Alejo Garcia Airport

Guaraní International Airport, also known as Alejo García, is the second most significant air gateway of Paraguay, located in the strategic "Triple Frontier" region. Although it currently trails behind its capital city counterpart in passenger traffic, the airport serves as the starting point for journeys through the Alto Paraná department. Its spacious terminal and long runway are ready to receive flights from around the world, offering passengers a peaceful start to their adventures in the country's vibrant commercial hub — the city of Ciudad del Este.

Despite the currently low volume of passenger flights, Guaraní Airport possesses significant advantages. Its runway, 3,400 metres in length, is capable of accommodating even wide-body aircraft, making it an important hub for cargo transport and a potential point for future international flights. Passengers can avail themselves of essential amenities, including free Wi-Fi, currency exchange points, ATMs, and duty-free shops.

The airport's main asset is its strategic location. It is situated near the world-renowned Itaipu Dam and the national park featuring the Monday Falls, making it a convenient starting point for tourists wishing to explore the natural and man-made wonders of the region. Its proximity to the borders with Brazil and Argentina opens up unique opportunities for combined travel across South America.

Below is the essential contact information for Guaraní International Airport (Alejo García), serving Ciudad del Este. Please note that the airport is managed by the National Directorate of Civil Aeronautics of Paraguay (DINAC), so many contacts lead to the agency's general resources.

• Official Website: www.dinac.gov.py. You can find information about all airports in the country, including Alejo García, on the DINAC operator's website.
• Help Desk Phone: +595 61 573 530. It is recommended to verify the number as it may change.
• Airport Address: Ruta VII Dr. José Gaspar Rodríguez de Francia, Km 26, Minga Guazú, Alto Paraná, Paraguay.
• Email: A direct email address for general passenger inquiries is usually not provided. For official queries, please use the contact information on the DINAC website.
• Social Media: Current news and updates regarding the operation of airports in Paraguay can be found on DINAC's official social media pages (e.g., Facebook).
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost, delayed, or damaged luggage, you must contact your airline's representative directly. Airport services do not handle luggage tracing.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For questions regarding tickets, flight check-in, baggage allowances, and special services, please contact the airline you are flying with. For general questions related to airport infrastructure, you may call the help desk.

There are several ways to get to Alejo García International Airport (AGT), which serves Ciudad del Este and the entire Alto Paraná region in Paraguay. The choice depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. The airport is located approximately 25 kilometres west of the city centre.

Taxi and Transfer. This is the most popular, fastest, and most reliable way to reach the airport. The journey from the city centre usually takes 30-40 minutes, though this time may increase due to traffic. The cost of a taxi ride will be higher compared to other options, but it ensures comfort, especially if you have a lot of luggage. It is recommended to use official taxis or pre-book a transfer through your hotel or a specialized service. This guarantees a fixed price and safety.

Public Transport. The most budget-friendly option is local buses running along the main highway near the airport. However, this method is not the most convenient for tourists: you will have to walk some distance from the stop to the terminal with your luggage, and schedules and routes can be unpredictable. There is no direct express bus from the city centre to the airport. This option is suitable for experienced travellers without heavy luggage.

Car Rental and Parking. If you plan to travel around the region on your own, renting a car can be an excellent solution. Offices of several rental companies operate at the airport and in the city. The road to the airport is well-signposted. Paid parking is available at the terminal, where you can leave your vehicle for both short and long periods.

It is worth noting that Alejo García Airport mainly serves domestic flights. For many international journeys, tourists often use larger airports in neighbouring Brazil and Argentina, such as Cataratas Airport (IGU) in Foz do Iguaçu or Cataratas del Iguazú International Airport (IGR) in Puerto Iguazú, located at a distance of about 40-50 km.

Alejo García Airport (AGT), serving the city of Ciudad del Este, is distinguished by its compactness and simple structure, making it very convenient for travellers. The airport consists of one passenger terminal that handles both domestic and international flights. Such an organization significantly simplifies navigation and eliminates the need for long transfers between different buildings.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The building has a logical division into arrival and departure zones. Upon arrival, passengers enter the hall with baggage claim belts, pass through customs control, and exit into the general area where taxi stands and car rental desks are available. The departure zone includes check-in counters, followed by a single security checkpoint leading to the waiting lounge with boarding gates.

One of the main advantages of Alejo García Airport is the speedy completion of all formalities. Unlike major international hubs, long queues are rare here. Generally, arriving 2 hours before departure is sufficient for international flights, while 1-1.5 hours is enough for domestic flights. This allows ample time to calmly check in for the flight, drop off luggage, and pass through security.

Orienting yourself in the airport is very easy. Since there is only one terminal, all key points — from check-in counters to boarding gates — are within walking distance. You will not need to use shuttles or waste time searching for the right building. Clear signage will help you get your bearings quickly. The airport's compactness makes it especially convenient for families with children and those who prefer to avoid the hustle and stress of large aviation hubs.

