Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Afutara gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from AFT to the city takes roughly 30 minutes by Local shared vehicles/walking, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave AFT:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Solomon Islands. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Afutara takes about 30 minutes by Local shared vehicles/walking. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is SBD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some SBD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
What’s Worth Seeing in Afutara
For a layover visit to Afutara, we’d suggest Afutara Beach Exploration and Afutara Village Stroll. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside AFT, you can spend time at Afutara Aerodrome Waiting Area or try Runway Viewpoint. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Afutara Layover
In Afutara
If you make it into town, Afutara Village Local Bites is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Seaside Fresh Fish Spot.
Inside AFT
If you’re staying in the terminal, Afutara Aerodrome Snack Stand is your main option. Island Refreshments & Fruit works too if you want something quick.
The Best Way Into Afutara from AFT
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local shared vehicles/walking | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Local shared vehicles/walking 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.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Afutara layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$9 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$24 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage at AFT
Luggage storage options at AFT 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 Afutara for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at AFT, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Afutara itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Solomon Islands that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Taking a Break at AFT
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, AFT 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 Afutara is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Afutara.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.