About La Toma (Catamayo)
La Toma, home to Catamayo Airport (LOH), is a small city in southern Ecuador’s Loja Province. This region offers a glimpse into authentic Andean culture with nearby mountain landscapes and local markets. While LOH is a smaller airport with limited facilities, strategic layover planning can help you make the most of your time here.
Before You Leave the Airport
- Visa Requirements: Check IATA Travel Centre for Ecuador entry requirements based on your nationality
- Language: Spanish is the primary language; download a translation app before landing
- Currency: Ecuador uses the US Dollar (USD). Use ATMs for the best exchange rates – avoid airport currency counters
- Airport Transit: Factor in immigration and security time. For international connections, allow 2.5-3 hours before departure
Getting to La Toma City Center
Catamayo Airport (LOH) is located approximately 35 km from the city of Loja. Limited public transportation options operate from this smaller airport. For current transit information, visit the official airport website.
Transportation options include:
- Taxi services (negotiate fare before departure or use ride-hailing apps if available)
- Rental car agencies (if planning a longer layover)
- Hotel shuttle services (if staying overnight)
Important: Always factor in return travel time to the airport. For layovers under 6 hours, staying near the airport is safer than traveling to the city center.
What to Do During Your Layover
Short Layovers (2-4 Hours)
With limited time, focus on airport amenities and rest:
- Rest in the airport terminal or find a quiet seating area
- Grab refreshments at airport food vendors
- Use airport WiFi to catch up on emails or download entertainment for your next flight
- Visit restrooms and freshen up with basic toiletries
Medium Layovers (4-8 Hours)
With more time, you have options:
- Explore the airport area: Walk around the terminal, stretch your legs, and observe local activity
- Rest strategically: Find a comfortable seating area or check SleepingInAirports.net for airport sleeping tips
- Eat affordably: Airport food is 2-3x more expensive than city prices. If you have time, eat before returning to the airport
- Store luggage: Use Bounce or Stasher for luggage storage ($5-10/bag/day) if exploring nearby areas
Long Layovers (8+ Hours)
With significant time, consider a brief city visit:
- Visit Loja city: Explore the historic city center, local markets, and colonial architecture
- Download offline maps: Use Google Maps or Maps.me before landing – airport WiFi can be unreliable
- Stay connected: Consider an eSIM (Airalo or Holafly) for instant data without hunting for WiFi
- Budget return time: Plan to return to the airport at least 2.5-3 hours before international departure
Quick Layover Tips
- Pack a layover bag: Keep snacks, entertainment, a change of clothes, and toiletries in your carry-on for easy access
- Bring an empty water bottle: Fill it after security to stay hydrated and manage jet lag
- Download offline entertainment: Airport WiFi may be slow or time-limited – download movies, books, or podcasts before landing
- Use a Wise or Revolut card: Get the best exchange rates with zero markup instead of using airport currency counters
- Share your location: If exploring solo, share your location with a trusted contact for safety
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I leave LOH airport during a layover?
Yes, you can leave LOH airport during a layover if you have a valid passport and meet Ecuador’s entry requirements. However, factor in immigration processing, security screening, and travel time. For layovers under 6 hours, staying near the airport is safer. Always allow at least 2.5-3 hours before an international departure to return to the airport.
What is there to do at LOH during a layover?
At LOH, you can rest in the terminal, use airport amenities, and grab refreshments. For longer layovers (8+ hours), consider visiting nearby Loja city to explore colonial architecture, local markets, and Andean culture. Always plan return travel time carefully.
How long of a layover do I need at LOH?
For international connections at LOH, allow at least 2.5-3 hours before departure to account for immigration, security, and airport procedures. For domestic connections, 60 minutes is sufficient. If leaving the airport, add travel time to your calculations.
Are there lounges at LOH?
Lounge availability at LOH is limited due to the airport’s size. Check with your airline about lounge access or Priority Pass membership. If lounges aren’t available, rest in the terminal or consider a one-time day pass from your airline (typically $39-59).
Is there luggage storage at LOH?
LOH may have limited luggage storage options. For reliable storage, use Bounce or Stasher, which partner with local businesses near the airport for $5-10/bag/day. Book online before arrival for convenience.
Plan Your Layover with Yopki
Make the most of your time at LOH with strategic planning. Use the Yopki layover calculator to determine exactly how much time you have and what’s realistic to accomplish during your layover.