A long layover in Temuco is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Maquehue Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 60 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Temuco, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Chile vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Temuco is roughly 60 minutes from PZS via Taxi / Local Bus. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in CLP. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CLP in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Exploring Temuco on a Layover
If you head into Temuco, here are two things worth checking out:
Plaza de Armas AnÃbal Pinto is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Mercado Municipal de Temuco is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside PZS, you can spend time at Maquehue Airport Observation Area or try Terminal Kiosk & Souvenirs. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Temuco, local travelers recommend La Pampa Parrilla Argentina. If you have time for a second stop, Restaurant Donde La Cata is another popular pick.
Back at PZS, Aeropuerto Maquehue Cafeteria is the go-to. Grab-and-Go Snack Point rounds out your in-terminal options.
Getting from PZS to Temuco
The most straightforward way into Temuco is the Taxi / Local Bus, which takes about 60 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 80 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi / Local Bus is usually the smarter call.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Temuco might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$7 USD
- A meal: ~$13 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$30 USD
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Temuco.
Storing Your Luggage at Maquehue Airport
Luggage storage options at PZS 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 Temuco 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 PZS for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Temuco 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.
Need a Nap? Options at PZS
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at PZS.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Temuco with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Temuco 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.