A long layover in Chihuahua is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at General Roberto Fierro Villalobos International Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 80 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at CUU:
First, verify that you can enter Mexico — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi / Ride-share takes about 80 minutes into Chihuahua, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — MXN is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
What’s Worth Seeing in Chihuahua
If you head into Chihuahua, here are two things worth checking out:
Catedral Metropolitana de Chihuahua is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Palacio de Gobierno del Estado de Chihuahua is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside CUU, you can spend time at Sala VIP Lounge or try Airport Souvenir Shops. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
How to Get Into Chihuahua
The most straightforward way into Chihuahua is the Taxi / Ride-share, which takes about 80 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 100 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi / Ride-share is usually the smarter call.
Eating Well on a Chihuahua Layover
- In the city: La Calesa de Chihuahua and Restaurant Sotol are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Chihuahua.
- At the airport: Wings Aeropuerto and Starbucks will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Chihuahua layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$6 |
| Meal | ~$12 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$28 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Chihuahua.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at CUU for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Chihuahua 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.
Luggage Storage at CUU
Specific locker facilities at CUU aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Chihuahua itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at CUU, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Chihuahua with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Chihuahua may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.