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GREENLAND VS ICELAND-PONANT Slider

GREENLAND VS ICELAND

Compare glaciers, fjords, wildlife, culture, landscapes and expedition experiences to decide whether Greenland or Iceland should be your next PONANT adventure.

Which Arctic destination is right for your PONANT cruise?

Choosing between Greenland and Iceland can be surprisingly difficult.

Both destinations offer dramatic Nordic landscapes, spectacular coastlines, glaciers, waterfalls and unforgettable opportunities to experience the far north. Yet they provide distinctly different travel experiences.

Greenland is the choice for travellers who want to venture deeper into the Arctic, with immense icebergs, remote fjords, glaciers, traditional communities and a stronger sense of wilderness.

Iceland, meanwhile, combines spectacular natural scenery with easier access to dramatic geological features, including waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, geothermal areas, glaciers and rugged coastlines.

So, which is better?

The answer depends on what you want from your holiday.

If your dream is to sail among enormous icebergs, explore remote Arctic landscapes and encounter Greenlandic and Inuit culture, Greenland may be the better choice.

If you want to combine dramatic scenery with volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, geothermal activity and fascinating coastal communities, Iceland may be the better fit.

And for travellers who want the ultimate northern adventure, some PONANT itineraries can combine Iceland and Greenland in one remarkable expedition.

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At a Glance

Feature Greenland Iceland
Best For Arctic wilderness, icebergs, glaciers, wildlife and cultural encounters Volcanoes, waterfalls, glaciers, geothermal landscapes and scenic exploration
Landscape Vast icefields, fjords, glaciers, icebergs and remote coastline Volcanoes, lava fields, waterfalls, glaciers, fjords and geothermal areas
Wildlife Whales, seals, seabirds and Arctic wildlife depending on itinerary Whales, seabirds, seals and other North Atlantic wildlife depending on itinerary
Culture Inuit and Greenlandic communities, traditional settlements and Arctic heritage Icelandic culture, history, fishing communities and Viking heritage
Expedition Feel Strong Arctic expedition experience Engaging expedition and discovery experience
Ice & Glaciers Exceptional ice and glacier scenery Excellent glacier scenery
Volcanic Landscapes Limited volcanic scenery Outstanding volcanic landscapes
Cultural Discovery Rich Inuit and Greenlandic cultural experiences Strong Icelandic, fishing and Viking heritage
Remote Wilderness Vast and highly remote Arctic wilderness Remote landscapes with greater accessibility
Geothermal Experiences Limited geothermal activity Exceptional geothermal experiences
Photography Outstanding iceberg, glacier and wilderness photography Outstanding landscape, coastal and geological photography
Activity Level Moderate to active Moderate
Cruise Style Luxury expedition Luxury expedition and discovery
Ideal Traveller Wilderness and Arctic adventure seekers Nature, geology and scenic adventure travellers

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?

Explore the key differences between Greenland and Iceland, from landscapes and wildlife to culture, climate and expedition experiences.

Greenland and Iceland are often grouped together because they are both located in the North Atlantic and offer spectacular northern landscapes.

But once you begin exploring them, the differences become clear.

Greenland feels more remote, wild and distinctly Arctic.

Iceland feels more accessible and geographically diverse, with a remarkable concentration of volcanoes, waterfalls, glaciers and geothermal features.

Greenland: The Kingdom of Ice

Greenland is an extraordinary destination for travellers fascinated by ice and wilderness.

A PONANT expedition to Greenland can take you through dramatic fjords, past enormous icebergs and towards remote communities where traditional ways of life remain closely connected to the Arctic environment.

The scale of the landscape is one of Greenland's defining characteristics.

Here, the scenery can feel almost otherworldly. Towering cliffs rise from the sea, glaciers reach towards the coast and enormous pieces of ancient ice drift through fjords and bays.

For many travellers, the appeal of Greenland is not simply seeing one particular attraction.

It is the feeling of being somewhere genuinely remote.

Greenland is particularly well suited to travellers who want:

  • Dramatic Arctic scenery
  • Massive icebergs and glaciers
  • Remote wilderness
  • Wildlife encounters
  • Inuit and Greenlandic cultural experiences
  • Photography
  • Zodiac exploration
  • A strong expedition atmosphere

PONANT currently offers a range of Greenland voyages, including itineraries focused on Disko Bay, Greenland's east coast, Inuit communities and more remote Arctic regions. 

