Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in La Toma (Catamayo) gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from LOH to the city takes roughly 45 minutes by local transport, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of LOH:
- Can you legally enter Ecuador? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 45-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.
Exploring La Toma (Catamayo) on a Layover
For a layover visit to La Toma (Catamayo), we’d suggest Parque Central de Catamayo and Mercado Central Catamayo. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in La Toma (Catamayo).
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at LOH, check out Main Terminal Waiting Area or Airport Kiosk & Souvenirs to keep yourself occupied.
Transport from Camilo Ponce Enriquez Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~45 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~65 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Food & Dining Options
For food in La Toma (Catamayo), local travelers recommend Parrilladas y Restaurante La Esquina. If you have time for a second stop, La Casita de los Sabores is another popular pick.
Back at LOH, Restaurante El Aeropuerto LOH is the go-to. Airport Snack Bar & Coffee rounds out your in-terminal options.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Quick budget math for your La Toma (Catamayo) layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at LOH for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate La Toma (Catamayo) 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.
Bag Storage Near LOH
Specific locker facilities at LOH aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in La Toma (Catamayo) itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Sleep & Lounge Options at LOH
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at LOH.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in La Toma (Catamayo) doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 45 minutes from LOH, 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.