If you’ve got a layover in Ekati, don’t let it go to waste sitting at YOA. The city, in Canada, is within easy reach — roughly 20 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Before You Step Outside YOA
Three things to verify before you walk out of YOA:
- Can you legally enter Canada? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 20-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Ekati from YOA
From YOA, the local transport gets you to Ekati in around 20 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 40 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at YOA can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Ekati for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Layover Budget Breakdown
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Ekati:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Ekati, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
What’s Worth Seeing in Ekati
If you head into Ekati, here are two things worth checking out:
City Center Walk is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
Local Market is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at YOA, check out Airport Lounge or Duty Free Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a Ekati Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Ekati: Local Restaurant and Popular Eatery. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Cafe or Terminal Restaurant. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at YOA for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Ekati or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, YOA has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Ekati exploring the streets or relaxing at YOA, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.