👉 Learn more about Greenland Cruises →

Iceland: The Land of Fire and Ice

Iceland offers an entirely different interpretation of the northern landscape.

The country is famous for its combination of fire and ice, where glaciers and volcanic landscapes exist alongside geysers, geothermal areas, waterfalls and dramatic coastlines.

A PONANT Iceland cruise can provide an excellent introduction to the North Atlantic while combining natural scenery with history, culture and local communities.

Iceland is particularly appealing to travellers who want variety.

One day may focus on a dramatic waterfall or rugged coastline, while another experience may involve volcanic scenery, geothermal features or a historic settlement.

Iceland is especially suited to travellers who want:

  • Waterfalls and dramatic coastlines
  • Volcanoes and lava landscapes
  • Glaciers
  • Geothermal scenery
  • Wildlife
  • Photography
  • History and culture
  • A combination of nature and discovery

PONANT describes Iceland as a destination where glaciers, fjords, geysers and thermal areas come together to create a highly varied landscape.

👉 Learn more about Iceland Cruises →

WHICH HAS THE BETTER SCENERY?

Both destinations offer spectacular scenery, but the character of that scenery is very different.

Greenland

Greenland is dominated by ice, enormous landscapes and a feeling of remoteness.

Its scenery is ideal if you dream of:

  • Giant icebergs
  • Glacial landscapes
  • Deep fjords
  • Arctic coastlines
  • Snow-covered mountains
  • Remote settlements
  • Vast wilderness

The scenery often feels grand and untouched.

.👉 Learn more about Greenland Cruises →

👉 Get more tips on Choosing your Destination →

ICELAND

Iceland offers greater geological variety.

Its landscapes can include:

  • Waterfalls
  • Volcanoes
  • Lava fields
  • Glaciers
  • Black-sand coastlines
  • Fjords
  • Geothermal areas
  • Rugged mountains

If you want to see many different types of dramatic natural scenery within one journey, Iceland has a strong advantage

.👉 Learn more about Iceland Cruises →

👉 Get more tips on Choosing your Destination →

WHERE TO FIND THE WILDLIFE YOU WANT TO SEE

Discover how Greenland and Iceland differ in wildlife, habitats and opportunities for unforgettable encounters.

GREENLAND'S WILDLIFE

Greenland's remote coastline and cold Arctic waters create an exceptional setting for wildlife observation.

Depending on your itinerary and the time of year, you may encounter whales, seals and abundant seabird life, with the surrounding ice, mountains and fjords creating a spectacular backdrop.

Whale encounters can be particularly memorable when experienced from a small expedition ship or Zodiac. Seeing a whale surface beside an iceberg or travel through a remote fjord is not simply a wildlife sighting — it is an encounter with the Arctic environment itself.

Greenland is especially appealing if you want to combine wildlife with:

  • Icebergs and glaciers
  • Remote fjords
  • Arctic landscapes
  • Small coastal communities
  • Zodiac exploration
  • Photography
  • A genuine expedition atmosphere

The wildlife experience is closely tied to the landscape. You are not simply looking for animals; you are experiencing them within one of the world's great Arctic wildernesses.

ICELAND'S WILDLIFE

Iceland offers a different wildlife experience, with its position in the North Atlantic creating opportunities to encounter a wide variety of marine and birdlife.

Depending on your itinerary and season, you may see whales, seabirds and seals, while coastal landscapes provide important habitats for migratory and resident bird species.

Iceland can be particularly rewarding for travellers who want to combine wildlife observation with a broader variety of natural scenery.

A single voyage can bring together wildlife encounters with dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, glaciers and rugged coastlines.

Iceland is therefore an excellent choice if you want wildlife to be one part of a wider nature and discovery experience.

Which Is Better for Wildlife?

There is no universal winner.

Choose Greenland if: you want wildlife encounters within a remote Arctic setting, surrounded by ice, glaciers and dramatic fjords.

Choose Iceland if: you want marine and birdlife combined with volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, geological discovery and accessible coastal scenery.

Choose either if: wildlife photography and marine encounters are important to you.

