A long layover in Sondrestrom is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Kangerlussuaq Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 30 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of SFJ:
- Can you legally enter Greenland? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by Walking / Local Shuttle, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the DKK. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From SFJ, the Walking / Local Shuttle gets you to Sondrestrom in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Walking / Local Shuttle offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Sondrestrom might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$15 USD
- A meal: ~$29 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$54 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Sondrestrom, we’d suggest Kangerlussuaq Museum and Lake Ferguson Scenic Walk. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at SFJ, check out Kangerlussuaq Airport Hotel Lobby & Bar or Kangerlussuaq Airport Souvenir Shop to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a Sondrestrom Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Sondrestrom: Polar Lodge Restaurant and Pilu Butik Deli & Cafe. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Kangerlussuaq Airport Cafeteria or Kangerlussuaq Airport Hotel Restaurant. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Bag Storage Near SFJ
Dedicated luggage storage at SFJ may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Sondrestrom’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 SFJ is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Sondrestrom 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 SFJ
Long overnight layover? Your options at SFJ 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
Whether you spend your layover in Sondrestrom exploring the streets or relaxing at SFJ, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.