Passing through Cap FAP David Abenzur Rengifo International Airport? A layover in Pucallpa is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 40 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.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of PCL:
- Can you legally enter Peru? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 40-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Cap FAP David Abenzur Rengifo International Airport to Downtown
The most straightforward way into Pucallpa is the local transport, which takes about 40 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 60 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at PCL aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Pucallpa itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Money & Budget Tips
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Pucallpa, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 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.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Pucallpa:
Start with Plaza de Armas de Pucallpa. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Lake Yarinacocha. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside PCL, you can spend time at Relax in the Main Waiting Area or try Local Souvenir Kiosks. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
For food in Pucallpa, local travelers recommend El Brichero. If you have time for a second stop, La Cevicheria de Pucallpa is another popular pick.
Back at PCL, Aeropuerto PCL Cafeteria is the go-to. Snack & Drink Kiosk rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at PCL, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Pucallpa itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Peru that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Taking a Break at PCL
Long overnight layover? Your options at PCL include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Peru also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Pucallpa 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.