A layover in Cajamarca is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Mayor General FAP Armando Revoredo Iglesias Airport sits just 40 minutes from the city center by Taxi, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of CJA:
- Can you legally enter Peru? 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 PEN. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| 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.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Cajamarca, budget roughly $25 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $10 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Exploring Cajamarca on a Layover
If you head into Cajamarca, here are two things worth checking out:
Plaza de Armas de Cajamarca 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 Cajamarca.
Cuarto del Rescate (Ransom Room) 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 CJA, check out General Waiting Area or Local Souvenir Kiosk to keep yourself occupied.
Food & Dining Options
For food in Cajamarca, local travelers recommend El Batán Restaurante. If you have time for a second stop, La Casona del Inca is another popular pick.
Back at CJA, CJA Airport Cafe & Snacks is the go-to. Kiosko Express CJA rounds out your in-terminal options.
Storing Your Luggage at Mayor General FAP Armando Revoredo Iglesias Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at CJA may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Cajamarca’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
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and CJA is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Cajamarca and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Sleep & Lounge Options at CJA
Long overnight layover? Your options at CJA include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Peru also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Cajamarca exploring the streets or relaxing at CJA, 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.