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Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama from $33: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Santiago, Chile
to
San Pedro de Atacama, Chile

How to Get from Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama: 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.

$33 by busBest price
1204 kmDistance
4h 47m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama 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
Drive
Average Duration
4h  55m
Estimated price
$62-295
Recommended
Company
Turbus
Bus
Average Duration
23h  44m
Estimated price
$33-139
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1204 km
Duration: 4h 47m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
24h  31m
Estimated price
$37-52
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
24h  37m
Estimated price
$39-620
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
17h  58m
Estimated price
$621-622
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  47m
Estimated price
$8917-9109

Traveling From Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama

The journey from Santiago's vibrant city life to the vast, serene landscapes of San Pedro de Atacama offers travelers a striking contrast between modern urban experiences and the stunning natural beauty of Chile's desert.

Best Neighbourhoods in San Pedro de Atacama

San Pedro de Atacama features charming neighborhoods that offer distinctive experiences for visitors.

Downtown San Pedro
• Abundance of local shops and markets.
• Easy access to tour operators and restaurants.
Rauco
• Known for its stunning desert views.
• Peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.
Salar de Atacama Area
• Proximity to breathtaking salt flats.
• Excellent for stargazing at night.

Best Times To Visit San Pedro de Atacama's Attractions

Timing your visits to San Pedro's attractions can enhance your experience and help you avoid crowds.

Valle de la Luna
Visit at sunrise for stunning colors and fewer tourists.
Laguna Verde
Late afternoon offers the best light for photography and tranquility.
Geysers del Tatio
Early morning visits provide the most impressive steam displays.

San Pedro de Atacama Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

San Pedro de Atacama features a high desert climate with sunny days and cool nights, making it important to plan your visit during the spring and autumn months for the most comfortable temperatures. Understanding the weather patterns helps you prepare for day hikes or stargazing nights, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in San Pedro de Atacama

Try the 'Pastel de Choclo' at Cafe Adobe, a comforting corn pie that reflects the hearty flavors of northern Chilean cuisine, contrasting with the refining gastronomy found in Santiago. The cozy, rustic atmosphere and use of local ingredients provide a unique dining experience that immerses you in the region's culinary traditions.

Santiago - San Pedro de Atacama operators

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

Plane
Website
latam.com

Plane from Santiago (SCL) to Calama (CJC)

Average Duration
2h 6m
Estimated price
$629-2950

Plane from Santiago (SCL) to Antofagasta (ANF)

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$629-2951
Website
skyairline.com

Plane from Santiago (SCL) to Calama (CJC)

Average Duration
2h 4m
Estimated price
$2952-2953

Plane from Santiago (SCL) to Antofagasta (ANF)

Average Duration
1h 57m
Estimated price
$627-2954
Website
jetsmart.com

Plane from Santiago (SCL) to Calama (CJC)

Average Duration
2h 9m
Estimated price
$623-2955

Plane from Santiago (SCL) to Antofagasta (ANF)

Average Duration
2h 4m
Estimated price
$623-2951
Bus
Contact phone
+56 22 822 7500
Website
new.turbus.cl

Bus from Terminal Alameda - Turbus to Calama

Average Duration
20h 55m
Estimated price
$2952-2958

Bus from Calama to San Pedro de Atacama

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$332-333
Contact phone
+56 9 7525 8175
Website
facebook.com

Bus from Calama to San Pedro de Atacama

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$332-333
Contact phone
+56 9 8880 0397
Website
ciktur.cl

Bus from Terminal San Borja to Calama

Average Duration
22h 4m
Estimated price
$623-2959

Bus from Calama to San Pedro de Atacama

Average Duration
1h 34m
Estimated price
$332-333
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+56 2 2677 3000
Website
transvip.cl

Other from Calama Airport to San Pedro de Atacama

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
$2956-2956
Contact phone
+56 962246508
Website
helitour.cl

