There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Salinas into a quick city adventure. From SNC, the Taxi can get you into town in around 40 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave SNC:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Ecuador. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Salinas takes about 40 minutes by Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
How to Get Into Salinas
From SNC, the Taxi gets you to Salinas in around 40 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 60 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 offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Storing Your Luggage at General Ulpiano Paez Airport
Luggage storage options at SNC 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 Salinas for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Salinas, budget roughly $28 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $12 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $6 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.
Exploring Salinas on a Layover
For a layover visit to Salinas, we’d suggest Playa de Salinas and Malecón de Salinas. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside SNC — 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 Waiting Area
- Basic Airport Kiosk
Best Bites Near SNC
In Salinas
If you make it into town, L’Italiano is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Cocolat.
Inside SNC
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Coffee & Snacks is your main option. Terminal Eatery works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
WiFi at SNC 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 Ecuador and you’re good to go.
Sleep & Lounge Options at SNC
Long overnight layover? Your options at SNC include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Ecuador also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Salinas doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 40 minutes from SNC, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.