Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Pasto gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from PSO to the city takes roughly 100 minutes by Taxi / Colectivo (Shared Shuttle), and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at PSO:
First, verify that you can enter Colombia — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi / Colectivo (Shared Shuttle) takes about 100 minutes into Pasto, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — COP is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some COP in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Exploring Pasto on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Pasto, two standouts are:
- Plaza de Nariño — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
- Templo de Cristo Rey — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside PSO, you can spend time at ArtesanÃas del Nariño Kiosk or try Aeropuerto Café & Snacks (Relaxation). Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Pasto: Ceviche y Punto Pasto and La Casona de Pasto. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Aeropuerto Café & Snacks (Dining) or Quick Bites & Vending. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Getting from PSO to Pasto
You have two main options for getting from Antonio Narino Airport into town:
- Taxi / Colectivo (Shared Shuttle): About 100 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 120 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.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Pasto layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$8 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$23 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Pasto.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage is available at Not typically available at this small regional airport. It’s advisable to check with airline counters for temporary baggage assistance if needed, though not guaranteed.. Drop your bags off early so you can explore hands-free.
Alternatively, third-party services like Bounce or Stasher can connect you with storage locations closer to wherever you’re headed in Pasto.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at PSO, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Pasto itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Colombia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at PSO 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
Whether you spend your layover in Pasto exploring the streets or relaxing at PSO, 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.