The airport serving Termas de Río Hondo, Santiago del Estero Province, Argentina, is Termas de Río Hondo International Airport (also known as Las Termas Airport).
Contents
General Information
- Serves: Termas de Río Hondo
- Country: Argentina
- ICAO: SANR
- IATA: RHD
- Elevation: 883 ft / 269 m
- Coordinates: 27°30′00″S 64°55′00″W
- Airport Type: International (primarily domestic operations)
- Tower Frequency: 118.4 (unverified)
- Ground Frequency: 121.8 (unverified)
- Number of Runways: 1
- Timezone: UTC-3 (ART)
- Fire Category: Unverified, likely CAT 5-7
- Surface: Asphalt
- AOE: Limited AOE; international flights typically cleared at major hubs
On the Ground
- Longest Runway: 2,900 x 45 metres
- PCN: 60/F/B/W/T (unverified)
- Equipment Available: Standard ground handling equipment (e.g., pushback, baggage handling, fire services)
- Navaid: Yes (unverified)
- Type of A/C Handled: Up to B767, primarily B737/A320
- Terminal Capacity: 300,000 annually (unverified)
- Cargo Capacity: Limited cargo capacity; primarily passenger-focused
- Fuel Types: Jet A-1 (unverified)
- FBO: No FBO at this airport
- Distance to City: Approximately 6 km from the city
Operational Information
- Typical Lead Time for Permit Approval: 48 hours (unverified)
- PPR: Not required for domestic flights; may be required for international or special operations
- Slots: Slots may be required during peak events (e.g., MotoGP); otherwise not typically required
- Alternate Airports: SANT (Tucumán), SANE (Santiago del Estero), SAAR (Rosario)
Contact Numbers
- Police: +54 3858 421 611 (unverified; general emergency: 911)
- Fire: +54 3858 421 622 (unverified; general emergency: 911)
- Customs: +54 3858 421 633 (unverified; customs likely handled at major hubs like SANT or SAEZ)
- Airport Authority: +54 3858 421 644 (unverified)
Tourist Information
Currency: Argentine Peso (ARS). Credit/debit cards accepted in major hotels/restaurants; cash (ARS) preferred for small vendors. Exchange USD/EUR at official or informal rates (e.g., ‘blue dollar’) for better value.
Immigration Rules: International visitors must present a valid passport; visa-free for up to 90 days for many nationalities (e.g., EU, USA, Mercosur with ID). Check visa requirements. International arrivals typically clear customs at major hubs (e.g., SAEZ, SANT).
Crew Requirements: Crew must carry passports and be listed on the Gendec. Visas depend on nationality. Uniforms recommended but not mandatory. Clear immigration at a major hub (e.g., SAEZ, SANT).
Ground Transport: Includes car rentals (limited at airport, available in city), buses, hotel shuttles, and non-metered taxis (negotiate fare; typical to city center ~1,200-2,500 ARS, subject to inflation).
Accommodation: Available at Amerian Hotel Casino Carlos V, Hotel Los Pinos, Grand Hotel Termas, and others.
Attractions Near Termas de Río Hondo Airport
Termas de Río Hondo International Airport (RHD, SANR) is approximately 6 km west of Termas de Río Hondo, Santiago del Estero Province, Argentina. As a medium-sized airport with domestic flights, it is the gateway to this popular spa and motorsport destination, known for its thermal springs and vibrant tourism scene. The airport has no notable on-site attractions, so it focuses on nearby attractions in Termas de Río Hondo and its surroundings within a reasonable distance (up to ~50 km).
- Thermal Baths (Hot Springs)
- Description: Termas de Río Hondo is famous for its natural thermal springs, which range from 30°C to 65°C and are rich in minerals for relaxation and health benefits. Many hotels, such as Hotel Los Pinos, Amerian Hotel Casino Carlos V, and Hotel Termas Marinas, have private thermal pools. At the same time, public options like Parque Martín de Güemes offer affordable access.
- Distance from the Airport: 6-8 km (10-15-minute drive, in the city centre or nearby hotels).
- Why Visit: The core attraction is perfect for spa enthusiasts seeking relaxation or treatments.
- Autódromo Internacional Termas de Río Hondo
- Description: A world-class motorsport circuit hosting events like the MotoGP Argentina Grand Prix (typically in April). Features a museum (Museo del Automóvil Termas de Río Hondo) with vintage cars, motorcycles, and racing memorabilia. Guided tours of the track are available.
