Kangerluk

Photo: Destination Diskobay

The fiord that is sorrounded
by volcanic mountains

Kangerluk, nestled along the shores of Diskofjord, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of human habitation amidst the rugged beauty of Disko Island. Situated approximately 35 km northwest of Qeqertarsuaq, it remains the sole surviving settlement on this remote island, bearing witness to centuries of history and tradition.

Kangerluk, has historically operated as a whaling station, facilitating trade with numerous whale hunters. Due to its historical significance, Dutch whalers were once heavily involved in trade in the area. However, with the establishment and concentration of whaling activities in Qeqertarsuaq, many residents of Kangerluk moved to Qeqertarsuaq.

The settlement has been inhabited more or less since the early 1800s.

The population of Kangerluk has fluctuated significantly over the last 200 years, with periods of uninhabitation. As of January 1, 2023, Kangerluk had 12 residents, a significant decline from the 71 inhabitants in 1980.

Traditionally, the main source of sustenance in the settlement has revolved around hunting and fishing, supported by a private fish factory specializing in Uvak (fjord cod) and seal skins. However, with a dwindling population, the focus has shifted to maintaining essential services such as the community center, power plant, and the Pilersuisoq supermarket.

The is an elementary school called Aalunnguup Atuarfia, functioning as an elementary school up to the 8th grade. The school also houses a library, and the church function in the settlement is integrated as part of the school.

Facts about kangerluk

Kangerluk is originally known as Kangerluarsuk.
Greenlandic artist Jacob Danielsen was born and raised in Kangerluk.
The settlement has been uninhabited in periods.
Potatoes were grown for experimental purposes in Kangerluk.

historical and authentic

The renowned artist Jacob Danielsen (1888-1938) was born and raised in Kangerluk until he was 16, then he and his parents moved to Qeqertarsuaq. Jacob Danielsen known by the nickname Makeqqi – the resurrected, earned this name due to the tragic loss of an older sibling as an infant before Jakob Danielsen’s birth.

He left behind a legacy of hundreds of small drawings and watercolors depicting the Greenlandic people’s hunting and leisure activities. Most of his artworks measure 9.5×14.5 cm. Some of his original drawings are exhibited at the museum in Qeqertarsuaq.

In 1941, Rosendal organized an exhibition at the Statens Museum for Kunst in Copenhagen, showcasing 300 of Jakob Danielsen’s pieces.

Memorial of artist Jacob Danielsen

Smoking cod and drying capelin

Map of kangerluk

Souvenir shopping

Traveling is about experiences, memories and sharing them when we return home. For many of us, souvenirs that remind us of a special place on our travels also make their way into our backpacks.

Support local economy

Always try and support local producers, makers and artisans. This way, you are giving back to the community that is supporting you on your travels, you will meet fascinating people and have more interesting stories to tell.

In Kangerluk we do not have a standard tourist shop, so make the hunt for local unique craftsman into an adventure.