A long layover in Saravena is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Los Colonizadores 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.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave RVE:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Colombia. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Saravena 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 COP. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some COP in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
How to Spend Your Time in Saravena
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Saravena, two standouts are:
- City Center Walk — It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace.
- Local Market — It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside RVE, you can spend time at Airport Lounge or try Duty Free Shopping. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Saravena: Local Restaurant and Popular Eatery. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Airport Cafe or Terminal Restaurant. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
How to Get Into Saravena
The most straightforward way into Saravena is the Taxi/Mototaxi, which takes about 40 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 60 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi/Mototaxi is usually the smarter call.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Saravena, budget roughly $23 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $8 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage at RVE
Luggage storage options at RVE 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 Saravena for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and RVE is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Saravena and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, RVE has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Saravena count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave RVE. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.