San Antonio Oeste Airport is located in San Antonio Oeste – a city in eastern Argentina.
Serves: San Antonio Oeste
Country: Argentina
ICAO: SAVN
IATA: OES
Elevation: 82ft/25m
Coordinates: 40°45′00″S 64°56′00″W
Airport type: International
Tower frequency: 118.4
Ground frequency: 121.8
Number of runways: 1
Timezone: UTC-3 (ART)
Fire category: CAT 8
Surface: Asphalt
AOE: Yes
On the Ground
Longest runway: 1,500 x 45 metres
PCN: 50/F/B/W/T
Equipment available: All equipment is available here
Navaid: Yes
Type of A/C handled: Up to B737
Terminal capacity: 100,000 annually
Cargo capacity: 5,000 mt annually
Fuel types: Jet A-1
There is no FBO at this airport
The airport is approximately 5 km from the city
Operational Information
Typical lead time for permit approval: 48 hours
PPR: Not required
Slots: Required
Alternate airports: SAEZ, SAAR, SARI
Contact numbers
Police: +54 2920 421 611
Fire: +54 2920 421 622
Customs: +54 2920 421 633
Airport authority: +54 2920 421 644
Tourist Information
Immigration rules: All global visitors and crew must present a visa and valid passport
Crew requirements: The crew must be in uniform and have a passport, visa, and be on the Gendec
Ground transport: Includes car rentals, buses, hotel shuttles, and non-metered taxis (negotiate the price before entering – typical fare to city centre is 1,200 – 2,500 ARS)
Accommodation: Available at Hotel San Antonio, Hostería La Estación, and Hotel Austral
Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)
Attractions Near San Antonio Oeste Airport
1. Las Grutas Beaches
Las Grutas, a popular coastal resort town, is famous for its warm, clear-water beaches along the Gulf of San Matías. Key spots include Playa Piedras Coloradas (with reddish rock formations), Playa La Rinconada, and Playa El Buque. These beaches are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like kayaking.
Distance from Airport: ~15-20 km (15-20 minute drive).
Why Visit: Warmest waters in Patagonia, perfect for beachgoers, especially in summer (December-March).
2. Punta Perdices
A stunning, less-crowded beach 40 km from Las Grutas, known for its turquoise waters, white sand, and natural rock pools. It’s a serene spot for snorkelling, diving, or relaxing by the sea.
Distance from Airport: 55-60 km (45-minute drive).
Why Visit: Offers a tranquil, almost Caribbean-like experience in Patagonia.
3. Puerto San Antonio Este
A deep-water port 60 km from San Antonio Oeste, where you can observe marine life, including sea lions and occasional dolphins. The port area also has scenic views and a chance to see maritime activity.
Distance from Airport: 60 km (50-minute drive).
Why Visit: Great for wildlife spotting and coastal exploration.
4. Fuerte Argentino
A rocky hill near Las Grutas offers panoramic views of the Gulf of San Matías. It’s a short hike to the top, where you can see the coastline and surrounding desert landscape.
Distance from Airport: 20 km (20-minute drive).
Why Visit: Ideal for hikers and photographers seeking sweeping vistas.
5. Complejo Amec (Las Grutas)
A cultural and recreational complex in Las Grutas with shops, restaurants, and occasional events. It’s a lively spot to experience local cuisine (seafood is a highlight) and the town’s vibrant atmosphere.
Distance from Airport: 15 km (15-minute drive).
Why Visit: A central hub for dining and socializing, especially in the evening.
6. Salinas del Gualicho
A vast salt flat 70 km from San Antonio Oeste, one of the largest in Argentina. It offers a surreal, otherworldly landscape, especially at sunset, and is a unique spot for photography or guided tours.
Distance from Airport: 70 km (1-hour drive).
Why Visit: A striking natural wonder for adventurous travellers.
7. Sea Lion and Wildlife Watching (Punta Villarino or Punta Bermeja)
Punta Villarino and Punta Bermeja, part of the Camino de la Costa, are home to sea lion colonies and other marine life, such as penguins and seabirds. Guided tours or self-driven trips offer close-up wildlife experiences.
Distance from the Airport: 50-80 km (45-70-minute drive, depending on the site).
Why Visit: Perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
8. Museo Provincial Antonio Giai
A small museum in San Antonio Oeste showcasing the region’s history, including Indigenous artefacts, maritime relics, and exhibits on the Patagonian railway.
Distance from Airport: 5-7 km (10-minute drive, in town).
Why Visit: A quick cultural stop for history buffs.
9. Bajada de los Pescadores (Fishermen’s Beach)
A beach in Las Grutas where local fishermen work, offering a glimpse into the area’s maritime culture. You can watch boats, enjoy fresh seafood, or stroll the shore.
Distance from Airport: 15 km (15-minute drive).
Why Visit: Authentic coastal experience with a local flavour.
10 .Parque Submarino Las Grutas (Underwater Park)
A unique diving and snorkelling site off the Las Grutas coast, where artificial reefs (sunken ships and structures) attract marine life. Guided tours are available for divers of all levels.
Distance from the Airport: ~15-20 km (access via Las Grutas, boat trips required).
Why Visit: A thrilling underwater adventure for diving enthusiasts.
Additional Notes
San Antonio Oeste is a port town, while Las Grutas is the primary tourist draw due to its beaches and proximity. The region’s Patagonian setting offers a mix of desert, coast, and marine biodiversity, distinct from Argentina’s more famous glacier or mountain destinations.
Getting Around: Antoine de Saint Exupéry Airport is small, with limited flights (primarily general aviation or occasional regional services). No public transport connects directly to attractions, so renting a car or booking taxis/tours is recommended. Las Grutas is a short 15-20 km drive, while further sites like Salinas del Gualicho require longer trips. Roads are generally good, but some (e.g., to Punta Perdices) may be unpaved.
Travel Tips:
Best Time: Summer (December-March) is the peak season for beaches and warm weather (up to 30°C). Winter (June-August) is quieter but colder, with fewer tourist services.
Essentials: Bring sunscreen, water, and cash, as ATMs can be unreliable. Book accommodations in Las Grutas for convenience, as it’s the central tourist hub.
Activities: In summer, focus on beaches, wildlife tours, and diving; historical sites and museums are open year-round. Check tide schedules for beaches like Punta Perdices to maximize enjoyment.
Safety: The region is safe, but remote areas (e.g., Salinas del Gualicho) require preparation (e.g., guided tours, sufficient fuel).
