Overview of El Alto International Airport
El Alto International Airport is a major airport located in the city of El Alto, Bolivia. It serves as the main gateway to the city of La Paz, which is located just a few kilometers away. The airport is situated at an altitude of over 4,000 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest commercial airports in the world.
The airport was opened in 1965 and has since undergone several expansions and renovations to keep up with the increasing demand for air travel in the region. Today, it is one of the busiest airports in Bolivia, handling over 1.5 million passengers annually.
El Alto International Airport is served by several domestic and international airlines, including Boliviana de Aviación, Amaszonas, LATAM Airlines, and Avianca. It offers direct flights to several destinations in South America, including Lima, Santiago, Buenos Aires, and São Paulo.
The airport features a modern terminal building with several amenities for travelers, including restaurants, cafes, shops, and duty-free stores. It also has several lounges for passengers with access to premium services.
In addition, El Alto International Airport is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for cargo handling and transportation, making it an important center for air freight in the region.
Overall, El Alto International Airport is a vital hub for air travel in Bolivia and an important gateway for travelers to the region. With its modern facilities and strategic location, it continues to play a crucial role in the growth and development of the aviation industry in South America.
Terminals at El Alto International Airport
El Alto International Airport is the main airport serving the city of La Paz, Bolivia. It has one terminal building that is divided into two sections: the domestic terminal and the international terminal.
The domestic terminal serves flights within Bolivia and is located on the ground floor of the building. It has eight boarding gates and a capacity to handle up to 1.5 million passengers annually. Passengers traveling domestically can find a variety of services such as restaurants, shops, and a currency exchange office in the terminal.
The international terminal, located on the upper floor, serves flights to and from other countries. It has six boarding gates and a capacity to serve up to 1 million passengers per year. The terminal offers a range of amenities including duty-free shops, cafés, and a VIP lounge for premium travelers.
Both terminals are modern and well-equipped with facilities that make travel convenient and comfortable. Immigration and customs procedures are efficient and fast, making the airport a popular choice among travelers.
In addition to the main terminal, El Alto International Airport has a cargo terminal that handles a significant amount of air cargo traffic. It is located separately from the passenger terminal and has the capacity to handle up to 150,000 tons of cargo per year.
Overall, the terminals at El Alto International Airport provide an excellent travel experience for passengers. The airport’s modern facilities and efficient services contribute to making it one of the best airports in the region.
Airlines and Destinations
The following airlines operate from El Alto International Airport:
-Amaszonas: La Paz, Rurrenabaque, Santa Cruz, Sucre, Tarija, Uyuni, Cusco (Peru)
-Avianca: Bogotá (Colombia)
-Boliviana de Aviación (BoA): Cochabamba, Guayaramerín, La Paz, Miami (USA), Madrid (Spain), Sao Paulo (Brazil)
-LATAM Airlines: Iquique (Chile), Lima (Peru), Santiago de Chile (Chile)
-Sky Airline: Iquique (Chile), Santiago de Chile (Chile)
Domestically, airlines connect El Alto Airport to main Bolivian cities such as Cochabamba, Santa Cruz, Sucre, Tarija, and Uyuni.
Internationally, direct flights are available to Santiago de Chile, Lima, Bogotá, and Sao Paulo. Connecting flights are available to cities in North America, Europe, and elsewhere in South America, through connecting flights in Santiago, Lima, or Sao Paulo.
Seasonal changes may occur for some routes, particularly flights to leisure destinations, such as Rurrenabaque, or Cusco. It is recommended to check directly with the airlines to obtain accurate and up-to-date information about flight schedules and seasonal changes.
Transportation Options at El Alto International Airport
El Alto International Airport is the main airport serving La Paz, Bolivia. It is located in the city of El Alto, approximately 13 kilometers from the downtown area of La Paz. In terms of transportation options, the airport offers a range of choices for travelers.
The easiest and most convenient way to get from the airport to the city center is by taking a shuttle service. There are several shuttle companies that operate at the airport, offering transfers to hotels and other destinations in La Paz. These shuttles can be booked in advance or arranged upon arrival at the airport. They are typically comfortable and reliable, and they offer a good value for the price.
Another option for transportation from the airport is car rental. Several international car rental companies have offices at the airport, including Hertz, Avis, and Eurocar. Renting a car allows travelers to explore the city and surrounding areas at their own pace, and it can be a good option for those planning to stay in La Paz for an extended period of time.
For those who prefer not to rent a car, there is a shuttle bus that runs between the airport and the city center. The bus is operated by TransRedes and departs from the airport every hour. The cost of the shuttle bus is very affordable, making it a popular choice for budget travelers.
