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Santiago to Calama from $29: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santiago, Chile
to
Calama, Chile

How to Get from Santiago to Calama: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$29 by busBest price
1243.5 kmDistance
4h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santiago to Calama with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$58-201
Recommended
Company
Pluss Chile, Ciktur, Turbus
Bus
Average Duration
22h 
Estimated price
$29-140
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1243.5 km
Duration: 4h

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Turbus
Bus
Average Duration
20h  55m
Estimated price
$29-140
Company
Pluss Chile
Bus
Average Duration
22h 
Estimated price
$30-45
Company
Ciktur
Bus
Average Duration
22h  4m
Estimated price
$35-60
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
16h  50m
Estimated price
$190-280

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Fly $74 $144 $53 $54 $48 $53 $54
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Santiago to Calama

Journeying from Santiago to Calama offers a striking contrast between the vibrant urban landscape of the capital and the stark, breathtaking beauty of the Atacama Desert.

Best Neighbourhoods in Calama

Calama offers diverse neighborhoods each with its own charm and attractions.

Centro
• Lively atmosphere with shops and cafes.
• Proximity to key landmarks and amenities.
La Negra
• Known for its local artisans and crafts.
• Features traditional Chilean eateries.
Chiu-Chiu
• Rich in history with stunning architecture.
• Close to ancient pre-Columbian sites.

Best Times To Visit Calama's Attractions

Plan your visits to Calama's major attractions to maximize enjoyment.

Chuquicamata Mine
Visit early morning for cooler temperatures and fewer tour groups.
San Pedro de Atacama
Go during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds and enjoy tranquility.
Salar de Atacama
Visit at sunrise for stunning landscapes and ideal photography conditions.

Calama Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Calama experiences a desert climate with warm days and cool nights, making spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) the ideal times to explore. Weather fluctuations can impact your travel plans, so preparing for varying temperatures and limited rainfall is essential.

Dining in Calama: A Taste of the Desert

Head to Restaurant El Chañar and try the traditional dish 'paila marina,' a flavorful seafood stew that showcases the fresh catch from the nearby coast, offering a distinct contrast to Santiago's urban dining scene. The relaxed atmosphere and emphasis on local ingredients provide a unique culinary experience that reflects the region's rich culture.

Santiago - Calama operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santiago and Calama, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
latam.com

Plane from Santiago Airport (SCL) to Calama Airport (CJC)

Average Duration
2h 6m
Estimated price
$40-240
Website
skyairline.com

Plane from Santiago Airport (SCL) to Calama Airport (CJC)

Average Duration
2h 4m
Estimated price
$28-230
Website
jetsmart.com

Plane from Santiago Airport (SCL) to Calama Airport (CJC)

Average Duration
2h 9m
Estimated price
$35-220
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+56 22 3813 550
Website
plusschile.cl

Bus from Santiago to Calama

Average Duration
22h
Estimated price
$30-45
Contact phone
+56 9 8880 0397
Website
ciktur.cl

Bus from Terminal San Borja to Calama - Balmaceda

Average Duration
22h 4m
Estimated price
$35-60
Contact phone
+56 22 822 7500
Website
new.turbus.cl

Bus from Terminal Alameda - Turbus to Terminal de Buses de Calama

Average Duration
20h 55m
Estimated price
$29-140

Santiago to Calama: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Santiago and Calama offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on an epic road journey from Santiago to Calama, spanning approximately 1577.2 km, showcasing the diverse landscapes of Chile's northern regions. 💸 Navigate through various price ranges, with car travel options from Santiago to Calama typically costing between $190 to $280, ensuring flexibility for travelers of different budgets. 🌵 Experience the thrill of a 16-hour and 50-minute drive, immersing yourself in the breathtaking scenery and cultural richness as you make your way from Santiago to the enchanting city of Calama.
Average price
$190 - $280
🛫 Flying from Santiago Airport to Calama Airport offers a quick and convenient travel option, with the direct flight only taking 2 hours and 4 minutes. JetSMART, Sky Airline, and LATAM Chile are the main airlines providing flights on this route. 🌵 The journey covers approximately 4 hours of flying time from Santiago to Calama, showcasing the diverse landscapes of Chile from above. 💸 Prices for flights between Calama and Santiago can range from $58 to $201, allowing passengers to choose from a variety of fare options based on their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Santiago Airport
Arrival Point
Calama Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight in advance with airlines like JetSMART, Sky Airline, or LATAM Chile to secure the best fares, as prices range from $58 to $201 depending on demand.
• Upon arrival at Calama Airport, use the clearly marked ground transportation area located just outside the terminal; taxis to the city center typically cost around CLP 25,000 to CLP 30,000 (approximately $35-$42 USD) and take about 15-20 minutes.
• For dining options in-flight, review the meal choices offered by your airline prior to your flight; both LATAM Chile and Sky Airline provide an online menu and ordering service through their websites for pre-order, enhancing your travel experience.
🚌 Embark on a scenic journey from Santiago to Calama by bus with direct services departing every 30 minutes and operating daily. Enjoy approximately 22 hours of travel time to soak in the landscapes of Chile. 💰 Prices for the Santiago to Calama bus ticket range from $29 to $140, offering budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore different regions of Chile by road. Sit back, enjoy the ride, and get ready to discover the beauty of Calama after a rewarding 22-hour bus journey.
Departure Point
Santiago station
Arrival Point
Calama station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santiago to Calama.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Santiago and Calama is approximately 1242.4 km or 1576.8 km by road. Traveling by plane is the fastest option, taking around 4 hours and 15 minutes. If traveling by car, it takes approximately 16 hours and 50 minutes, while the bus journey can take approximately 22 hours.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Santiago to Calama is by flying. It takes approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes to reach Calama from Santiago by plane, and the cost ranges from $35 to $170.
The prices for a bus ticket between Calama and Santiago can vary depending on the type of bus and the amenities provided. On average, the prices range from $27 to $140.
To get from Santiago to Calama without using public transportation, you can rent a car and drive the 1577.2 km distance. The journey takes approximately 16 hours and 50 minutes by car, depending on traffic and road conditions. Rental car prices vary, but typically range from $190 to $280 for the trip.
If you don't have access to a car, the best way to travel from Santiago to Calama is by bus. The journey takes approximately 22 hours and fares range from $27 to $140.
Yes, there is a direct link between Santiago and Calama. Pluss Chile operates bus services that depart from Santiago and arrive in Calama. The buses operate daily, departing hourly, and the journey typically takes around 22 hours.
The flight duration between Santiago and Calama is typically 2 hours and 5 minutes. The prices for this flight route can vary from $35 to $168, depending on the airline, the time of booking, and other factors.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Calama. With over 76 hotels to choose from, visitors can find a place that suits their budget and preferences. Prices start at $28, making it accessible for different types of travelers.