A long layover in Yopal is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at El Yopal Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 25 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Important Details Before You Go
Stepping out of the airport during a layover takes a little preparation. Here’s what to keep in mind at EYP:
First, verify that you can enter Colombia — visa requirements depend on your nationality and can change. Second, know your timing: the Taxi / Colectivo takes about 25 minutes into Yopal, so add that up for the round trip plus security buffer. Third, have your payment sorted — COP is the currency here. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some COP in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From EYP, the Taxi / Colectivo gets you to Yopal in around 25 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 45 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi / Colectivo offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Luggage storage options at EYP 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 Yopal for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
How Much Money You’ll Need
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Yopal, budget roughly $23 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $8 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $5 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Cards are increasingly accepted in Yopal, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Exploring Yopal on a Layover
If you head into Yopal, here are two things worth checking out:
Parque Principal La Estancia is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Catedral San José de Yopal 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 EYP, you can spend time at Terminal Seating Areas or try Local Souvenir Kiosks. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Food Worth Trying
For food in Yopal, local travelers recommend La Llanerita Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, El Fogón del Hato is another popular pick.
Back at EYP, Juan Valdez Cafe (EYP) is the go-to. CafeterÃa El Yopal rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at EYP for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Yopal 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.
Resting at the Airport
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 EYP.
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 Yopal with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Yopal 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.