall (91 mm).
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September
September is cold with highs of 4°C and lows of -2°C. Regular rainfall (98 mm).
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October
October is freezing with highs of -1°C and lows of -6°C. Moderate rainfall (76 mm).
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November
November is freezing with highs of -4°C and lows of -9°C. Regular rainfall (90 mm).
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December
December is freezing with highs of -6°C and lows of -12°C. Significant rainfall (105 mm).