- Distance from Airport: 10 km (15-minute drive).
- Why Visit: A must for motorsport fans, offering thrilling races or an engaging museum year-round.
- Parque Martín de Güemes
- Description: A central park in Termas de Río Hondo with thermal pools, green spaces, and recreational areas. It’s a community hub for relaxation, picnics, and occasional cultural events.
- Distance from the Airport: 7 km (12-minute drive, in the city centre).
- Why Visit: A family-friendly spot to enjoy thermal waters and the local atmosphere.
- Dique Frontal (Río Hondo Reservoir)
- Description: A large reservoir near the city, ideal for water activities like fishing, kayaking, or boat tours. The surrounding area offers scenic views, picnic spots, and opportunities to see local wildlife.
- Distance from the Airport: 5-10 km (10-15-minute drive, depending on access point).
- Why Visit: Great for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking tranquil waterside relaxation.
- Museo Municipal Rincón de Atacama
- Description: A small Termas de Río Hondo museum showcasing the region’s history, Indigenous cultures, and archaeological artefacts. Highlights include pre-Columbian pottery and local crafts.
- Distance from the Airport: 7 km (12-minute drive, in the city centre).
- Why Visit: A quick cultural stop for history buffs interested in Santiago del Estero’s heritage.
- Casino del Sol
- Description: Located in the Amerian Hotel, this modern casino offers slot machines, table games, and live entertainment. It’s a lively spot for nightlife, dining, or trying your luck.
- Distance from the Airport: 7 km (12-minute drive, in the city centre).
- Why Visit: Perfect for evening entertainment or a break from thermal baths.
- Feria Artesanal (Artisan Market)
- Description: A local market in the city centre where artisans sell handmade crafts, textiles, and regional souvenirs like woven baskets or leather goods. It is often paired with food stalls offering empanadas and locro.
- Distance from the Airport: 7 km (12-minute drive, in the city centre).
- Why Visit: Ideal for shopping, supporting local artisans, and tasting regional cuisine.
- Santuario de San Expedito
- Description: A small religious shrine dedicated to Saint Expeditus, a popular figure in Argentine folk devotion. Visitors come to pray, light candles, or leave offerings, especially during festivals.
- Distance from Airport: 8 km (15-minute drive).
- Why Visit: A cultural and spiritual experience reflecting local traditions.
- Termas de Río Hondo Golf Club
- Description: An 18-hole golf course near the city, offering a scenic setting for golf enthusiasts. Open to visitors, with equipment rentals and a clubhouse.
- Distance from Airport: 10 km (15-minute drive).
- Why Visit: A relaxing activity for golfers amid Patagonia’s landscapes.
- Santiago del Estero (Day Trip)
- Description: The provincial capital, ~60 km away, offers cultural attractions like the Catedral Basílica, Centro Cultural del Bicentenario, and Plaza Libertad. It’s a hub for exploring the region’s history and cuisine.
- Distance from Airport: 60 km (1-hour drive).
- Why Visit: A worthwhile day for urban exploration and deeper cultural immersion.
Additional Notes
Safety: Termas de Río Hondo is tourist-friendly, but standard precautions apply (e.g., secure valuables and avoid isolated areas at night).
Getting Around: Termas de Río Hondo Airport has limited on-site facilities, but taxis and rental cars are available for the short trip to the city centre (~6-8 km, ~500-1,000 ARS or ~3-6 USD). Local buses connect the city to nearby attractions or Santiago del Estero. Most attractions are walkable within the city centre, but a car is helpful for sites like the reservoir or autódromo.
Travel Tips:
Best Time: Autumn (March-May) and spring (September-November) offers mild weather (20-30°C) and fewer crowds. Summer (December-March) is hot (~35°C) but vibrant, especially during MotoGP. Winter (June-August) is cooler but still suitable for thermal baths.
Essentials: Bring cash (ARS) for small vendors, markets, or taxis, as ATMs may be limited. Sunscreen and water are key for outdoor activities. Book thermal spa hotels or MotoGP tickets in advance during peak seasons.
Activities: Prioritize thermal baths for relaxation, the autódromo for motorsport, and the reservoir for outdoor fun. Check event schedules for markets or festivals.
