Santa Cruz Viru Viru Airport

VVI Airport Insights & Guide

Tony Hanseder

Updated: August 28, 2024

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• Frequent Flier Tips
• Navigating the Terminals
• Connecting Between Terminals
• Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
• Parking Facilities & Options
• Transportation Options
• Airport Hotels
• Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
• Passenger Services
• Flight Status Info
• Airport Facts & Stats
• Airport History
• Airport Contact Information
• Frequently Asked Questions

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at Santa Cruz Viru Airport (VVI) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from VVI-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"Santa Cruz Viru Airport has two main terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 is primarily for domestic flights, while Terminal 2 handles international flights. If you're connecting between domestic and international flights, give yourself at least 45 minutes to navigate between the terminals." — Juan P., Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, August 2023

"The signage at VVI is pretty straightforward, but if you ever feel lost, the information desks are very helpful. They are located near the main entrances of both terminals." — Maria R., Montero, Bolivia, July 2023

Getting To/From the City

"The airport is about 16 kilometers from downtown Santa Cruz. I recommend using the official airport taxis for safety and reliability. They have a fixed rate, so you won’t have to worry about being overcharged." — Carlos M., Cotoca, Bolivia, September 2023

"If you're looking to save some money, the local bus service is a good option. The bus stop is right outside the main terminal, and the fare is very affordable. Just make sure you have some local currency on hand." — Ana S., La Guardia, Bolivia, October 2023

Parking

"Parking at VVI can get crowded, especially during peak travel times. The long-term parking lot is a better option if you're leaving your car for more than a couple of days. It's a bit farther from the terminal, but there’s a free shuttle service that runs every 15 minutes." — Diego L., Warnes, Bolivia, November 2023

"For short trips, the short-term parking lot is very convenient. It's right next to the terminal, so you can quickly get in and out. Just be aware that it fills up fast during holidays." — Sofia G., El Torno, Bolivia, December 2023

Inside the Airport

"If you have a long layover, the VIP lounges in Terminal 2 are worth the price. They offer comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary snacks and drinks. It’s a great way to relax before your flight." — Luis F., Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, January 2024

"For food options, there are several good choices in both terminals. My favorite is the local empanada stand in Terminal 1. It’s a quick and tasty option if you’re in a hurry." — Carla V., Montero, Bolivia, February 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Check the airport's website for real-time wait times at security checkpoints. It can save you a lot of stress, especially during peak hours. I always aim to arrive at least two hours before my flight." — Ricardo T., Cotoca, Bolivia, March 2024

"If you’re traveling internationally, make sure to have all your documents ready before you reach the immigration counters. It speeds up the process and reduces the stress of last-minute searches." — Elena J., La Guardia, Bolivia, April 2024

Getting to Know VVI Airport

Welcome to Santa Cruz Viru Viru Airport, Bolivia's primary international gateway and a hub for connections across South America. Our concise guide offers essential information, from flight status to terminal amenities, ensuring a seamless journey.

Explore VVI with our guide, featuring everything from parking to dining, and discover why it's renowned for its unique butterfly-shaped terminal. Navigate your travel smoothly with us.

For a detailed look at airports globally, visit our Comprehensive Airport Guide.

Navigating VVI's Terminals

VVI has one main terminal building with two levels. The terminal has a total of 24 gates, with 14 gates on the ground level and 10 gates on the upper level. The terminal is divided into two concourses, Concourse A and Concourse B. Concourse A has gates 1-9 and Concourse B has gates 10-24.

Major airlines such as American Airlines, Avianca, and LATAM Airlines use Concourse A, while Concourse B is used by airlines such as Boliviana de Aviación, Copa Airlines, and EcoJet. The terminal offers a variety of services and amenities, including restaurants, cafes, duty-free shops, ATMs, and currency exchange booths.

To navigate the airport terminals, passengers can follow the signs and directions provided throughout the terminal building. The airport also offers a mobile app that provides real-time flight information, terminal maps, and other useful features to help passengers navigate the airport with ease.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

At VVI Airport, there is only one terminal building, so passengers do not need to worry about navigating between terminals. All gates and facilities are located within the same building, making it easy for passengers to move around the airport and access all necessary services. The airport offers a variety of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and lounges, which can be found throughout the terminal building.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

When it comes to picking up and dropping off passengers at Santa Cruz Airport, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, curbside parking is restricted to active loading and unloading only. Drivers are not allowed to leave their vehicles unattended at any time. If you need to park for an extended period, it's best to use the airport's parking facilities.

For those who are picking up passengers, there is a designated cell-phone waiting area where you can wait until your party has collected their luggage and is ready to be picked up. This area is located just a short distance from the terminal, and it's free to use for up to 30 minutes. Simply park your vehicle and wait until you receive a call or text from your passenger.

Parking Facilities & Options

When it comes to parking at VVI Airport, travelers have several options to choose from. The airport offers both covered and uncovered parking options, including a multi-level parking garage and outdoor lots. The parking facilities are conveniently located near the terminal, making it easy for passengers to access their vehicles.

For those who are picking up arriving passengers, the airport also has a cell phone waiting area available. This area allows drivers to wait in their vehicles until their passengers have arrived and are ready to be picked up.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking areas, with designated spaces located near the terminal entrance for easy access.

For those who are looking for more economical parking options, off-airport parking is also available. These parking lots are located near the airport and offer shuttle service to and from the terminal. This can be a great option for travelers who are looking to save money on parking fees.

