Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Popayan. Guillermo León Valencia Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Before You Step Outside PPN
Three things to verify before you walk out of PPN:
- Can you legally enter Colombia? 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 / Local Bus, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the 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 Popayan
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Popayan, two standouts are:
- Parque Caldas & Historic Center — A quick visit here gives you a real sense of the area’s past.
- Popayan Cathedral Basilica — A peaceful stop that offers a break from the rush of travel.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside PPN — 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:
- Guillermo León Valencia Airport Waiting Area
- Airport Souvenir & Craft Stand
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From PPN, the Taxi / Local Bus gets you to Popayan 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 / Local Bus offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Food Worth Trying
In Popayan
If you make it into town, Restaurante La Casona del Virrey is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try La Pamba Restaurante.
Inside PPN
If you’re staying in the terminal, Mochila Café Aeropuerto Popayán is your main option. PanaderÃa y CafeterÃa El Viajero PPN works too if you want something quick.
Layover Budget Breakdown
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Popayan:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $8 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $23 USD total.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and PPN is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Popayan 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.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at PPN 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 Popayan for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Resting at the Airport
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at PPN.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Popayan genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.