Puerto Carreno Airport

Germán Olano Airport is more than just a functional transport hub; it is a true gateway to the boundless expanses of the Colombian Llanos and the world of wildlife. Located at a strategic point where the majestic Orinoco and Meta rivers meet, this airport immerses arrivals in the atmosphere of a true tropical adventure from the very first minute. Far from the noise of megacities and endless terminals, you will be greeted here by warm air, a calm pace of life, and the anticipation of unique fishing or eco-tours, for which travellers from all over the world strive to come here.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main advantage of the airport is its incredible proximity to the city. The terminal is located literally two kilometres from the centre, allowing you to reach your hotel or the main square in just 5–10 minutes by taxi or even on foot if you are travelling light. This eliminates the need to plan complex logistics and spend time on long transfers.

The airport is characterised by its compactness and speed of service. Thanks to the low passenger flow, check-in and security procedures are very quick and stress-free. It is practically impossible to get lost here, and the staff, accustomed to fishing tourists and nature explorers, are always distinguished by their friendliness and willingness to help.

Special mention should be made of the scenic views during take-off and landing. Since the air harbour is located near the border and waterways, passengers can enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the confluence of rivers and green plains from a bird's eye view. For many, the journey along this route becomes the first and one of the most vivid excursions in the region.

For a small regional airport, such as Puerto Carreño Airport (Germán Olano), finding direct contact details can be challenging. Most services are coordinated through airlines or central agencies. Here is the most current information:

• Official Website: Generally, small airports in Colombia do not have their own websites. Management is carried out by the national organisation Aerocivil (Civil Aviation Authority of Colombia), on whose website general information can be found.
• Information Desk Phone: A direct public telephone number for the airport is not published. for information on flight status, schedule changes, and other flight-related matters, it is recommended to contact your airline directly (for example, Satena or Clic Air).
• Address: Aeropuerto Germán Olano, Puerto Carreño, Vichada Department, Colombia.
• Email: There is no dedicated email address for general passenger enquiries.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain its own pages on social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: Matters regarding lost or damaged luggage are handled exclusively by airline representatives. Please contact your carrier's counter in the arrivals hall.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Passenger support regarding booking, check-in, and other aspects of travel is provided by the airlines.

Puerto Carreño Airport (officially named Aeropuerto Germán Olano) is located very close to the city, so getting there is not difficult. The journey from the centre of Puerto Carreño, the capital of the Vichada department in Colombia, to the terminal will take no more than 5-10 minutes. The most common and convenient methods are taxis and moto-taxis. The latter are motorcycles with a driver and are the fastest and cheapest option, especially for travellers with light luggage. The cost of the trip will be low, but it is always better to confirm the price before departing. Payment is generally made in cash.

There is no conventional public transport, such as city buses with a route to the airport, here. Puerto Carreño is a small and compact city where most distances are easily covered on foot or by the aforementioned taxis. There are no rail services or metro lines in this region.

If you plan to travel by private transport, car rental is not a popular option. There are no offices of major international rental chains in the city, although you can try to find a private lessor through your hotel. For a trip to the airport, this is not the most practical choice. For those arriving in their own car, a small open car park is provided at the airport. Given the modest passenger flow, finding a free space is usually not difficult.

To summarise, for a trip to Puerto Carreño Airport, feel free to choose a taxi or moto-taxi — it is fast, reliable, and inexpensive. Ensure you have Colombian pesos in small denominations for payment, and your journey will begin or end without unnecessary hassle.

Puerto Carreño Airport (PCR), also known as Germán Olano Airport (Aeropuerto Germán Olano), is a key transport hub for the Vichada department in Colombia. Given its regional importance and small size, the airport structure is very simple and intuitive for travellers.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves all domestic flights — both arrivals and departures. There is no separation into international and domestic zones, as the airport works exclusively with local destinations. The terminal building is a single-storey structure where all key areas are within walking distance of each other, eliminating the need for transfers or special transport.

The terminal layout is extremely simple: upon entering the building, passengers find themselves in a small general hall. Here, the airline check-in counters (mainly Satena) are located, operating flights from Puerto Carreño. Immediately after check-in follows the security screening area, behind which is a small waiting room with seats for passengers awaiting boarding. The arrivals area is located in the same building and consists of a hall where the luggage of arriving passengers is delivered. Baggage claim is usually handled manually or via a simple belt.

Check-in and screening procedures at PCR airport are generally very quick thanks to the low passenger flow. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1-1.5 hours before departure to complete all formalities without rushing. Orienting yourself in the terminal is incredibly easy — all signs and indicators are clearly visible, and the staff are always ready to assist. It is practically impossible to get lost here, as all functional zones are located within one small space.

The history of Puerto Carreño (PCR) Airport, officially bearing the name of Colombian aviation pioneer Germán Olano, is a story of overcoming geographical isolation. For the city of Puerto Carreño, located in a remote region in the east of Colombia, this air harbour has been a key link connecting it to the rest of the country since its foundation.

