Capitan de Corbeta Carlos A. Curbelo International Airport

Welcome to the air gateway that sets the tone for your entire journey to the "South American Monaco" from the very first minute. Punta del Este International Airport, elegantly situated on the shores of a picturesque lagoon, is not merely a transit point but a true architectural masterpiece that blends harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. Its famous white roof, mimicking the gentle curves of coastal dunes and ocean waves, promises that your holiday will be just as light and elegant. Here, amidst soothing nature and modern comfort, begins your introduction to one of the continent's most prestigious resorts.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

This airport is rightfully considered one of the most beautiful and convenient in the region. Here is what makes it special:

• Unique Architecture: The terminal was designed by the world-renowned Uruguayan architect Carlos Ott. The building is famous for its futuristic design and panoramic glazing, which allows maximum natural light to penetrate the interior.
• Picturesque Location: Unlike many city airports surrounded by concrete, this complex is located right by the water, next to Laguna del Sauce. Take-off and landing here are accompanied by breathtaking views of the water surface and green hills.
• Private Aviation Hub: Punta del Este is a magnet for the elite, so the airport boasts first-class infrastructure for servicing private jets and VIP guests, ensuring maximum privacy and speed in completing formalities.
• Compactness and Speed: Thanks to the terminal's small size, all procedures — from check-in to baggage claim — are completed very quickly, allowing tourists not to waste precious holiday time in queues.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Punta del Este International Airport (PDP). We recommend checking the currency of the data on the official airport website before your trip.

• Official Website: You can find the latest information on flights, services, and regulations on the official website: www.puntadelesteaeropuerto.com
• Help Desk Phone: For information by phone, you can call: (+598) 4255 9777.
• Airport Address: Ruta 93, km 113, C.P. 20100, Departamento de Maldonado, Uruguay.
• Email: A direct email address is not provided; however, you can use the feedback form on the official airport website.
• Social Media: Follow the news of the management company Aeropuertos Uruguay on Facebook and Instagram.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost or damaged luggage, you should first contact your airline's representative. If the airline cannot assist, contact the airport information service.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general inquiries and assistance at the airport, please contact the help desk at the phone number listed above.

Getting to Capitan de Corbeta Carlos A. Curbelo International Airport (PDP), which serves the famous resort of Punta del Este, is quite simple. The airport is located approximately 20 km from the city centre, near the Punta Ballena area. Travellers have access to several convenient transport options, including buses, taxis, and car rentals, allowing you to choose the best method depending on your budget and preferences.

The most economical way to get to the airport is by public transport. Buses from local companies (such as COT and COPSA) run between the centre of Punta del Este and the airport. This is an excellent choice for budget-conscious tourists who are not burdened with a lot of luggage. The journey will take about 30-40 minutes. It is recommended to check the schedule in advance, especially during the low season, as intervals between buses may be increased.

For maximum comfort and speed, it is worth choosing a taxi or pre-booking a transfer. This is the fastest way to reach the terminal — the trip from the city centre will take approximately 20-25 minutes. Official taxi counters are located directly in the arrivals hall. The cost of the trip will be significantly higher than by bus, but it provides "door-to-door" convenience, which is especially valuable when travelling with children or bulky luggage.

Car rental is an ideal option for those who plan not only to relax in Punta del Este but also to explore the picturesque surroundings of Uruguay. Offices of several international and local rental companies are present at the airport. Having your own transport gives you complete freedom of movement. For the convenience of motorists, parking is available on the airport territory, offering both short-term and long-term parking options.

When planning your trip, it is worth considering that many tourists also arrive via the larger Carrasco International Airport in Montevideo, which is located approximately 86 km away. From there, you can easily reach Punta del Este by a comfortable intercity bus. Some travellers combining a visit to Argentina may fly into Buenos Aires airports, such as Jorge Newbery Airfield or Ezeiza Airport, and then reach the Uruguayan resort by ferry and bus.

The Punta del Este International Airport, also known as Laguna del Sauce Airport, is distinguished by a well-thought-out and modern structure. It consists of one passenger terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, navigation through the airport is intuitive, and there is absolutely no need to transfer between terminals, making the journey more comfortable.

The architectural gem of the terminal is its famous undulating roof, designed by Uruguayan architect Carlos Ott. This not only gives the building a futuristic look but also creates a huge, light-filled interior space. The terminal layout is logical and simple: on the Ground Floor, you will find check-in counters, the arrivals area, baggage claim points, and customs control. The First Floor is entirely dedicated to the departure zone, where, after passing security and passport control, passengers enter a spacious waiting hall with Duty Free shops, cafes, and boarding gates.

Arrival and departure zones are clearly separated by levels, which eliminates confusion. After checking in on the Ground Floor, passengers proceed to the First Floor to complete pre-flight formalities. During the peak season (December-February), it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5-3 hours before an international flight departure, as the number of passengers increases significantly. At other times of the year, 1.5-2 hours is sufficient. Security screening procedures are organised efficiently, but queues are possible during the high season.

For convenient navigation around the airport, simply follow the signs, which are available in multiple languages. The main tip is to remember the two-level structure: everything related to arrival and check-in is downstairs, while departures are upstairs. Thanks to its compactness and logical layout, getting lost in the main airport of one of the most prestigious resorts in Uruguay is practically impossible.

The history of Capitan de Corbeta Carlos A. Curbelo International Airport (PDP) is inextricably linked with the development of Punta del Este as a world-renowned resort. The airport, also known as Laguna del Sauce, is named after one of the pioneers of Uruguayan naval aviation, highlighting its national significance. Although air connections in the region existed previously, the airport acquired its modern appearance and status thanks to a large-scale reconstruction at the end of the 20th century.