Other from Antofagasta Airport to San Pedro de Atacama Airport

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$334-334

Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Santiago and San Pedro de Atacama 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 trip from Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama spanning over 1040 miles through the mesmerizing Chilean landscapes. Explore diverse terrains and stunning vistas along the way. 💸 Depending on your preferences, the cost of driving from Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama ranges from $200 to $300, offering flexibility for budget-conscious travelers. Enjoy the freedom of setting your own pace and making stops at scenic spots en route. ⏱️ With a driving time of approximately 17 hours and 58 minutes, prepare for a thrilling journey filled with adventure and discovery as you make your way to the enchanting town of San Pedro de Atacama. Get ready to experience the wonders of the Chilean desert firsthand on this unforgettable drive.
Average price
$200 - $300
🚂 Embark on an epic journey from Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama by train, spanning 1,755 km and taking 1 day 23 hours with 3 transfers along the way.
🛫 The quickest way to travel from Santiago Airport to Calama Airport is by taking the direct flight, which typically lasts 2 hours and 4 minutes. You can choose from airlines like JetSMART, Sky Airline, and LATAM Chile for this route. 🏜️ Once you arrive at Calama Airport, you can take a shuttle or hire a car to continue your journey to the scenic desert town of San Pedro de Atacama. The drive from Calama to San Pedro de Atacama usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Departure Point
Santiago Airport
Arrival Point
Calama Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book a direct flight with LATAM, JetSMART, or Sky Airline for a quick 2h 4m journey from Santiago to Calama, keeping an eye on fare deals as prices can fluctuate significantly based on demand.
• Upon arriving at Calama Airport, expect a small terminal with limited dining options; navigate easily to the transportation area and be prepared for a taxi ride to San Pedro de Atacama, which typically costs around CLP 25,000 to CLP 30,000.
• For a smooth transfer, download the local taxi app or check the official airport website for transportation options, and consider pre-arranging your ride to ensure availability upon arrival: Calama Airport Transfers.
🚌 The journey from Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama by bus takes approximately 23 hours and 44 minutes, including transfers. There is no direct bus route available, but travelers can easily make the trip with connections. 🏜️ The distance between Santiago and San Pedro de Atacama is approximately 1,756 km. Travelers will experience a total of three transfers along the way, making the trip an adventure through different regions of Chile. 🎟️ Bus prices for the Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama route can range from $33 to $139, offering travelers a budget-friendly option to explore the stunning landscapes and unique attractions of the Atacama Desert.
Departure Point
Terminal Alameda - Turbus station
Arrival Point
San Pedro de Atacama station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama.

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The distance between Santiago and San Pedro de Atacama is approximately 1204 km. Driving from Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama usually takes around 17 hours and 58 minutes. If you prefer flying, you can take a flight from Santiago to Calama and then a shuttle to San Pedro de Atacama, which typically takes about 5 hours and 10 minutes. Another option is taking a bus, which takes around 23 hours and 3 minutes to reach San Pedro de Atacama from Santiago.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama is by bus. While it may take longer, with a journey time of 24 hours and 31 minutes, it is significantly cheaper, costing between $35 and $55. If time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly and then take a helicopter, which takes approximately 5 hours and 8 minutes but is significantly more expensive, costing between $8800 and $9100.
The price of a bus ticket between Santiago and San Pedro de Atacama can range from $29 to $67.
To get from Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama without using public transportation, you can rent a car and drive the distance of 1674 km. The drive takes approximately 17 hours and 58 minutes. Rental car prices can vary between $200 and $300.
The best way to travel from Santiago to San Pedro de Atacama without a car is by taking a bus via Calama. The journey takes approximately 23 hours and 3 minutes and the ticket cost ranges from $29 to $70.
No, there is no direct link between Santiago and San Pedro de Atacama. However, there are buses available which depart from Santiago and arrive in San Pedro de Atacama via Calama, with a journey time of approximately 23 hours and 3 minutes. These services are operated by Ciktur and Frontera del Norte.
The flight between Santiago and San Pedro de Atacama typically takes around 2 hours and 5 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and the time of travel, but it usually ranges from $100 to $250.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near San Pedro de Atacama. With over 239 hotels to choose from, travelers can find something to fit their budget and preferences. Prices for hotels start at $78, offering a range of options to accommodate different budgets.