The key difference is the setting rather than simply the number of animals you may see. Greenland offers a stronger sense of Arctic wilderness, while Iceland combines wildlife with an unusually diverse North Atlantic landscape.

👉 Learn more about Wildlife Cruises →

GREENLAND VS ICELAND: CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

The cultural experience is one of the most significant differences between these destinations.

GREENLAND CULTURE

Greenland offers travellers the opportunity to learn about Inuit and Greenlandic culture and experience communities shaped by their relationship with the Arctic environment.

Depending on the itinerary, cultural experiences may include visits to traditional settlements and encounters with local communities.

This can add considerable depth to a Greenland expedition.

You are not simply looking at icebergs.

You are learning about the people who have adapted to life in one of the world's most challenging environments.

ICELANDIC CULTURE

Iceland offers a different cultural experience.

The country's history is deeply connected with Norse and Viking heritage, fishing communities, literature and a distinctive Icelandic identity.

Cruising around Iceland can provide opportunities to combine natural attractions with historic towns, local communities and cultural discovery.

👉 Learn more about Cultural Cruises →

GREENLAND VS ICELAND FOR EXPEDITION EXPERIENCES

Both destinations can provide an adventurous experience, but the nature of that adventure is different.

GREENLAND ADVENTURE

Greenland is particularly suited to travellers who want a genuine expedition atmosphere.

Depending on the itinerary and conditions, activities may include:

  • Zodiac excursions
  • Shore landings
  • Wildlife observation
  • Glacier and iceberg viewing
  • Remote coastal exploration
  • Photography
  • Cultural visits

The environment itself is part of the adventure.

Weather, sea conditions, ice and wildlife can influence how each day unfolds.

👉 Learn more about Greenland Cruises →

👉 Learn more about Expedition Cruises →

👉 Learn more about Luxury Adventure Cruises →

ICELAND ADVENTURE

Iceland provides a broader mix of nature and discovery.

A voyage may combine:

  • Scenic coastal cruising
  • Wildlife observation
  • Shore excursions
  • Waterfall exploration
  • Geological discovery
  • Cultural experiences
  • Photography

Iceland can therefore appeal to travellers who want adventure without the expedition environment feeling quite as remote.

👉 Learn more about Iceland Cruises →

👉 Learn more about Expedition Cruises →

👉 Learn more about Luxury Adventure Cruises →

GREENLAND VS ICELAND FOR PHOTOGRAPHY

Photographers will have a difficult choice. Both destinations are spectacular.

GREENLAND PHOTOGRAPHY

Greenland is particularly rewarding for:

  • Iceberg photography
  • Glacier photography
  • Arctic landscapes
  • Remote communities
  • Wildlife
  • Dramatic light
  • Minimalist landscapes

The combination of blue ice, mountains and water creates extraordinary photographic opportunities.

ICELAND PHOTOGRPAHY

Iceland offers enormous variety.

Photographers can capture:

  • Waterfalls
  • Volcanic landscapes
  • Glaciers
  • Black-sand beaches
  • Cliffs
  • Fjords
  • Geothermal features
  • Wildlife
  • Coastal villages

GREENLAND VS ICELAND: WHICH IS MORE REMOTE?

This is one of the clearest differences between the two destinations.

GREENLAND

Greenland wins for remoteness.

Many Greenland itineraries are designed around remote Arctic landscapes, small communities and areas that are difficult to access independently.

The sense of isolation is a major part of the experience.

ICELAND

Iceland is remote in places, but generally feels more accessible.

Its developed tourism infrastructure means that many famous natural attractions can also be visited by land.

A PONANT cruise provides a different perspective by allowing travellers to discover the coastline and smaller destinations by ship.

Our Recommendation

If you want to feel like you have travelled to the edge of the Arctic, choose Greenland.

If you want dramatic northern scenery combined with greater accessibility and variety, choose Iceland.

WHICH IS BETTER FOR FIRST-TIME EXPEDITION CRUISERS?

Both suit first-time expedition cruisers, depending on your interests.

Both Greenland and Iceland offer excellent introductions to expedition cruising. The right choice depends on the experience you want.

Iceland combines dramatic coastlines, waterfalls, volcanoes, wildlife, geology and cultural discovery, making it a varied and accessible introduction to expedition travel.

