Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Masset gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from ZMT to the city takes roughly 60 minutes by Taxi/Shuttle, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of ZMT:
- 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 60-minute journey each way by Taxi/Shuttle, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the CAD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from ZMT to Masset
From ZMT, the Taxi/Shuttle gets you to Masset in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi/Shuttle offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to See and Do in Masset
Two recommendations for your time in Masset:
Start with Delkatla Wildlife Sanctuary. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Agate Beach / North Beach. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at ZMT, check out ZMT Waiting Area & Views or Haida Gwaii Information Display to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Masset, local travelers recommend Mile Zero Dining Room. If you have time for a second stop, Bud’s Bar and Grill is another popular pick.
Back at ZMT, ZMT Grab-and-Go Kiosk is the go-to. Airfield Refreshment Stand rounds out your in-terminal options.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Masset might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$19 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$39 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Storing Your Luggage at Masset Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at ZMT may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Masset’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and ZMT is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Masset and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Need a Nap? Options at ZMT
Long overnight layover? Your options at ZMT include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Canada also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Masset with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Masset may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.