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San Rafael Airport Overview
San Rafael Airport (IATA: AFA, ICAO: SAMR) is a public airport serving San Rafael in Mendoza Province, Argentina. Located in the scenic Cuyo region, it’s about 8 km northwest of the city centre. This airport connects a vibrant wine and adventure hub known for its vineyards, Andean foothills, and outdoor activities like rafting to the rest of Argentina. It handles small private planes and regular passenger flights, supporting tourism and local business.
General Information
Serves: San Rafael, Mendoza Province, Argentina
Country: Argentina
ICAO: SAMR
IATA: AFA
Elevation: 2,470 feet (753 meters)
Coordinates: 34°35′18″S 68°24′14″W
Airport Type: Public (small planes and regular passenger flights)
Domestic/International: Domestic (no international services)
Timezone: UTC-3 (Argentina Time, no daylight savings)
Distance from City: ~8 km northwest of San Rafael city centre (10–15 min by car)
Official Airport Website: None (check www.aa2000.com.ar or www.anac.gov.ar for general info)
Ground Handling Website: None (handled by Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 or Aeroclub San Rafael; see contact below)
Operational Details
Runways: 1
Longest Runway: 2,350 x 45 meters (7,710 x 148 feet), asphalt
PCN: Not listed (good for small to medium planes, like Boeing 737; check with airport)
Fire Category: CAT 6–7 (firefighting for airports with passenger flights)
Tower Frequency: 118.2 MHz (check with airport)
Ground Frequency: 121.9 MHz (check with the airport)
Navaid: Yes (San Rafael VOR/DME, Ident: RAF, on-site)
AOE (Airport of Entry): No
Type of Aircraft Handled: Small to medium planes (like Cessna, Piper, Boeing 737)
Terminal Capacity: Small passenger terminal (handles regular flights)
Cargo Capacity: Limited (primarily for passenger flights; small packages for private flights)
Fuel Types: Avgas, Jet A-1 (check availability with the airport)
FBO: None available
Equipment Available: Ground handling tools (like passenger stairs and baggage carts; ask for details)
Ground Handler Information: Operations managed by Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 for passenger flights and Aeroclub San Rafael for small planes, handling parking, refuelling, and passenger services. Call Aeroclub San Rafael at +54 260 421 234 (not confirmed; general contact for San Rafael aviation) or Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 at +54 11 3987 4150 (general line). External ground handlers may be available for special operations.
Operational Information
Permit Approval Lead Time: 2 days
PPR: Required for non-scheduled flights (contact airport)
Slots: May be needed during busy times (check with airport)
Alternate Airports:
- SAEZ (Buenos Aires, ~900 km)
- SAAR (Rosario, ~800 km)
- SARI (Iguazú, ~1,600 km)
- Recommended: SAME (Mendoza, ~200 km), SAOU (San Luis, ~250 km)
Contact Numbers
Police: +54 260 422 111 (San Rafael Police)
Fire: +54 260 421 100 (San Rafael Fire Department)
Customs: Not available
Airport Authority/Ground Handler: +54 260 421 234 (Aeroclub San Rafael, not confirmed); +54 11 3987 4150 (Aeropuertos Argentina 2000, general line)
Tourist Information
Immigration Rules: Bring a valid passport; some countries need a visa (USA, EU, Canada don’t for 90 days)
Crew Requirements: Wear a uniform, bring passport, visa (if needed), and flight paperwork
Ground Transport: Car rentals available, shuttles, metered taxis (ride to City: 1,500–3,000 ARS)
Accommodation:
- Hotel Tower Inn (nice, central)
- Hotel San Rafael (comfy, medium price)
- Hostal La Posada (cheap)
- Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS)
Tourist Attractions Near San Rafael Airport
San Rafael, a lively city 8 km from the airport, is energetic in Argentina’s Cuyo region. Known for its Malbec vineyards, adventure sports, and Andean scenery, it’s a great spot for wine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. You can reach fun places within 8–50 km by car or taxi in 10–60 minutes.
Plaza San Martín
The City’s main square, 8 km away, is vibrant with trees, an enormous statue, and people hanging out. It’s perfect for grabbing a snack or checking out local shops.
Distance: ~8 km (10–15 min by car).
Why Visit: It is a fun place to feel San Rafael’s lively vibe.
Cañón del Atuel
A stunning river canyon 40 km away, grand for rafting, kayaking, or hiking. Its red rocks and green water make it a jaw-dropping adventure spot.
Distance: ~40 km (40–50 min by car).
Why Visit: It is super exciting for water sports and epic views.
Bodega La Abeja
A historic winery 10 km away where you can taste Malbec, tour old cellars, and learn about San Rafael’s wine-making history.
Distance: ~10 km (15–20 min by car).
Why Visit: Awesome for wine tasting and exploring local flavours.
Parque Hipólito Yrigoyen
A green park 9 km away with paths, a lake, and spots for picnics or sports. It’s a chill place for families or a relaxing day outside.
Distance: ~9 km (10–15 min by car).
Why Visit: Great for outdoor fun and enjoying nature.
Los Reyunos Dam
A beautiful reservoir 30 km away, perfect for fishing, boating, or relaxing by the water. Mountains surround it, and it has fabulous views.
Distance: ~30 km (30–40 min by car).
Why Visit: Fun for water activities and chilling in a scenic spot.
Additional Notes
Connectivity: It’s 900 km from Buenos Aires (10–11 hr by car or bus on Ruta Nacional 7). SAME (Mendoza, 200 km) is the closest airport with more flights.
Accessibility: City spots are 8–10 km away (taxi: 1,500–3,000 ARS); farther places need a car or tour. Buses go to Mendoza (200 km) or San Luis (250 km).
Seasonal Highlights: Summer (Dec–Feb) is great for rafting and wine tours; spring (Sep–Nov) is great for hiking and mild weather; and winter (Jun–Aug) is quiet.
Practical Tips: Bring ARS cash; book a place to stay (like Hotel Tower Inn) for busy times; try local asado at Restaurante El Viejo Almacén. Call Aeroclub San Rafael (+54 260 421 234) or Aeropuertos Argentina 2000 (+54 11 3987 4150) for plane help.