Greenland offers a more immersive Arctic experience, with icebergs, glaciers, remote landscapes, wildlife, Greenlandic communities and Zodiac exploration. Weather, sea conditions, ice and wildlife may influence the itinerary, adding to the sense of adventure.

Choose Iceland if you:

  • Want a varied introduction to expedition cruising
  • Enjoy waterfalls, volcanoes and geological landscapes
  • Want to combine nature with culture and history
  • Prefer a broader range of experiences

Choose Greenland if you:

  • Dream of seeing icebergs and glaciers
  • Want a genuinely Arctic experience
  • Love remote wilderness and dramatic scenery
  • Are interested in Greenlandic and Inuit culture
  • Enjoy flexible, adventure-led itineraries

WHEN SHOULD YOU GO?

Season is an important consideration for both destinations.

Northern expedition cruising is highly seasonal, and the experience can change considerably depending on the time of year, weather, sea conditions, daylight and wildlife activity.

PONANT operates Greenland voyages across different parts of the Arctic season, with itineraries varying by region and expedition objective. Current PONANT listings include Greenland voyages in spring, summer and early autumn, demonstrating how different departures can provide different experiences.

Iceland also has a seasonal cruise programme, with PONANT currently listing voyages during the northern spring and summer period.

Rather than choosing a destination solely because of a particular month, consider what you want to experience.

Ask yourself:

  • Do I want maximum daylight?
  • Am I particularly interested in wildlife?
  • Do I want to see ice and glaciers?
  • Do I prefer warmer conditions?
  • Do I want a particular itinerary?
  • How important are Zodiac excursions and shore landings?
  • Do I want to combine Greenland and Iceland?

Always check the specific departure and itinerary because conditions and experiences can vary.

WHICH CRUISE SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

The easiest way to decide is to start with your priorities.

If Your Priority Is... Choose...
Massive icebergs Greenland
Glaciers and Arctic scenery Greenland
Remote wilderness Greenland
Inuit and Arctic culture Greenland
Dramatic waterfalls Iceland
Volcanoes Iceland
Geothermal landscapes Iceland
Geological variety Iceland
Viking and Icelandic history Iceland
Arctic expedition atmosphere Greenland
Accessible natural attractions Iceland
Photography Either
Wildlife Either
Adventure Either
Combining both destinations Greenland & Iceland itinerary

GREENLAND VS ICELAND: PONANT SHIPS AND ITINERARIES

The ship you choose should ultimately match your itinerary.

The ship you choose should ultimately match your itinerary.

PONANT's Greenland programme currently includes voyages aboard vessels such as Le Commandant Charcot, Le Lyrial, L'Austral and Le Bellot, depending on the itinerary and departure.

PONANT's Iceland programme also includes different ships and itinerary styles, so it is important to compare the individual voyage rather than choosing solely based on destination.

Before booking, compare:

  • Ship
  • Departure and arrival ports
  • Number of nights
  • Expedition activities
  • Shore excursions
  • Zodiac operations
  • Included experiences
  • Time ashore
  • Travel dates
  • Cabin category
  • Overall itinerary

👉 Compare PONANT Ships →

👉 Get a  guide on how to Choose Your Ship →

💡 BlueSun Insight

Greenland and Iceland offer very different expedition experiences.

Choose Greenland if you dream of icebergs, glaciers, remote wilderness and Arctic culture.

Choose Iceland if you prefer volcanoes, waterfalls, geothermal landscapes and a greater variety of experiences.

Still can't decide? Consider combining both. Some PONANT itineraries allow you to experience Iceland and Greenland in one unforgettable expedition.

Our advice: choose the destination that matches the experience you want to remember.

IS GREENLAND OR ICELAND BETTER FOR YOU?

Find out which destination best matches your interests, travel style and ideal expedition experience.

Traveller Type Our Recommendation Why
Iceberg enthusiast Greenland Greater focus on Arctic ice and iceberg landscapes
Wildlife lover Greenland or Iceland Both offer marine and birdlife opportunities
Photography enthusiast Greenland Exceptional ice, fjord and wilderness scenery
Landscape photographer Iceland Huge variety of geological landscapes
Geology enthusiast Iceland Volcanoes, lava, geysers and geothermal features
Adventure traveller Greenland Stronger remote expedition atmosphere
Culture traveller Either Greenland for Inuit culture; Iceland for history and Icelandic culture
First-time expedition cruiser Iceland Excellent combination of nature, culture and accessibility
Experienced polar traveller Greenland Stronger Arctic wilderness experience
Traveller wanting both Greenland & Iceland Some PONANT itineraries combine the destinations

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQs - PONANT Expedition Cruises

Choosing between Greenland vs Iceland can be challenging when both offer spectacular scenery and unforgettable experiences. Here are some frequently asked questions our PONANT experts have answered to help you compare the two destinations.