The airport was established in the mid-20th century as part of a government programme to develop infrastructure in hard-to-reach areas. Initially, it was just a small airstrip capable of receiving light aircraft. Over time, as the strategic and economic importance of the region grew, the airport underwent several stages of modernisation. The main works were aimed at improving the runway surface and expanding the modest terminal to serve the growing passenger flow.

Although the airport cannot boast records or large-scale reconstructions like capital city aviation hubs, its main achievement is uninterrupted operation in difficult conditions. It plays a vital role not only in transporting passengers but also in delivering cargo, medicines, and essential goods. For local residents, it is a true lifeline, and for tourists, it is the starting point for exploring the unique ecosystems of the Llanos plains.

An interesting fact: the history of the airport is, in essence, the history of the city itself in the 20th century. Each stage of its development reflected the growth and needs of Puerto Carreño. Today, Germán Olano Airport continues to fulfil its main mission: to be a reliable gateway to one of the most amazing and little-explored corners of South America, ensuring a connection with civilisation and opening the region to travellers.

Puerto Carreño Airport (PCR), being an important regional transport hub in Colombia, offers passengers a basic set of services necessary for a comfortable journey. It is important to consider that this is a small airport, and its infrastructure corresponds to its size, providing all the essentials before departure or upon arrival.

Inside the terminal, travellers can find small cafes and retail points selling light snacks, sandwiches, sweets, and soft drinks. This is an excellent place to have a quick bite or drink a cup of famous Colombian coffee. Local souvenirs can also be purchased here. Waiting areas are equipped with seats for resting before boarding the flight. There are no separate VIP lounges.

Access to free Wi-Fi may be limited, so it is better to use mobile data for stable internet access. The number of power outlets for charging gadgets may also be small, so it is recommended to carry a portable power bank. An ATM may be available at the airport for financial transactions, but currency exchange points are generally absent. It is better to settle all financial matters in the city beforehand.

The airport provides basic amenities for all categories of passengers. First aid is available if necessary. Passengers with children and travellers with reduced mobility are assisted by airline staff and airport services; it is recommended to notify your air carrier in advance to receive assistance. There are no hotels or business centres within the airport grounds, but various accommodation options can easily be found in the city of Puerto Carreño itself, which is in the immediate vicinity.

Puerto Carreño Airport (PCR) is a small regional air terminal, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited. One should not count on a variety of restaurants as in major international hubs. However, basic options are available to passengers for a comfortable wait.

In the main hall of the airport, accessible to all visitors before passing security control, there are several small kiosks or cafes. They are oriented towards quick snacks. The assortment generally includes coffee, soft drinks, bottled water, as well as simple pastries, sandwiches, and crisps. This is a good chance to try traditional Colombian snacks, such as empanadas (fried pastries with filling) or pan de bono (cheese buns).

It is unlikely that you will find a full hot lunch or dinner here. Specialised menus (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) are likely not represented in the airport's establishments. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is recommended to bring food with you. Cafe opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule, and prices for food and drinks are slightly higher than in the city.

Thus, if you plan to have a full meal, it is better to do so in the city of Puerto Carreño before arriving at the airport. For a light snack or purchasing a drink before departure, local cafes will offer convenient and simple options.

Travelling through the airport of Puerto Carreño is your first step to getting to know a unique region of Colombia. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, make use of these tips.

Arrival time at the airport. As this is a small regional airport, we recommend arriving 1.5–2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This time will be sufficient to pass check-in and security control without rushing.

Check-in and Security. Procedures here usually go faster than in major hubs. Nevertheless, keep your documents ready and be prepared for standard screening. Security staff may ask you to switch on electronic devices.

Choosing a seat on the plane. If you want to enjoy stunning views of the Orinoco River and the surrounding landscapes during take-off or landing, choose a window seat. An aisle seat is suitable for those who value the ability to stand up freely and stretch their legs during the flight.

Hand luggage. Always keep documents, money, gadgets, and necessary medicines in your hand luggage. Remember standard restrictions: liquids in containers not exceeding 100 ml, and sharp objects must be checked in as luggage. The transport of certain exotic fruits may be restricted, so it is better to check your airline's rules.

Passengers with connections. Puerto Carreño Airport is rarely used as a transit hub. If you have a connecting flight, you will most likely have to collect your luggage and check in again. Be sure to clarify this information with your airline in advance.

Customs control. Since most flights from Puerto Carreño are domestic, there is no need to pass customs control. Passengers only undergo pre-flight security screening. Standard customs rules apply upon arrival via rare international flights.

Saving time and money. To save time, check in for your flight online and, if possible, travel light with only hand luggage. To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you (it can be filled after screening) and a light snack, as the selection at the airport may be limited and expensive.

In case of flight delay. Follow updates on information boards or in the airline's app. Contact a representative of the carrier to learn about your rights regarding the provision of beverages, meals, or accommodation. In a small airport, there may not be much entertainment, so a book, a charged power bank, and downloaded films will help pass the waiting time.