A key moment in the airport's history was 1997, when the new passenger terminal was grandly opened. This project became a real revolution for the tourism infrastructure of Uruguay. The design was entrusted to the world-famous Uruguayan architect Carlos Ott, who created a futuristic building with a wave-shaped roof. This impressive structure, according to the author's concept, symbolises a whale washed ashore — a reference to the unique nature of the region.

With the opening of the new terminal, the airport was able to receive large international flights, significantly simplifying access to the resort for tourists from all over the world. This allowed it to become one of the most important transport hubs in South America, especially during the high summer season (from December to February). The airport is famous for its ability to efficiently service not only commercial airlines but also a huge flow of private jets, confirming Punta del Este's status as an elite destination.

Among the interesting facts from the airport's history is its consistent modernisation aimed at maintaining a high level of comfort. For example, it is known for its "silent" policy: flight announcements are made only at the boarding gates, creating a calm atmosphere for passengers. Carlos Ott's architectural solution has received numerous awards and is still considered one of the most beautiful and functional in Latin America, being a landmark of the region in its own right.

Capitan de Corbeta Carlos A. Curbelo International Airport offers passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have coffee or a full lunch. For shopping enthusiasts, there is a Duty Free shop with a wide range of perfumes, cosmetics, and souvenirs, as well as other retail outlets with goods for travellers.

For those who value enhanced comfort, there is a VIP Lounge at the airport. Here, passengers can relax in a quiet atmosphere, enjoying snacks, beverages, and the press. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for mobile phones and other gadgets are installed in the waiting areas near the boarding gates so that you can always stay connected.

Other important services are also available at the airport. You can use ATMs and a currency exchange point to handle financial matters. In case of need, a medical point operates in the terminal, ready to provide first aid. For passengers with small children, mother and child rooms with changing tables are provided. The airport is fully equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility: ramps, special toilets, and staff assistance are provided for moving around the terminal and boarding.

Although there is no hotel directly on the airport grounds, there are many hotels to suit every taste and budget within a few minutes' drive, especially in the direction of Punta del Este. For business travellers, basic business services such as workstations and internet access are usually provided in the VIP Lounge.

The Punta del Este Airport, known for its modern design, offers passengers several convenient options for a snack or a full meal. It is important to note that the choice of establishments may vary depending on the season: in the peak summer months (from December to February), all outlets are open, while in the off-season, their number may be limited. All main cafes and restaurants are conveniently located in both the public and departure zones.

In the main, public area of the airport (landside), before passing security control, a main cafe usually operates. This is a great place to have a coffee, eat a dessert, or have a light snack while seeing off or meeting loved ones. Here, you can typically order sandwiches, pastries, and hot drinks. This is a convenient option for those who have arrived at the airport early.

After passing passport control and screening, in the departure zone (airside), the choice becomes slightly wider. Passengers are greeted by several cafes where they can comfortably spend time waiting for their flight. Here you can not only have a cup of coffee or a refreshing beverage but also order more substantial dishes. This is the last opportunity to have a bite before boarding the plane.

While in Uruguay, be sure to try something from the local cuisine, even if you are at the airport. Look out for empanadas (small pastries with various fillings) or fresh pastries, such as medialunas. If you are lucky, the menu might feature a simplified version of the famous chivito sandwich. For dessert, take an alfajor — a traditional cookie filled with boiled condensed milk (dulce de leche), which makes an excellent edible souvenir.

For those looking for a quick snack, sandwiches, salads, and pastries from the cafes are ideal. For a full lunch, it is better to settle in one of the restaurants in the departure zone. Regarding special dietary needs, choices may be limited, but vegetarian sandwiches or salads can usually be found in most establishments; please check ingredients with staff if you require Halal options. Prices at the airport are generally slightly higher than the city average. The opening hours of catering establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule, ensuring service for all departing and arriving passengers.

To ensure your journey from Punta del Este starts without unnecessary stress, we recommend arriving at Capitan de Corbeta Carlos A. Curbelo International Airport in advance. For international flights, allow 2.5-3 hours before departure, and for domestic ones — about 1.5-2 hours. This will give you enough time to calmly go through all procedures, especially during the high season. Many airlines offer online check-in, which allows you to save time and choose a convenient seat on the plane from home.

When going through security control, be prepared to present laptops and other large electronics separately. Remember the standard rules for carrying liquids in hand luggage: the volume of each container must not exceed 100 ml, and all of them must be packed in one transparent bag. Always keep valuable items, documents, money, and necessary medicines with you in your hand luggage.

Seat selection on the plane can significantly affect flight comfort. Window seats will give you stunning views during take-off and landing, especially over the picturesque coast of Uruguay. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight. If you need more legroom, pay attention to seats near emergency exits, but note that certain restrictions may apply to them.

Upon arrival or departure from the country, you will have to pass customs control. Familiarise yourself in advance with the rules for importing and exporting goods and currency to avoid misunderstandings. If you have a connection at Punta del Este airport, check with your airline whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. Ensure you have enough time between flights.

There are several ways to save money at the airport. Book a transfer to or from the city online in advance — this is often cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot. Take an empty reusable water bottle with you to fill it after passing security control. Prices in Duty Free shops may vary, so if you plan to make purchases, compare them with costs in the city.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline's counter for the latest information. Remain calm and find out about your rights: depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Having travel insurance can also help compensate for unforeseen expenses.