A long layover in Kalibo is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Kalibo International Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 30 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 KLO:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Philippines. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Kalibo takes about 30 minutes by Tricycle / Local Shuttle. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is PHP. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Kalibo, we’d suggest Bakhawan Eco-Park and Aklan Provincial Capitol. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Kalibo.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at KLO, check out Kalibo International Airport Duty-Free Shop or Local Souvenir Stalls to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
In Kalibo
If you make it into town, Ramboy’s Native Lechon Manok & Liempo is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Mang Inasal – Kalibo Branch.
Inside KLO
If you’re staying in the terminal, Cebu Pacific Cafe is your main option. KLO Airport Food Stalls works too if you want something quick.
How to Get Into Kalibo
From KLO, the Tricycle / Local Shuttle gets you to Kalibo in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Tricycle / Local Shuttle offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Kalibo might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$6 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$21 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Kalibo.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at KLO 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 Kalibo for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at KLO, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Kalibo itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Philippines that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at KLO, 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 Kalibo 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 Kalibo.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.