Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in San Tome gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from SOM to the city takes roughly 40 minutes by Taxi, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave SOM:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Venezuela. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to San Tome 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 VED. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
How to Get Into San Tome
From SOM, the Taxi gets you to San Tome 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.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Quick budget math for your San Tome layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$7 |
| Meal | ~$13 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$30 |
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into San Tome, here are two things worth checking out:
Plaza BolÃvar de San Tomé is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Iglesia de San Tomé Apóstol is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in San Tome.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at SOM, check out Main Terminal Waiting Area or Airport Convenience Kiosk to keep yourself occupied.
Eating Well on a San Tome Layover
For food in San Tome, local travelers recommend Restaurant Sabor Local. If you have time for a second stop, PizzerÃa Sabores Italianos is another popular pick.
Back at SOM, Aeropuerto Don Edmundo Barrios Cafeteria is the go-to. Airport Snack Counter rounds out your in-terminal options.
Bag Storage Near SOM
Luggage storage options at SOM 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 San Tome for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at SOM, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in San Tome itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Venezuela that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at SOM include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Venezuela also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in San Tome doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 40 minutes from SOM, 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.