For travelers with a layover in Wood Buffalo, the proximity of HZP to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 180 minutes via local transport, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of HZP:
- 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 180-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.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Wood Buffalo, we’d suggest Oil Sands Discovery Centre and Fort McMurray Heritage Village. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. You can see the main features in a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at HZP, check out HZP Relaxation Area or Horizon Kiosk & Essentials to keep yourself occupied.
Transport from Fort Mackay / Horizon Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~180 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~200 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Surekha’s on the Snye and Montana’s BBQ & Bar are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Wood Buffalo.
- At the airport: Horizon Eatery and Grab-and-Go Coffee & Snacks will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Wood Buffalo, budget roughly $39 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $19 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Wood Buffalo.
Staying Connected
WiFi at HZP should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Canada and you’re good to go.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at HZP may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Wood Buffalo’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.
Sleep & Lounge Options at HZP
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 HZP.
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
Whether you spend your layover in Wood Buffalo exploring the streets or relaxing at HZP, 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.