A layover in Riberalta is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Capitán Av. Selin Zeitun Lopez Airport sits just 45 minutes from the city center by Taxi or Mototaxi, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Before You Step Outside RIB
Before heading into Riberalta, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Bolivia vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Riberalta is roughly 45 minutes from RIB via Taxi or Mototaxi. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in BOB. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some BOB in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Riberalta from the Airport
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi or Mototaxi | ~45 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~65 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi or Mototaxi 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 Riberalta Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Riberalta might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$6 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$21 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Riberalta, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Riberalta, two standouts are:
- Plaza Principal de Riberalta — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
- Mercado Central Riberalta — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside RIB — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Airport Main Waiting Area
- Local Handicrafts Display
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Riberalta, local travelers recommend Restaurant La Estancia. If you have time for a second stop, PescaderÃa ‘Don Walter’ is another popular pick.
Back at RIB, CafeterÃa Aeropuerto Riberalta is the go-to. Airport Snack Kiosk rounds out your in-terminal options.
Luggage Storage Options
Luggage storage options at RIB 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 Riberalta for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
WiFi at RIB 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 Bolivia and you’re good to go.
Sleep & Lounge Options at RIB
Long overnight layover? Your options at RIB include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Bolivia also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Riberalta is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Riberalta.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.