Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Gizo gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from GZO to the city takes roughly 30 minutes by Boat / Water Taxi, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Before You Step Outside GZO
Before heading into Gizo, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Solomon Islands vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Gizo is roughly 30 minutes from GZO via Boat / Water Taxi. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in SBD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some SBD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Nusatupe Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Nusatupe Airport into town:
- Boat / Water Taxi: 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.
Bag Storage Near GZO
Specific locker facilities at GZO aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Gizo itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Gizo might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$8 USD
- A meal: ~$15 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$33 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Gizo.
What to See and Do in Gizo
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Gizo, two standouts are:
- Gizo Public Market — It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
- Gizo Town Exploration — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
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 GZO, check out Nusatupe Airport Waiting Area or Views of Nusatupe Lagoon to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Gizo: Gizo Hotel Restaurant and Rekona Cafe. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Nusatupe Airport Refreshment Kiosk or Informal Local Snack Stand. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at GZO for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Gizo 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.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at GZO, 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
Whether you spend your layover in Gizo exploring the streets or relaxing at GZO, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.