Airports In Bolivia: Key Travel Hubs For International & Domestic Flights

A TAM BAe 146 aircraft is parked in Bolivia, with ground crew working around it.

The Airports in Bolivia offer smooth connectivity across the country, making travel possible for domestic and international passengers. These airports have diverse travel requirements, from the mountaintop El Alto International Airport in La Paz to the ever-thriving Viru Viru International Airport in Santa Cruz. These airports provide efficient services and modern facilities for travellers exploring Bolivia. All these Bolivian airports are designed for convenience, provide a convenient travel experience, and help you travel smoothly. Prepare to discover Bolivia with airports efficiently equipped to ensure a smooth landing into some of Bolivia’s most famous places!

10 Airports in Bolivia Worth Visiting

Fly hassle-free across these top 10 airports in Bolivia, offering smooth and efficient connections. From major destinations to hidden gems, explore the best gateways for your journey.

1. Viru Viru International Airport

Cars are moving outside Viru Viru International Airport while people are arriving.

Photo: Edgar Claure / Wikimedia Commons

Viru Viru International Airport is the country’s busiest airport and is the main entry point for international visitors. It operates straight flights in Santa Cruz de la Sierra to major worldwide locations such as Miami, Madrid, and São Paolo. The airport has modern terminals, duty-free VIP lounges, and a car rental service. With a runway of 3,500 meters, it can accommodate large aircraft and, therefore, facilitate the rapid and efficient handling of passengers. Its location at a low altitude assures smooth operation for 12 months of the year.

Location: Santa Cruz de la Sierra

2. El Alto International Airport

Passengers are walking outside El Alto International Airport while the sunlight is bright.

Photo: Russland345 / Wikimedia Commons

Located at 4,061 meters (13,325 feet) above sea level, El Alto International Airport is one of the world’s highest commercial airports. Landing and takeoff can be achieved only with special aircraft pressurisation due to its high altitude. The airport serves Bolivia with major South American cities and caters to domestic flights to prime expansions such as Cochabamba and Santa Cruz. There are many VIP lounges, currency exchange services, and duty-free shops. This is one of the major airports in Bolivia’s air transportation system.

Location: La Paz

3. Jorge Wilstermann International Airport

Passengers are standing outside Jorge Wilstermann International Airport during the evening.

Photo: EEJCC / Wikimedia Commons

Jorge Wilstermann International Airport is a major aviation hub. It was named after the country’s first commercial pilot, running domestic and limited international flights. The airport offers convenient passenger services like baggage handling, restaurants, and high-class VIP lounges. It is highlighted as the main operational base for Boliviana de Aviación and other domestic airlines. Due to Cochabamba’s favourable climate, they have fairly locked smooth flight schedules with minimal disruptions.

Location: Cochabamba

4. Alcantarí International Airport

Passengers are walking towards the Alcantarí airport terminal while carrying their luggage.

Photo: Caleidoscopic / Wikimedia Commons

Replacing the old Juana Azurduy de Padilla Airport, Alcantarí International Airport now serves Sucre, Bolivia’s constitutional capital. Located at 2,900 meters above sea level, this airport has flights to La Paz, Cochabamba, and Santa Cruz. It has contemporary passenger facilities, including restaurants, car rentals, and restful waiting areas. The 3,600-metre runway is accessible for various types of aircraft, increasing access to Sucre. While no international flights are available, it significantly benefits travelling residents.

Location: Sucre

5. Trinidad Teniente Jorge Henrich Arauz Airport

Ground crew members are loading luggage onto an aircraft connected to a jet bridge.

Photo: CC0 Public Domain / pxhere / Image For Representation Only

Trinidad Teniente Jorge Henrich Airport is one of the main domestic airports in Bolivia. However, it mainly operates domestic routes and connects northern Bolivia to La Paz and Santa Cruz. Additionally, regional and smaller commercial aircraft can be operated on its runway. Despite its small size, it offers basic facilities, passenger waiting lounges, and cargo handling. Its location on the Madre de Dios River makes it important for cross-border traffic, tourism, and business. The amenities include basic passenger services, a tiny cafeteria, and car rental.

Location: Trinidad, Beni Department

6. Capitán Aníbal Arab Airport

A view of an aeroplane is taxing on the runway, at one of the major airports in Bolivia.

