Santiago, Chile's main transport hub is Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL), which serves as the primary gateway for international and domestic flights. Within the city, public transportation is centered around a modern metro system and an extensive bus network. Intercity bus terminals, such as Terminal San Borja, also serve as key departure and arrival points for travel within Chile and to neighboring countries.
Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) is the main airport. Flights from major US cities such as New York can start from approximately $567 USD, and from Miami, round-trip flights can be found from $353 USD. Travel times vary by origin; for example, direct flights from Madrid typically take around 13 hours 15 minutes.
Two main bus companies, Centropuerto and TurBus, offer service from the airport. A one-way ticket costs approximately CLP 1,800 to 2,000 (less than $3 USD). Buses depart frequently, with services running every 10 to 20 minutes during peak hours and less frequently overnight. The journey to downtown Santiago typically takes between 45 minutes to an hour, including potential metro connections.
Taxis are readily available outside the airport. A ride to downtown Santiago can cost around CLP 20,000 (~$25 USD) under normal traffic conditions, increasing to CLP 30,000 (~$37 USD) during rush hour. The travel time is typically about 25 minutes.
Rideshare services operate in Santiago, with fares to the city center averaging around CLP 20,000 (~$25 USD). Pickup points are usually at designated areas outside the terminal, such as the Express Parking or near the Holiday Inn Hotel.
Shared transfer services like TransVIP offer door-to-door service from the airport to accommodation. Prices start from approximately CLP 9,500 per person (~$11-12 USD). The journey generally takes around 40 to 45 minutes.
Private car transfers offer a direct and comfortable option, with rates starting from around $30.90 USD for up to three passengers.
Buses connect Santiago to various cities within Chile and to neighboring countries. For example, a bus from Mendoza, Argentina, to Santiago costs about $27 to $43 USD and takes approximately 9 hours. Buses to Valparaiso can cost as little as €2.48 ($3 USD) and take around 2 hours. Major bus terminals in Santiago include Terminal San Borja and Terminal Alameda.
The city's integrated public transport system, Red Movilidad, includes buses, the Metro, and Tren Nos. A rechargeable BIP! card is required for payment, costing CLP $1,550 (~$2 USD) for the card plus a minimum initial credit. Bus fares are a flat CLP $770, while Metro fares vary by time of day: CLP $710 during low hours, CLP $790 during off-peak hours, and CLP $870 during peak hours. The system allows for up to two transfers within a two-hour period using a single payment.
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