Have a read of these FAQs, or reach out to us any time on 1300 799 758.

Neither destination is universally better. Greenland is generally better suited to travellers seeking icebergs, glaciers, remote Arctic wilderness and Greenlandic culture, while Iceland is particularly appealing for waterfalls, volcanoes, geothermal landscapes and geological variety.

Generally, Greenland has a colder and more Arctic environment, particularly in its more northerly and remote regions. However, conditions vary considerably by location, season and itinerary.

Greenland is the stronger choice if seeing large Arctic icebergs is a primary reason for your trip. Icebergs and glacial landscapes are central features of many Greenland expedition itineraries.

Iceland is the clear choice for volcanic landscapes and geothermal features. Its combination of glaciers, volcanoes, geysers and thermal areas is one of the destination's defining characteristics.

Both can offer excellent wildlife experiences. Greenland is particularly attractive for travellers seeking Arctic and marine wildlife, while Iceland offers opportunities for whale watching, seabirds and other North Atlantic wildlife. Sightings are never guaranteed and vary by itinerary and season.

Yes. PONANT currently offers itineraries that connect Greenland and Iceland, including voyages between Nuuk and Reykjavík.

Generally, yes. Greenland provides a stronger sense of Arctic isolation and remote wilderness, while Iceland has a more developed tourism infrastructure and many attractions accessible by land.

Both are exceptional. Greenland is particularly strong for iceberg, glacier and Arctic landscape photography, while Iceland offers greater geological variety, including waterfalls, volcanoes, coastlines and geothermal scenery.

It can be. However, Greenland's more remote environment may appeal particularly strongly to travellers who are comfortable with an expedition-style journey. Always review the physical requirements and activity level of your specific itinerary.

Start with what you most want to experience. Choose Greenland for ice, glaciers, remote wilderness and Arctic culture. Choose Iceland for volcanoes, waterfalls, geothermal landscapes and geological variety. If you want both, look for a PONANT itinerary that combines Greenland and Iceland.

EXPLORE MORE PONANT CRUISE PLANNING GUIDES

Click on the links below to explore our top cruise experiences

Choosing a PONANT Destination
Start your destination research and compare PONANT's major cruise regions.

Choosing the Right PONANT Ship
Learn how ship size, expedition capability, facilities and onboard experience can influence your choice.

PONANT Ship Comparisons
Compare the different PONANT ship categories and discover which vessel may suit your journey.

PONANT Greenland Cruises
Explore Greenland itineraries featuring icebergs, glaciers, fjords, wildlife and Arctic communities.

PONANT Iceland Cruises
Discover Iceland voyages featuring dramatic coastlines, waterfalls, volcanic scenery and geothermal landscapes.

PONANT Arctic Cruises
Explore more of the Arctic, including Greenland and other northern polar destinations.

Luxury Expedition Cruises
Discover what makes expedition cruising different from conventional ocean cruising.

READY TO CHOOSE BETWEEN GREENLAND AND ICELAND?

We think you are! Talk to our PONANT Expedition Cruise specialists at BlueSun Travel

CALL THE PONANT EXPERTS NOW

1300 799 758

Choosing between Greenland and Iceland comes down to the experience you want.

Choose Greenland for ice, wilderness and Arctic adventure.

Choose Iceland for volcanoes, waterfalls and geological discovery.

Choose both if you want the ultimate North Atlantic expedition.

Our PONANT specialists at BlueSun Travel can help you compare available itineraries, ships, travel dates and cruise experiences.

Tell us what you would like to discover, and we will help you find the right expedition.

Contact BlueSun Travel Today

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If you are Choosing Between Greenland vs Iceland, talk to our friendly PONANT experts today. We are specialists in Luxury Expedition Cruises and can help you find the destination that best suits your travel style.

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