Did you know that Etah was once the northernmost permanently inhabited settlement in the world? This remote Arctic outpost in northern Greenland served as the final departure point for Robert Peary’s controversial 1909 North Pole expedition and was the landing site of the last migration of Inuit people from the Canadian Arctic to Greenland in 1865. Today, this abandoned settlement offers intrepid travelers a rare glimpse into both pristine Arctic wilderness and fascinating polar exploration history.
The remote settlement of Etah nestled between dramatic fjords with 610-meter cliffs
About Etah, Greenland
Etah is located on the shores of Foulk Fjord in the Avannaata municipality of northern Greenland. The fjord stretches approximately 2.4 kilometers (1.5 miles) wide and several kilometers long, with imposing 610-meter (2,000 ft) cliffs on each side. Brother John’s Glacier terminates at the eastern end of the fjord, creating a dramatic backdrop to this historic settlement.
Though now abandoned as a permanent settlement, Etah holds immense historical significance. It lies on an ancient migration route from the Canadian Arctic, with several waves of migrants passing through over thousands of years. The settlement was also used as a base camp for numerous Arctic expeditions, including those led by famous explorers like Knud Rasmussen and Robert Peary.
Today, the huts of the former village still stand, visited occasionally by hunters in summer months who come for the abundant walrus and polar bear populations. For travelers seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path Arctic experience, Etah represents one of the most remote and historically significant destinations in Greenland.
Best Time to Visit Etah, Greenland
The midnight sun creates a magical atmosphere in Etah during summer months
Recommended Seasons
- June to August (Summer): The optimal time to visit with 24-hour daylight, temperatures ranging from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F), and relatively accessible conditions for boat travel.
- May and September (Shoulder Season): Fewer visitors but more challenging weather conditions. May offers lingering snow for dog sledding opportunities.
Seasons to Avoid
- November to February (Winter): Extreme cold with temperatures dropping to -30°C (-22°F) or lower, complete darkness (polar night), and virtually impossible access.
- March to April: Still very cold with limited accessibility, though dog sledding expeditions are possible for extreme adventurers.
Weather Tip: Due to climate change, sea ice conditions have become less predictable. The traditional ice route to Etah is often no longer viable, requiring travelers to access the settlement via the inland ice route or by boat during summer months.
Ready to plan your Arctic adventure?
Check current weather conditions and forecasts to time your visit perfectly.
Getting to Etah & Planning Your Journey
Dog sledding remains one of the traditional ways to reach Etah during winter months
Reaching Etah is an adventure in itself, requiring careful planning and multiple transportation connections. This remote settlement is not connected to Greenland’s main transportation network and requires specialized arrangements.
Step 1: International Flight
First, fly to Greenland via Copenhagen (Denmark) or Reykjavik (Iceland), landing in either Kangerlussuaq or Nuuk.
Step 2: Domestic Flight
Take a domestic flight to Qaanaaq (formerly Thule), the northernmost town in Greenland with regular air service.
Step 3: Local Transport
From Qaanaaq, arrange a specialized boat trip in summer or dog sledding expedition in winter/spring to reach Etah.
Important: There are no regular scheduled services to Etah. All visits must be arranged through specialized Arctic tour operators or by hiring local hunters as guides from Qaanaaq or Siorapaluk.
Etah is located in the far northwest of Greenland, near the narrowest point between Greenland and Canada
Where to Stay Near Etah
One of the remaining cabins in Etah occasionally used by visiting hunters
Etah itself has no permanent accommodation facilities as it is an abandoned settlement. The few remaining structures are basic hunting cabins occasionally used by local hunters. For travelers, there are several options:
Expedition Camping
Most visitors to Etah come as part of organized expeditions that include camping equipment. These expeditions set up temporary camps with specialized Arctic tents designed to withstand the harsh conditions.
This option requires proper equipment, experienced guides, and thorough preparation for Arctic conditions.
Nearby Settlements
The closest settlements with accommodation options are:
- Siorapaluk: The northernmost natural settlement in Greenland, offering basic guesthouses and homestays with local hunters.
- Qaanaaq: The main town in the region with Hotel Qaanaaq, providing comfortable rooms and serving as a base for expeditions.
Traveler Tip: Book accommodations in Qaanaaq well in advance, as options are extremely limited. The town has only one proper hotel and a few guesthouses, which fill quickly during the short summer season.
Top Things to Do in Etah, Greenland
An Arctic fox explores the historic expedition ruins in Etah
Despite its remote location and abandoned status, Etah offers several unique experiences for adventurous travelers:
Historical Exploration
- Visit the remains of Robert Peary’s expedition base
- Explore abandoned turf-insulated wooden structures
- See the departure point of numerous historic Arctic expeditions
- Learn about the last Inuit migration from Canada to Greenland
Wildlife Watching
- Spot walruses in Foulk Fjord
- Look for polar bears (with proper guides)
- Observe Arctic foxes and Arctic hares
- Photograph seabirds nesting on coastal cliffs
- Chance to see musk oxen and reindeer in the area
Outdoor Adventures
- Hike along Brother John’s Glacier
- Kayak in Foulk Fjord (summer only)
- Dog sledding expeditions (winter/spring)
- Photography of dramatic Arctic landscapes
- Experience the midnight sun phenomenon
Ready for an Arctic adventure?
