A layover in Chitré is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Alonso Valderrama Airport sits just 30 minutes from the city center by Local Taxis, 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.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of CTD:
- Can you legally enter Panama? 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 Local Taxis, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting to Chitré from the Airport
From CTD, the Local Taxis gets you to Chitré in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Local Taxis offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Luggage Storage at CTD
Dedicated luggage storage at CTD may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Chitré’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.
How Much Money You’ll Need
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Chitré:
Transport to the city and back runs about $6 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $12 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $28 USD total.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Chitré.
How to Spend Your Time in Chitré
If you head into Chitré, here are two things worth checking out:
Parque Unión is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Catedral San Juan Bautista is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Chitré.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside CTD, you can spend time at CTD Departure Lounge or try Tarmac Viewpoint (CTD). Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Chitré: El Sitio Restaurante Bar and Pesquebir Restaurante Bar. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for CTD Aeropuerto Snack Bar or CTD Grab-and-Go Kiosk. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at CTD for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Chitré 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.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at CTD include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Panama also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Chitré doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 30 minutes from CTD, 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.