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Gualeguaychú Airport Overview
Gualeguaychú Airport (IATA: GHU, ICAO: SAAG) is a public airport serving Gualeguaychú in Entre Ríos Province, Argentina. Located in the heart of Argentina’s Mesopotamia, approximately 5 km south of the city centre, it is a vital link for this vibrant riverside community, renowned for its carnival and proximity to the Uruguay River. The airport primarily supports general aviation, enhancing connectivity for tourism and regional activities.
General Information
Serves: Gualeguaychú, Entre Ríos Province, Argentina
Country: Argentina
ICAO: SAAG
IATA: GHU
Elevation: 75 ft (23 m)
Coordinates: 33°00′20″S 58°36′50″W
Airport Type: Public (general aviation, no scheduled commercial flights)
Domestic/International: Domestic (no international customs/immigration facilities)
Timezone: UTC-3 (ART, Argentine Time, no daylight savings)
Distance from City: ~5 km south of Gualeguaychú city centre (10–15 min by car)
Official Airport Website: None (no dedicated website; managed by local authorities or ANAC, www.anac.gov.ar for general aviation info)
Operational Details
Runways: 1
Longest Runway: 1,390 x 30 m (4,560 x 98 ft), asphalt
PCN: Not published (likely suitable for light aircraft; confirm with airport authority)
Fire Category: CAT 3–4 (estimated for small airports with general aviation focus)
Tower Frequency: None (likely uses standard traffic advisory frequency, e.g., 122.8 MHz; confirm with Aeroclub)
Ground Frequency: None
Navaid: None (no on-site navaids documented; nearest VOR likely in Concordia or Buenos Aires region)
AOE (Airport of Entry): No
Type of Aircraft Handled: Light aircraft (e.g., Cessna, Piper)
Terminal Capacity: None (no commercial passenger terminal)
Cargo Capacity: Minimal (limited to small packages for private flights)
Fuel Types: Avgas (confirm with Aeroclub; Jet A-1 unlikely)
FBO: None available
Equipment Available: Basic ground handling (e.g., tie-downs, chocks; confirm specifics)
Ground Handler Information: No formal ground handling services are documented. Operations are managed by Aeroclub Gualeguaychú, which provides basic support for general aviation (e.g., parking and refuelling coordination). Contact Aeroclub at +54 3446 421 234 (unverified; general Gualeguaychú aviation contact). External ground handlers from larger airports (e.g., Buenos Aires) may be arranged for special operations, but this is rare for Gualeguaychú’s scale.
Operational Information
Permit Approval Lead Time: 48 hours
PPR: Not required
Slots: Not required
Alternate Airports:
- SAEZ (Buenos Aires, ~220 km)
- SAAR (Rosario, ~250 km)
- SARI (Iguazú, ~900 km)
- Recommended: SAAC (Concordia, ~200 km), SAAP (Paraná, ~170 km)
Contact Numbers
Police: +54 3446 422 111 (Gualeguaychú Police, general line)
Fire: +54 3446 421 100 (Gualeguaychú Fire Department)
Customs: Not applicable (no customs service)
Airport Authority/Ground Handler: +54 3446 421 234 (Aeroclub Gualeguaychú, unverified)
Tourist Information
Immigration Rules: Valid passport; visa for some nationalities (USA, EU, Canada visa-free for 90 days)
Crew Requirements: Uniform, passport, visa (if applicable), Gendec for private flights
Ground Transport: Limited car rentals, local buses, non-metered taxis (fare to City: 1,200–2,500 ARS, negotiate)
Accommodation:
- Hotel Embajador (modern, central)
- Hotel Los Ángeles (comfortable, mid-range)
- Posada del Puerto (budget-friendly)
- Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)
Tourist Attractions Near Gualeguaychú Airport
Gualeguaychú, a lively riverside city just 5 km from the airport, pulses with the vibrant spirit of Argentina’s Mesopotamia, where the Uruguay River carves through lush landscapes. Famed for hosting one of South America’s most spectacular carnivals, this dynamic hub captivates with its festive energy, historic charm, and natural beauty. Attractions within 5–50 km are reachable by car or taxi in 10–60 minutes, offering exhilarating experiences.
Carnival of Gualeguaychú
A dazzling February spectacle, this world-renowned carnival transforms the City into a whirlwind of glittering floats, samba dancers, and pulsating rhythms, rivalling Rio’s festivities. Thousands flock to the Corsódromo for a joyous explosion of colour and music.
Distance: ~5 km (10–15 min by car, city centre).
Why Visit: Thrilling immersion in Argentina’s premier carnival, a must for festive revelry.
Costanera de Gualeguaychú
The City’s scenic riverfront along the Uruguay River dazzles with palm-lined walkways, sandy beaches, and vibrant sunsets. Kayaking, picnics, and lively cafés spark an electric atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the Mesopotamian vibe.
Distance: ~5 km (10–15 min by car).
Why Visit: Heart-pounding adventures or serene escapes by the river, blending nature and local charm.
Plaza San Martín
Gualeguaychú’s historic heart, this bustling square radiates elegance with its towering Catedral San José and shaded paths. Evening markets and folk performances ignite the air, inviting travellers to sip mate with locals.
Distance: ~5 km (10–15 min by car).
Why Visit: Electric hub to dive into the City’s cultural pulse and subtropical warmth.
Museo Casa de Haedo
A captivating 19th-century mansion-turned-museum showcasing Gualeguaychú’s colonial past with period furniture, Guaraní artefacts, and tales of the region’s gaucho heritage. Its lush gardens add a touch of serenity to the historical journey.
Distance: ~5 km (10–15 min by car).
Why Visit: Deep dive into Mesopotamia’s storied past, ideal for history buffs craving authentic narratives.
Termas de Gualeguaychú
A soothing thermal spa 10 km away, featuring mineral-rich hot springs at 38–40°C, nestled in a tranquil riverside setting. Wellness treatments and pools offer a rejuvenating escape amid the lush Entre Ríos landscape.
Distance: ~10 km (15–20 min by car).
Why Visit: This exhilarating blend of relaxation and nature is perfect for unwinding in a subtropical oasis.
Additional Notes
Connectivity: 220 km from Buenos Aires (3 hr by car/bus, Ruta Nacional 14). The nearest commercial airport is SAEZ (Buenos Aires, 220 km).
Accessibility: Urban attractions 5–10 km (taxi: 1,200–2,500 ARS); rural sites require car/tours—buses to Concordia (200 km), Paraná (170 km).
Seasonal Highlights: February for Carnival; summer (Dec–Feb) for river and thermal springs; spring (Sep–Nov) for mild weather.
Practical Tips: Carry ARS; book accommodations (e.g., Hotel Embajador) for a carnival; savour asado at Parrilla El Viejo Almacén. Contact Aeroclub Gualeguaychú (+54 3446 421 234) for ground handling.
