Passing through Gerardo Tobar López Airport? A layover in Buenaventura is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 60 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into Buenaventura, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Colombia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Buenaventura is roughly 60 minutes from BUN 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.
Getting to Buenaventura from the Airport
From BUN, the local transport gets you to Buenaventura 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 local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Buenaventura might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at BUN aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Buenaventura itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Buenaventura, here are two things worth checking out:
Catedral de Buenaventura 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 Buenaventura.
Parque Néstor Urbano Tenorio is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at BUN, check out Gerardo Tobar López Airport Main Hall or Airfield Viewing Point to keep yourself occupied.
Best Bites Near BUN
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Buenaventura: Restaurante El Costeño and Restaurante La Cueva del Cangrejo. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Café La Pista or Sabores del PacÃfico Kiosk. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Sleep & Lounge Options at BUN
Long overnight layover? Your options at BUN include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Colombia also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
WiFi at BUN should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Colombia and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Buenaventura 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 Buenaventura.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.