If you’ve got a layover in Narssarssuaq, don’t let it go to waste sitting at UAK. The city, in Greenland, is within easy reach — roughly 60 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave UAK:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Greenland. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Narssarssuaq takes about 60 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is DKK. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Getting from UAK to Narssarssuaq
You have two main options for getting from Narsarsuaq 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.
Money & Budget Tips
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Narssarssuaq, budget roughly $54 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $29 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $15 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Narssarssuaq, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Exploring Narssarssuaq on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Narssarssuaq, two standouts are:
- Narsarsuaq Museum — Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
- Greenlandic Arboretum — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside UAK, you can spend time at KNI Narsarsuaq (Airport Shop) or try Narsarsuaq Airport Terminal Observation. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
For food in Narssarssuaq, local travelers recommend Restaurant Narsarsuaq (Hotel Narsarsuaq). If you have time for a second stop, KNI Narsarsuaq (Supermarket Deli) is another popular pick.
Back at UAK, Narsarsuaq Airport Restaurant is the go-to. Airport Cafe & Bar rounds out your in-terminal options.
Storing Your Luggage at Narsarsuaq Airport
Luggage storage options at UAK 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 Narssarssuaq for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at UAK, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Narssarssuaq itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Greenland that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Taking a Break at UAK
Long overnight layover? Your options at UAK include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Greenland also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Narssarssuaq count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave UAK. 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.