A layover in Uummannaq is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Qaarsut Airport sits just 60 minutes from the city center by Helicopter/Boat transfer to Uummannaq, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave JQA:
- 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 Uummannaq takes about 60 minutes by Helicopter/Boat transfer to Uummannaq. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is DKK. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
What’s Worth Seeing in Uummannaq
For a layover visit to Uummannaq, we’d suggest Uummannaq Museum and Uummannaq Town Walk & Heart Mountain View. 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.
If you’d rather stay inside JQA — 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:
- Arctic Vista Point
- Helicopter Transfer Observation
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
The most straightforward way into Uummannaq is the Helicopter/Boat transfer to Uummannaq, which takes about 60 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 80 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Helicopter/Boat transfer to Uummannaq is usually the smarter call.
Eating Well on a Uummannaq Layover
- In the city: Hotel Uummannaq Restaurant and Uummannaq Cafe are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Uummannaq.
- At the airport: Qaarsut Airport Snack Corner and Beverage & Hot Drinks Station will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Uummannaq:
Transport to the city and back runs about $15 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $29 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $54 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Uummannaq, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at JQA, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Uummannaq 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.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at JQA aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Uummannaq itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Sleep & Lounge Options at JQA
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 JQA.
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.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Uummannaq genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.