Greenland vs. Iceland: Which is Cheaper?

Have you ever wondered if Greenland is cheaper than Iceland? This is one of the most common questions we receive as a travel guide specialized in travel to the North of the planet. The answer is not that straightforward, as it depends on several factors that we’ll explore in detail below.

Geography

Greenland is the world’s largest island, mainly covered by ice and located between the Arctic and Atlantic oceans. Iceland, on the other hand, is a volcanic island located in the North Atlantic. Due to its size, Greenland has a much smaller population than Iceland and is less developed in terms of infrastructure. This can impact the prices of goods and services, although it’s important to keep in mind that most goods are imported to both countries, which can drive up prices.

Tourism

Iceland has become a very popular tourist destination in recent years, with many budget airlines offering direct flights from European cities. Iceland’s tourism industry has developed significantly, which has driven up prices for goods and services. In contrast, Greenland is a more off-the-beaten-path destination and hasn’t experienced the same level of tourism development as Iceland, which can result in lower prices for some items.

Accommodation

The cost of accommodation in Iceland can be quite expensive, especially during the peak tourist season. On the other hand, Greenland’s accommodation options are limited and tend to be more expensive due to the cost of building and maintaining hotels and guesthouses in such a remote location.

Activities

Iceland offers a wide range of activities for tourists, such as glacier hiking, whale watching, and soaking in hot springs. Many of these activities come at a cost and can add up quickly. Greenland has a smaller range of activities for tourists, but they tend to be more unique and specialized, such as dog sledding and visiting traditional Inuit communities.

Food and Drink

Both Iceland and Greenland import most of their food, which can lead to higher prices. However, Greenland’s remote location means that the cost of importing food and drink is typically higher than in Iceland. This can result in higher prices for some items, although Greenlandic cuisine tends to be more focused on locally sourced seafood and game meat.

In conclusion, whether Greenland is cheaper than Iceland depends on various factors, such as geography, tourism, accommodation, activities, and food and drink. While Greenland may be less developed in terms of infrastructure and tourism, it’s important to keep in mind that the cost of importing goods can be high due to its remote location. Ultimately, both destinations offer unique experiences that are worth exploring.

So, if you’re looking for an adventure off the beaten path, Greenland is definitely worth considering. Who knows, you may even find that it’s more affordable than you expected.