Chile Transportation Guide: Flights, Long-Distance Buses, and Car Rentals
Transport Guide
2026-10-03
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Chile’s long, narrow shape shapes how you get around — here’s how to combine flights and buses for the easiest travel.
Arrival and Getting into Town
| Airport | Getting into Town | Time/Price |
|---|
| Santiago (SCL) | Airport bus or taxi | About 30–45 minutes, 2,000–20,000 pesos |
| Calama (CJC) | Bus or private transfer to San Pedro | About 1.5 hours |
| Punta Arenas (PUQ) | Bus to Puerto Natales | About 3 hours |
| Easter Island (IPC) | Airport to Hanga Roa | About 10 minutes |
Between Cities
- Santiago – Valparaíso: Buses take about 1.5 hours, with cheap fares and frequent departures.
- Santiago – Calama: Flight takes about 2 hours, then a bus to San Pedro de Atacama.
- Santiago – Punta Arenas: Flight takes about 3.5 hours, the main route to Torres del Paine.
- Santiago – Easter Island: Flight takes about 5.5 hours, flights are limited and fares are high, so book early.
Getting Around Towns and Car Rental
- Santiago’s metro covers a wide area; the Bip card works for both metro and buses, making it the most practical way to get around.
- Car rental is ideal for wine country in the central region and road trips in the south, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) is usually required.
- When driving to national parks, watch out for road conditions and fuel stations — parking can be tight in peak season.
Tips
- Many long-distance bus companies offer reclining seats; booking online in advance makes travel easier.
- You’ll need to buy a national park ticket for Easter Island — confirm the procedures before your flight.
- Budget for fuel and tolls when driving in Chile, as gas prices are relatively high on longer routes.