A long layover in Araguaina is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at AraguaÃna Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 40 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside AUX
Three things to verify before you walk out of AUX:
- Can you legally enter Brazil? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 40-minute journey each way by Taxi/Ride-share, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the BRL. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some BRL in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
What to See and Do in Araguaina
Two recommendations for your time in Araguaina:
Start with City Center Walk. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace. Then, if time allows, make your way to Local Market. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at AUX, check out Airport Lounge or Duty Free Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from AraguaÃna Airport into town:
- Taxi/Ride-share: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Araguaina: Local Restaurant and Popular Eatery. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Cafe or Terminal Restaurant. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Araguaina might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$8 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$23 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and AUX is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Araguaina 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.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at AUX may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Araguaina’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.
Taking a Break at AUX
Long overnight layover? Your options at AUX include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Brazil also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Araguaina with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Araguaina may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.