Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Arauca gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from AUC to the city takes roughly 40 minutes by Taxi, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of AUC:
- Can you legally enter Colombia? 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, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the COP. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some COP in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Santiago Perez Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi | ~40 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~60 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi 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.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Arauca 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.
What to See and Do in Arauca
For a layover visit to Arauca, we’d suggest Parque Central Simón BolÃvar and Malecón EcoturÃstico de Arauca. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at AUC, check out Airport Café & Snacks or Terminal Waiting Area to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a Arauca Layover
- In the city: Restaurante El Portón and Asadero La Llanerita are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Arauca.
- At the airport: Aerocafe and Pasabocas Express will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Storing Your Luggage at Santiago Perez Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at AUC may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Arauca’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
Free WiFi is generally available at AUC, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Arauca itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Colombia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
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 AUC.
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 Arauca with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Arauca 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.