For travelers with a layover in Marau, the proximity of RUS to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 30 minutes via local transport, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of RUS:
- Can you legally enter Solomon Islands? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-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.
Getting from RUS to Marau
You have two main options for getting from Marau Airport into town:
- local transport: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at RUS 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 Marau for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Marau:
Transport to the city and back runs about $10 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $20 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $40 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Marau, we’d suggest Marau Lagoon Snorkeling and Visit a Local Marau Village. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Worth checking out if your schedule allows. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside RUS — 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:
- Observing Local Life & Aircraft Operations
- Relax in the Shaded Waiting Area
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Marau: Marau Island Guesthouse Kitchen and Village Meal with a Local Family. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Local Vendor Snack & Drink Stand or Marau Airport Basic Refreshments. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Staying Connected
WiFi at RUS 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 Solomon Islands and you’re good to go.
Taking a Break at RUS
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, RUS has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Marau with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Marau may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.