A long layover in Touho is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Touho Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 30 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at TOU:
First, verify that you can enter New Caledonia — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the local transport takes about 30 minutes into Touho, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — local currency is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from TOU to Touho
The most straightforward way into Touho is the local transport, which takes about 30 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 50 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Touho, we’d suggest Touho Public Beach and Touho Village Stroll. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
If you’d rather stay inside TOU — 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:
- Touho Airport Waiting Area
- Tarmac View & Surrounding Nature
Food Worth Trying
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Touho: Snack N’Goye and Restaurant de l’Hôtel Koulnoué Village. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Touho Airport Snack Bar or Airport Vending Machines. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Touho, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Touho.
Bag Storage Near TOU
Specific locker facilities at TOU aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Touho itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at TOU for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Touho 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.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, TOU 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
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Touho genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.