Riohacha Airport

Admiral Padilla Airport (Almirante Padilla) is not just a transport hub, but a true gateway to the mystical La Guajira desert and the Caribbean coast. Located practically within the city limits, this compact and cosy air terminal welcomes travellers with the hot sun and the relaxed atmosphere of northern Colombia. It is from here that many tourists begin their exciting adventure to the Taroa Dunes and Punta Gallinas, the northernmost point of South America.

Airport Features and Advantages:

Riohacha Airport is distinguished by its convenience and strategic importance for regional tourism. Despite its modest size, it plays a vital role in connecting the remote department of La Guajira with the rest of the country.

• Ideal Location: The airport is just a 5–10 minute drive from the city centre and the main hotels on the waterfront, allowing you to save time on transfers.
• Expedition Starting Point: This is the nearest civilian airport for those planning tours to the cape of Cabo de la Vela and deep into the desert.
• Speed of Service: Thanks to the low passenger traffic, check-in and baggage claim procedures are significantly faster here than in capital hubs.
• Local Flavour: Even within the terminal, you can meet representatives of the indigenous Wayuu people in traditional attire, immersing you in the unique culture of the region from the very first minutes.

Below you will find contact information for Almirante Padilla Airport (RCH) in the city of Riohacha. Please note that for many flight-related questions, you should contact your airline directly.

• Official Website: Generally, smaller regional airports in Colombia do not have their own dedicated website. Up-to-date information can be found on the portal of the Civil Aviation Authority of Colombia (Aerocivil): www.aerocivil.gov.co.
• Information Desk Phone: +57 5 7273854
• Airport Address: Carretera a Maicao, Riohacha, La Guajira, Colombia.
• Email: For official inquiries to the managing organisation, you can use the Civil Aviation Authority email: atencionalciudadano@aerocivil.gov.co.
• Social Media: The airport does not have its own official pages. We recommend following news on Aerocivil pages.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you must contact your airline's representative directly. Airport services do not handle such requests.
• Passenger Support Contacts: You can use the phone number listed above to obtain information about airport operations. If your question concerns tickets, check-in, baggage allowances, or flight schedules, please contact your airline.

Almirante Padilla Airport (RCH) is located within the city limits of Riohacha, so getting to it from the centre or tourist areas is very easy. The journey to the terminal usually takes very little time, and the choice of transport depends on your budget and preferences.

Taxi and Transfer
The fastest and most convenient way to get to the airport is to take a taxi. A trip from the central part of the city will take just 5-15 minutes. The cost of the trip is usually low, but it is recommended to agree on the price with the driver in advance or ensure they have turned on the taximeter. For greater peace of mind, you can book a private transfer through your hotel or an online service, which is particularly convenient when travelling with a lot of luggage or at night.

Public Transport
For budget-conscious travellers, city buses or "colectivos" (shared taxis/minibuses) that circulate around the city are suitable. There is no special express route to the airport, but some city buses pass in the immediate vicinity of the terminal. This option is the cheapest, but may not be very comfortable with bulky luggage. Check the number of the suitable route at your hotel or with local residents.

Car Rental and Parking
If you plan to explore the picturesque La Guajira region on your own, renting a car is an excellent solution. You can pick up a car either at the airport itself upon arrival or at city rental offices. Riohacha Airport has a parking lot where you can leave your car for the duration of your trip. This is a convenient option for those travelling in their own or rented transport who wish to leave it in a secure place.

Almirante Padilla Airport in Riohacha (RCH) is a small and compact regional airport, making navigation extremely simple. It consists of one passenger terminal that serves both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to this, travellers do not need to worry about complicated transfers or searching for the right building — everything is under one roof.

The terminal layout is intuitive. Immediately after entering the building, you find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters are located. After checking in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening. The departure area consists of a small waiting hall with several boarding gates. The arrival area is located in another part of the building and includes a baggage claim belt and an exit to the city. All key points — from check-in to the boarding gate — are within a few minutes' walk of each other.

Since there is only one terminal, moving between zones takes minimal time. Check-in and security procedures usually go quite quickly due to low passenger traffic. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This time is more than enough to complete all formalities without haste, even in the event of a small queue.

For convenient navigation, follow the signs, which, although few, lead to all main zones. Given the size of the airport, getting lost here is practically impossible. The main advice is simply to move from the entrance through the check-in area to the security checkpoint, behind which the departure waiting area immediately begins. It is a simple and functional airport, ideally suited as a gateway to the La Guajira region.

The history of Riohacha Airport, officially known as Almirante Padilla Airport, is closely linked to the economic development of the La Guajira region. It was named after Admiral José Prudencio Padilla, a hero of the fight for Colombia's independence. The modern air terminal was inaugurated on 19 November 1985, replacing an older, more modest airfield that could no longer cope with the growing needs of the region.

