A long layover in Pereira is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Matecaña International Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave PEI:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Colombia. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Pereira takes about 60 minutes by Megabús / Local Bus. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is COP. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some COP in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Spend Your Time in Pereira
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Pereira, two standouts are:
- Plaza de BolÃvar — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
- Catedral Nuestra Señora de la Pobreza — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside PEI — 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:
- Sala VIP Matecaña
- Duty-Free Shop
How to Get Into Pereira
You have two main options for getting from Matecaña International Airport into town:
- Megabús / Local Bus: About 60 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 80 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.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: La Ruana Pereira and Carboncillo Parrilla are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Pereira.
- At the airport: Juan Valdez Café and Hamburguesas El Corral will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Pereira:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $9 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $24 USD total.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Pereira, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at PEI for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Pereira or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Storing Your Luggage at Matecaña International Airport
Luggage storage options at PEI 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 Pereira for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Sleep & Lounge Options at PEI
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at PEI, 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 Pereira doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 60 minutes from PEI, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.