A layover in Nogales is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Nogales International Airport sits just 30 minutes from the city center by Taxi / Rideshare, 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.
Before You Step Outside OLS
Three things to verify before you walk out of OLS:
- Can you legally enter United States? 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 Taxi / Rideshare, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
The Best Way Into Nogales from OLS
From OLS, the Taxi / Rideshare gets you to Nogales in around 30 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 50 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi / Rideshare offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Nogales, budget roughly $37 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $18 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $9 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage at OLS
Luggage storage options at OLS 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 Nogales for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
What to See and Do in Nogales
Two recommendations for your time in Nogales:
Start with Pimeria Alta Museum. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing. Then, if time allows, make your way to Downtown Nogales Walk & Shopping. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside OLS, you can spend time at Signature Flight Support Pilot Lounge or try Aircraft Observation Area. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: La Roca Restaurante and Cocina La Ley are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Nogales.
- At the airport: Signature Flight Support – Grab & Go Snacks and OLS Terminal Vending Machines will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Taking a Break at OLS
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at OLS, 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.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and OLS is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Nogales 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.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Nogales count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave OLS. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.