Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Burao. Burao Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 40 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at BUO:
First, verify that you can enter Somalia — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi takes about 40 minutes into Burao, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — SOS is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Burao, two standouts are:
- Burao Central Market (Suuqa Weyn) — It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
- Waramarka Bridge & Togdheer River — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Burao.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at BUO, check out Burao Airport Waiting Area or Airport Snack Kiosk to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Burao: Burao Local Dining and Central City Cafe & Eatery. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Refreshment Stand or Terminal Eatery (Basic). Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
How to Get Into Burao
From BUO, the Taxi gets you to Burao in around 40 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 60 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Burao layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$7 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$22 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Burao.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at BUO may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Burao’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
You’ll find free WiFi at BUO for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Burao 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.
Taking a Break at BUO
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, BUO has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Burao count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave BUO. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.