There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Quibdo into a quick city adventure. From UIB, the Taxis can get you into town in around 45 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of UIB:
- 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 45-minute journey each way by Taxis, 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.
Getting from UIB to Quibdo
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxis | ~45 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~65 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxis is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
What to Budget for Your Quibdo Side Trip
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Quibdo, budget roughly $22 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $7 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 Quibdo, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
What to See and Do in Quibdo
If you head into Quibdo, here are two things worth checking out:
Catedral Nuestra Señora del Carmen is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Stroll along Malecón de Quibdó is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside UIB, you can spend time at Observing Local Airport Life or try Local Souvenir Browsing. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Quibdo: Restaurante La Cabaña and Restaurante Pargo Rojo. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for CafeterÃa El Caraño or Airport Snack Corner. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
What to Do With Your Bags
Luggage storage options at UIB 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 Quibdo for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
WiFi at UIB 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 Colombia and you’re good to go.
Need a Nap? Options at UIB
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, UIB has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Quibdo exploring the streets or relaxing at UIB, 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.