Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Chimbote. Teniente FAP Jaime A De Montreuil Morales Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of CHM:
- 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 30-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.
How to Get Into Chimbote
The most straightforward way into Chimbote is the Taxi, which takes about 30 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 50 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi is usually the smarter call.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Chimbote, two standouts are:
- Plaza de Armas de Chimbote — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Chimbote.
- Malecón Grau — 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 CHM, you can spend time at Airport Waiting Area Relaxation or try Tarmac View. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Chimbote, local travelers recommend CevicherÃa El Ronco. If you have time for a second stop, Punto Marino is another popular pick.
Back at CHM, Airport Snack Bar is the go-to. Beverage & Light Bites Kiosk rounds out your in-terminal options.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Chimbote might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$6 USD
- A meal: ~$11 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$27 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Chimbote, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Luggage Storage at CHM
Luggage storage options at CHM 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 Chimbote 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 CHM is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Chimbote 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.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, CHM 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
Whether you spend your layover in Chimbote exploring the streets or relaxing at CHM, 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.