Passing through Gambella Airport? A layover in Gambella is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 40 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of GMB:
- Can you legally enter Ethiopia? 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 Local Taxis/Bajaj, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the ETB. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some ETB in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Gambella
You have two main options for getting from Gambella Airport into town:
- Local Taxis/Bajaj: 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.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Gambella layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$6 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$21 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Gambella, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at GMB may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Gambella’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 Gambella
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Gambella, two standouts are:
- Baro Riverfront View — On a clear day, the views alone justify the detour.
- Gambella Local Market (Bazaar) — Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at GMB, check out Terminal Waiting Area or Small Retail Kiosk to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a Gambella Layover
For food in Gambella, local travelers recommend Gambella Star Hotel Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Gambella City Hotel Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at GMB, Airport Cafeteria is the go-to. Snack & Coffee Stand rounds out your in-terminal options.
Rest Areas & Lounges
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 GMB.
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 GMB is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Gambella 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 Gambella is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Gambella.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.