Transportation Options

The airport offers a variety of ground transportation options to suit the needs of travelers:

• Car Rentals: Several major providers such as Avis, Budget, and Hertz are available on-site at the airport. These providers offer a range of vehicles to choose from, including economy, compact, and luxury cars. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel times, to ensure availability.
• Taxis: Taxi services are available at the airport, with designated drop-off areas located outside the terminal building. Fares are typically charged by the meter, and it is recommended to confirm the fare with the driver before beginning the journey. Taxis provide a convenient and quick way to reach your destination.
• Ride-Share Services: Shared ride services are available with pickup areas located outside the terminal building. These services offer a more cost-effective option, but it is important to note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and luggage allowed. Popular ride-share options include Uber and local equivalents.
• Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles provide services to various destinations within the city. Pickup areas are located outside the terminal building, and fares may vary depending on the destination. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy periods.
• Public Transportation: Public transportation options such as buses are available for those looking to save money on transportation. Buses and taxis are available outside the terminal building, with fares typically being lower than other transportation options. However, it is important to note that these services may have limited schedules and routes. Check the latest bus schedules and routes to plan your trip accordingly.

Airport Hotels

Traveling can be quite exhausting, and finding a comfortable place to rest near the airport can make a significant difference. Whether you're on a business trip, a vacation, or just passing through, the convenience of staying near the airport is unparalleled. This guide provides a selection of the best hotels near the airport, each offering unique features and amenities to suit a variety of preferences and budgets. From luxury hotels with tranquil outdoor swimming pools and luxurious spas to comfortable accommodations with complimentary amenities such as Wi-Fi and private parking, there's something for every traveler. Moreover, these hotels are not just close to the airport but also within easy reach of local attractions, making them an ideal choice for those looking to explore the vibrant city. So whether you're looking for a quick overnight stay or a longer, more leisurely visit, you're sure to find a hotel that fits your needs. View all Santa Cruz Viru Airport Hotels now.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

If you're looking for a bite to eat or some last-minute shopping before your flight at the airport, you're in luck. The airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options to suit any taste or budget. For a quick snack or coffee, head to Starbucks or Dunkin' Donuts, both located in the main terminal. If you have a bit more time, sit down for a meal at La Terraza, a restaurant serving traditional Bolivian cuisine, or grab a burger at Johnny Rockets. Both are located in the departures area.

For shopping, check out the Duty Free store for tax-free purchases of liquor, cosmetics, and more. If you need some reading material for the flight, stop by Libreria Internacional for a selection of books and magazines. And if you're looking for souvenirs or gifts, head to Artesanias Bolivianas for handmade crafts and textiles.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Santa Cruz Viru Viru Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.

Passenger Services

• Free Wi-Fi: Santa Cruz Viru Viru Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
• Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is available at the airport for your convenience.
• Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Santa Cruz Viru Viru Airport features a designated children's area where kids can play and relax before their flight.
• Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
• ATM: ATMs are available throughout the airport, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
• Medical Center: In case of a medical emergency, a medical center is available on site to provide necessary assistance.
• Airport Lounges: Santa Cruz Viru Viru Airport features the VIP Lounge, accessible to all passengers for a fee or through membership programs. The lounge offers amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, and a comfortable seating area to relax before your flight. Additionally, the lounge provides a quiet space with workstations and other facilities for those needing to freshen up before a long journey.

Flight Status Info

As a traveler, it's important to stay updated on the status of your flight departure. Fortunately, there are several ways to check the flight status at Santa Cruz Airport in Bolivia.

One of the most convenient ways to check flight status is by using the in-airport flight displays (FIDS). These displays are located throughout the airport and provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Passengers can also be alerted about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via the use of airline mobile phone apps and other methods like text, email and push notifications. Simply download the app for your airline and enable notifications to receive updates on your flight status.

Lastly, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at VVI by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

By utilizing these resources, travelers can stay informed and prepared for any changes to their flight schedule.

Airport Facts & Stats

• Location: Santa Cruz Viru Viru Airport (VVI) is located in Santa Cruz, Bolivia.
• Terminal: The airport has a single terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights.
• Airlines Served: Major airlines include Boliviana de Aviación, LATAM Airlines, and Avianca. For a complete list of airlines, visit the VVI Airlines Served page.
• Passenger Traffic: The airport handles approximately 10,000 passengers daily.
• Daily Flights: Santa Cruz Viru Viru Airport sees around 100 daily flights.
• Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from VVI are La Paz, Cochabamba, Sucre, Miami, and Sao Paulo.
• Hub Status: The airport is a hub for Boliviana de Aviación, Amaszonas, and EcoJet.

Airport History

Santa Cruz Viru Viru Airport, located in Bolivia, has a rich history dating back to the 1950s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

• 1950s - The airport was built by the Bolivian government to serve as a military base.
• 1975 - Viru Viru Airport was opened to commercial flights, becoming the largest airport in Bolivia.
• 1980s - The airport underwent a major expansion, with the construction of a new terminal building and runway.
• 1990s - Viru Viru Airport became a hub for several airlines, including Lloyd Aereo Boliviano and Aerosur.
• 2000s - The airport continued to grow, with the addition of new airlines and destinations.
• 2010s - A new international terminal was opened, allowing the airport to handle more passengers and flights.
• 2020 - Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, Viru Viru Airport remained open and continued to operate flights to domestic and international destinations.

Today, Santa Cruz Airport is one of the busiest airports in South America, serving millions of passengers each year.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Viru Viru International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

• IATA Code: VVI
• Airport Website
• Phone: +591 3 358-6110
• Email: [email protected]
• Mailing Address: Viru Viru International Airport, Av. Viru Viru Km 13, Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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