Gabriel Vargas Santos Airport

Gabriel Vargas Santos Airport (TME) is not just a runway, but the aerial gateway to the amazing Llanos Orientales region, the endless plains in the east of Colombia. For many travellers, their introduction to the unique *Llanero* culture, world of wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes begins right here. This compact airport plays a key role in the transport system of the Arauca department, ensuring reliable connections with the capital and other major cities in the country.

The main advantage of Gabriel Vargas Santos Airport is its compactness and convenience. There are no long queues or tiring transfers between terminals here, making the check-in and baggage claim processes quick and comfortable. Its location just a few minutes' drive from the centre of Tame is a huge plus for tourists, allowing them to save time and money on transfers. Despite its modest size, the airport serves regular flights to Bogota and Bucaramanga, acting as a crucial transport hub for the entire region and a starting point for unforgettable adventures across the Colombian savannahs.

We have gathered the essential contact information for Gabriel Vargas Santos Airport (TME) for you. Please note that this is a small regional airport, and some data may not be available in public sources.

• Official website: Currently, the airport does not have its own official website. It is recommended to check all flight information directly on the websites of the airlines operating flights to Tame.
• Information desk phone: +57 7 8885060. You can try calling this number for general enquiries about airport operations.
• Airport address: Gabriel Vargas Santos Airport, Tame, Arauca Department, Colombia.
• Email: There is no official email address for passenger communication.
• Social media: The airport does not have official social media accounts.
• Lost luggage information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must contact your airline's Lost & Found service directly. Airport staff do not handle these issues.
• Passenger support: For all questions related to booking, ticket changes, schedules, and flight check-in, please contact your airline's support service.

Getting to Gabriel Vargas Santos Airport (TME) from the city of Tame is effortless, as it is located just one kilometre from the centre. Thanks to such close proximity, the journey to the terminal takes mere minutes. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose one of several convenient ways to get around this region of Colombia.

Public Transport

The most budget-friendly and authentic way to get to the airport is by local shared taxis (colectivos) or moto-taxis. Although they do not have a strict schedule, they run quite frequently. The trip will take up to 10 minutes. This is a great opportunity to experience the local atmosphere, especially if you are travelling light. The estimated cost of a moto-taxi ride is about 3,000-5,000 Colombian pesos, and a colectivo may be even cheaper.

Taxi and Transfer

Ordering a taxi is the most comfortable and fastest way to reach the airport. A car can easily be found in the city. The trip from the centre of Tame to the terminal will take just 2-5 minutes. The cost of the trip will be approximately 8,000-12,000 Colombian pesos. This option is ideal if you are travelling with luggage or value comfort. For greater convenience, you can pre-book a transfer through your hotel.

Car Rental and Parking

If you plan to actively explore the surroundings, renting a car is a good solution. You can reach the airport in a couple of minutes in a rental car. Gabriel Vargas Santos Airport has parking where you can leave your vehicle. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the high tourist season, to guarantee availability.

On Foot

Given the minimal distance, you can even walk to the airport if you are travelling without heavy luggage. A walk from the city centre will take about 10-15 minutes and will allow you to get to know the surroundings better.

Gabriel Vargas Santos Airport (TME) is a small and convenient aviation hub serving the city of Tame and its surroundings in Colombia. Its structure is extremely simple and clear for any traveller: the airport consists of one passenger terminal, which handles both domestic departures and arrivals.

The terminal layout is intuitive, making it impossible to get lost. Immediately after entering, you find yourself in the general area where the check-in counters are located. After checking in, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening, followed by a small waiting hall with a boarding gate. The arrivals area is also located in the same building but has a separate exit to the city for arriving passengers.

Since there is only one terminal in the airport, there is no need to transfer between buildings. All infrastructure is compactly located in one place. Inside the terminal, you will find basic amenities: seats for waiting, restrooms, and possibly a small kiosk with beverages and snacks. The airport is focused on quick and efficient service, so do not expect large shops or a variety of restaurants here.

One of the main advantages of TME airport is the speed of completing all procedures. Flight check-in and security screening usually take very little time thanks to the low passenger flow. It is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 60-90 minutes before departure. This time will be more than enough to go through all formalities without rushing and wait for your flight.

The history of Gabriel Vargas Santos Airport (TME) is closely linked to the exploration and development of the eastern plains of Colombia, known as the Llanos. Named after a hero of the war for independence, the airport has become a vital transport artery for the city of Tame and the entire Arauca department. Although the exact founding date has not been preserved in public sources, its emergence is attributed to the mid-20th century, when the government actively promoted the integration of remote regions of the country.

