There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Tulcan into a quick city adventure. From TUA, the Taxi can get you into town in around 30 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Before You Step Outside TUA
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at TUA:
First, verify that you can enter Ecuador — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi takes about 30 minutes into Tulcan, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — USD is the currency here. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Transport from Teniente Coronel Luis a Mantilla Airport to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Teniente Coronel Luis a Mantilla Airport into town:
- Taxi: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 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.
Things to Do During Your Layover
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Tulcan, two standouts are:
- Tulcán Cemetery (Cementerio de Tulcán) — Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
- Parque Central Ayora — Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside TUA, you can spend time at TUA Airport Observation Area or try Souvenir Stand / Small Shop. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Tulcan Layover
- In the city: Restaurante La Olla de Barro and Restaurante El Cebollar are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Tulcan.
- At the airport: Airport Snack Bar TUA and Aeropuerto TUA Cafeteria will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Money & Budget Tips
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Tulcan:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $10 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $25 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at TUA 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 Tulcan for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and TUA is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Tulcan and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at TUA, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Tulcan 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.