The history of the air gateway to Ciudad del Este is a story of growth and modernization. Initially, the city was served by a small airport located right within its limits. As the region developed rapidly, its capacity became insufficient, and the runway could not accommodate large liners.

To meet growing demands, a new, modern airport was built and opened in 1993 in the neighbouring district of Minga Guazú. Officially, it inherited the name "Alejo García" from its predecessor, in honour of the Portuguese explorer who was one of the first Europeans in the lands of modern Paraguay. However, to avoid confusion with the old airfield and to pay tribute to the indigenous population, it became widely known as Guaraní International Airport (IATA: AGT).

The construction of the new airport was closely linked to the economic boom caused by the operation of the free trade zone in Ciudad del Este and the proximity to the giant Itaipu hydroelectric power plant. It was designed from the start as an important cargo hub, which remains one of its key functions today. The name "Guaraní" symbolizes a deep connection with the national culture and history.

Since its opening, the airport has not undergone massive reconstructions, as it was built with a large margin of durability and to modern standards. It remains one of the country's two main international airports and plays a key role in the logistics and tourism of the "Triple Frontier" region, connecting Paraguay with Brazil and Argentina. Meanwhile, the old Alejo García airport was closed, and its territory was eventually integrated into the urban development.

Alejo García Airport (AGT) offers passengers a set of essential services to make waiting for a flight comfortable. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is equipped with everything necessary for travellers.

For those feeling hungry, there are cafés and snack bars where you can order light meals, pastries, and beverages. In small shops, you will find souvenirs to remember your trip to Paraguay, press, and essential items. Duty-free shops are available in the departure zone, although their range may be limited.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for your flight. There are also stations for charging mobile devices. For passengers preferring enhanced comfort, a VIP lounge offering drinks, snacks, and a quieter atmosphere may be available. It is recommended to check access conditions with your airline.

The terminal houses ATMs and currency exchange points where you can exchange money or withdraw cash. In case of illness or injury, a medical post is available at the airport, ready to provide first aid.

For families with small children, a mother and child room is provided where you can take care of your baby in a quiet environment. The airport is also equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps and specially adapted restrooms. To request a wheelchair or other assistance, it is best to notify the air carrier in advance.

Although there are no hotels or specialized business centres within the airport building itself, there are several accommodation options in the immediate vicinity. Many hotels near the airport offer shuttle services as well as conference rooms for business meetings.

Alejo García Airport (AGT) in Ciudad del Este is a compact regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited but sufficient for a snack before departure. Do not expect a wide variety of restaurants as in major international hubs; however, finding coffee and snacks is certainly possible.

The main place for dining at the airport is a small café or snack bar, usually located in the general hall before the security checkpoint (landside). Here, passengers are offered a standard selection: coffee, tea, soft drinks, sandwiches, pastries, and light snacks. After passing through security (airside), the choice may be even more modest, potentially limited to vending machines with drinks and snacks.

If you wish to try something from the local cuisine, look for chipa — a traditional Paraguayan bread made from corn flour and cheese, or empanadas — pastries with various fillings. These popular snacks can often be found in local cafés. For a full lunch or dinner, it is recommended to eat in the city before arriving at the airport, as mostly quick snack formats are presented here.

Passengers with specific dietary needs (vegetarians, vegans, or those adhering to a gluten-free or Halal diet) should be prepared for the likelihood that specialized dishes may not be on the menu. The safest options might be fruits, juices, black coffee, or packaged nuts. If you have strict dietary restrictions, the most reliable option is to bring food with you.

Prices at the airport are generally higher than the average in the city. Opening hours of establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule, and they may be closed at night or between departures. We recommend having some local currency for convenience, although credit cards are likely to be accepted in the main café.

When planning a departure from Alejo García Airport in Ciudad del Este, follow our tips to ensure your journey through Paraguay and beyond goes smoothly. Even though it is a regional airport, it is recommended to arrive in advance: 2–3 hours before international flights and 1.5–2 hours before domestic ones. This will give you enough time to go through all procedures calmly. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. This will allow you to proceed directly to baggage drop or, if travelling light, to security control.

When passing through security, remember the standard rules for hand luggage. All liquids must be in containers no larger than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and other dangerous substances are prohibited. Customs control on departure usually proceeds quickly, but be prepared to present documents and answer questions about the purpose of your trip, especially if you have made large purchases, as Ciudad del Este is known as a major shopping hub. Always check the customs regulations of the destination country in advance.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: a window seat offers beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. Emergency exit seats usually offer more legroom but also impose certain responsibilities. If you have a connecting flight, study the layout of the next airport in advance and clarify whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. Alejo García Airport is not a major transit hub, so long layovers here are rare.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information on further actions and your rights to compensation, meals, or accommodation. To save money on your trip, consider booking a taxi or transfer in advance rather than upon arrival at the airport. It is also useful to have a portable charger and small snacks with you to avoid extra spending while waiting for departure.