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Joya Andina International Airport (IATA: UYU, ICAO: SLUY) is the high-altitude gateway to the Salar de Uyuni, serving Uyuni and Bolivia's Antonio Quijarro Province. Sitting at about 3,950 meters (12,960 feet) above sea level, it is among the world's highest commercial airports and is used mainly by domestic flights connecting the salt flats region with La Paz, Santa Cruz, and other Bolivian cities. Its compact terminal and dramatic Andean setting make it a memorable first or last stop for travelers exploring southwest Bolivia.
💡 Local Tip
Frequent visitors know that afternoon flights are more prone to wind-related delays at this exposed high-altitude airport; book morning departures when possible and leave a buffer day before international connections. Also, buy water and snacks in Uyuni town—the airport terminal has very limited options.
🚖 Getting There
Taxis and remises are the main way to get between Joya Andina Airport and Uyuni town; the ride takes about 10 minutes and should be arranged at the terminal or through your hotel. Many tour operators and hotels offer pickup for a small fee, which is convenient if you arrive on an early or late flight. There is no regular city bus service to the airport, so plan your transfer in advance and confirm the fare before departing.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What airlines and destinations serve Joya Andina International Airport?
A: Scheduled service is primarily domestic, with Boliviana de Aviación (BoA) and sometimes other Bolivian carriers operating flights to and from La Paz, Santa Cruz, and occasionally other cities. International service is limited or seasonal, so verify schedules before booking.
Q: How far is the airport from Uyuni town and the Salar de Uyuni?
A: The airport is about 3–5 km north of central Uyuni, roughly a 10-minute drive. The Salar de Uyuni itself begins about 20–30 minutes from town, depending on the access point and tour route.
Q: Is there public transportation or an ATM at the airport?
A: No, the terminal is small and generally does not have ATMs or extensive public transport. Taxis and pre-arranged transfers are the usual way to reach town, and it is wise to carry Bolivian cash for immediate needs.
Q: What should I know about the airport's altitude?
A: At nearly 4,000 meters, the airport can cause altitude sickness symptoms, especially if you fly in from lower elevations. Take it easy on arrival, stay hydrated, and consider acclimatizing in Uyuni before heading out on high-altitude tours.
AI-generated content · Generated Sep 28, 2026 · deepseek-v4.1-flash