Tepoe Airstrip (KCB)

Tepoe Airstrip (KCB), also identified by its ICAO code SMTP, is a remote jungle airfield serving the indigenous Trio village of Pelelu Tepu in the Sipaliwini District of southern Suriname. Situated deep within the Amazon rainforest near the Tapanahony River, the airstrip provides a vital air bridge for a community that is otherwise inaccessible by road. The facility sits at an elevation of 787 feet (240 meters) above sea level and is a critical point for medical evacuations, community supply deliveries, and adventurous eco-tourists heading to the nearby Mount Kasikasima. The terminal infrastructure at Tepoe is minimalist and reflects its role as a frontier landing ground. There is no traditional terminal building; instead, the facility consists of a small, open-air wooden or concrete shelter located near the grass apron. This structure serves as the central meeting point for check-in, passenger waiting, and cargo staging. Because the airport handles low-volume traffic from small aircraft like the Cessna 206 or Britten-Norman Islander, all passenger and baggage processes are handled manually by the pilots and local village representatives. Amenities at the KCB airstrip are virtually non-existent, and travelers are strongly advised to be completely self-sufficient. There are no on-site cafes, retail shops, or formal dining services available at the airfield. A basic seating area is provided within the shelter, but modern conveniences like Wi-Fi, electricity for public use, and indoor plumbing are not available. Travelers should ensure they carry their own water and snacks, as the nearest supplies are located within the village itself. The airport's primary focus is on the safe transit of passengers and the delivery of essential goods, which are often the only lifeline for the local population. Ground transportation at Tepoe is informal and typically involves walking or the use of local small boats (corials) for those traveling to nearby river camps. There are no commercial taxi services, car rental agencies, or public bus systems at the airfield. The airport features a single grass runway (16/34) approximately 720 meters (2,362 ft) in length, which is suitable for STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) aircraft. Operations are strictly restricted to daylight hours under Visual Flight Rules (VFR), and flight schedules are highly dependent on the tropical weather conditions, which can frequently cause delays during the rainy season.