Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Sinop gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from OPS to the city takes roughly 40 minutes by Taxi/Ride-share, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at OPS:
First, verify that you can enter Brazil — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi/Ride-share takes about 40 minutes into Sinop, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — BRL is the currency here. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
How to Get Into Sinop
From OPS, the Taxi/Ride-share gets you to Sinop 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/Ride-share offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Sinop might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$10 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$25 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at OPS may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Sinop’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.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Sinop, here are two things worth checking out:
Catedral Sagrado Coração de Jesus is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Parque Florestal de Sinop is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside OPS, you can spend time at Main Terminal Waiting Lounge or try Airport Convenience Store & Newsstand. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Sinop Layover
- In the city: Churrascaria Chimarrão Sinop and Sushiaki Sinop – Restaurante e Sushi Bar are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Sinop.
- At the airport: Lanchonete Aeroporto OPS and Café Expresso Counter will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at OPS 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.
Staying Connected
WiFi at OPS 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 Brazil and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Sinop with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Sinop 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.