A layover in Tame is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Gustavo Vargas Airport sits just 40 minutes from the city center by Taxi, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of TME:
- Can you legally enter Colombia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 40-minute journey each way by Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the COP. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some COP in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Gustavo Vargas Airport to Downtown
From TME, the Taxi gets you to Tame 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.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Tame, we’d suggest Parque Principal de Tame ‘Los Fundadores’ and Iglesia Nuestra Señora de La Candelaria. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Tame. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Tame.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside TME, you can spend time at Main Terminal Waiting Area or try Aircraft Spotting & Views. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
In Tame
If you make it into town, Asadero de Pollos La Brasa is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Restaurante Sabor Llanero.
Inside TME
If you’re staying in the terminal, TME Airport Cafeteria is your main option. Grab-and-Go Snack Counter works too if you want something quick.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Tame might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$9 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$24 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What to Do With Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at TME aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Tame itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at TME, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Tame itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Colombia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, TME 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
A layover in Tame is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Tame.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.