Caracas Simón Bolívar Layover Guide (CCS)

What are you looking for in CCS?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Caracas Airport (CCS) is an international airport located in Maiquetía, Vargas. It’s situated about 21 km (13 miles) from downtown Caracas. The airport officially opened in 1945. Caracas is the capital and largest city of Venezuela, known for its vibrant culture and historical landmarks. The city offers a mix of modern urban life and scenic mountain views, making it a unique destination for both business and leisure travelers.

Can you leave Caracas Airport (CCS) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
You can’t exit the international transit zone at Caracas (CCS) without a Venezuelan transit or tourist visa, which must be obtained before travel. If you wish to leave the airport during a layover, you must apply in advance. (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Caracas Bay Sunset All-Inclusive Catamaran Party

Embark on a three-hour sunset cruise across tranquil Spanish Water from Caracas Bay aboard the luxurious Gold Seahorse catamaran. Sip unlimited cocktails, savor tapas bites, sway to live saxophone melodies and a DJ set, and watch the Caribbean sky ignite with color before dancing beneath starlit decks back to shore » book this tour

2-Hour Kayak & Snorkel Adventure in Caracas Bay

Glide your kayak across crystalline Caracas Bay, pausing to snorkel a shallow tugboat shipwreck alive with coral and tropical fish. Follow expert guides past 18th-century Fort Beekenburg and the Quarantine House, learning local history while spotting coastal wildlife. Finish your invigorating two-hour adventure with a refreshing beach swim and relax » book this tour

Electric Scooter South-East Peninsula Discovery

Zip along fat-tire electric scooters through the rugged South-East peninsula of Caracasbaai, guided to hidden lookout points, historic Fort Beekenburg, colorful local eateries, tugboat beach, and secluded bays. Cover far more ground than walking, enjoy photo stops, insightful commentary, ocean breezes, and effortless riding during this fun 105-minute small-group excursion » book this tour

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

  • Plaza Bolívar Historic colonial square with a striking Bolívar statue, flanked by the Teatro Municipal and Caracas Cathedral. A vibrant meeting place offering glimpses of Venezuela’s cultural heritage and local urban life. (Time required: 45 minutes / Airport to here: Taxi ~25 min; Metro Coche to Capitolio ~45 min)
  • Teleférico de Caracas Scenic cable car journey ascending Ávila Mountain, unveiling panoramic city and Caribbean Sea vistas. Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, hikers exploring verdant trails, cool air, stunning landscapes above urban bustle. (Time required: 3 hours / Airport to here: Taxi to base station ~30 min)
  • Museo de Arte Contemporáneo Renowned modern art museum showcasing diverse works by Venezuelan and international artists, including pieces by Picasso and Soto. Engaging exhibitions, sculptures, and interactive installations provide deep insight into contemporary creativity. (Time required: 1.5 hours / Airport to here: Taxi ~20 min; Metro Coche to Bellas Artes ~40 min)
  • Paseo Los Próceres Monumental boulevard honoring Venezuelan heroes with grand arches, statues, vibrant manicured gardens. Perfect for serene leisurely strolls, photography, and cultural immersion amid impressive beautiful architecture reflecting national pride and history. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: Taxi ~25 min)
  • Mercado de Chacao Bustling local market offering fresh produce, traditional snacks, handmade crafts, and vibrant stalls. Engage with friendly vendors, sample regional delicacies, and experience authentic Venezuelan daily commerce in a lively atmosphere. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: Taxi ~30 min; Metro and bus ~50 min)
  • Parque del Este Expansive urban park featuring lakes, walking trails, and large exotic wildlife. Ideal for peaceful picnics, birdwatching, or leisurely boating on serene waters surrounded by lush green spaces within bustling Caracas. (Time required: 2 hours / Airport to here: Taxi ~30 min)
  • Boulevard de Sabana Grande Vibrant pedestrian street lined with colorful shops, cafés, and street performers. Perfect for people-watching, shopping local boutiques, sipping coffee, and absorbing the dynamic pulse of Caracas culture under canopy trees. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: Taxi ~20 min; Metro Coche to Capitolio + bus ~45 min)
  • Museo de los Niños de Caracas Interactive children’s museum with engaging science exhibits, hands-on workshops, and educational games. Fun for all ages seeking playful discovery, innovation demonstrations, and an entertaining, creative exploration of technology and art. (Time required: 2 hours / Airport to here: Taxi ~25 min)

Things to Do in Caracas Airport (CCS)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Caracas Airport features several VIP lounges including Executive Lounge, Conviasa Salon VIP, Italviajes, AA Admiral Club, and United‑Iberia Lounge. They offer complimentary snacks, soft drinks, liquor or finger foods, plus facilities like TVs, magazines, baggage storage, prayer rooms, air conditioning, and business/meeting areas—ideal for unwinding before your flight. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
No on‑site airport hotels exist at CCS. Travelers should stay in nearby Maiquetía or Caracas, where a range of hotels from budget to upscale are available. These accommodations provide restful overnight stays with easy taxi or shuttle access to the terminal for convenience and comfort. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
CCS lacks dedicated rest zones or sleeping pods. However, quiet seating areas are available beyond security. Sleep quality may be limited due to noise and limited operating hours of concessions. For travelers needing restful layovers, nearby airport hotels or lounges are better alternatives.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Free Wi‑Fi is available throughout the airport, with good coverage in lounges and terminals. Internet access supports email, messaging, streaming, and business needs. Speeds may vary depending on congestion, but connectivity is generally reliable enough for casual browsing and light work while waiting for your flight.

SIM/eSIM Card: SIM cards can be purchased at airport kiosks and shops, offering local prepaid plans with data, calls, and SMS. eSIM options are limited. Activation may include basic ID verification. Prices vary, but a small daily or weekly data bundle is affordable—ideal for staying connected during your stay. » Find out where and how to buy SIM card/eSIM in our Caracas Airport (CCS) sim/eSim page.

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Taxis are available 24/7 outside arrivals. Licensed airport taxis use fixed fares to Caracas or Maiquetía based on zones. Private transfers and chauffeur services can be booked in advance for convenience and comfort. Always confirm the fare before boarding to avoid misunderstandings.

Train: CCS lacks a railway station—no train connects the airport directly to Caracas. Travelers must use taxi, bus, or shuttle services to access city or regional rail hubs. more info

Bus: Regular buses depart every ~15 minutes, taking about 30 minutes to reach Caracas city center or Gato Negro. Tickets are affordable (approx. US $5). Buses run during daytime hours; schedules and routes may vary—check the local transit site or inquire on arrival. more info

Shuttle: Shared airport shuttles and private transfer vans operate between CCS and Caracas hotels or city points. They offer door‑to‑door service and can be booked in advance or at kiosk counters. Shuttle frequency varies; morning and evening slots are most reliable for travelers.

Car rentals: Major international and local car rental firms operate from CCS, with desks in arrivals. Options include economy, SUV, and luxury vehicles. Requirements: valid driver’s license, local or international insurance, and credit card. Booking ahead ensures availability and better pricing. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: CCS provides short‑term and long‑term parking lots near the terminal. Rates differ by duration. Short‑stay parking is convenient for quick arrivals/departures, while long‑term options suit extended trips. CCTV and patrols improve safety, but always secure your vehicle and keep valuables out of sight.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

Official luggage storage is limited to VIP lounges (Executive, Italviajes). No public lockers in terminals. Travelers seeking secure storage may use off‑airport services like LuggageHero or Stasher in Maiquetía or Caracas, offering hourly and daily rates for flexibility and peace of mind. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Caracas Airport (CCS) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks