For travelers with a layover in Atoifi, the proximity of ATD to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 60 minutes via Pre-arranged transport / Taxi, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave ATD:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Solomon Islands. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Atoifi takes about 60 minutes by Pre-arranged transport / Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is SBD. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Getting to Atoifi from the Airport
From ATD, the Pre-arranged transport / Taxi gets you to Atoifi 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 Pre-arranged transport / Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What’s Worth Seeing in Atoifi
If you head into Atoifi, here are two things worth checking out:
Atoifi Hospital Visit is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Atoifi.
Uru Harbour Coastal Walk is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
If you’d rather stay inside ATD — 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:
- Observing Local Aviation
- Cultural Interaction at the Waiting Shelter
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Atoifi: Atoifi Community Guesthouse Meals and Local Mama’s Kai Bar (Basic Eatery). Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Snack & Refreshment Stand or Atoifi Airport Shelter Provisions. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Atoifi might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$9 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$24 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Atoifi, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Bag Storage Near ATD
Luggage storage options at ATD can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Atoifi for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at ATD, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Atoifi itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Solomon Islands that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Need a Nap? Options at ATD
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 ATD.
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
Whether you spend your layover in Atoifi exploring the streets or relaxing at ATD, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.