The main stimulus for the construction of the new airport was the beginning of the development of one of the world's largest open-pit coal deposits — Cerrejón. The airport became a crucial transport hub for engineers, workers, and business partners involved in this massive project. At the same time, it opened the gates for tourists wishing to explore the unique desert landscapes of La Guajira, Cape Cabo de la Vela, and discover the distinctive culture of the Wayuu people.

Throughout its history, Almirante Padilla Airport has been modernised several times. In the 2010s, it underwent significant reconstruction under the management of the Civil Aviation Authority of Colombia (Aerocivil). As part of this programme, the passenger terminal, runway, control tower, and navigation equipment were updated. These improvements enhanced flight safety and improved the quality of passenger service, preparing the airport for further growth in tourist flow.

Today, Riohacha Airport is not just a transport facility, but a strategic gateway to one of the most amazing and distinctive regions of the country. Its history is an example of how infrastructure development can contribute to economic growth and unlock the tourism potential of even the most remote corners. It continues to play a key role, connecting La Guajira with Bogotá and other major cities, and remains the starting point for unforgettable journeys along the Colombian Caribbean coast.

Almirante Padilla Airport (RCH) in Riohacha is a small but functional regional aviation hub serving the department of La Guajira in Colombia. Despite its compact size, it offers passengers a basic set of services for a comfortable wait for their flight.

Dining and Shopping. In the terminal, you will find several small cafes where you can drink coffee and have a snack with local bites. There are also souvenir shops selling handmade items from the Wayuu people, traditional hammocks, and other authentic goods — an excellent option for buying last-minute gifts.

Waiting Areas and Facilities. The airport has a general waiting hall. There are typically no specialised VIP lounges here. For passenger convenience, free Wi-Fi is available (usually with a limited session time) as well as charging points for electronic devices located in the departure area.

Financial and Other Services. There are ATMs in the airport building for cash withdrawals. Currency exchange offices may not be available, so it is recommended to arrange money exchange in the city in advance. A first aid station is provided for emergencies.

Additional Amenities. The airport is equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility, including ramps and specially equipped toilets. There are no special play areas for children, but basic amenities for passengers with infants are available. There are no hotels within the airport grounds, however, many accommodation options can be found in Riohacha itself, which is just a few minutes' drive away. Business centres and conference rooms are absent at the airport.

Riohacha Almirante Padilla Airport (RCH) is a small regional airport, so dining options here are quite modest, but sufficient for a snack before departure. Do not expect a large food court or a variety of restaurants as found in major international hubs.

The majority of catering establishments are concentrated in the main hall of the terminal, in the public area (landside), before passing through security control. As a rule, these are small cafes and kiosks. After passing security (airside) in the departure area, there may be a small vending machine with drinks and snacks or a small counter, but the main selection is located before it.

What you can find and try:

• Cafes and Snack Bars: Here you can order Colombian coffee, fresh juices, soft drinks, as well as various pastries. Local specialities such as empanadas (fried pastries with filling) or arepas (corn cakes, often with cheese) are perfect for a quick snack.
• Full Lunch: Finding a full-service restaurant for a hot multi-course lunch at the airport will be difficult. Local establishments are mainly oriented towards snacks and simple dishes that can be eaten quickly before a flight.
• Dietary Options: Options for vegetarians usually include arepa con queso (corn cake with cheese) or meat-free pastries. Finding certified vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes is practically impossible. If you have strict dietary restrictions or require Halal meals, it is recommended to bring food with you.

Prices and Opening Hours:

Prices in Riohacha airport cafes are moderate, although slightly higher than in the city. Opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule: they open a few hours before the first morning departure and close after the last evening flight departs. You will always be able to find an open cafe if you have a flight.

Travelling through Almirante Padilla Airport in Riohacha generally proceeds calmly and without fuss, as it is a small regional hub. Nevertheless, a few tips will help make your trip even more comfortable and predictable.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights within Colombia, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure. Although queues are rarely long here, this buffer time will allow you to go through check-in and security without haste. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides such an option. The security screening procedure is standard; keep your boarding pass and ID ready.

Hand Luggage and Seat Selection. Hand luggage rules do not differ from international ones: liquids in containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag, and sharp and flammable items are prohibited. Be sure to check weight and size limits with your airline. When choosing a seat on the plane, note that the left side when departing from Riohacha may offer beautiful views of the Caribbean coast.

Transfers and Customs Control. Riohacha Airport mainly serves direct domestic flights, so long layovers here are rare. If you have a connecting flight in another city, check in advance if you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Customs control is only undergone by passengers of international charter flights; it is not required for domestic flights.

Economy and Unforeseen Situations. To save on transport, you can negotiate the price with taxi drivers or find a group transfer. Prices for food and drinks at the airport may be higher than in the city, so it is better to have a snack beforehand. In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information on the flight status and possible compensation (water, meals). The airport has basic amenities, but for long waits, it is better to have a book or a charged power bank with you.