Maniitsoq

Maniitsoq sits on a rocky island on the west coast, its name meaning the uneven place, with the town built up and over the rock in a way that leaves streets on several levels. Behind it on the mainland is an area of mountains rising directly from the fjords that has become one of the world's better heli-skiing destinations, with long descents to the water. The fjord system around the town is extensive and used for boat trips and whale watching.

History

Archaeological finds show the area has been settled for more than 4,000 years. The modern town was founded in 1782 by Danish colonists moving from the original Sukkertoppen, a trading post founded in 1755 at the site of present-day Kangaamiut, and in the 19th century it was a major trading post for the Royal Greenland Trading Department's trade in reindeer hides (Wikipedia, Maniitsoq).

The main sights

• The rocky townscape - streets and houses built over uneven rock on several levels.
• The heli-skiing - descents from the mountains to the fjords behind the town.
• The fjord system - the extensive waterways around the island.
• The whale watching - humpbacks and others in the fjords in summer.

When to go

April and May are the heli-skiing season with snow and light together. June to September for boats and hiking. Winter is dark.

Good to know

Heli-skiing here is expensive and booked through a handful of operators. Flight connections are limited and weather dependent. Facilities in the town are modest.

Nearby

Eternity Fjord is northeast, and Kangaamiut is north.

Key facts