Book specialized tours with experienced guides to safely explore this remote region.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Historic photograph of Inuit hunters in Etah from early 20th century expeditions
Ancient Migration Route
Etah sits on an ancient migration path that has seen multiple waves of human movement:
- Independence I culture (4,400 years ago)
- Independence II culture (2,700 years ago)
- Thule culture (less than 1,000 years ago)
- Final Inuit migration from Baffin Island (1865)
The settlement marks the point where the last migration of Inuit from Baffin Island reached Greenland after a seven-year journey along the coast of Ellesmere Island.
Polar Expedition Base
Etah served as a critical base camp for numerous Arctic expeditions, including:
- Knud Rasmussen’s expeditions to northern Greenland
- Robert Peary’s North Pole attempts
- The Crocker Land Expedition of 1913
- The Humphrey Expedition (1934-35)
- The MacGregor Arctic Expedition (1937-38)
- The Haig Thomas Expedition (1938)
Many descendants of Peary and local Inuit still live in nearby Qaanaaq, maintaining a living connection to this historical legacy.
“Etah was once the most-northerly populated settlement in the world, a testament to human adaptability in one of Earth’s most challenging environments.”
Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Etah
Proper Arctic clothing and equipment are essential for visiting Etah
Essential Packing
- Multiple layers of high-quality thermal clothing
- Expedition-grade sleeping bag (rated to at least -20°C/-4°F)
- Waterproof and windproof outer layers
- Sturdy hiking boots with excellent insulation
- High SPF sunscreen (summer) for 24-hour daylight
- Satellite phone or communication device
- Extra batteries (cold drains them quickly)
- First aid kit with Arctic-specific supplies
Safety Considerations
- Never travel without experienced guides
- Be aware of polar bear risks at all times
- Inform others of your travel plans
- Carry emergency supplies and know how to use them
- Understand symptoms of hypothermia and frostbite
- Respect the extreme and unpredictable weather
- Maintain adequate hydration despite cold
- Follow all guide instructions without exception
Cultural Etiquette
- Respect Inuit hunting traditions and practices
- Ask permission before photographing local people
- Learn basic Greenlandic or Danish phrases
- Understand the historical significance of sites
- Practice “leave no trace” principles
- Support local economies when possible
- Show appreciation for local knowledge
- Be patient with the pace of Arctic life
Important Safety Note: There are no medical facilities in Etah or nearby settlements. The closest hospital is in Ilulissat, requiring evacuation by helicopter in emergencies. Comprehensive travel insurance with Arctic evacuation coverage is absolutely essential.
Nearby Attractions Worth Visiting
The colorful houses of Qaanaaq, the nearest town to Etah with regular services
While planning your expedition to Etah, consider including these nearby destinations in your itinerary:
Siorapaluk
The northernmost natural settlement in Greenland, located about 45 km (28 miles) south of Etah. This small hunting community offers:
- Authentic Inuit culture and traditional lifestyle
- Opportunities to meet local hunters
- Basic accommodation options
- Stunning views of Herbert Island
Qaanaaq (Thule)
The main town in the region, located about 100 km (62 miles) south of Etah. Qaanaaq provides:
- The Qaanaaq Museum with exhibits on local history
- Hotel Qaanaaq for comfortable accommodation
- Connections to other parts of Greenland
- Local handicraft shops
- Opportunities to arrange guided tours
The Northern Lights create a spectacular display over the Arctic landscape near Etah during winter months
Explore more of North Greenland
Combine your Etah expedition with visits to other fascinating destinations in the region.
Food and Culinary Experience
Traditional Greenlandic foods including dried halibut and mattak (whale skin with blubber)
There are no restaurants or food services in Etah. All expeditions must bring their own supplies or arrange for food preparation with local guides. The culinary experience in this region is centered around traditional Inuit hunting and preservation techniques:
Traditional Foods
- Mattak – Whale skin with blubber, often eaten raw
- Dried halibut – Prepared in the northern style, different from southern Greenlandic methods
- Seal meat – A staple protein source, prepared various ways
- Arctic char – Freshwater fish often dried or smoked
- Game meat – Including musk ox, reindeer, and Arctic hare when available
Expedition Food Planning
- Pack high-calorie, lightweight dehydrated meals
- Bring extra emergency rations
- Consider specialized Arctic cooking equipment
- Plan for water purification (melting snow/ice)
- Pack hot drinks and electrolyte supplements
- Include vitamin supplements for extended stays
“The water in the north has a distinctive taste that changes the flavor of food. Even when cooking Greenlandic ingredients elsewhere, they never taste quite the same as when prepared in the Arctic.”
Conclusion: Is Etah Worth Visiting?
The otherworldly beauty of Etah under the golden light of an Arctic sunset
Etah represents one of the most remote and challenging destinations in Greenland, if not the entire Arctic. It is not a place for casual tourism or those seeking comfort. However, for adventurous travelers with a deep interest in Arctic history, indigenous cultures, or pristine wilderness, Etah offers an unparalleled experience that few will ever have the privilege to witness.
The abandoned settlement stands as a testament to human resilience in one of Earth’s most extreme environments. It tells the story of ancient migrations, bold explorations, and the delicate balance between humans and nature in the High Arctic. For those willing to make the considerable effort to reach it, Etah rewards with profound solitude, untouched landscapes, and a tangible connection to both geological and human history.
As climate change continues to transform the Arctic, the opportunity to experience places like Etah becomes both more accessible and more urgent. If you’re drawn to Earth’s remote corners and the stories they tell, this forgotten settlement at the edge of the inhabited world deserves a place on your expedition bucket list.
Ready to explore one of Earth’s most remote frontiers?
Start planning your Arctic expedition to Etah, Greenland today.
The above is subject to change.
Check back often to TRAVEL.COM for the latest travel tips and deals.
