A long layover in Sao Felix do Xingu is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at São Félix do Xingu Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 40 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Before You Step Outside SXX
A few things to sort out before you leave SXX:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Brazil. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Sao Felix do Xingu takes about 40 minutes by Taxi / Mototaxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is BRL. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Transport from São Félix do Xingu Airport to Downtown
From SXX, the Taxi / Mototaxi gets you to Sao Felix do Xingu 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 / Mototaxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Sao Felix do Xingu, here are two things worth checking out:
Praça da Matriz Nossa Senhora de Fátima is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Xingu River Views (Orla de São Félix) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. The views are worth the trip if you have time.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside SXX, you can spend time at SXX Waiting Area & Basic Amenities or try Aeroporto SXX Snack & Convenience Kiosk. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food & Dining Options
For food in Sao Felix do Xingu, local travelers recommend Churrascaria E Lanchonete Vitória. If you have time for a second stop, Pizzaria e Lanchonete O Costelão is another popular pick.
Back at SXX, Lanchonete do Aeroporto SXX is the go-to. Café da Asa (Wing’s Cafe) rounds out your in-terminal options.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Sao Felix do Xingu:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $8 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $23 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Storing Your Luggage at São Félix do Xingu Airport
Luggage storage options at SXX 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 Sao Felix do Xingu for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at SXX for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Sao Felix do Xingu or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at SXX include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Brazil also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Sao Felix do Xingu with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Sao Felix do Xingu may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.