Emerging Travel Destinations 2026: eSIM Network Guide for Greenland and Faroe Islands

As global travelers seek more authentic, "off the beaten path" experiences, 2026 is shaping up to be the year of the North. Greenland and the Faroe Islands, with their dramatic landscapes and rich cultures, are topping the lists of emerging destinations. However, these remote paradises present unique connectivity challenges. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about staying connected with eSIM in these Arctic frontiers.

Why These Destinations?

The allure of the North is undeniable. Greenland offers the raw power of the Ilulissat Icefjord and the new international airport in Nuuk, making it more accessible than ever. Meanwhile, the Faroe Islands continue to captivate with their "hanging lake" of Sørvágsvatn and a burgeoning Michelin-star culinary scene in Tórshavn. But unlike Rome or Paris, you can't just expect Wi-Fi on every corner.

Greenland Connectivity: Taming the Wild

Greenland's telecommunications infrastructure is managed primarily by Tusass (formerly TELE Greenland). While 5G is rolling out in major settlements like Nuuk, Ilulissat, and Sisimiut, the vast wilderness remains unconnected by terrestrial towers.

eSIM Performance in Greenland

• Coverage: Excellent in towns, non-existent between them (unless you have a satellite connection).
• Speed: 4G/LTE is standard in populated areas; 5G is limited to city centers.
• Roaming: Greenland is NOT part of the EU/EEA roaming agreements. Your European SIM will likely incur massive charges here. A dedicated Greenland eSIM is essential.

Faroe Islands: Connected Archipelago

The Faroe Islands, despite their rugged appearance, have surprisingly robust connectivity thanks to Føroya Tele and Hey. Their network covers most inhabited islands and even many hiking trails and sub-sea tunnels.

eSIM Performance in Faroe Islands

• Coverage: Very high, covering 99% of the population and many remote roads.
• Speed: Reliable 4G+ and expanding 5G network.
• Roaming: Like Greenland, the Faroe Islands are often excluded from standard EU roaming packages (though some carriers make exceptions). Always check, or play it safe with a local eSIM.

Best Practices for 2026 Travelers

To ensure you can upload that puffin video or navigate your hike safely:

1. Download Offline Maps: Before you leave the hotel Wi-Fi, download offline areas in Google Maps or Maps.me.
2. Buy Regional or Specific Plans: A generic "Europe" eSIM often excludes these territories. Look for plans specifically covering "Greenland" or "Faroe Islands," or a "Global" plan that explicitly lists them.
3. Satellite Backup: If you are trekking deep into the Greenlandic backcountry, an eSIM won't help. Consider renting a Garmin inReach or a phone with satellite-to-cellular capability (like newer iPhones) for emergencies.