Lamacarena

La Macarena Airport (LMC) is more than just a transport hub; it is the long-awaited gateway to one of the most beautiful and inaccessible corners of Colombia. There is no hustle and bustle of giant international hubs, glass, and concrete here — the air harbour welcomes travellers with the atmosphere of a true expedition and proximity to wild nature. Landing here, you find yourself just a step away from the legendary "River of Five Colours" — Caño Cristales, for which adventure seekers from all over the world strive to come here.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

• Location in the Centre of Events: The airport is located practically within the city limits. You will not have to waste time on long transfers: you can reach the central square or most hotels in 5–10 minutes on foot or in a couple of minutes by local mototaxi.
• Legendary Aviation: La Macarena is one of the rare places on the planet where you can still see legendary piston-engine Douglas DC-3 aircraft at work on the apron. These "air veterans" continue to deliver cargo and passengers to remote areas, turning the airport into a veritable living museum.
• Impressive Landing: The approach for landing offers unforgettable views. The panorama of endless plains (llanos), winding rivers, and unique rock formations of the Serranía de la Macarena mountain range opens up from the porthole.
• Compactness and Speed: Thanks to the modest size of the terminal, all arrival formalities take mere minutes. Baggage claim is quick, allowing you to begin your acquaintance with the region without delay.

La Macarena Airport (LMC) is a small regional airport serving primarily tourist flights. Specialised contact services, common in major international hubs, are absent here. The most effective way to obtain information is to contact your airline.

• Official Website: The airport does not have its own website. General information can be found on the Civil Aviation Authority of Colombia (Aerocivil) portal.
• Inquiry Service Phone: A direct public telephone number for the airport is not provided. For all questions related to flights, schedules, and tickets, please contact the airline you are flying with directly.
• Address: The airport is located within the city of La Macarena, Meta Department, Colombia.
• Email: A separate email for passenger communication is not provided. It is recommended to use your airline's support channels.
• Social Media: The airport does not have official pages on social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: All issues related to lost or damaged luggage are handled by the representative of the airline that operated the flight.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Passenger support for all aspects of the flight (check-in, ticket changes, special services) is provided by your air carrier.

La Macarena Airport (LMC) serves the eponymous city in Colombia and is the main gateway for tourists wishing to see the famous Caño Cristales river. Due to its location in the immediate vicinity of the city of La Macarena, getting to a hotel or the centre will not be difficult and will take mere minutes.

Taxis and Local Transport

In La Macarena, you will not find the usual city buses or taxi services. The main means of transport here are mototaxis (motorcycles with a driver). This is a fast, authentic, and inexpensive way to get to any point in the city. The trip from the airport to your hotel will take no more than 5-10 minutes. The cost is usually negotiable but always remains very affordable. Simply agree on the price before boarding.

Organised Transfer

The most convenient and popular method for travellers is a pre-arranged transfer. The vast majority of hotels and tour operators offering excursions to Caño Cristales include an airport meet-and-greet in the cost of their service package. Upon arrival, a representative with a sign will already be waiting for you to help with luggage and take you directly to your accommodation. We strongly recommend checking for the availability of a transfer when booking a tour or hotel to make your arrival as comfortable as possible.

Car Rental and Parking

Car rental directly in La Macarena is not common and is impractical. The town is small, and access to the main natural attractions is strictly regulated and possible only as part of organised groups using boats and special off-road vehicles. If you have arrived in the region by personal vehicle or one rented in another city, there is a space for free parking near the airport, although this is typically just an open area without special security.

Alternative Airports

Although the airport in La Macarena is the most convenient point for visiting the famous "Rainbow River", it is useful to know about other air harbours in the region. However, note that they are located at a significant distance, and the road from them will require a long overland journey. Among the nearest options are San Vicente (SVI, ~109 km) and San José del Guaviare Airport (SJE, ~135 km). Larger, but also more distant airports are located in Neiva (NVA, ~188 km), Florencia (FLA, ~208 km), and Villavicencio (VVC, ~221 km).

La Macarena Airport (LMC) is a small regional airport that serves as the main gateway for tourists heading to the famous Caño Cristales river. Given its size and purpose, the airport structure is very simple and intuitive.

The airport operates one small terminal which services all domestic flights — both arrivals and departures. The terminal building is a compact single-story structure where all key zones are within walking distance of each other. Concepts such as "airport map" or "transfers between terminals" are irrelevant here, as it is practically impossible to get lost.

Upon entering the terminal, you immediately find yourself in the general area where the check-in counters of several airlines flying to this region are located. The departure and arrival zones are effectively parts of the same small hall. After check-in, passengers proceed to a small waiting area from where boarding takes place. The baggage claim area is also very compact and is located near the terminal exit.

Despite the fact that check-in and security procedures at LMC usually proceed quite quickly, it is recommended to arrive approximately 1.5–2 hours before departure. This is because, during the peak season, the flow of tourists can be significant, while the number of staff is limited. The main recommendation for navigation is simply to follow the signs or the airline staff; all processes here are maximally simplified for the convenience of travellers.

The history of La Macarena Airport (LMC), also known as Javier Vargas Airport, is not a tale of massive construction projects and records, but rather a reflection of the unique fate of the region itself. Its development is inextricably linked to the transformation of this part of Colombia from a closed zone into one of the most desirable destinations for eco-tourists striving to see the famous Caño Cristales river.

