Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Selawik gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from WLK to the city takes roughly 20 minutes by local transport, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
A few things to sort out before you leave WLK:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for United States. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Selawik takes about 20 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 local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Selawik:
Start with Selawik Village Walk & River View. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace. Then, if time allows, make your way to Arctic Wilderness Viewing. A quick stop here is rewarding — great for photos.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside WLK, you can spend time at Observing Bush Plane Operations or try Selawik Airport Waiting Area. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Getting to Selawik from the Airport
From WLK, the local transport gets you to Selawik in around 20 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 40 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Selawik: Selawik Native Store and Selawik Quick Stop. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Selawik Airport Vending Machines or Selawik Airport Grab & Go Counter. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Selawik layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and WLK is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Selawik 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.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at WLK 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 Selawik for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Taking a Break at WLK
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, WLK has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Selawik with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Selawik 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.