Initially, it was likely a simple airfield with a dirt strip intended for light aviation, which delivered mail, goods, and personnel for the developing oil and agricultural industries. A key stage in its development was its gradual transformation into a fully-fledged airport. Significant changes occurred in the 2010s when the Civil Aviation Authority of Colombia (Aeronáutica Civil de Colombia) invested funds in the modernization of several regional airports. As part of this programme, works were carried out at Tame airport to improve the runway, navigation equipment, and the passenger terminal.

These improvements allowed the airport to meet modern safety standards and accept turboprop aircraft such as the ATR 42, which are the backbone of regional transport in Colombia. Although there are no world records in the airport's history, its main achievement is stable and uninterrupted operation over decades, ensuring the region's connection with Bogota and other major cities.

Interesting fact: the airport's name immortalizes the memory of Gabriel Vargas Santos—a prominent military and political figure of the 19th century, highlighting the deep connection of modern infrastructure with national history. Today, TME airport continues to fulfil its historical mission, remaining a symbol of development and accessibility for one of the most colourful and distinctive regions of the country.

Gabriel Vargas Santos Airport (TME) is a compact regional airport serving the city of Tame and its surroundings in Colombia. Despite its modest size, it offers passengers a basic set of services for a comfortable wait for their flight.

Within the terminal, there are small cafes where you can have coffee and a snack with sandwiches or local pastries. There are also a few shops selling souvenirs, travel goods, and press. The selection is limited, but everything necessary for a short trip can be found.

A general waiting hall is equipped for passengers. Specialized VIP lounges or business lounges are generally absent in airports of this scale. Access to free Wi-Fi may be limited, and the number of power outlets for charging devices is small, so it is better to have a portable power bank with you.

ATMs can be found in the airport building, but there are no full-service bank branches or currency exchange bureaus here. It is recommended to exchange money in advance in major cities. In case of need, a first aid point functions in the terminal.

The airport is equipped with basic amenities for passengers with reduced mobility. To receive special assistance, such as a wheelchair, you must contact your airline representatives in advance. For travellers with small children, mother and child rooms may be provided, but their availability should be checked at the information desk.

There are no hotels directly on the airport territory, however, many accommodation options can be found in the nearby city of Tame. Business centres and conference rooms are not provided at Gabriel Vargas Santos Airport.

Gabriel Vargas Santos Airport (TME) in Tame is a small regional air terminal serving domestic flights in Colombia. Due to its compact size, the choice of establishments here is modest but sufficient to have a comfortable snack while waiting for your flight.

In the main and only terminal of the airport, in the public area before security control (landside), you will find several small cafes and kiosks. Here you can order coffee, fresh pastries, sandwiches, and soft drinks. This is a great opportunity to try traditional Colombian snacks, such as empanadas (fried pastries with filling) or pan de bono (cheese buns), which are ideal for a quick bite.

Options for a full lunch or dinner at the airport are practically non-existent. If you are counting on a substantial meal, it is recommended to do so in one of the restaurants in the city of Tame before travelling to the airport. Specialized dietary meals, such as vegetarian, gluten-free, or halal options, are extremely unlikely to be found here. Travellers with strict dietary restrictions are advised to bring food with them.

Prices in local cafes are usually moderate and not inflated like in major international airports. The opening hours of establishments are directly tied to the flight schedule—they are open for passengers a few hours before departure and during aircraft arrivals. Overall, Tame Airport offers basic and affordable options to enjoy a cup of famous local coffee and refresh yourself before your flight.

To ensure your journey through Gabriel Vargas Santos Airport in the city of Tame goes smoothly and without unnecessary stress, make use of these helpful tips. The airport mainly serves domestic flights, making it relatively quiet and easy to navigate.

Preparation for Departure and Arrival at the Airport

For domestic flights within Colombia, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time is usually sufficient for check-in, baggage drop, and security control without rushing. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website if such a service is available. This will allow you to proceed immediately to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security checkpoint.

Check-in, Security, and Hand Luggage

Procedures at Tame Airport are standard. At security, be prepared to present your boarding pass and identification. It is forbidden to take liquids exceeding 100 ml, sharp objects, and other dangerous substances in hand luggage. All liquids must be packed in a transparent bag. To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you—after security, it can be filled at a drinking fountain.

In Flight and Transfers

When choosing a seat on the plane, note that window seats will offer you magnificent views of the Los Llanos plains, especially during takeoff and landing. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight. Since Tame Airport is regional, international transfers here are unlikely. If you have a connecting flight in another Colombian city, check in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage.

Customs Control and Special Cases

Customs control is only undergone by passengers of international flights at the first airport of arrival in the country (for example, in Bogota or Medellin). On domestic flights, such as from Tame, customs inspection is not conducted. In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information about the new departure time and your rights, including possible provision of meals or accommodation.