For travelers with a layover in San Borja, the proximity of SRJ to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 45 minutes via Taxi / Moto-taxi, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of SRJ:
- Can you legally enter Bolivia? 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 Taxi / Moto-taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the BOB. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some BOB in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Exploring San Borja on a Layover
For a layover visit to San Borja, we’d suggest Plaza Principal de San Borja and Iglesia San Borja. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in San Borja.
If you’d rather stay inside SRJ — 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 Relaxation
- Local Souvenir Stand Browse
Best Bites Near SRJ
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into San Borja: Comedor Popular (Local Eatery) and Restaurant El Viajero. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Snack Bar or Local Sandwich Counter. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Getting to San Borja from the Airport
The most straightforward way into San Borja is the Taxi / Moto-taxi, which takes about 45 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 65 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi / Moto-taxi is usually the smarter call.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into San Borja might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$6 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$21 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Storing Your Luggage at Capitán Av. German Quiroga G. Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at SRJ may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in San Borja’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at SRJ, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in San Borja itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Bolivia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at SRJ 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
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in San Borja 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.