A long layover in Munda is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Munda Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 40 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave MUA:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Solomon Islands. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Munda takes about 40 minutes by Taxi / Minivan. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is SBD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some SBD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Get Into Munda
You have two main options for getting from Munda Airport into town:
- Taxi / Minivan: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 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.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Munda, two standouts are:
- Peter Joseph WWII Museum — Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
- Munda Market — It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside MUA — 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:
- Munda Airport Waiting Area
- Runway Observation Point
Eating Well on a Munda Layover
- In the city: Agnes Gateway Hotel Restaurant and Local Kaikai Stall (near Munda Market) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Munda.
- At the airport: Munda Airport Snack Bar and Munda Airport Vending Machines will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Munda layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$8 |
| Meal | ~$15 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$33 |
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Bag Storage Near MUA
Luggage storage options at MUA 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 Munda for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and MUA is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Munda and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at MUA, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Munda with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Munda 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.