A layover in Manizales is one of those happy accidents of air travel. La Nubia Airport sits just 45 minutes from the city center by Taxi / Local Bus, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Manizales, 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: Manizales is roughly 45 minutes from MZL via Taxi / Local Bus. 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.
Getting from MZL to Manizales
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Local Bus | ~45 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~65 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi / Local Bus 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.
How to Spend Your Time in Manizales
Two recommendations for your time in Manizales:
Start with Manizales Cable Aéreo Ride. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Catedral BasÃlica de Nuestra Señora de Manizales. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside MZL — 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:
- Andean Mountain Views from La Nubia Terminal
- La Nubia Souvenir Stand
Eating Well on a Manizales Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Manizales: Milagros Restaurante Bar and Arrecife D’ Mar Manizales. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for CafeterÃa La Nubia or Aeropuerto Coffee Corner. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your Manizales layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$8 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$23 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Bag Storage Near MZL
Specific locker facilities at MZL aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Manizales itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at MZL should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Colombia and you’re good to go.
Need a Nap? Options at MZL
Long overnight layover? Your options at MZL 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 Manizales 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 Manizales.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.