For travelers with a layover in Puerto Asis, the proximity of PUU to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 30 minutes via Taxi, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Before You Step Outside PUU
Three things to verify before you walk out of PUU:
- 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, 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.
What’s Worth Seeing in Puerto Asis
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Puerto Asis, two standouts are:
- Parque Principal de Puerto AsÃs — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
- Malecón TurÃstico (Putumayo River Walk) — No tickets or reservations needed — just explore at your own pace.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at PUU, check out Tres De Mayo Airport Waiting Area & Wi-Fi or Regional Crafts & Souvenirs Kiosk to keep yourself occupied.
How to Get Into Puerto Asis
The most straightforward way into Puerto Asis is the Taxi, which takes about 30 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 50 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi is usually the smarter call.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Puerto Asis: Restaurante Sabor de la Selva and Pizzeria El Horno. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Café del Vuelo or Putumayo Snack Bar. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Puerto Asis:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $7 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $22 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at PUU, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Puerto Asis itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Colombia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at PUU 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 Puerto Asis for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at PUU include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Colombia 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 Puerto Asis 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.