Passing through La AraucanÃa Airport? A layover in Temuco is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 70 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
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 70 minutes from ZCO via Airport Shuttle/Bus. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in CLP. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Temuco, here are two things worth checking out:
Museo Regional de La AraucanÃa 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. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside ZCO, you can spend time at La AraucanÃa Airport Observation Deck (Windows) or try La AraucanÃa Local Souvenir Kiosk. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Transport from La AraucanÃa Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from La AraucanÃa Airport into town:
- Airport Shuttle/Bus: About 70 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 90 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.
Food Worth Trying
In Temuco
If you make it into town, La Pampa Temuco is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try CafeterÃa 2020.
Inside ZCO
If you’re staying in the terminal, CafeterÃa AraucanÃa is your main option. Snack Bar ‘El Vuelo’ works too if you want something quick.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Temuco, budget roughly $30 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $13 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $7 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.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at ZCO, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Temuco itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Chile that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at ZCO may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Temuco’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.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Long overnight layover? Your options at ZCO include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Chile also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Temuco count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave ZCO. 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.