Disko Bay, or Qeqertarsuup, is the largest open bay in western Greenland and an inlet of Baffin Bay. There are numerous islands in Disko Bay, the largest of which is Qeqertarsuaq, or Disko Island.

The bay is filled with drifting icebergs and the islands are covered in glaciers. Some of these glaciers can migrate over 30 meters (100 ft) a day and will crush anything that stands in their way.

There are five major towns around Disko Bay; Kangaatsiaq, Ilulissat, Qeqertarsuaq, Qasigiannguit and Aasiaat. Because of the northen latitude, the area experiences beautiful midnight suns and northern lights (aurora borealis) during the winter.

There are excellent hiking possibilities on the islands in the region. Most of the towns are specialized in certain trades. For example, the Inuit town of Aasiaat is known for its traditional leather crafts.

In Qasigiannguit is an interesting museum where ancient relics from the Saqqaq tribe are on display. You should visit Kangaatsiaq ('The Fairly Small Foothill') if you want to taste all sorts of fish, as most locals in that town make their living from fishing and sealing.

In Qeqertarsuaq is the Arctic Research Station and you can also see many whaling paraphernalia there.

Most islands in Disko Bay have ferry and air connections with other places on Greenland. Accommodation is available in the larger settlements. The Disko Bay area is 550 km north of Nuuk.

Iceberg in Disko Bay ©Göran Ingman

Humpback Whale in Disco bay ©François Falanga

Iceberg in Disko Bay ©Ludovic Hirlimann