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Santiago, Santiago Metropolitan to Calama, Antofagasta 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 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Fly $74 $144 $53 $54 $48 $53 $54
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Santiago to Calama

Your journey from Santiago to Calama reveals a striking contrast between Santiago's urban vibrancy and Calama's arid landscapes surrounded by breathtaking desert vistas.

Best Neighbourhoods in Calama

Calama offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character.

Centro
• Hub for shopping and dining options.
• Features iconic local architecture.
Quillagua
• Immersed in rich cultural traditions.
• Close to the beautiful Loa River.
La Fiesta
• Popular for vibrant nightlife and entertainment.
• Home to local festivals and events.

Best Times To Visit Calama's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Calama by choosing the right times to explore its highlights.

San Pedro de Atacama
Visit early mornings or late afternoons for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Chuquicamata Mine
Tours are less busy on weekdays; mornings provide clearer views.
Tulare Lake
Best seen during spring months for vibrant wildlife and scenery.

Calama Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Calama experiences a desert climate with hot days and cooler nights, making it essential to dress in layers for comfort. The best times to visit are during the spring and fall when temperatures are milder, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Calama

In Calama, don't miss trying the local specialty, 'cazuela de ave,' a hearty chicken stew that showcases the region's fresh produce and flavors distinct from Santiago's urban cuisine. The dining experience here features a more relaxed atmosphere, often in cozy, family-run restaurants that emphasize community and traditional cooking.

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 exciting road trip from Santiago to Calama, covering a picturesque driving distance of 980 miles. The journey offers stunning views of Chile's diverse landscapes, from bustling cityscapes to charming rural areas. 💰 The cost of traveling by car from Santiago to Calama typically ranges from $190 to $280, providing a budget-friendly option for those looking to explore the country's breathtaking scenery at their own pace. Plan ahead to ensure a smooth and affordable journey. 🌄 As you traverse the winding roads from Santiago to Calama, allow approximately 16 hours and 50 minutes for the drive, immersing yourself in the beauty of the Chilean surroundings along the way. Don't forget to make pit stops to appreciate the culture and natural wonders that make this trip truly unforgettable.
Average price
$190 - $280
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from Santiago to Calama with a direct flight lasting just 2 hours and 4 minutes. Choose from reputable airlines such as JetSMART, Sky Airline, and LATAM Chile for your travel needs. 🌄 Enjoy a smooth transition from Santiago's bustling urban landscape to Calama's serene desert surroundings in just 4 hours by plane. Sit back, relax, and soak in the stunning aerial views as you head towards your destination. 💸 Prices for flights between Calama and Santiago range from $58 to $201, offering travelers flexibility and options to suit their budget and preferences. Plan your trip efficiently and start your adventure with ease by booking a flight for this exciting route.
Departure Point
Santiago Airport
Arrival Point
Calama Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight in advance with either JetSMART, Sky Airline, or LATAM Chile to secure the best fare, as prices can vary significantly from $58 to $201 depending on the time of booking and availability.
• Upon arrival at Calama Airport (CJC), expect luggage handling to be relatively quick; however, be prepared for a bus or taxi ride to the city center, which typically costs around $15 to $25 USD depending on traffic.
• For smoother navigation, check the Calama Airport website for real-time flight information and local transport schedules, and consider using mobile apps like Uber for convenient rides into the city: calama.cl
🚌 The journey from Santiago to Calama by bus takes approximately 22 hours, with services departing every 30 minutes and operating daily. You can relax and enjoy the scenic route as you make your way northwards through Chile. 💰 Bus tickets between Santiago and Calama can range from $29 to $140, offering flexibility for travelers with different budgets. Whether you're seeking an economical option or a more comfortable ride, there are various choices available for your journey from Santiago to Calama by bus.
Departure Point
Santiago station
Arrival Point
Calama station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santiago to Calama.

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The distance between Santiago and Calama is 772 miles. By plane, it takes approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes to reach Calama from Santiago. If you prefer to drive, it would take around 16 hours and 50 minutes to travel from Santiago to Calama by car. Alternatively, taking a bus would require around 22 hours to reach Calama from Santiago.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Santiago to Calama is by flying. Flying takes approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes and can cost anywhere between $35 to $170. This is not only the fastest way to reach Calama but also the cheapest in terms of overall travel time and cost. Other modes of transportation, such as driving or taking a bus, take significantly longer and can be more expensive.
The prices of a bus ticket between Calama and Santiago can range from $27 to $140, depending on the class and amenities offered by the bus companies. The price may also vary depending on the time of year and availability. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to secure the best deal.
To travel from Santiago to Calama without using public transportation, you can consider driving. The driving distance is approximately 980 miles, and the journey takes around 16 hours and 50 minutes. Renting a car is a convenient option, with prices ranging from $190 to $280 for the trip. Plan your route carefully and make sure to have all necessary documents and a valid driver's license.
To travel from Santiago to Calama without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 22 hours and ticket prices range from $27 to $140. Buses provide a convenient and affordable mode of transportation between the two cities, allowing passengers to sit back and enjoy the scenic views along the way. It is recommended to book your tickets in advance to secure your preferred departure time and seating.
Yes, there is a direct link between Santiago and Calama. Pluss Chile operates hourly bus services that depart from Santiago station and arrive at Calama station. The journey by bus takes approximately 22 hours. This is a convenient option for travelers looking to travel between the two cities.
The flight duration between Santiago and Calama is approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes. The prices for this flight route can range from $35 to $168 depending on various factors such as the airline, booking time, and availability. It is advisable to consider booking in advance and comparing prices from different airlines to get the best deal for your travel.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Calama. With more than 76 hotels to choose from, you can find one that suits your preferences and budget. Prices start at $28, providing affordable options for travelers. Whether you're looking for luxury or budget-friendly accommodations, Calama offers a range of hotels to meet your needs.

Trips from Santiago

Trips to Calama