Peak Season⭐ Top Pick

Kangerlussuaq in December 2026

Aurora purists wanting the world's most statistically clear skies and Greenland Ice Cap access. Here's everything you need to plan your December visit.

9/10

🌡️ Weather in Kangerlussuaq in December

-20°C
Avg Temperature
very cold — heavy layering required
17h
Dark Hours / Night
Long dark nights — excellent aurora windows
🟢 High
Aurora Likelihood
December is prime aurora season — clear nights frequently deliver displays

December in Kangerlussuaq sits at -20°C average, which is very cold — heavy layering required. Expect around 17 hours of darkness each night. Pack accordingly and check the detailed packing list below.

🌌 Northern Lights in December

🟢 High likelihood· Aurora score 9/10

Kangerlussuaq has a base aurora score of 9/10. In December, conditions are optimal — long dark nights (17h), typically clear skies, and strong geomagnetic activity combine to make this one of the best aurora months here.

Tips for aurora chasing in December: Head away from town light pollution, check real-time Kp forecasts (apps like SpaceWeatherLive or My Aurora Forecast), and allow at least 3 nights to maximise your chances of a sighting.

Book a guided aurora tour with a local expert — they track forecasts obsessively and know the best viewpoints. Many operators offer "chase" trips that drive to clear sky patches.

🎯 What to Do in Kangerlussuaq in December

Northern Lights Tours
Aurora Camp (overnight vigil)
Aurora Photography
Husky / Dog Sledding
Snowmobile Safari
Cross-Country Skiing
Ice Fishing
Photography Tours

Activity availability depends on snow / ice conditions and local operator schedules. Always confirm in advance.

🎒 What to Pack for December in Kangerlussuaq

Extreme cold base layers (wool or synthetic), insulating mid-layer, and a -40°C-rated outer shell

Insulated waterproof boots rated to at least -30°C, and heavyweight wool/fleece socks

Balaclava, heavyweight wool hat, and face mask to protect exposed skin

Insulated mittens (warmer than gloves) plus liner gloves for camera operation

Camera with manual mode, wide-angle lens (f/2.8 or faster), and sturdy tripod

Extra camera batteries — cold drains power fast; keep spares in an inner pocket

Remote shutter release or intervalometer for long-exposure aurora shots

Ski goggles or polarised sports glasses for snow glare

Waterproof salopettes or snow trousers for multi-hour outdoor activities

🏨 Accommodation in December

Peak Season

This is peak season — book accommodation 2–4 months in advance. Expect prices around $140+/night for mid-range options. Popular choices include Arctic hotel, Converted airport facilities, Guesthouses. Aurora lodges and glass cabins sell out fastest.

Explore More

🧭 Also Great in December

Other top polar destinations worth considering for a December trip

Plan Kangerlussuaq by Month

Highlighted in green = best months for Kangerlussuaq