Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Pelly Bay. Kugaaruk Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 20 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of YBB:
- 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 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 Pelly Bay
The most straightforward way into Pelly Bay is the local transport, which takes about 20 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 40 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Pelly Bay, budget roughly $49 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $26 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $13 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 Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at YBB aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Pelly Bay itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Pelly Bay:
Start with Kugaaruk Hamlet Exploration Walk. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe. Then, if time allows, make your way to Pelly Bay Waterfront Viewpoint. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside YBB, you can spend time at Kugaaruk Airport Terminal Waiting Area or try Arctic Landscape Viewing (from terminal). Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Pelly Bay, local travelers recommend Northern Store Kugaaruk. If you have time for a second stop, Kugaaruk Community Hall (Event-based Meals) is another popular pick.
Back at YBB, Kugaaruk Airport Vending Machine is the go-to. Self-Catering Spot within Terminal rounds out your in-terminal options.
Need a Nap? Options at YBB
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 YBB.
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.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at YBB, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Pelly Bay itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Canada that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Pelly Bay doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 20 minutes from YBB, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.