If you’ve got a layover in El Dorado, don’t let it go to waste sitting at ELO. The city, in Argentina, is within easy reach — roughly 40 minutes by Taxi/Remise. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of ELO:
- Can you legally enter Argentina? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 40-minute journey each way by Taxi/Remise, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the ARS. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some ARS in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to El Dorado from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from El Dorado Airport into town:
- Taxi/Remise: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 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.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Quick budget math for your El Dorado layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$9 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$24 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at ELO may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in El Dorado’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.
Exploring El Dorado on a Layover
For a layover visit to El Dorado, we’d suggest La Candelaria – Historic District and Monserrate Sanctuary. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at ELO, check out Avianca VIP Lounge – International Departures or Duty Free Americas – El Dorado to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
In El Dorado
If you make it into town, La Puerta Falsa is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try El Chato.
Inside ELO
If you’re staying in the terminal, Andrés Carne de Res (Express) is your main option. Crepes & Waffles – El Dorado works too if you want something quick.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, ELO 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.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and ELO is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into El Dorado 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
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in El Dorado count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave ELO. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.