Chimore Airport

Overview

Chimore International Airport serves the town of Chimore and the broader Chapare region in central Bolivia. Despite its international designation, the airport primarily handles domestic flights and occasional charter or cargo operations, linking this tropical lowland area with Bolivia's major cities such as Cochabamba, Santa Cruz, and La Paz. The airport plays a vital role for travellers heading to the Amazon basin or the eastern slopes of the Andes, offering a convenient entry point for those exploring the region's unique ecosystems and cultural sites. Given its small size and limited traffic, the airport provides a straightforward, no-fuss experience, with basic services tailored to the needs of passengers.

Location & Access

Chimore International Airport is located approximately 2 kilometres southeast of the town centre of Chimore, in the Cochabamba Department of Bolivia. The town sits at the edge of the Chapare Province, a humid lowland area at the foot of the Andes. The airport's address is Carretera Antigua a Santa Cruz, near the main road connecting Cochabamba to Santa Cruz. Most travellers reach the airport by private vehicle or taxi, as public transport options are limited. Taxis are available from Chimore town centre and typically cost a modest fare. For those driving, there is a wheelchair-accessible car park on site. The nearest major city is Cochabamba, about 150 kilometres southwest, a drive of roughly 2.5 to 3 hours along the Carretera Cochabamba–Santa Cruz highway. The airport also serves as a gateway to the nearby National Park Carrasco and the Chapare River, popular for eco-tourism.

Facilities

Chimore International Airport offers a limited but functional range of amenities to ensure a comfortable experience for all passengers. The terminal is equipped with wheelchair-accessible features, including designated parking spaces, an entrance with ramps, and accessible toilets. Baggage storage is available for those who wish to explore the area without their luggage. Standard toilet facilities are present. Note that the airport does not have a restaurant or café, so travellers should bring snacks or plan to eat in Chimore town before arrival. There are no currency exchange services, so ensure you have Bolivian bolivianos before arriving. The airport operates with basic check-in and waiting areas, and passengers should expect a low-key environment.

About the Region

The Chapare region, where Chimore is situated, is known for its lush tropical forests, rolling hills, and extensive river systems. It lies in the transition zone between the high Andes and the Amazon lowlands, offering a rich biodiversity that attracts hikers, birdwatchers, and nature enthusiasts. The area is historically associated with coca cultivation, but it also produces citrus fruits, bananas, and other tropical crops. Travellers often use Chimore as a starting point for visits to indigenous communities, jungle treks, or river expeditions. The nearby Carrasco National Park protects cloud forests and is home to spectacled bears, jaguars, and hundreds of bird species. The climate is warm and humid year-round, with a rainy season from November to March. The airport's international classification reflects potential future growth, but currently it serves mostly domestic travellers and those on specialised tours.

Practical Information

The airport is open on select days only; it does not operate daily. Its busiest hours are late at night, particularly around 11 pm and midnight, likely coinciding with scheduled flights or cargo operations. Passengers should confirm flight times and airport opening hours with their airline ahead of travel, as schedules can be irregular. For inquiries, the airport can be contacted by phone at +591 71730692. There is no official website currently available. Check-in is typically handled at a small counter, and security procedures are basic. Given the limited facilities, travellers are advised to arrive with all essentials, including water and snacks. The airport's wheelchair-accessible infrastructure ensures that passengers with reduced mobility can navigate the terminal with relative ease. Plan ahead for transport to and from the airport, as taxis may need to be pre-arranged in Chimore town.