Viru Viru International Airport

Viru Viru International Airport (VVI) is not only the main air gateway of Bolivia, but also its largest and busiest aviation hub. Located in the tropical lowlands, it serves as a crucial point for international flights, as its altitude allows for the reception of large long-haul aircraft, such as the Boeing 747, which is difficult for the country's high-altitude airports. As the hub for the flagship carrier Boliviana de Aviación, Viru Viru connects Santa Cruz de la Sierra with key destinations in South and North America, as well as Europe.

Viru Viru Airport offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable journey. The terminal features Duty Free shops, souvenir stalls, jewellery stores, and confectionery kiosks where you can purchase gifts and locally made products. For the convenience of travellers, there are cafes and fast-food restaurants, currency exchange points, ATMs, and luggage storage facilities. The departure zones feature several VIP lounges, available for both domestic and international passengers, where one can relax in a peaceful environment. Transport connections to the city are provided by express buses and official taxi services, with ranks located at the terminal exit.

If you need to contact the administration or services of Viru Viru Airport, please use the following contact information. It is recommended to verify the data on the official website, especially before travelling.

• Official Website: For the latest information on flights, services, and regulations, visit the official airport portal, which is part of the NAABOL (Navegación Aérea y Aeropuertos Bolivianos) network.
• Information Desk Phone: For general enquiries, you can call: +591 (3) 385-2000.
• Airport Address: Ruta al Norte, Km 13, Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia.
• Email: A general email address for public enquiries is not provided. It is recommended to use the telephone or official social media pages for communication.
• Social Media: You can follow news and updates on the official page of the airport operator NAABOL on Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged checked baggage, please contact your airline's representative directly. If you have lost personal items within the terminal, contact the airport information desk.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and advice regarding your stay at the airport, please use the information desk telephone number.

There are several ways to get to Viru Viru International Airport (VVI) from the city centre of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, which is located approximately 16 kilometres to the north. The choice depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences.

The most popular and convenient option is taxi or transfer. Official airport taxis are easy to find in the city, and you can also use ride-hailing apps. The journey usually takes between 30 to 45 minutes, but may take longer during peak hours. The fare is fixed and higher than public transport, but it is the fastest and most direct way to reach the terminal. For greater peace of mind, you can book a private transfer in advance, which is particularly convenient if you are travelling with large luggage or a group.

For budget-conscious travellers, there is public transport. Minibuses (known as "micros") and shared taxis ("trufis") run between the city and the airport. The stop in the city is located in the area of the former bus terminal (Ex-Terminal). This is the cheapest method, however, the journey may take over an hour and may not be very comfortable, especially with luggage. This option is best suited for those who speak Spanish and are ready for a small adventure in the local style.

If you value independence, you can opt for car rental. Several rental companies have offices in Santa Cruz de la Sierra and at the airport itself. Having a car will give you the freedom to travel not only around the city but also the surrounding areas of Bolivia. Viru Viru Airport has both short-term and long-term parking facilities where you can leave your vehicle for the duration of your trip.

Viru Viru International Airport (VVI) in Santa Cruz de la Sierra is distinguished by a simple and passenger-friendly organisation. The airport complex consists of one main passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. This makes navigation intuitively clear even for those arriving here for the first time.

The terminal building is functionally divided into two key zones: International and Domestic. Both zones are under one roof, so no additional transport is needed to move between them—simply walk through the internal corridors. The terminal layout is classic and divided into two levels.

• Upper Level is designed for departing passengers. Here you will find airline check-in counters, security screening zones, passport control, and departure lounges with boarding gates.
• Lower Level is the arrival zone. Passengers arrive here after landing; this area houses baggage claim belts, customs control for international flights, and exits to the taxi rank and car rental desks.

Although there is only one terminal, the flows of passengers flying within Bolivia and abroad are effectively separated. After check-in, you proceed to the relevant boarding gates: for domestic flights or for international ones, where passport control will be required. The airport is not overly congested, allowing for formalities to be completed quite quickly. Nevertheless, the standard recommendation is to arrive 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight.

For ease of navigation, signs in Spanish and English are installed throughout the terminal. The main thing is to determine from the start which zone you need (domestic or international) and follow the corresponding signs. Thanks to its compact size and logical layout, it is practically impossible to get lost in Viru Viru Airport.

The history of Viru Viru International Airport (VVI) is closely linked to the economic growth and development of the city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra. The airport was inaugurated in 1983, becoming the modern successor to the old El Trompillo airport. The main goal of its construction was the need to create a modern hub capable of accommodating large long-haul aircraft and handling the growing international passenger traffic, which the old airport, located within the city limits, could no longer manage. Since its opening, Viru Viru has taken on the role of Bolivia's main air gateway.

The design and construction of the airport were carried out with the participation of a Japanese consortium, ensuring a well-thought-out layout and infrastructure with great potential for expansion. Interestingly, the name "Viru-Viru" comes from the Guarani language and, according to one version, means "plain" or "field," which accurately describes the terrain where it was built. This project became a symbol of modernisation and the country's aspiration to integrate into the global transport system.