Photo: CC0 Public Domain / pxhere / Image For Representation Only

Trinidad Teniente Jorge Henrich Airport is a major domestic airport in Bolivia. However, it primarily serves domestic routes, connecting northern Bolivia with La Paz and Santa Cruz. The 2,000-meter runway can also accommodate regional and smaller commercial aircraft. Despite its tiny size, it provides basic amenities such as passenger waiting lounges and cargo handling. Its Madre de Dios River location facilitates cross-border trade, tourism, and business. The amenities include modest passenger services, a small café, and automobile rental.

Location: Cobija, Pando Department

7. Capitán Oriel Lea Plaza Airport

Passengers walking through the airport terminal at one of the major airports in Bolivia.

Photo: CC0 Public Domain / pxhere / Image For Representation Only

Captain Oriel Lea Plaza Airport is a major domestic airport located in southern Bolivia and forms a connection to major cities, including La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba. The airport has an extensive 2,900-meter runway for smooth regional flight operations. It offers significant facility services such as baggage claim counters, passenger lounges, and car rentals. A must-visit in Tarija’s growing wine tourism sector also welcomes clients willing to see Bolivia vineyards. Boliviana de Aviación, EcoJet, and Amaszonas all fly from this airport regularly.

Location: Tarija

8. Juan Mendoza Airport

A view of an aeroplane landing on the runway, at one of the major airports in Bolivia.

Photo: huynhkimdaihuu30051999 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only

Juan Mendoza Airport is a minor domestic airport that serves Oruro, Bolivia. Boliviana de Aviación operates flights that connect the city with La Paz and other places. Despite its poor infrastructure, the airport has a 4,000-metre runway and can accommodate medium-sized aircraft. It offers basic passenger services such as a tiny terminal with waiting areas and luggage handling. The airport is critical to Oruro’s economy, particularly during the annual Oruro Carnival when tourist numbers rise dramatically. Although it does not operate international flights, it is critical for regional connectivity.

Location: Oruro

9. Riberalta Airport

A woman is walking out of Riberalta airport while an airport worker is standing nearby.

Photo: Filzstift / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Riberalta Airport is a small but important neighbourhood in Bolivia’s northern region. Primarily serving domestic flights to La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Trinidad, it is a must for all locals and tourists. Its long runway can handle small to medium-sized aircraft for guaranteed air travel in this remote location. Situated in the vicinity of Bolivia’s Amazon area, the airport is a gateway for eco-tourism and commerce, drawing a variety of visitors interested in exploring the verdurous surroundings.

Location: Riberalta, Beni Department

10. Uyuni Airport

People are walking along a moving walkway in the terminal at one of the airports in Bolivia.

Photo: CC0 Public Domain / pxhere / Image For Representation Only

Uyuni Airport (Joya Andina Airport) is the main airport for those travelling to the world’s biggest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni. It features domestic flights to La Paz and Santa Cruz, providing direct access to this world-famous trek. The airport has a 4,000 m long runway, one of the runways that is high altitude landing safe. Although small, it provides basic passenger service arguments, such as waiting rooms and baggage handling. Located near Uyuni town for convenient transportation to hotels, tour operators and local attractions. Here, Airlines like Boliviana de Aviación, EcoJet, and Amaszonas operate flights.

Location: Uyuni

The Airports in Bolivia ensure smooth travel experiences across the country, connecting key cities and tourist destinations. Whether you land at Viru Viru International Airport for a trip abroad or touch down at Uyuni Airport for a salt flat adventure, both airports provide must-have services and seamless travel options. Travellers can discover Bolivia’s diverse landscapes without worries. Plan a trip with TripXL now and visit Bolivia as hassle-free as possible!

Cover Photo: Marcualico / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

The major International airports in Bolivia are Viru Viru International Airport (Santa Cruz), El Alto International Airport (La Paz), and Jorge Wilstermann International Airport (Cochabamba).
Viru Viru International Airport in Santa Cruz is the busiest, with numerous local and international connections.
The dry season is from May to September and is suitable for exploring most of Bolivia.
Domestic flights operated by airlines like BoA and Amaszonas are convenient for travelling between cities such as La Paz, Santa Cruz, Sucre, and Uyuni.
Capitán Oriel Lea Plaza Airport in Tarija is one of the best airports in Bolivia for travellers heading to Bolivia’s wine region, known for its vineyards and high-altitude wines.

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