For travelers with a layover in Tena, the proximity of TNW to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 40 minutes via Taxi/Local Bus, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave TNW:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Ecuador. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Tena takes about 40 minutes by Taxi/Local Bus. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
How to Spend Your Time in Tena
Two recommendations for your time in Tena:
Start with Parque Amazónico La Isla. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Tena Central Park (Parque Central de Tena) & Cathedral. Respectful visitors are generally welcome for a quick look.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside TNW, you can spend time at Airport Waiting Area & Views or try Local Crafts Corner. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Transport from Jumandy Airport to Downtown
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Local Bus | ~40 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~60 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi/Local Bus is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: Restaurante PizzerÃa El DofÃn and Cafe La Sapa are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Tena.
- At the airport: Airport Cafeteria (Jumandy) and Snack & Beverage Vending Machines will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Tena might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$6 USD
- A meal: ~$12 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$28 USD
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Staying Connected
WiFi at TNW 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 Ecuador and you’re good to go.
Bag Storage Near TNW
Specific locker facilities at TNW aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Tena itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at TNW include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Ecuador also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Tena doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 40 minutes from TNW, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.