Serra da Capivara Airport

Serra da Capivara Airport is not merely an air hub, but a kind of time machine transporting travellers to the prehistoric treasures of Brazil. Located in the state of Piauí, it serves as the main gateway to one of the most significant archaeological sites on the planet. Its opening has significantly simplified access to the famous Serra da Capivara National Park, transforming a long overland journey into a comfortable and quick flight.

The airport's main advantage is its strategic location. It is situated just a few dozen kilometres from the Serra da Capivara National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its caves featuring rock paintings tens of thousands of years old. For tourists wishing to see these unique testimonies of ancient history, the airport represents the only opportunity to quickly reach a region that was previously accessible only after many hours of driving.

Despite its modest size, the airport is modern and functional. The terminal offers basic amenities for a comfortable wait for your flight, including a small seating area and information desks where you can enquire about transfers to the park or the city. Its operation is directly linked to the flow of tourists, so flight schedules may vary depending on the season, but its existence makes one of South America's greatest treasures much more accessible to the world.

To ensure your trip runs smoothly, save the contact information for Serra da Capivara Airport. Below are the essential details for contacting the airport.

• Official Website: Up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations can be found on the management company's website: www.espairportos.com.br.
• Information Desk Phone: +55 (89) 3582-1985. Please note that for calls from outside Brazil, you must use the international dialling code.
• Airport Address: Rodovia PI-140, km 6, Zona Rural, São Raimundo Nonato, Piauí, Brasil, CEP: 64770-000.
• Email: An official email address for general enquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's official website.
• Social Media: You can follow the airport operator's news on Instagram at @espairportos.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative first. If you have lost personal items within the terminal building, contact the airport administration via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Assistance to passengers is provided by staff at the information and check-in counters, as well as representatives of the airlines operating flights.

Serra da Capivara Airport (NSR) is located quite close to the city of São Raimundo Nonato, making the journey there quick and simple. The most convenient and popular way to reach the terminal is by taxi or a pre-booked transfer. The journey from the city centre usually takes no more than 15-20 minutes. The cost of a taxi ride typically ranges from 30 to 50 Brazilian Reals. It is recommended to agree on the price with the driver in advance or use official taxi services to avoid misunderstandings. Many hotels can also assist with arranging transfers for their guests.

For travellers planning to explore the famous Serra da Capivara National Park and its surroundings, car rental is an ideal option. Several local and national rental agencies operate in the city of São Raimundo Nonato. The cost of renting an economy class car usually starts from 150-250 Brazilian Reals per day. Having your own transport gives you complete freedom of movement and allows you to create your own itineraries through this unique region of Brazil. The drive from the city centre to the airport by car will also take about 15-20 minutes.

As for public transport, options for travelling to Serra da Capivara Airport are very limited. Direct bus routes from the city centre to the airport may be non-existent or run on a very infrequent and unpredictable schedule. Therefore, relying on this method is not recommended, especially if you have a scheduled flight. Tourists are better advised to opt for a taxi or a rental car to ensure guaranteed and timely arrival at the airport.

If you are arriving at the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, parking is available directly at the terminal. Here you can leave your car for both short and long periods. This is a convenient option for those seeing off or meeting passengers, as well as for travellers leaving their car for the duration of their trip.

Serra da Capivara Airport (NSR) is a modern and compact aviation hub designed for traveller convenience. It consists of one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic departures and arrivals. Its primary task is to provide access to the city of São Raimundo Nonato and the region's main treasure—the Serra da Capivara National Park—making it the key gateway for tourists arriving in this part of Brazil.

The structure of the terminal is extremely simple and intuitive. All key zones are located in one building and within walking distance of each other. Immediately at the entrance are the check-in counters, followed by the security screening area. The departure and arrival zones are clearly separated but located nearby, eliminating the need for long walks. It is practically impossible to get lost here, even if you are visiting the airport for the first time.

Due to its small size and low passenger traffic, all pre-flight formalities at Serra da Capivara Airport take minimal time. Flight check-in and security screening usually proceed very quickly, without long queues. Nevertheless, it is always recommended to arrive in advance and follow your airline's rules to avoid any surprises.

The main advice for navigation is not to worry. The airport is designed to be as convenient and understandable as possible. Signs are easy to read, and staff are always ready to help. Since there are no multiple terminals or complex transfers, your path from the building entrance to the boarding gate will be short and comfortable. This is an ideal example of a small regional airport where the main focus is on the speed and simplicity of passenger service.

The history of Serra da Capivara Airport (NSR) is inextricably linked to the unique archaeological heritage of the region. Located in the municipality of São Raimundo Nonato, this airport is one of the youngest and, at the same time, strategically important in Brazil. Its creation was driven by the need to ensure access to the Serra da Capivara National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its prehistoric rock paintings.

The idea of building an airport to support tourism and scientific research in the region was discussed for decades, but the active phase of the project's implementation took place in the early 2010s. The grand opening took place in 2015. This event was a real breakthrough for the state of Piauí, turning a remote region into an accessible tourist destination. The airport was designed with the capacity to receive medium-haul aircraft, which significantly reduced travel time for visitors from all over the country and abroad.

