Los Colonizadores

Los Colonizadores Airport is not merely a runway; it is the aerial gateway to the very heart of the Arauca department. Located in the city of Saravena, it plays a key role in the transport system of this unique region of Colombia, known for its scenic plains and rich Llanero culture. For travellers seeking to explore the less charted corners of the country, this compact airport serves as a convenient starting point for a fascinating adventure.

The main advantage of Los Colonizadores Airport is its compactness and simplicity. There are no long queues or confusing navigation here, making the check-in and boarding process as fast and comfortable as possible. The airport serves domestic flights, connecting the region with major cities in the country, primarily with the capital, Bogotá. It is an ideal choice for those who value their time and prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle of large transport hubs, immersing themselves in the authentic atmosphere of the Colombian countryside immediately upon arrival.

Finding direct contacts for a small regional airport like Los Colonizadores can be challenging, as it does not have a centralised passenger information service. Most inquiries are handled through the airlines operating the flights.

• Official Website: The airport does not have its own official website. It is recommended to check current information regarding schedules and flight status on your airline's website.
• Information Desk Phone: There is no direct public telephone number for inquiries. For all flight-related questions, please contact the call centre of the airline you are flying with.
• Airport Address: Aeropuerto Los Colonizadores, Saravena, Arauca Department, Colombia.
• Email and Social Media: The airport does not have official email addresses or social media pages for passenger communication.
• Lost Luggage Information: All issues related to lost or damaged luggage are handled directly by airline representatives. Please approach your carrier's counter at the airport or contact their support service.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Assistance for passengers, including those with special needs, is provided by airline staff. If you require special services, please inform the carrier in advance.

Los Colonizadores Airport (RVE) is located in close proximity to the city of Saravena, making the journey there quick and simple. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose from several ways to reach the terminal.

Taxis and Moto-taxis are the most popular and convenient options. The trip from the city centre takes just 10–15 minutes. This is particularly convenient if you are travelling with luggage. The cost of the trip is low, but it is recommended to agree on the price with the driver in advance, as taximeters are not always used. Moto-taxis, a common mode of transport in Colombia, are an even faster and cheaper method, perfectly suited for those travelling light.

Public Transport in the form of city buses or route taxis (*colectivos*) can also take you to the airport area. This is the most budget-friendly method; however, it is worth noting that there may not be a direct route to the terminal entrance, and a short walk might be required. This option is ideal for experienced tourists wishing to save money and immerse themselves in local life.

If you have rented a car to travel around the region, getting to the airport will be effortless. Los Colonizadores Airport features a car park where you can safely leave your vehicle during your absence or for a short period to drop off or pick up passengers.

Los Colonizadores Airport (RVE), serving the city of Saravena and its surroundings in Colombia, is a small regional aviation hub. Its structure is as simple and convenient as possible for passengers, making orientation an easy task even for first-time visitors.

The key feature of the airport is its single passenger terminal, which handles both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to its compact size, there is no need for long walks or complex navigation maps. All zones are located within the same building and are within walking distance of each other; getting lost here is practically impossible.

Inside the terminal, everything is organised intuitively. Upon entering, you will immediately see the airline check-in counters. After completing check-in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening. The departure area consists of a small waiting hall with a boarding gate. The arrival area is located separately and includes a baggage claim belt and an exit to the city.

Completing all formalities typically takes minimum time. Due to the low passenger traffic, check-in and security checks are conducted quickly and without hassle. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1-1.5 hours before the departure of a domestic flight to go through all procedures calmly. The main advice for navigation is simple: follow the signs, which are clearly visible and easy to understand, and you will easily find everything you need.

Los Colonizadores Airport (IATA: RVE), serving the city of Saravena and the Arauca department, is a vital transport artery in the eastern part of Colombia. Its history is inextricably linked to the development of this region, which remained difficult to access for a long time due to geographical features.

Although the exact date of the airport's founding is not always widely documented, its emergence was a logical step in the process of land settlement and city growth. The name itself — Los Colonizadores, which translates as "The Colonisers" or "The First Settlers" — is a tribute to the pioneers who settled and developed these territories. Initially, it may have been a simple airfield intended for light aviation, but over time its role has grown significantly.

The main stages of the airport's development were aimed at ensuring stable and safe air communication. Over the years, the runway and terminal have been modernised to accommodate larger aircraft and serve the growing passenger flow. The airport played a key role in overcoming the geographical isolation of Saravena, becoming a vital link for transporting passengers, delivering goods, and providing emergency assistance.

