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Savissivik

Savissivik, Avannaata, Greenland

Savissivik, located in the stunning region of Avannaata in Greenland, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored by adventurous travelers seeking a unique and immersive Arctic experience. This remote settlement is a place of…

#remote#Arctic#Inuit community#fishing#traditional culture

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Savissivik.

Top Hotels in Savissivik

Top Flights to Savissivik

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Savissivik.

Tours

Sundown at the Iceberg Coast

Witness the breathtaking views of the giant icebergs floating along the coast during sunset.

Cultural Tour of Inuit Heritage

Learn about the local Inuit culture and their history in Greenland.

Arctic Night Sky Gazing

Experience the stunning Arctic night sky and possibly see the Northern Lights.

Visit to Savissivik Historical Site

Explore historical sites significant to the local Inuit population.

Shopping

Local Greenlandic Crafts Market

Discover and purchase handcrafted items made by local artisans.

Outdoor

Arctic Wildlife Expedition

Explore the Arctic wildlife in their natural habitat, including polar bears and seals.

Kayaking Adventure among Icebergs

Immerse yourself in an exhilarating kayaking experience between the towering icebergs.

Hiking the Arctic Trails

Experience rugged trails offering spectacular views of the Arctic landscape.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Savissivik.

Currency
kr | DKK | Danish Krone
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Savissivik, Avannaata, Greenland is around '60'.
Languages
Kalaallisut, Danish, English
Average weather
Savissivik
Jan
cold
-20°-28°
Feb
cold
-21°-29°
Mar
cold
-19°-27°
Apr
cold
-12°-22°
May
cold
-4°-12°
Jun
clear
2°-3°
Jul
clear
5°0°
Aug
clear
4°0°
Sep
cold
0°-4°
Oct
cold
-7°-15°
Nov
cold
-13°-21°
Dec
cold
-18°-26°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Savissivik.

What people love

Savissivik, located in the Avannaata municipality in Greenland, offers a unique travel experience with its stunning natural beauty and cultural richness. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Savissivik:

  1. Remote and Untouched Wilderness: Savissivik is a remote settlement in the far north of Greenland, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in untouched wilderness. The rugged landscapes, icy fjords, and vast snowy plains provide a unique and pristine environment for exploration.

  2. Arctic Wildlife: The region around Savissivik is known for its diverse wildlife, including polar bears, seals, whales, and a variety of seabirds. Nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts will have the chance to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

  3. Cultural Immersion: Traveling to Savissivik allows visitors to experience the unique Inuit culture of Greenland. You can interact with the local Inuit population, learn about their traditional way of life, and participate in cultural activities such as dog sledding, ice fishing, and igloo building.

  4. Northern Lights: Savissivik is located in the Arctic Circle, making it an excellent destination for viewing the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Visitors can witness the aurora borealis dancing across the night sky in a spectacular display of colors.

  5. Outdoor Activities: The pristine natural environment of Savissivik offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, skiing, and snowmobiling. Adventurous travelers will find plenty of opportunities for exploration and adrenaline-pumping experiences.

  6. Photography Opportunities: The dramatic landscapes, icy seas, and unique wildlife of Savissivik provide excellent opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture stunning images of the Arctic beauty.

Overall, traveling to Savissivik offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore a remote and untouched corner of the world, experience a rich indigenous culture, and witness the breathtaking natural wonders of the Arctic.

What to know

Traveling to Savissivik in Greenland can be an adventurous experience, but there are several potential drawbacks to consider:

  1. Isolation and Accessibility: Savissivik is an extremely remote settlement. Accessibility can be a major issue, as there may be limited flight options and transportation services. The area is not well-connected to major travel hubs, which can make getting there challenging and time-consuming.

  2. Weather Conditions: The weather in Savissivik can be harsh and unpredictable, especially during the winter months. Extreme cold, snow, and ice conditions can impact travel plans and outdoor activities. This might not be suitable for all travelers, especially those not accustomed to such climates.

  3. Limited Infrastructure and Amenities: As a small settlement, Savissivik has limited infrastructure. Accommodation options, dining facilities, and other amenities are sparse. Visitors might need to be prepared for basic living conditions and limited services.

  4. Communication Challenges: Due to its remote location, communication services such as internet and mobile phone reception might be limited or unreliable. This can be a concern for travelers who need to stay connected.

  5. Medical Facilities: The availability of medical facilities and emergency services is limited. In case of health issues or emergencies, it may be difficult to receive prompt medical attention.

  6. Cultural and Language Barriers: Travelers might encounter language barriers, as the primary language spoken is likely Greenlandic, with some Danish. Understanding and respecting local customs and cultural practices is important but can be challenging for those unfamiliar with them.

  7. Cost: Travel to remote areas like Savissivik can be expensive due to the cost of flights and the logistics of getting there. Additionally, the limited availability of goods and services might mean higher prices for basic necessities.

Given these potential cons, travelers should carefully plan and consider whether they are prepared for the challenges of visiting such a remote and isolated location.

Savissivik is a settlement located in the Avannaata municipality in northwestern Greenland. The name "Savissivik" means "Place of Meteorite Iron" in Greenlandic, which reflects the area's historical significance related to the Cape York meteorite.

Historical Background

  1. Cape York Meteorite:

    • The area around Savissivik is famous for the Cape York meteorite, which is one of the largest meteorites ever discovered. The meteorite fell approximately 10,000 years ago. Its iron was used by the local Inuit population to make tools and weapons long before European contact.
    • Significant fragments of the meteorite were discovered in the 19th century, attracting international attention. The largest piece, known as "Ahnighito," weighs over 31 metric tons and is currently housed in the American Museum of Natural History in New York.
  2. Inuit Settlement:

    • Savissivik has been inhabited by the Thule people, ancestors of the modern Inuit, since around 1200 AD. The Thule culture was known for its advanced hunting techniques and use of iron from the meteorite.
    • The settlement was officially founded in 1937, although the area had long been a hunting ground for the Inuit.
  3. European Exploration:

    • European explorers, including Robert Peary, were drawn to the area in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, partly due to the meteorite. Peary transported large pieces of the meteorite to the United States, which was a significant event in the history of the settlement.

Significant Events

  • Meteorite Harvesting: The discovery and removal of the Cape York meteorite pieces had a profound impact on the local community, influencing trade and interaction with European explorers.
  • Modern Developments: As with many remote settlements in Greenland, Savissivik has experienced challenges such as depopulation, with residents moving to larger towns for economic opportunities.

Important Landmarks

  1. Cape York Meteorite Sites: The locations where fragments of the meteorite were discovered are of historical significance and are a point of interest for those studying the impact of meteorites on human cultures.

  2. Surrounding Natural Landscape: The area around Savissivik is characterized by stunning Arctic landscapes, including icebergs and fjords, which are typical of northwestern Greenland and attract visitors interested in Arctic nature and culture.

Cultural Significance

  • The use of meteorite iron is an important part of the cultural heritage of the Inuit people in Savissivik. It represents the ingenuity and adaptability of the Inuit in utilizing available natural resources.

Challenges

  • Savissivik faces contemporary challenges such as climate change, which impacts traditional hunting practices and the local environment. The settlement's remote location also presents logistical and economic challenges.

Information beyond this scope is not available.