Kamarata Airport

The 2000-Word Article on Kamarata Airport (KTV)

How to Get Between Kamarata Airport and the Venezuelan Interior

Introduction

Located at the base of the monumental Auyán-tepui, Kamarata Airport (IATA: KTV, ICAO: SVKM) is an essential gateway to Venezuela's breathtaking and isolated Bolívar state. Located at an elevation of 1,770 feet (540 meters), this little airport can be your ticket to exploring the awe-inspiring "hometown" attractions that have captivated travelers and nature lovers alike.

Airlines and Destinations

The Kamarata Airport is modest in size, but has been a lifesaver for the people of this isolated corner of Venezuela. American, serving as the primary airline of Curaçao International Airport (CUR) in Willemstad, primarily operates flights from large gateway airports like Caracas' Simón Bolívar International Airport (CCS) and Barcelona's General José Antonio Anzoátegui International Airport. Although the routes are limited, it is possible to reach Kamarata via these key gateways and make your way around some of Venezuela's most scenic natural wonders.

Number of Passengers & Flights

Being a small community and also very far removed from an international gateway airport, the passenger traffic is limited to relatively few flights per week; as of 2019, there are only two or three commercial flights in any given day. But it remains important as an air link to the north country, keeping essential people and cargo moving. Actual passenger and flight figures are not widely published, but the popularity of eco-tourism in this region, together with the airport's benefit to local communities, suggests these numbers will probably expand further over time.

How to Get Here

Getting to Kamarata Airport can be an adventure in itself. The airport in the municipality of Kamarata is an airstrip that can be reached by air and land. The main gateway for entering Kamarata is the airstrip at Kamaran Delta, a small Venezuelan settlement in the interior of Amazonas.

Or fly to Simón Bolívar International Airport (CCS) or General José Antonio Anzoátegui International Airport and take ground transfer.

Parking

At the Kamarata Airport, there is a small parking lot that can accommodate only a few vehicles. Short-term parking is generally between $10 and $25, while long-term prices span from approximately a low of $39 up to over $300, depending on the size of the aircraft.

Transportation Price

The cost of transportation to and from Kamarata Airport will depend on the mode of travel you decide on and also the distance between your starting point. A typical one-way flight can cost $100 to $300 between most of Venezuela and Kamarata. Private transfers or shared shuttles start at $50 and can go as high as about $150 per person, depending on the number of seats available in a private transfer (up to 5 people).

Terminal Layout

Kamarata Airport's terminal is a simple facility that has all the basic installations passenger and airline services need. The terminal includes a check-in counter, a small waiting area, and limited amenities such as restrooms and a café; the site of one remaining ATM is reserved for them. The terminal is the prototype of airport functionality, constructed to be simple while providing a positive experience for travelers.

Navigate the Airport

Kamarata Airport is simple to get around. The compact nature of the terminal means all levels are easily navigable with multiple directions and elevator access to get you from one floor or section to another, like check-in counters, security checkpoint, and boarding gates. Because the airport's resources are limited, travelers will want to allow extra time in order to check-in and pass through security screening.

Getting Between Terminals

As there is only one terminal in Kamarata Airport, transfers between terminals will not be an issue. Guests can travel through the compact terminal building from check-in to security, all the way to boarding areas with ease.

Services and Amenities

Kamarata Airport might not have all the services and amenities that can be found at larger international airports, but it does offer some basic provisions. The facility has a small snack bar with limited food and beverage offerings, plus a handful of locally oriented shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs. The airport also has restrooms and basic passenger assistance services.

Restaurants and Shops

There are not many dining and shopping options in Kamarata Airport, but they have the basic requirements to serve travelers. Passengers can grab a snack, some light food and drink before or after their flight at the small terminal-based concession stand. A number of small shops feature handcrafted souvenirs and gift items from the region, making it possible for those who want to purchase local keepsakes or trinkets suitable only for this destination.

Security and Customs

As with any airport in the world, some security and customs procedures are performed at Kamarata Airport for all passengers' safety. Prospective travelers should be ready to remove their shoes, and the TSA will also scan carry-on bags. For international travelers, customs clearance is additionally necessary, and all travelers should be aware of what documents they need to carry out a successful customs process.

Accessibility

Kamarata Airport works hard to ensure accessibility for travelers with special needs. The terminal building and its facilities are fully equipped for passengers with reduced mobility, including trained airport staff to provide any required assistance. Passengers with special requirements are advised to contact the airport or their airline in good time beforehand so that proper arrangements can be made.

Travel Tips

• Get in early with flights: With a limited network to and from VKS paired with its ever-growing status as true bucket-list territory, the best prices and perfect availability can be secured by booking your flights well ahead of time.
• Travel light: With smaller waiting rooms and vehicle capacity, travelling as minimally as possible can help make everything run smoother for you.
• Get there early: Because the airport is so small, check-in/security/boarding can sometimes take longer than you'd expect - which means more time spent in those long lines.
• Know the airport map: Check out where all major facilities are located at your terminal, like check-in counters, security checkpoint, and gates, to easily transit around different entities within the airport.
• Gear up for the local climate: Kamarata has a tropical environment that implies you will be exposed to abundant sunshine and heat. Make sure you have proper clothing, hats, or sunglasses to wear during your stay to ensure total comfort.

And by remembering these travel tips, you will receive the warm and stimulating welcome that paves your way to experience some of the most impressive landscapes in this region of Venezuela.