Last checked: October 2026
Safety note: the US State Department warns that roadblocks and strikes can cut off airport access and delay flights. Read the Bolivia safety notice, the UK advice and the US advisory before you book.
Which airport do you fly into for Bolivia?
Most international visitors use either El Alto International Airport (LPB) near La Paz or Viru Viru International Airport (VVI) in Santa Cruz. El Alto sits at about 4,070 metres, so arrival at altitude can be tough. Santa Cruz is in the warm lowlands and links to La Paz by direct flights. Routes change often, so check current schedules.
Bolivia’s main airports compared
| Airport | Code | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| El Alto International | LPB | About 16 km from central La Paz | Elevation about 4,071 m. One data provider listed about 23 flights a day to nine destinations in February 2026, with three international routes. Colombia was the largest international market. |
| Viru Viru International | VVI | About 18 km from central Santa Cruz | Bolivia’s largest hub. A lowland arrival point, with direct flights to La Paz. |
| Jorge Wilstermann | CBB | Cochabamba | Serves domestic routes and some international flights. |
Domestic flights between La Paz and Santa Cruz cover about 550 km, and one listing in May 2026 showed about 85 flights a week in each direction.
Which airlines fly to and within Bolivia?
BoA (Boliviana de Aviación) is the main carrier, flying most routes from El Alto, according to an airport data provider. Long-haul visitors usually connect through regional hubs, and Bogotá is La Paz’s biggest international market. Because airlines add and drop routes often, search live fares on your dates.
A travel operator notes that small-airport routes, such as flights into Uyuni and Rurrenabaque, cancel more often in the wet season. Keep a buffer day before any international flight home.
How do you get from the airport to the city?
- Taxi: the usual option at El Alto and Viru Viru. Agree the fare or use a trusted service before you get in.
- Hotel pickup: ask your accommodation to arrange a driver. This is useful after a long flight, especially at altitude.
- Bus or shared transport: available at both airports. Check current routes on arrival.
The State Department warns that theft of bags, wallets and backpacks is a problem in tourist areas and on overnight buses. Keep valuables close on arrival and use a bag you can carry easily.
Can you travel to Bolivia overland?
Yes. Travellers cross from Peru via Lake Titicaca and Copacabana, from Chile into the Uyuni region, from Argentina at Villazón, from Brazil via Corumbá and from Paraguay across the Chaco. Land crossings can be slow and subject to disruption, so check border rules and your documents. Read our Bolivia visa guide for entry rules and the pre-registration step reported by travel sites.
What time zone is Bolivia in?
Bolivia uses UTC minus 4, according to flight tracking data. Plan for fatigue and altitude effects together if you arrive on an overnight flight, and keep your first day easy.
Booking tips for flights to Bolivia
- Compare options into La Paz and Santa Cruz. Starting in Santa Cruz can help some travellers adjust to altitude more gradually.
- Check baggage rules on multi-airline itineraries.
- Choose flexible fares, because blockades and strikes can disrupt travel.
- Book domestic legs for Uyuni and Rurrenabaque with extra buffer time.
- Check the UK advice and US advisory, and confirm what your travel insurance covers.
Common mistakes
- Landing at El Alto and scheduling a strenuous activity the same day.
- Booking tight connections between international and domestic flights.
- Not checking visa or pre-registration steps before buying a ticket.
- Ignoring fuel and blockade news when arranging airport transfers.
Before You Fly: checklist
- Check your entry rules with Bolivia’s foreign ministry.
- Carry your yellow fever certificate if you have one.
- Confirm your passport validity with your airline.
- Arrange an airport pickup or trusted taxi.
- Pack altitude basics: water, sun protection and layers.
- Read the safety advisories again a few days before departure.
Three quick answers
Which airport should most visitors choose?
La Paz (LPB) if you want the highlands straight away, or Santa Cruz (VVI) if you prefer to start at a lower altitude and travel up. Both have direct domestic links.
Is there a direct flight to Bolivia from my country?
Long-haul direct flights are limited, and many travellers connect through regional hubs. Check current schedules, because routes change often.
What time zone does Bolivia use?
UTC minus 4, according to flight tracking data.
Flight Deals
Compare current offers below. Always confirm the final price, taxes and cancellation terms on the partner site.
Flights to Bolivia FAQs
How high is El Alto airport?
About 4,071 metres above sea level, which makes it one of the highest international airports in the world. Many travellers feel altitude effects on arrival, so rest, drink water and take it slowly on the first day.
How far is El Alto airport from La Paz?
Roughly 16 km from the centre. Taxis and hotel pickups are common. Agree a fare in advance or use a trusted service, and keep valuables with you.
Can blockades affect flights?
Yes. The US State Department says roadblocks can restrict airport access, and that domestic and international flights may be delayed or cancelled. Leave a buffer before any international flight and check news before heading to the airport.
Are there flights between La Paz and Santa Cruz?
Yes, direct flights run many times a week, covering about 550 km, with BoA among the main operators. Check current schedules, because services change and delays can occur.
