If you’ve got a layover in Pucon, don’t let it go to waste sitting at ZPC. The city, in Chile, is within easy reach — roughly 60 minutes by Taxi/Colectivo. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at ZPC:
First, verify that you can enter Chile — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi/Colectivo takes about 60 minutes into Pucon, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — CLP is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Transport from Pucón Airport to Downtown
From ZPC, the Taxi/Colectivo gets you to Pucon in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 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/Colectivo offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Pucon layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$7 |
| Meal | ~$14 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$31 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Pucon, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at ZPC aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Pucon itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Pucon, two standouts are:
- Villarrica Lake Waterfront — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
- Pucón City Center & Craft Market — Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside ZPC, you can spend time at Andes & Villarrica Viewpoint or try Local Crafts Kiosk. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Pucon Layover
In Pucon
If you make it into town, La Maga is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Trawen.
Inside ZPC
If you’re staying in the terminal, Pucón Aeropuerto Cafeteria is your main option. Quick Bites & Deli works too if you want something quick.
Taking a Break at ZPC
Long overnight layover? Your options at ZPC include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Chile also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
WiFi at ZPC should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Chile and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Pucon 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.