If you’ve got a layover in Mpacha, don’t let it go to waste sitting at MPA. The city, in Namibia, is within easy reach — roughly 70 minutes by local transport. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at MPA:
First, verify that you can enter Namibia — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 70 minutes into Mpacha, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — NAD is the currency here. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~70 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~90 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.
What to Budget for Your Mpacha Side Trip
Quick budget math for your Mpacha layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$10 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$25 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
How to Spend Your Time in Mpacha
For a layover visit to Mpacha, we’d suggest Katima Mulilo Main Market and Zambezi River Viewpoint. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights. A quick stop here is rewarding — great for photos.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at MPA, check out Katima Mulilo Airport Waiting Area or Tarmac View from Terminal to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
For food in Mpacha, local travelers recommend Caprivi River Lodge Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Protea Hotel Zambezi River Lodge Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at MPA, MPA Airport Kiosk is the go-to. Grab & Go Snacks rounds out your in-terminal options.
Storing Your Luggage at Katima Mulilo Airport
Specific locker facilities at MPA aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Mpacha itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at MPA, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Mpacha itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Namibia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, MPA 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
Whether you spend your layover in Mpacha exploring the streets or relaxing at MPA, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.