A long layover in Telemaco Borba is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Telêmaco Borba Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 35 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at TEC:
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 35 minutes into Telemaco Borba, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — BRL is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some BRL in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Telêmaco Borba Airport into town:
- Taxi / Ride-share: About 35 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 55 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Telemaco Borba might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$9 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$24 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in Telemaco Borba, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Exploring Telemaco Borba on a Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Telemaco Borba, two standouts are:
- Parque da Cidade (City Park) — Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
- Igreja Matriz Nossa Senhora de Fátima — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside TEC — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Airport Waiting Area
- Observe Airfield Operations
Eating Well on a Telemaco Borba Layover
In Telemaco Borba
If you make it into town, Restaurante Sabor de Minas is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Restaurante e Churrascaria Portal do Sol.
Inside TEC
If you’re staying in the terminal, Aeroporto Lanchonete is your main option. Café Expresso Terminal works too if you want something quick.
Bag Storage Near TEC
Specific locker facilities at TEC aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Telemaco Borba itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
WiFi at TEC 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.
Taking a Break at TEC
Long overnight layover? Your options at TEC 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
Whether you spend your layover in Telemaco Borba exploring the streets or relaxing at TEC, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.