On the Lookout for the Musk Ox

A classic excursion around Kangerlussuaq
One of the best places in the world to see musk oxen is around Kangerlussuaq – the main gateway to Greenland. A musk ox safari gives you a unique opportunity to see musk oxen at close range. The excursions that are run by a couple of tourist offices are classic trips that have almost become synonymous with the area.

Equipment and clothing for the trip
A musk ox safari does not require anything other than a camera and perhaps a pair of binoculars, as well as clothing and shoes suitable for the season if you choose to get out when the vehicle makes a stop en route.

Depending on whether you are travelling alone or in a group, you will be driven in a small jeep or a larger bus. The vehicle will take you to places where there are normally good chances of spotting the characteristic musk ox.

Herd animal in untamed nature
Although the musk ox is used to humans, it is still a wild herd animal and you should not get too close; this will be explained in more detail by the guides. On some trips you may be unfortunate and not meet any musk oxen or only catch a glimpse of them through a pair of binoculars. It is this unpredictable charm that applies to all wildlife in Greenland.

Straight from flight to excursion
A musk ox safari can in many cases be combined with a transit stay in Kangerlussuaq. Some holidaymakers to Greenland actually walk directly from the aeroplane through the small terminal and out into the safari bus. If you have a couple of days in Kangerlussuaq you may also be lucky enough to see musk oxen on an excursion to the ice sheet. It is of course also possible to try to find the animals on foot if you have the sufficient time and spirit to do it.