Since its opening, the airport has not undergone massive renovations, as it was originally built to modern standards. Its main development lies in the gradual increase in the number of flights and the attraction of new airlines. The airport's main achievement is not passenger traffic records, but its key role in the economic and cultural development of the region. It has become the gateway to one of the most important collections of prehistoric art in the world.

An interesting fact: the airport bears the name of the national park itself, which highlights its primary mission. It was built not just as a transport hub, but as an integral part of the infrastructure designed to preserve and popularise the unique heritage of Serra da Capivara. In essence, the history of this airport is a story of how modern infrastructure can serve the cause of preserving the ancient history of humanity.

Serra da Capivara Airport (NSR) is a small regional air terminal serving as the main gateway for travellers heading to the national park of the same name. Given its compact size and focus on tourist flow, the range of services here is basic but sufficient for a comfortable wait for a flight. It is recommended to take care of certain matters, such as currency exchange and mobile connectivity, in advance.

Within the airport, you will find a small café or snack bar where you can buy light snacks, sandwiches, pastries, and beverages. This is a great place to have a bite before departure. The selection of shops is limited, but there may be a small souvenir kiosk where you can purchase memorable gifts related to the national park and the culture of Brazil.

A general waiting hall is equipped for passengers. There are no specialised VIP lounges or business lounges at the airport. Access to Wi-Fi may be limited, so it is better to use mobile data for a stable connection. Power outlets for charging electronic devices can be found in the waiting hall, though their number may be limited.

It is important to know that there are no bank branches, ATMs, or currency exchange points at Serra da Capivara Airport. It is recommended to perform all financial transactions in major cities beforehand. In case of need, a first aid point may be available at the airport.

The airport is equipped with basic facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including ramps and accessible toilets. To receive assistance with boarding and disembarking from the aircraft, you should notify your airline in advance. There are no dedicated playrooms for children, but basic amenities, such as changing tables, may be available in the toilets.

There are no hotels within the airport grounds. The nearest accommodation options, ranging from guesthouses to hotels, are located in the nearby city of São Raimundo Nonato. Business services, such as conference rooms or business centres, are not provided at the airport.

When planning a flight through Serra da Capivara Airport (NSR), it is important to consider that this is a small regional airport, serving primarily tourists heading to the national park of the same name. The infrastructure here is quite modest, and the choice of dining establishments is limited, which is typical for airports of this size in Brazil.

Instead of a food court with numerous restaurants, in the airport's single terminal you will most likely find a small cafeteria or snack bar (lanchonete). It is usually located in the public area before security control. Here you can have a quick snack before your flight, grabbing a coffee, fresh juice, water, or soft drinks. Food offerings typically include traditional Brazilian snacks: cheese buns pão de queijo, pastries called coxinhas (with chicken) or pastéis (with various fillings), and simple sandwiches.

If you are looking for a full lunch or dinner, the best solution would be to eat in the city of São Raimundo Nonato before travelling to the airport. Options for passengers with specific dietary needs (vegan, gluten-free, or Halal meals) are virtually non-existent at the airport. Therefore, if you observe strict dietary guidelines, it is highly recommended to bring food with you.

The cafeteria's opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule—it opens a few hours before departure and closes after the last aircraft departs. Prices for food and beverages, as in most airports, may be slightly higher than in the city. Thus, Serra da Capivara Airport offers basic opportunities for a quick bite, but for a more substantial meal, it is better to use establishments outside the airport.

To ensure your journey through Serra da Capivara Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of these tips. The airport serves the city of São Raimundo Nonato and is the gateway to a unique national park, so proper preparation will help save time and stress.

Arrival Time and Check-in
Although it is a small regional airport, it is recommended to arrive in advance. For domestic flights within Brazil, arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient to pass through check-in and security screening without rushing. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website if such an option is available.

Security Control and Seat Selection
Security procedures are standard: be prepared to present your boarding pass and passport, as well as remove laptops, tablets, and liquids from your hand luggage. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider that the region is famous for its landscapes. A window seat will give you the opportunity to enjoy the views from the air, while an aisle seat provides more convenience if you need to get up during the flight.

Hand Luggage: What is Allowed and Prohibited
In hand luggage, liquids are permitted in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre. Sharp objects, flammable substances, and weapons are prohibited. Always check your airline's current rules regarding the weight and dimensions of hand luggage to avoid extra charges.

Tips for Connecting Passengers and Customs
If you have a connecting flight, clarify at check-in whether you need to collect your luggage at the intermediate airport. For domestic flights within Brazil, there is no need to pass through customs control. For international transfers, follow the signs for "Conexão Internacional" (International Connection) and be prepared for re-screening and passport control. The import and export of currency and goods are regulated by standard rules, so if you have items to declare, use the "Red Channel".

Savings and Actions in Case of Flight Delay
To save money, book flight tickets in advance and travel light to avoid paying for excess baggage. Take an empty reusable water bottle with you, which can be filled after passing security. In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative first. Keep all receipts for food and drinks—they may be needed to claim compensation.