If you’ve got a layover in La Dorada, don’t let it go to waste sitting at PAL. The city, in Colombia, is within easy reach — roughly 60 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of PAL:
- Can you legally enter Colombia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 60-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
What to See and Do in La Dorada
If you head into La Dorada, here are two things worth checking out:
Parque de Las Iguanas (Parque Principal) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in La Dorada.
Malecón del RÃo Magdalena is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in La Dorada.
If you’d rather stay inside PAL — 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:
- Travellers’ Waiting Area
- Airfield Viewpoint
Eating Well on a La Dorada Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into La Dorada: La Bonga del Sinú La Dorada and Restaurante Donde Pacho. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Base Cafeteria or Snack & Coffee Corner. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
The Best Way Into La Dorada from PAL
From PAL, the local transport gets you to La Dorada 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 local transport offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into La Dorada might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at PAL 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 La Dorada 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 PAL, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in La Dorada 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.
Need a Nap? Options at PAL
Long overnight layover? Your options at PAL include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Colombia also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in La Dorada doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from PAL, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.