A layover in Cascavel is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Cascavel Airport sits just 70 minutes from the city center by local transport, 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
Three things to verify before you walk out of CAC:
- Can you legally enter Brazil? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 70-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Spend Your Time in Cascavel
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Cascavel, two standouts are:
- Lago Municipal de Cascavel — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Cascavel.
- Catedral Metropolitana Nossa Senhora Aparecida — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside CAC, you can spend time at Relaxation Area & Wi-Fi Access or try Local Souvenirs & Newsstand. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near CAC
- In the city: Churrascaria Portal Grill and Restaurante do Lago are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Cascavel.
- At the airport: Lanchonete do Aeroporto and Café Expresso & Doces will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Getting to Cascavel from the Airport
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~70 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~90 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport 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.
What to Budget for Your Cascavel Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Cascavel, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at CAC may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Cascavel’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 CAC is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Cascavel 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 CAC
Long overnight layover? Your options at CAC include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Brazil also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Cascavel doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 70 minutes from CAC, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.