Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Andros. Congo Town Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 60 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Important Details Before You Go
Three things to verify before you walk out of COX:
- Can you legally enter Bahamas? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-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 BSD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some BSD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Congo Town Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~60 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~80 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.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Andros might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$13 USD
- A meal: ~$25 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$48 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at COX aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Andros itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Andros, here are two things worth checking out:
Congo Town Beach is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
Driggs Hill Settlement Exploration is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at COX, check out Outdoor Relaxation Area or Small Aircraft Observation to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
In Andros
If you make it into town, Big Daddy’s Sports Bar & Grill is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Shirley’s Bar & Grill.
Inside COX
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Refreshment Counter is your main option. Local Treats & Coffee Corner works too if you want something quick.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, COX 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.
Staying Connected
WiFi at COX 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 Bahamas and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Andros 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 Andros.
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.