A layover in Aracaju is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Santa Maria Airport sits just 75 minutes from the city center by local transport, 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
Before heading into Aracaju, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Brazil vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Aracaju is roughly 75 minutes from AJU via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Spend Your Time in Aracaju
For a layover visit to Aracaju, we’d suggest Praia de Atalaia and Passarela do Caranguejo. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at AJU, check out Local Craft & Souvenir Shop or Café do Ponto to keep yourself occupied.
Best Bites Near AJU
- In the city: Cariri and Mangará Restaurante are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Aracaju.
- At the airport: Subway and Lanchonete Aeroporto will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
The Best Way Into Aracaju from AJU
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~75 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~95 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
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Aracaju, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at AJU may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Aracaju’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.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at AJU for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Aracaju or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Sleep & Lounge Options at AJU
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 AJU.
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
A layover in Aracaju 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 Aracaju.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.