A long layover in Guanaja is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at La Laguna Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave GJA:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Honduras. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Guanaja takes about 60 minutes by Taxi / Boat Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is HNL. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some HNL in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from GJA to Guanaja
From GJA, the Taxi / Boat Taxi gets you to Guanaja in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi / Boat Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at GJA can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Guanaja for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
What to Budget for Your Guanaja Side Trip
Quick budget math for your Guanaja layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$9 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$24 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Guanaja, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Exploring Guanaja on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Guanaja:
Start with City Center Walk. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe. Then, if time allows, make your way to Local Market. The atmosphere alone makes it worth a visit, even if you don’t buy anything.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at GJA, check out Airport Lounge or Duty Free Shopping to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
In Guanaja
If you make it into town, Local Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Popular Eatery.
Inside GJA
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Cafe is your main option. Terminal Restaurant works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
WiFi at GJA should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Honduras and you’re good to go.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, GJA 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.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Guanaja count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave GJA. 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.