Cali Alfonso Bonilla Aragon Layover Guide (CLO)

What are you looking for in CLO?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Cali Airport (CLO) is an international airport located in Palmira, Valle del Cauca, Colombia. It’s located about 18 km (11 miles) from downtown Cali. The airport first opened officially on August 14, 1927. Cali is the third-largest metropolis in Colombia and is considered one of the most vibrant cultural hubs in the country. It’s also known for its lively salsa scene, modern facilities and for its beautiful surrounding Andean landscapes.

Can you leave Cali Airport (CLO) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
Passengers transiting through Cali (CLO) on a single ticket with layovers under 24 h can exit the airport and briefly explore the city without a Colombian visa. You must hold onward tickets and valid travel documents. Most nationalities benefit from visa exemption for stays under 90 days. Currently. (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Cristo Rey Hill & Statue Ascend Cristo Rey hill to marvel at the 26-meter statue and panoramic city, valley and mountain views. A serene spot ideal for photos and reflection. (Time required: 1.5 hrs / Airport to here: by taxi ~40 min; by MÍO bus P27 to Chipichape + taxi)
• San Antonio Quarter Wander through the streets of San Antonio, admiring colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and charming cafés. Sample local snacks amid colorful squares artisan shops for a taste of Cali’s heritage. (Time required: 2 hrs / Airport to here: by taxi ~45 min; by MÍO bus to Estación San Antonio)
• La Tertulia Modern Art Museum Explore La Tertulia modern art museum featuring contemporary Colombian and international works, engaging exhibits, riverside gardens. A cultural oasis offering insight into Latin American art movements. Visits fit any layover. (Time required: 1.5 hrs / Airport to here: by taxi ~30 min; by MÍO bus to Estación La Tertulia) official site
• El Gato del Río Walk Stroll along the Cali riverwalk to admire the iconic Gato del Río sculptures, a collection of cat statues painted by local artists, set against lush riverside paths. Free cultural experience. (Time required: 1 hr / Airport to here: by taxi ~40 min; by MÍO bus to Estación Alameda)
• Cali Zoo Visit Cali Zoo, home to over 1,200 animals representing more than 180 species, including native Andean condors and exotic mammals. Engaging trails wind through tropical habitats showcasing conservation efforts. (Time required: 3 hrs / Airport to here: by taxi ~45 min; by MÍO bus to Zoológico) official site
• Parque del Perro Experience Parque del Perro, a trendy neighborhood renowned for its eclectic bars, gourmet restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. Plaza Dog is the social hub, perfect for sipping Colombian craft beers outdoors. (Time required: 2 hrs / Airport to here: by taxi ~35 min; by MÍO bus to Alameda + walk)
• Catedral de San Pedro Admire the neoclassical Catedral de San Pedro in Cali’s main plaza, featuring ornate interiors and historic religious art. A serene escape offering rich insight into colonial architecture and local spirituality. (Time required: 1 hr / Airport to here: by taxi ~30 min; by MÍO bus to Terminal San Pedro)
• Salsa Lesson at Tin Tin Deo Take a salsa dance lesson at Tin Tin Deo, learning basic steps from expert instructors in a lively studio. Perfect for beginners wanting a taste of Cali’s world-famous dance culture. (Time required: 2 hrs / Airport to here: by taxi ~40 min; by MÍO bus to Estación Capri + walk) official site

Things to Do in Cali Airport (CLO)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Avianca’s Sala VIP in the domestic concourse operates daily from 05:00 to 22:00, offering complimentary Wi-Fi, refreshments, workspaces, and comfortable seating. Priority Pass and select credit-card holders can access Sala VIP Calima and other lounges, while economy passengers may purchase day passes. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
There is no on-site airport hotel, but several properties offer free shuttle service. Hotel Royal Elim Internacional is 0.6 km away, with modern rooms, a restaurant, free Wi-Fi, and 24-hour reception. Budget options include Hotel Sin Escala, while more upscale stays feature full amenities. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
Alfonso Bonilla Aragón operates 24 hours but lacks dedicated rest zones or sleeping pods. Seating is limited to public benches and café chairs. Overnight travellers often book nearby hotels or use lounge day-passes for napping areas. Bring earplugs and an eye mask for more comfort.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, with open networks accessible in gate areas. Simply connect, accept terms, and browse without time limits. Charging stations are also dispersed near seating zones, enabling uninterrupted online access for work or entertainment.

SIM/eSIM Card: Tourist SIM cards from major Colombian operators (Claro, Movistar) are sold landside in the arrivals hall via kiosks and vending machines. Prices start around COP 20,000 for basic data bundles. eSIM plans can be purchased online in advance and activated instantly via QR code on compatible devices. » buy a global esim card for Layover Guide, that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Licensed taxis queue curbside outside arrivals. Fixed fares to downtown Cali range from COP 30,000–40,000, with average journey times of 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic. Ride-hailing apps also serve the airport; ensure you meet drivers at the designated rideshare zone.

Train: There is no rail service directly at the airport; the nearest train stations are in central Cali, about 18 km away. Passengers must transfer by taxi or bus to reach regional rail hubs. (more info)

Bus: Public MIO buses connect the airport to key city points via Routes P51 and P52, with tickets sold at kiosks landside. Services run every 20–30 minutes from 05:00 to 22:00, offering a budget-friendly alternative to taxis. (more info)

Shuttle: Several private shuttle operators provide scheduled transfers between the airport and major hotels in Cali. Pre-book online for door-to-door service or purchase tickets at transportation counters. Vehicle types range from shared minibuses to exclusive vans.

Car rentals: Major agencies (Avis, Localiza, Vaya) have desks landside. Rental rates start at about USD 39 per day for economy cars, with unlimited mileage and optional full-coverage insurance. Show your driver’s license, passport, and credit card to complete paperwork. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: Central Parking System manages four lots outside the terminal offering short- and long-term options. Rates begin around COP 5,000 per hour, with daily maximums near COP 30,000. Covered and uncovered spaces are available, plus a dedicated cell-phone waiting area for quick pickups.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

The airport does not offer on-site baggage storage or lockers. Travellers requiring secure storage must use off-airport services in Cali city centre or leave bags with select hotel concierge desks. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Cali Airport (CLO) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks