# El Alto International Airport (LPB) > La Paz / El Alto, BO · 13 km (8 mi) west of La Paz Web: https://airport.flights/airport/lpb JSON: https://airport.flights/api/airport/lpb.json ## Facts - **IATA**: LPB - **ICAO**: SLLP - **Timezone**: America/La_Paz - **Runways**: 2 - **Terminals**: 1 - **Hub for**: Boliviana de Aviación - **Official site**: https://www.sabsa.aero/aeropuerto-el-alto ## Overview ## Welcome El Alto International Airport (LPB) sits at an astounding 4,061 meters above sea level, making it one of the world’s highest commercial airports. Every step inside the terminal can feel unique due to the altitude, which affects everything from breathing to the taste of coffee. The compact terminal showcases Andean practicality and Bolivian culture, with crafts and alpaca goods prominently featured among the limited shopping opportunities. While its altitude and the striking view over La Paz captivate travelers, the experience often includes long lines and cold temperatures, so it’s best to come prepared. ## At a glance El Alto International Airport is a crucial hub for Boliviana de Aviación and serves both domestic and international travelers out of its single terminal. Located about 13 kilometers (8 miles) west of La Paz, the airport is accessible via various transport options, including official taxis and cable cars. With six restaurants and seven shops, the airport offers just enough to occupy passengers before flights but falls short of more extensive amenities found at larger airports. ## Terminals & layout The airport operates a single terminal that handles all flights, managed by Boliviana de Aviación, Ecojet, and LATAM Airlines. Expect a straightforward, albeit compact layout where international and domestic flights converge, sometimes leading to lengthy immigration processes and crowded halls, especially during peak travel times. Passengers have noted the basic and somewhat worn appearance despite the airport's modern label, so manage expectations regarding facilities. ## Getting to and from the city Transport between El Alto and La Paz varies from official Aeropuerto Taxis, costing between 60-80 Bolivianos, to rideshare options like Uber. Some travelers venture via the Mi Teleférico cable car for a more adventurous and scenic route. The cable car system requires a 15-minute walk to connect from the Blue Line station, offering views and an unusual perspective of city and airport alike. Allow extra time during travel as the uphill route from La Paz can be subject to traffic and blockades. ## Traveller essentials Altitude and cold temperatures are critical considerations at El Alto. Arrive 3-4 hours early for international flights to account for traffic and lengthy airport formalities. If overnighting, be prepared with extra layers or a light blanket, as the airport is notoriously cold, and seating isn’t conducive to sleeping. Wi-Fi and power outlets are available but limited, making the lounges or Juan Valdez Café preferred spots for reliable connection and device charging. ## Dining & shopping highlights Dining includes Juan Valdez Café, known for its 24-hour service, and Restaurant El Alto. Snack Bar Departures and Cafetería Internacional offer additional, albeit basic, options. Shopping is limited to essentials like a duty-free shop and souvenir stalls offering Andean textiles and alpaca products. While the small duty-free also serves as a quieter spot with less crowd, the rest of airport shopping is rather rudimentary. ## Lounges Three lounges are open: The Lounge VIP International and The Lounge VIP Domestic, accessible via a walk-in fee or Priority Pass, range from $25 to $31 USD. These lounges offer a rare oasis from the airport's hustle, providing Wi-Fi, snacks, and a more serene environment. For those needing a place to rest, the Sleepbox Onkel Inn offers micro-rooms landside, though it’s best as a last-resort option due to its basic facilities. ## Insider tips - **Time:** Arrive 3-4 hours early for international flights—travelers report slow-moving lines and potential road blockades. - **Insider:** The 24-hour Juan Valdez Café is a backpacker hub for those stuck overnight, located near check-in. - **Money:** Cash Bolivianos are crucial; taxis and vendors prefer it, so exchange some on arrival. - **Avoid:** Unofficial taxis can overcharge—stick to official taxis or known apps, confirming fares around 60-80 BOB to La Paz. - **Time:** Re-clear customs if transferring flights internationally and domestically—there are reports of needing to fully exit and re-enter. - **Insider:** If you overnight at the airport, pack a warm layer or light blanket due to cold temperatures and uncomfortable seating. - **Local:** Explore alpaca goods and textiles at the souvenir stalls for authentic Bolivian gifts if you missed shopping in La Paz. ## Terminals (1) - **Passenger terminal** — Boliviana de Aviación, Ecojet, LATAM Airlines, Avianca ## Dining (6) - **Café Aeropuerto** - **Cafetería Doméstica** - **Cafetería Internacional** - **Juan Valdez Café** — 1 · $$ - **Restaurant El Alto** - **Snack Bar Departures** — International · $ ## Lounges (3) - **Sleepbox Onkel Inn Lounge** — Landside · Landside, paid access - **The Lounge VIP Domestic** — Domestic · Domestic Departures, pay-in and Priority Pass · $25 - **The Lounge VIP International** — International · International Departures, pay-in and Priority Pass · $31 ## Shops (7) - **Alpaca Products Shop** — nu - **Crafts Market Stall 1** - **Crafts Market Stall 2** - **Duty Free** — 1 - **Gift Shop Bolivia** - **Newsstand Kiosk** - **Souvenir Shop Artesanías** ## Parking (1) - **Main Open-Air Car Park** — Short and long stay ## Ground transport (8) - **Bus 212** — Bus - **Hotel Shuttle Van** — Minibus - **Local City Bus Stop** — Bus - **Mi Teleférico Red Line** — Cable car · 15 minutes walk from final Blue Line station - **Mi Teleférico Silver Line** — Cable car - **Official Aeropuerto Taxi** — Taxi · 30-60 minutes · 60-80 Bolivianos / 100-150 BOB · 24/7 - **Private Airport Transfer** — Car - **Uber La Paz** — Rideshare · 24/7 ## Insider tips - _Time_: Arrive 3-4 hours early for international flights—travelers report slow-moving lines and potential road blockades. - _Insider_: The 24-hour Juan Valdez Café is a backpacker hub for those stuck overnight, located near check-in. - _Money_: Cash Bolivianos are crucial; taxis and vendors prefer it, so exchange some on arrival. - _Avoid_: Unofficial taxis can overcharge—stick to official taxis or known apps, confirming fares around 60-80 BOB to La Paz. - _Time_: Re-clear customs if transferring flights internationally and domestically—there are reports of needing to fully exit and re-enter. - _Insider_: If you overnight at the airport, pack a warm layer or light blanket due to cold temperatures and uncomfortable seating. - _Local_: Explore alpaca goods and textiles at the souvenir stalls for authentic Bolivian gifts if you missed shopping in La Paz.