A long layover in Inuvik is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Inuvik Mike Zubko Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at YEV:
First, verify that you can enter Canada — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 60 minutes into Inuvik, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — CAD is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Inuvik, we’d suggest Our Lady of Victory Church (Igloo Church) and Western Arctic Regional Visitor Centre. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at YEV, check out YEV Passenger Waiting Area or Inuvik Airport Local Crafts Display to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
For food in Inuvik, local travelers recommend Mackenzie Hotel Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Alley Kat Cafe is another popular pick.
Back at YEV, YEV Airport Snack Bar is the go-to. Airport Vending Machines rounds out your in-terminal options.
Transport from Inuvik Mike Zubko Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Inuvik Mike Zubko Airport into town:
- local transport: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Inuvik might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$13 USD
- A meal: ~$26 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$49 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at YEV 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 Inuvik for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at YEV for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Inuvik 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
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at YEV.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Inuvik is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Inuvik.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.