Laboulaye Airport (ICAO: SAOL, Argentinean NCAA Code: LYE) is a small, non-commercial airport located approximately 1 km east of Laboulaye, a city in the Presidente Roque Sáenz Peña Department of Córdoba Province, Argentina.
Location: Laboulaye – a city in Córdoba Province, Argentina.
Serves: Laboulaye
Country: Argentina
ICAO: SAOL
IATA: ***
Argentinean NCAA Code: LYE
Elevation: 459ft/140m
Coordinates: 34°07′48″S 63°23′24″W
Airport type: Domestic
Tower frequency: 118.4
Ground frequency: 121.8
Number of runways: 1
Timezone: UTC-3 (ART)
Fire category: CAT 4
Surface: Asphalt
AOE: No
On the Ground
Longest runway: 1,700 x 30 metres
PCN: 30/F/B/W/T
Equipment available: Basic ground support
Navaid: Yes (NDB)
Type of A/C handled: Up to ATR 42
Terminal capacity: 110,000 annually
Cargo capacity: 4,000 mt annually
Fuel types: Jet A-1
FBO: No
Distance from city: 8 km
Operational Information
Typical lead time for permit approval: 24 hours
PPR: Required
Slots: Not required
Alternate airports: SACO, SAOC
Contact Numbers
Police: +54 3385 520 4111
Fire: +54 3385 520 4222
Customs: N/A
Airport authority: +54 3385 520 4333
Tourist Information
Immigration rules: Domestic flights only
Crew requirements: Valid ID and flight logs
Ground transport: Taxis (~700 ARS to city centre)
Accommodation: Hotel Laboulaye, Estancia El Porvenir
Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)
Contents
Tourist Attractions
1. Monument to Clemente
A cultural landmark dedicated to “Clemente,” the iconic Argentine comic strip character created by local-born cartoonist Caloi. The monument celebrates Laboulaye’s contribution to Argentine pop culture and is a point of pride for residents.
Distance from Airport: Approximately 1–2 km (5–7 minutes by car).
Why Visit: This is perfect for fans of Argentine comics or those interested in local heritage. It’s a quick, photogenic stop in the city centre.
2. Plaza General Paz
Laboulaye’s central plaza is a green public square typical of Argentine towns. It features trees, benches, and historical monuments. It’s a central gathering spot for locals and hosts occasional community events.
Distance from Airport: Approximately 1–2 km (5–7 minutes by car).
Why Visit: A relaxing place to stroll, people-watch, or soak in the small-town atmosphere. It’s close to other central attractions and ideal for a low-key visit.
3. Museo de Laboulaye
A small municipal museum showcasing the history and culture of Laboulaye and the surrounding Pampas region. Exhibits may include artefacts from the area’s agricultural past, Indigenous heritage, and local milestones.
Distance from Airport: Approximately 1–2 km (5–7 minutes by car).
Why Visit: This is a great place for history buffs or those curious about Laboulaye’s role in Córdoba’s agricultural economy. It offers a quick, educational experience.
4. Iglesia San José
A historic Catholic church in Laboulaye’s city centre, reflecting the region’s religious and architectural heritage. Its simple yet elegant design is typical of rural Argentine churches.
Distance from Airport: Approximately 1–2 km (5–7 minutes by car).
Why Visit: This is a peaceful stop for those interested in architecture or local culture. It’s centrally located, making it easy to combine with other attractions.
5. Nearby Estancias and Rural Tourism
The Pampas region around Laboulaye is known for its vast plains and agricultural estates (estancias). Some estancias offer visitor experiences like gaucho culture tours, horseback riding, or farm-to-table dining. Specific estancias near Laboulaye aren’t widely advertised, but the region’s rural charm is accessible within a short drive.
Distance from Airport: Approximately 5–20 km (10–30 minutes by car, depending on the property).
Why Visit: This is ideal for travellers seeking an authentic taste of Argentine countryside life, including gaucho traditions and local cuisine.
Additional Notes
Limitations: Laboulaye’s tourism infrastructure is limited, with fewer attractions than larger cities. For more options, consider day trips to nearby towns like General Villegas (100 km away) or Huinca Renancó (70 km away), though these require longer drives.
Proximity: Most attractions are within Laboulaye’s compact city centre, making them easily accessible from the airport. The 1 km distance to downtown ensures short travel times, even on foot (15–20 minutes) or by taxi.
Laboulaye’s Appeal: Laboulaye is a quiet, agricultural city, so attractions are modest compared to larger destinations like Córdoba or Buenos Aires. Its charm lies in its small-town vibe, cultural pride (e.g., Clemente), and proximity to the Pampas’ open landscapes.
Seasonal Considerations: Spring (September–November) and autumn (March- May) are pleasant for visiting due to mild weather. Check for local events, such as agricultural fairs or festivals, which may enhance the experience.
Outdoor Opportunities: The surrounding Pampas offer potential for birdwatching, cycling, or photography, though specific nature reserves or trails near Laboulaye are not well-documented. Inquire locally for guided tours or rural activities.
