Simón Bolívar International Bridge

The Simón Bolívar Bridge is a road span over the Táchira River, joining San Antonio del Táchira in Venezuela with Villa del Rosario in Colombia. Built from reinforced concrete, the structure measures 315 meters (1033 feet) in length and 7.3 meters (24 feet) in width, with toll points at both ends.

The bridge opened in 1962 as the first permanent road link between the neighboring nations in this border region of Táchira and Norte de Santander. Decades later, during the Venezuelan crisis, it became a main route for people seeking supplies and new prospects.

The span takes its name from the South American liberator and serves as a meeting line where residents from both sides cross for daily errands, family visits and small trade. At the approaches, border officials, money changers and vendors mark the rhythm of frontier life.

Pedestrians cross without paying, while vehicles pay fees at control stations on either side. Waiting times vary depending on border activity and time of day, so early morning often means fewer crowds.

During border closures, the bridge sometimes remained open to pedestrians while vehicles were blocked, creating long lines of people walking across the river. These scenes made the crossing a globally recognized symbol of migration movements in the region.

Location: Villa del Rosario

Location: Municipio Bolívar

Official opening: 1962

Length: 315 m

Width: 7.3 m

Made from material: reinforced concrete

Part of: Colombia-Venezuela border

GPS coordinates: 7.81778,-72.45060

Latest update: December 5, 2025 22:30