Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Esquel. Brigadier Antonio Parodi Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 60 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Esquel, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Argentina vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Esquel is roughly 60 minutes from EQS via Taxi/Remis. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in ARS. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some ARS in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Esquel from EQS
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Remis | ~60 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~80 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi/Remis is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Esquel might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$6 USD
- A meal: ~$12 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$28 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Storing Your Luggage at Brigadier Antonio Parodi Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at EQS may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Esquel’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.
What’s Worth Seeing in Esquel
If you head into Esquel, here are two things worth checking out:
La Trochita Station & Museum is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Plaza San MartÃn is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Esquel.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at EQS, check out Relaxing Waiting Area & Wi-Fi or Local Souvenirs & Crafts Kiosk to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: La Barra and Don Chiquino are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Esquel.
- At the airport: Aeropuerto Esquel ConfiterÃa and Regional Snacks & Drinks Kiosk will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Need a Nap? Options at EQS
Long overnight layover? Your options at EQS include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Argentina also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at EQS, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Esquel itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Argentina that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Esquel doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from EQS, 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.