Throughout its history, the airport has undergone various renovations to meet modern aviation standards. The facility is managed by the national Civil Aviation Authority of Colombia (Aerocivil), ensuring the maintenance of necessary safety levels and infrastructure. The main achievement of Los Colonizadores Airport can be considered not records in passenger numbers, but its stable operation as a reliable bridge connecting a remote region with the country's major cities and contributing to its economic and social prosperity.

Los Colonizadores Airport (RVE) is a small regional hub providing passengers with basic amenities for a comfortable wait before their flight. In the terminal, you will find a small café where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or purchase refreshments before departure. The selection of shops here is modest, but one can usually find kiosks selling essential items and local souvenirs.

For those who need to stay connected, charging stations for mobile devices may be available in the waiting hall. The availability of Wi-Fi should be checked on-site, as it may be limited. Regarding financial services, an ATM might be located at the airport. However, for currency exchange or other banking operations, it is better to visit bank branches in the city of Saravena beforehand.

The airport is adapted to serve passengers with reduced mobility, but to receive special assistance, such as an escort or a wheelchair, it is strongly recommended to notify your airline in advance. Travellers with children should note that there are no dedicated playrooms in the terminal. In case of necessity, a first aid point is usually available at the airport.

Since Los Colonizadores is a compact airport serving primarily domestic flights, there are no VIP lounges, business centres, or conference rooms. Also, there are no hotels within the airport grounds — all accommodation options are located in the city itself. The airport's main task is to ensure fast and efficient service for passengers on regional routes.

Los Colonizadores Airport (RVE) is a small regional aviation hub, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited. The options available to passengers are primarily oriented towards a quick snack and purchasing drinks before departure, rather than a full lunch or dinner.

All food outlets are generally located in the common hall of the single terminal, in the area before security control (landside). Usually, these are small cafés or kiosks offering a basic assortment. Here you can buy coffee, water, fizzy drinks, as well as packaged snacks such as crisps, biscuits, and sweets. Do not expect major restaurant chains or a diverse menu.

Despite the modest selection, you might have a chance to try something from the local cuisine. Pay attention to the pastries — you may be able to find traditional Colombian treats, for example, cheese bread called pan de bono or corn cakes known as arepas. And, of course, being in Colombia, it is worth drinking a cup of aromatic local coffee, which will surely be offered in any café here.

Passengers with specific dietary requirements (vegetarians, vegans, or those observing a Halal or gluten-free diet) are strongly advised to bring food with them. Specialised dishes at the airport are likely to be absent. At best, vegetarians might find simple pastries without meat or fruits.

Prices at the airport are generally moderate but may be slightly higher than in the city. The opening hours of establishments depend directly on the flight schedule — they open shortly before the first departure and close after the last aircraft leaves. If you plan to have a full meal, the best solution would be to do so at one of the restaurants in the city of Saravena before travelling to the airport.

To ensure your journey through Los Colonizadores Airport goes smoothly and without hassle, make use of our tips. Planning ahead will help you save time and reduce stress, especially if you are flying from a small regional airport for the first time.

Arrival Time and Check-in. The airport in Saravena serves primarily domestic flights. We recommend arriving 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time will be sufficient to go through all procedures calmly. If possible, complete online check-in for your flight in advance — this will save you time at the airport. Security procedures are standard for Colombia, but in small airports, they usually proceed faster than in large hubs.

Luggage and Seat Selection. Carefully review your airline's hand luggage regulations. Standard restrictions include a ban on carrying liquids in containers larger than 100 ml and sharp objects. To enjoy the views during the flight, choose a window seat. Depending on the route, impressive landscapes of the Llanos Orientales plains or the Andean foothills may open up to you.

Connections and Control. Los Colonizadores is generally not a transit airport. If you have a connection planned in another city, be prepared for the likelihood that you will need to collect your luggage and check it in again for the next flight. There is no customs control when departing on domestic flights. If you arrived in Colombia via an international flight, you will pass all customs formalities at the first airport of arrival (for example, in Bogotá).

Savings and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, check your luggage online (this is often cheaper) and bring an empty water bottle to fill after the security check. In case of a flight delay, immediately contact your airline representative for information on the flight status and your rights. In small airports, infrastructure may be limited, so it is useful to have a book or a charged power bank with you in case of a wait.