If you’ve got a layover in Borroloola, don’t let it go to waste sitting at BOX. The city, in Australia, is within easy reach — roughly 30 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Borroloola, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Australia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Borroloola is roughly 30 minutes from BOX 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.
Exploring Borroloola on a Layover
If you head into Borroloola, here are two things worth checking out:
Borroloola Aboriginal Art & Culture Centre is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
McArthur River Viewpoint is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. On a clear day, the views alone justify the detour.
If you’d rather stay inside BOX — 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:
- Borroloola Airport Terminal Waiting Area
- Aircraft Observation Point
The Best Way Into Borroloola from BOX
From BOX, the local transport gets you to Borroloola in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Food Worth Trying
In Borroloola
If you make it into town, Borroloola Hotel Motel is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Borroloola General Store & Takeaway.
Inside BOX
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Vending Machines is your main option. Terminal Basic Refreshments works too if you want something quick.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Quick budget math for your Borroloola layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at BOX for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Borroloola 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.
Luggage Storage at BOX
Dedicated luggage storage at BOX may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Borroloola’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.
Need a Nap? Options at BOX
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 BOX.
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
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Borroloola genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.