If you’ve got a layover in Apiay, don’t let it go to waste sitting at API. The city, in Colombia, is within easy reach — roughly 60 minutes by Taxi or Colectivo. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Apiay, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Colombia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Apiay is roughly 60 minutes from API via Taxi or Colectivo. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in COP. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some COP in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from API to Apiay
From API, the Taxi or Colectivo gets you to Apiay in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi or Colectivo offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at API may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Apiay’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.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Apiay:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $9 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $24 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Apiay, here are two things worth checking out:
Parque Las Malocas is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Bioparque Los Ocarros is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside API — 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:
- Airport Waiting Zone
- Basic Refreshment Kiosk
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Apiay, local travelers recommend Restaurante Punto Lllano. If you have time for a second stop, Capachos Villavicencio is another popular pick.
Back at API, Base Air Force Canteen is the go-to. Vending Machine Area rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and API is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Apiay 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 API
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at API, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Apiay count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave API. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.