Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Matagami. Matagami Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Matagami, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Canada vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Matagami is roughly 30 minutes from YNM via Taxi. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in CAD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Matagami
You have two main options for getting from Matagami Airport into town:
- Taxi: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 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
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Matagami, budget roughly $39 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $19 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What to See and Do in Matagami
If you head into Matagami, here are two things worth checking out:
Matagami Lake Scenic Viewpoint is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. On a clear day, the views alone justify the detour.
Parc du Centenaire Matagami is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
If you’d rather stay inside YNM — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Matagami Airport Waiting Area
- Propeller Plane Spotting
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Matagami: Restaurant La Maison Blanche and Le Matagami Pizzeria. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for YNM Vending Machines or YNM Snack Corner. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Storing Your Luggage at Matagami Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at YNM may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Matagami’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
You’ll find free WiFi at YNM for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Matagami 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.
Taking a Break at YNM
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at YNM, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Matagami count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave YNM. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.