A long layover in Colima is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Licenciado Miguel de la Madrid Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 70 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of CLQ:
- Can you legally enter Mexico? 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 Taxi / Ride-share, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the MXN. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
The Best Way Into Colima from CLQ
You have two main options for getting from Licenciado Miguel de la Madrid Airport into town:
- Taxi / Ride-share: About 70 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 90 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Colima, budget roughly $28 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $12 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $6 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Colima.
Bag Storage Near CLQ
Specific locker facilities at CLQ aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Colima itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What’s Worth Seeing in Colima
Two recommendations for your time in Colima:
Start with City Center Walk. No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace. Then, if time allows, make your way to Local Market. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at CLQ, check out Airport Lounge or Duty Free Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a Colima Layover
For food in Colima, local travelers recommend Local Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Popular Eatery is another popular pick.
Back at CLQ, Airport Cafe is the go-to. Terminal Restaurant rounds out your in-terminal options.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at CLQ.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and CLQ is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Colima 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.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Colima doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 70 minutes from CLQ, 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.