There are also train lines that run between El Alto and La Paz. The train station is located just a few minutes’ walk from the airport terminal. The train is a unique and scenic way to travel between the two cities, and it is a good option for those who want to avoid traffic or who simply enjoy train travel.
In conclusion, El Alto International Airport offers a range of transportation options for travelers arriving in La Paz. Whether you prefer the convenience of a shuttle, the independence of renting a car, or the novelty of traveling by train, there is an option that will suit your needs and budget.
Parking Options at El Alto International Airport
El Alto International Airport offers a variety of parking options for travelers. The airport has both covered and uncovered parking lots close to the terminals. Travelers who need to park their car for a few hours can use the short-term parking lot. Those who need to park for a longer duration can use the long-term parking lot.
The short-term parking lot is located a short distance from the terminal and is ideal for quick trips. The parking rates for the short-term lot start at $3 per hour, and the daily maximum rate is $30. Travelers who need to park their cars for an extended period should opt for the long-term parking lot. The daily rate for long-term parking starts at $10, and the weekly rate is $70.
In addition to the standard parking options, El Alto International Airport also offers valet parking services. Valet parking is available at the terminal entrance, and travelers can drop off their cars with a professional valet. The valet service costs $20 per day.
Overall, El Alto International Airport offers convenient and cost-effective parking options for travelers. Whether you need to park for a few hours or a few days, the airport has a parking option that will suit your needs.
Check-In Procedures
At El Alto International Airport, passengers have three options for check-in: online, self-service kiosks, or traditional check-in counters.
Online check-in is available 48 hours before the scheduled departure time and can be done through the airline’s website or mobile app. Passengers can select their seats, print their boarding passes, and even pay for any additional baggage fees online.
Self-service kiosks are located throughout the airport and allow passengers to check-in, select seats, and print boarding passes on their own. These kiosks are available 24 hours a day and are a great option for those who prefer to avoid long lines.
For passengers who prefer a more personal touch, traditional check-in counters are still available. These counters are staffed by airline agents who can assist with any questions or issues during the check-in process.
No matter which method is chosen, it is important for passengers to have their passport and any necessary travel documents ready. They should also arrive at the airport with plenty of time before the flight to ensure a smooth check-in process.
Overall, El Alto International Airport provides a variety of check-in options to accommodate the needs and preferences of all passengers.
Ensuring Your Security at El Alto International Airport
At El Alto International Airport, security measures are in place to ensure the safety of all passengers. These procedures include baggage screening, metal detectors, and body scans.
To avoid delays and a stressful experience, make sure to remove any metal objects such as jewelry or belts before going through security. Pack liquids, gels, and aerosols in a clear plastic bag and make sure they comply with the airline’s regulations.
Also, avoid wearing items that may trigger metal detectors, such as shoes with metal soles.
By following these tips and being prepared for the security check process, you can help ensure a smooth and stress-free experience at El Alto International Airport.
Customs and Immigration Process at El Alto International Airport
Upon arrival at El Alto International Airport, passengers must present their passports, visa (if required), and a completed customs declaration form. The immigration officer will then verify the information and stamp the passport.
After clearing immigration, passengers proceed to baggage claim to collect their luggage before proceeding to customs clearance. Customs officers may randomly select bags for inspection or ask passengers to participate in a more thorough examination if there is suspicion of any illegal items.
For departing passengers, they must show their passports and boarding passes at the immigration counter and pay any applicable departure taxes. Luggage will be screened by security personnel before entering the departure lounge.
It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours before the scheduled departure time to allow plenty of time for the customs and immigration process.
Amenities
– Free Wi-Fi
– Duty-free shops
– Restaurants and cafes
– ATMs and banks
– Currency exchange
– VIP lounges
– Children’s play areas
– Business centers
– Luggage storage
– Medical facilities
– Prayer rooms
El Alto International Airport offers a wide range of amenities for its passengers. Travelers can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the airport, making it easy to stay connected while waiting for their flights. The airport also has duty-free shops where passengers can buy tax-free items such as liquor, perfume, and souvenirs.
For those looking to grab a bite to eat, there are numerous restaurants and cafes available that offer a variety of international cuisine. Additionally, there are ATMs and banks located throughout the airport, as well as currency exchange services.
For passengers looking for a more luxurious experience, the airport has VIP lounges that offer comfortable seating, complimentary food and beverages, and other amenities. Families traveling with children can take advantage of the children’s play areas, which provide a safe and fun environment for kids to play in.
Business travelers can make use of the airport’s business centers, which offer a range of services such as printing, copying, and faxing. Passengers can also store their luggage at the airport if they need to do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing before their flight.
The airport has medical facilities available in case of emergencies, and there are prayer rooms for those needing a place to pray. With all these amenities, passengers can relax and enjoy their time at El Alto International Airport.
