Viru Viru International Airport serves as Bolivia’s main air gateway to the world. Located in the highlands near Cochabamba, it handles most international and domestic flights. The airport sits at over 13,000 feet above sea level making it one of the highest commercial airports globally. Its runways accommodate large planes despite altitude challenges. Travelers experience clear mountain views from arrival areas while navigating customs and baggage claim. The facility includes basic amenities like shops and restaurants for short layovers or connecting flights to other Bolivian cities.
| Power Grid: |
220 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type A , Type C
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
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| Currency: |
Bolivian Boliviano (BOB) £1 ≈ BOB 15.88 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 3/5
Cashless payments are becoming more common in Bolivia, particularly in larger cities, but cash is still widely used, especially in rural areas.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not mandatory in Bolivia, but leaving 10% in restaurants and small tips for taxi drivers or hotel staff is appreciated. |
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| Public drinking: | Public drinking is not common in Bolivia and is not widely accepted outside of private spaces or licensed establishments. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is allowed in designated smoking areas and licensed establishments but is prohibited in most indoor public spaces. |
| Dia del Trabajo (Labour Day) (May) |
Expect some business closures and public celebrations. |
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| Carnival (February) |
Expect lively celebrations, street parties, and crowded events. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 110 (Police), 118 (Ambulance), 119 (Fire) |
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| Taxi apps: | Cabify, Uber |
| Other: | Bolivia offers a range of natural attractions, including the Uyuni salt flats, the Amazon rainforest, and the high-altitude city of La Paz. |
Viru Viru International Airport serves as Bolivia’s main gateway to global travel. Located near the city of Cochabamba the airport handles both domestic flights and international routes connecting travelers to key destinations across South America. Its role as a transport hub means it processes thousands of passengers each year making it essential for tourism business and cargo movement.
The facility includes modern terminals equipped with security checkpoints baggage claim areas and waiting lounges. Passengers can find food shops currency exchange services and basic medical assistance within the premises. The airport operates daily with flights operated by airlines such as LATAM Avianca and Bolivia Airway providing regular schedules to major cities like Santa Cruz La Paz and Lima.
Located in Terminal 2, the Viru‑Viru Airport VIP Lounge offers a quiet retreat for travellers. For a fee of €27 (£22.67), passengers enjoy complimentary coffee, tea, bottled water, Wi‑Fi, newspapers and charging stations. Comfortable sofas and individual desks are available; no showers or full meals are provided. The lounge also provides free Wi‑Fi.
To Santa Cruz de la Sierra:
From VVI, take the official airport shuttle bus (Route 10) heading downtown. The ride lasts about 30 minutes and costs BOB 15 (£0.96). Buses run every 20–30 minutes from 6 am to midnight. Arrive at Plaza 24 de Septiembre; be mindful of luggage security.
To Puerto Suárez:
To reach Puerto Suárez, board a private taxi or hire a local driver from the airport’s car‑hire desk. The 2‑hour drive costs roughly BOB 200 – 250 (£12.78 – 15.98). Taxis depart hourly; keep your passport handy for border checks and ensure you have cash in Bolivianos.
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