From its first years of operation, Viru Viru quickly established itself as the busiest airport in the country in terms of both passenger and cargo traffic. It became a key hub for the national airline Boliviana de Aviación (BoA) and other carriers, connecting Bolivia with major cities in South and North America, as well as Europe. Throughout its history, the airport has repeatedly undergone modernisation of terminals and runways to meet international standards of safety and comfort.

One of the key achievements of the airport is its ability to function stably as the country's main transit and tourism centre. For many travellers, their introduction to Bolivia begins right here. Today, Viru Viru continues to develop, adapting to new challenges and confirming its status as a vital transport facility that makes an invaluable contribution to the economy and tourist appeal of the entire region.

Viru Viru Airport (VVI) provides all conditions for a comfortable wait for your flight. For those who value privacy and extra amenities, VIP lounges such as The Lounge VIP are available. Access is possible with business class tickets, loyalty cards (e.g., Priority Pass), or for a separate fee. Inside, you will find comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and beverages, newspapers, and high-speed internet, allowing you to relax or work in a quiet environment.

To stay connected, passengers can use the free Wi-Fi available throughout the terminal. Special charging stations for electronic devices are equipped in the waiting halls. If you need to leave your belongings, the airport provides luggage storage. This service is particularly convenient for travellers with a long layover who wish to visit Santa Cruz de la Sierra light.

To handle financial matters, the terminal has bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange bureaux located in both arrival and departure zones. In case of feeling unwell, a medical point operates around the clock, where qualified staff are ready to provide first aid. Business services, such as workspaces with access to office equipment, are mainly concentrated in the VIP lounges.

The airport cares for all categories of passengers. For families with small children, there are specially equipped mother and child rooms where you can feed and change your baby in privacy. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with a barrier-free environment, including ramps, lifts, and adapted toilets. To receive assistance, such as a wheelchair or escort, it is recommended to contact your airline in advance.

You can eat or shop before departure at numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops. The choice varies from fast-food outlets to restaurants offering local and international cuisine. The Duty-Free zone presents a standard assortment of perfumery and sweets, while souvenir stalls offer alpaca wool products, textiles, and other authentic goods from Bolivia.

At Viru Viru International Airport (VVI), serving the city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra, you will find several options for a snack or a full meal. Catering establishments are located both in the general area before passport control (landside) and in the departure zone after it (airside), allowing you to refresh yourself depending on how much time you have.

In the main, public part of the terminal, the choice is generally wider. Here you will find restaurants offering a more diverse menu where you can have a leisurely lunch or dinner. In the departure zone, after security control, you will mostly find cafes and bars focused on quick service. They are ideal for having a coffee with pastries or grabbing a sandwich to take with you right before boarding.

This is an excellent opportunity to discover the cuisine of Bolivia. Look out for local snacks, which can often be found on cafe menus. We recommend trying salteñas — juicy baked pastries with meat or chicken, or cuñapés — popular cheese rolls made from yucca. They go perfectly with a cup of strong Bolivian coffee, which is famous for its quality.

For those who prefer more familiar food, international dishes are also available at the airport: pizza, burgers, sandwiches, and various pastries. Options for passengers with special dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free) may be limited, but in most establishments, you can find fresh salads, fruit platters, or order coffee with plant-based milk. It is best to check the ingredients with the staff.

Regarding prices, be prepared that they, as in most airports around the world, will be higher than the average in the city. The opening hours of main cafes and restaurants are usually tied to the flight schedule, and some coffee shops, especially in the departure zone, may operate around the clock or until the last flight so that all passengers have time to eat.

To ensure your journey through the main airport of Santa Cruz de la Sierra goes smoothly, use these useful tips. Viru Viru Airport (VVI) is a key transport hub for Bolivia, and knowing some nuances will help save time and reduce stress.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5-2 hours. Queues for check-in and pre-flight security checks can be significant, especially in the morning and evening hours. If possible, complete online check-in in advance to save time at the counters.

Passing Control and Seat Selection. Be prepared for standard security procedures: laptops, tablets, and liquids must be removed from hand luggage. The rules for carrying liquids here are international — containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. When choosing a seat on the plane, remember: if your route flies over the Andes, a window seat will offer you unforgettable views.

Hand Luggage. Besides standard restrictions on sharp objects, be sure to check the customs regulations of your destination country. A popular souvenir in Bolivia — coca leaves — may be prohibited for import into other countries. To avoid trouble, it is better not to take them in your hand luggage or checked baggage.

Connecting Passengers. If you have a connection at Viru Viru, check with your airline whether you need to collect your luggage and check in for the next flight again. Most often, luggage is transferred automatically, but you will likely need to pass security control again. Ensure there is enough time between flights for these procedures.

Customs and Economy. Upon entering the country, be prepared to fill out migration and customs declaration forms. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are significantly higher than in the city, so it is better to eat beforehand. To travel to the city, use official taxi services or book a transfer to avoid inflated prices. Exchanging large sums of money is also more favourable at city exchange bureaus.

In Case of Flight Delay. If the schedule changes, contact your airline representative immediately. Find out about your rights to food and accommodation if the delay is long. There are cafes and shops at the airport, but their selection is limited. It is always useful to have a power bank for your phone and some entertainment, such as a book or a film on a tablet.