Accessibility Services
El Alto International Airport is committed to ensuring that all passengers have equal opportunities to travel. The airport has facilities and services available for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues. These facilities and services include:
– Wheelchair assistance
– Ramps and lifts
– Accessible parking spaces
– Tactile paths
Passengers with disabilities who require special assistance can contact the airport’s special assistance desk in advance or upon arrival. The airport staff will provide personal assistance from check-in to boarding and disembarkation.
Connecting Flights at El Alto International Airport
Connecting flights at El Alto International Airport can be easy if you plan ahead. First, make sure you have enough time between flights. The airport recommends at least two hours for domestic connections and three hours for international connections.
When you arrive at the airport, follow the signs to your next gate. If you have luggage to check in, drop it off at the designated counter before proceeding to security.
Make sure to check if your connecting flight departs from a different terminal or concourse. Some flights may require a shuttle bus or train ride to get to the correct gate.
If you’re running late, inform a staff member or airline representative as soon as possible. They may be able to help you rebook your flight or arrange for an escort to expedite your transfer.
Overall, staying organized and aware of your flight’s details will make catching a connecting flight at El Alto International Airport a smooth process.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Upon arrival at El Alto International Airport, passengers will proceed to the baggage claim area where they can collect their checked luggage. Bags will come out on a conveyor belt, and passengers should check the luggage tags to confirm that they have the correct bags.
If a passenger’s luggage has been lost or damaged during the flight, they should proceed to the airline’s baggage service office, located in the baggage claim area. The passenger should report the lost or damaged luggage to the airline representative and complete a baggage claim form.
Passengers should keep a copy of the baggage claim form and any receipts for expenses incurred due to the lost or damaged luggage. The airline will use the information provided to track down the missing or damaged luggage and attempt to return it to the passenger as quickly as possible.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of emergency, trained airport personnel are available to provide immediate assistance.
The airport also has medical facilities equipped with modern equipment and staffed by qualified medical professionals.
Passengers requiring medical attention or medication can request assistance at the airport’s medical center.
Additionally, there are ambulances on standby in case of emergencies that require immediate transport to a hospital.
Hotel Accommodations
For those in need of a place to stay near El Alto International Airport, there are several options within close proximity. The Hotel Casa Grande located just 2.4 km away from the airport offers a restaurant, bar, and free airport shuttle service.
Another option is the Qantu Hotel which is situated 3.7 km from the airport and provides guests with free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour front desk, and an on-site restaurant. For a more luxurious experience, the Stannum Boutique Hotel and Spa is only 4.9 km away and features a spa, fitness center, and rooftop terrace.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Hotel Alexander is a short 5.1 km drive from the airport and offers comfortable accommodations at an affordable price. The Apart Hotel Los Delfines, which is 6.2 km from the airport, is also a great option for budget-conscious travelers with its fully equipped apartments and complimentary breakfast.
Useful Tips
Navigating and enjoying El Alto International Airport can be an overwhelming experience for first-time travelers.
To make your trip to Bolivia as smooth as possible, here are a few insider tips to keep in mind.
First, be sure to arrive at the airport well in advance of your flight.
Security lines can be long and time-consuming, so it’s best to give yourself plenty of time to get through them.
Next, consider using the airport’s VIP lounge if you have a long layover or just need a quiet place to relax.
The lounge offers comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and even complimentary snacks and beverages.
If you’re traveling with young children, be sure to take advantage of the airport’s play area.
This fenced-off section of the departure lounge is equipped with toys, games, and even a small slide to keep your little ones entertained.
And finally, don’t forget to stock up on souvenirs before you leave the airport.
El Alto International Airport has a wide variety of gift shops selling everything from traditional Bolivian clothing to handmade crafts and jewelry.
Contact Information
– General information: +591 2 2811788
– Customer Service: +591 2 2811520
– Lost and Found: +591 2 2811681
– Customs: +591 2 2811190
– Immigration: +591 2 2811383
– Medical Services: +591 2 2811368
– Airport Police: +591 2 2811299
– Airport Security: +591 2 2811246
Airports Near El Alto International Airport
There are several other airports in the vicinity of El Alto International Airport that travelers may consider:
- La Paz International Airport (LPB) – located approximately 7 miles from El Alto International Airport, transportation options include taxi or local bus.
- Cochabamba Jorge Wilstermann International Airport (CBB) – located approximately 160 miles from El Alto International Airport, transportation options include domestic flights and long-distance buses.
- Santa Cruz Viru Viru International Airport (VVI) – located approximately 600 miles from El Alto International Airport, transportation options include domestic flights and long-distance buses.
It is important to note that flight schedules and availability may vary by airport. It is recommended to check with airlines and travel agents for up-to-date information on flight options and transportation logistics.