It is difficult to find the exact date of the foundation of the runway in La Macarena; for many years, it likely served mainly the needs of local residents and the military. The true history of the airport as a tourist facility began in the 2000s. As the security situation in the Meta Department improved, the first bold travellers began to arrive. The main stage of development occurred in the 2010s, when government initiatives and peace processes opened the region to mass tourism.

One cannot speak of major renovations and expansions in the conventional sense. La Macarena Airport is a small and functional air hub, the modernisation of which was primarily aimed at ensuring safety and the ability to receive a growing number of charter flights during the high season (from June to November). Its infrastructure remains modest, which corresponds to the spirit of eco-tourism and the preservation of pristine nature.

Perhaps the main interesting fact and achievement of the airport is its key role in the socio-economic transformation of the city. Thanks to air connectivity, a region previously associated with certain difficulties has become a thriving tourist destination. Another historical feature is the fleet serving the route. For a long time and to this day, legendary Douglas DC-3 aircraft can be found on routes to La Macarena, which is in itself living aviation history.

La Macarena Airport (LMC) is a compact regional air hub in Colombia that serves as the main gateway for travellers heading to the famous Caño Cristales river. It is important to understand that this is a very small airport with a basic set of amenities, so most services common to major hubs are absent here. Its main task is to ensure the arrival and departure of tourist groups, rather than long, comfortable waiting periods.

Within the terminal, you will find small kiosks where you can buy refreshments, water, and light snacks. There are no restaurants, cafes with hot meals, or Duty Free shops here. The waiting area is simple, without specialised VIP lounges. Passengers are advised to carry everything they need with them, including food for a snack, especially if travelling with specific dietary requirements.

At La Macarena Airport, there is no public Wi-Fi, and the number of power outlets for charging gadgets is extremely limited. It is strongly recommended to bring a portable power bank. There are also no ATMs or currency exchange points in the terminal building. All financial transactions, including money exchange, are best done in advance in major cities such as Bogotá or Villavicencio.

Specialised services for passengers with children or those with reduced mobility are not provided at the infrastructure level, nor are there medical points or conference rooms. However, airport staff are generally ready to provide assistance with boarding and disembarking. There are no hotels in the airport itself or its immediate vicinity. All accommodation options are located in the town of La Macarena, which can be quickly reached by local transport after arrival.

La Macarena Airport (LMC) serves as a small aerial gateway for tourists heading to the famous Caño Cristales river. Dining options here reflect its compact size and local flavour, so do not expect major chain restaurants or food courts typical of large airport terminals.

The majority of food establishments are located not within the terminal itself, but right at the entrance or a few minutes' walk away. These are typically small family cafes and street kiosks. Here you can try authentic Colombian food and grab a quick bite before your flight. Look out for empanadas (fried pastries stuffed with meat or potatoes), arepas (corn cakes with cheese), and freshly baked pan de bono bread. Of course, it is worth enjoying a cup of aromatic local coffee or a glass of fresh juice (jugo natural).

For travellers with strict dietary requirements (such as gluten-free or Halal food), the choice will be quite limited. Vegetarians will be able to find simple options, such as arepas with cheese or fresh fruit. Prices in local establishments are very affordable, and opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule. Since the airport consists of one small terminal, all establishments are located in the public zone (landside).

If you only need a quick snack, the kiosk at the entrance will be quite sufficient. If you have time for a full lunch, it is better to take a walk into the town of La Macarena, which is in the immediate vicinity of the airport. There you will find a greater variety of small restaurants offering hearty dishes, such as traditional `sancocho` soup or fried fish with rice and plantains.

Travelling through La Macarena Airport is your first step towards amazing adventures in one of the most unique corners of Colombia. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, make use of our tips compiled specifically for this small but important regional airport.

Arrival Time and Check-in: La Macarena Airport (LMC) is quite compact, and procedures here are faster than in major hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at least 1.5 hours before departure. During the peak season (from June to November), it is better to arrive 2 hours early. Flights to La Macarena are often operated by small aircraft, and check-in may close earlier than usual. Keep your passport and booking confirmation ready.

Seat Selection: Try to get a window seat! The flight into and out of La Macarena is a scenic adventure in itself. From the porthole, breathtaking views of the Serranía de la Macarena National Park and the endless expanses of the Colombian plains (llanos) open up. This is an excellent opportunity to take your first impressive photos.

Hand Luggage and Baggage: Given that flights are operated on small vessels (for example, Douglas DC-3 type aircraft), baggage and hand luggage allowances may be stricter than usual. Check the permissible weight and dimensions with your airline in advance. Sharp objects and liquids over 100 ml are prohibited in hand luggage. Sunscreen and insect repellent are best placed in checked baggage.

Transfers and Customs: La Macarena Airport is a final destination and is not used for transit flights. All transfers must be planned in larger airports such as Bogotá or Villavicencio. Since this is a domestic airport, there is no customs control here. However, be prepared for a possible baggage inspection regarding the transport of prohibited plants or animals to protect the unique ecosystem of the region.

Saving Time and Money: Book flight tickets in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the high season when demand is at its maximum. Travel light to avoid surcharges for excess weight. Be sure to carry cash (Colombian pesos), as there are few ATMs in the town, and they may not be working.

Flight Delays: Flights to La Macarena are highly dependent on weather conditions, so delays and even cancellations are not uncommon. Remain calm, carry a portable charger, a book, or downloaded films. Maintain contact with the airline representative and your tour operator or hotel in La Macarena so they are aware of the situation.