Passing through Governador Jorge Teixeira de Oliveira Airport? A layover in Porto Velho is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 75 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave PVH:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Brazil. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Porto Velho takes about 75 minutes by Local Bus / Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is BRL. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
How to Get Into Porto Velho
You have two main options for getting from Governador Jorge Teixeira de Oliveira Airport into town:
- Local Bus / Taxi: About 75 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 95 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.
Luggage Storage at PVH
Luggage storage options at PVH 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 Porto Velho for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Porto Velho, budget roughly $24 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $9 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Porto Velho, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Porto Velho, we’d suggest Madeira-Mamoré Railway Complex and Palácio Rio Madeira & Government Square. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside PVH, you can spend time at PVH Free Wi-Fi & Seating Areas or try Airport Convenience Store. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
In Porto Velho
If you make it into town, San Matheus Churrascaria is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Cia do Peixe.
Inside PVH
If you’re staying in the terminal, Café Aeroporto Porto Velho is your main option. Açaà do Aeroporto works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at PVH, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Porto Velho itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Brazil that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at PVH, 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
Whether you spend your layover in Porto Velho exploring the streets or relaxing at PVH, 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.