A layover in Cali is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International Airport sits just 120 minutes from the city center by Airport Shuttle & MIO Bus, 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.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at CLO:
First, verify that you can enter Colombia — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Airport Shuttle & MIO Bus takes about 120 minutes into Cali, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — COP is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some COP in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from CLO to Cali
From CLO, the Airport Shuttle & MIO Bus gets you to Cali in around 120 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 140 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Airport Shuttle & MIO Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Cali layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$8 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$23 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Cali.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Cali, two standouts are:
- Barrio San Antonio — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
- El Gato de Tejada & Rio Cali — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside CLO, you can spend time at Sala VIP Internacional CLO or try Duty-Free Colombia CLO. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Cali: Platillos Voladores and Piqueo. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Juan Valdez Café CLO or Kokoriko CLO. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Luggage Storage at CLO
Luggage storage options at CLO 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 Cali for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and CLO is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Cali 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.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, CLO 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
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Cali 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.