There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Guapi into a quick city adventure. From GPI, the Taxi / Mototaxi can get you into town in around 30 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Before heading into Guapi, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Colombia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Guapi is roughly 30 minutes from GPI via Taxi / Mototaxi. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in COP. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some COP in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
What to See and Do in Guapi
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Guapi, two standouts are:
- Guapi Riverfront (Malecón) — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Guapi.
- Parque Principal de Guapi — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside GPI — 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:
- GPI Terminal Waiting Area
- Local Souvenir Kiosk (Hypothetical)
Transport from Juan Casiano Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Juan Casiano Airport into town:
- Taxi / Mototaxi: 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.
Eating Well on a Guapi Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Guapi: Restaurante El PacÃfico and Sabor Guapireño (Local Flavors). Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for GPI Airport Snack Bar or GPI Airport Coffee Station. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Guapi, budget roughly $23 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $8 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at GPI, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Guapi itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Colombia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Luggage Storage at GPI
Luggage storage options at GPI 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 Guapi for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Taking a Break at GPI
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at GPI, 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
A layover in Guapi with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Guapi 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.