For travelers with a layover in Diego Garcia Island, the proximity of NKW to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 30 minutes via local transport, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Diego Garcia Island, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for British Indian Ocean Territory vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Diego Garcia Island is roughly 30 minutes from NKW via local transport. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting from NKW to Diego Garcia Island
The most straightforward way into Diego Garcia Island is the local transport, 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 local transport is usually the smarter call.
What to Budget for Your Diego Garcia Island Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Diego Garcia Island:
Transport to the city and back runs about $9 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $18 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $37 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Diego Garcia Island, here are two things worth checking out:
Diego Garcia Golf Course is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Diego Garcia Island.
Plantation Beach Recreation Area is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight.
If you’d rather stay inside NKW — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Air Terminal Waiting Area & Wi-Fi
- Terminal Mini Navy Exchange (NEX)
Best Bites Near NKW
- In the city: Turner Club Bar & Grill and NEX Food Court are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Diego Garcia Island.
- At the airport: Terminal Snack Bar and Vending Machine Kiosks will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at NKW may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Diego Garcia Island’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
WiFi at NKW should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in British Indian Ocean Territory and you’re good to go.
Taking a Break at NKW
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at NKW, 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
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Diego Garcia Island genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.