Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Fonte Boa. Fonte Boa Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave FBA:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Brazil. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Fonte Boa takes about 30 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Fonte Boa Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Fonte Boa Airport into town:
- local transport: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 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.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Fonte Boa might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Fonte Boa:
Start with Praça Prefeito Raimundo Pinho. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Orla da Cidade (Riverfront Promenade). It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
If you’d rather stay inside FBA — 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:
- FBA Terminal Waiting Area
- Runway and Amazonian Landscape View
Food Worth Trying
For food in Fonte Boa, local travelers recommend Lanchonete E Pizzaria do Mano. If you have time for a second stop, Lanchonete E Pastelaria Da Vovó is another popular pick.
Back at FBA, Lanchonete do Aeroporto (Snack Bar) is the go-to. Café e Refrescos (Coffee & Drinks Counter) rounds out your in-terminal options.
Storing Your Luggage at Fonte Boa Airport
Specific locker facilities at FBA aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Fonte Boa itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at FBA for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Fonte Boa 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
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 FBA.
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.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Fonte Boa with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Fonte Boa may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.