Exploring Chile: An Adventure Awaits

Though Chile is a narrow strip of land, the distance from Punta Arenas in the south to Arica in the north spans about 5,000 km (3,100 miles), similar to the stretch between New York and San Francisco. This means that traversing this captivating South American nation presents some unique challenges.

This elongated country is just 356 km (221 miles) wide at its broadest point, yet securing transport from east to west can be trickier than traveling north to south. Most long-distance bus routes run along the country’s spine, connecting north and south from the capital, Santiago.

A crucial point to remember is that traveling in Chile requires patience. As you head towards the southernmost regions, the roads grow more rugged, and boats become vital for navigating the islands, offering breathtaking views along the way. Whether you prefer buses, boats, trains, or planes, here’s your guide to the best ways to travel through Chile.

Travel like a local by bus for long distances

For both locals and budget-conscious travelers, buses are the preferred method of transportation in Chile. Major companies like Pullman and Turbus dominate the market, providing extensive routes across the nation. Smaller companies may be more suitable for reaching niche destinations, such as quaint resort towns or popular surf spots.

Recorrido offers a helpful English-language platform for comparing fares and booking tickets without needing a Chilean ID number, which many other sites require. Generally, the buses are quite comfortable, equipped with air conditioning, and often feature onboard entertainment, Wi-Fi, and USB ports. On long-distance routes, you can expect an attendant to serve light snacks or breakfast.

In contrast to many other Latin American countries, buses in Chile typically depart on schedule. Arrival times, however, can be affected by traffic, especially when traveling to or from the busy capital, Santiago. Premium seating options, known as semi cama or salón cama, offer extra width, space, and recline, usually located in a smaller lower deck of a double-decker bus. Investing a few extra pesos for these seats on long journeys is definitely worthwhile.

Bus terminals may not always be located in the safest areas, and many urban bus stations are known for petty crime. If possible, travel with a companion or in groups, and keep a close eye on your valuables and luggage. Additionally, make sure to verify your arrival station, as different bus companies may operate from various terminals in larger cities, rather than sharing a single bus stand.

Discover Chile's cities by taxi

Most cities in Chile offer taxi services throughout downtown and to and from airports. By international standards, the fares are quite reasonable. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Cabify are available in Santiago and several regional cities, making it easy to request a ride.

Very few drivers understand English, so if you don't speak Spanish, using apps is the easiest way to ensure you reach your destination. Licensed taxis are a safer option for getting around large cities after dark to minimize the risk of petty crime.

Trains are handy for city travel

The Santiago Metro is undoubtedly the best and most affordable way to navigate the capital. Its extensive network is expanding quickly, connecting you to most key locations (except the airport). You can buy a single ticket or load a 'Tarjeta bip!' with cash for multiple trips on both the metro and primarily electric city buses.

No other city in Chile features a metro system, but Valparaiso and several other major cities have commuter rail networks that complement the extensive local bus services. While trains used to be a primary mode of domestic travel for longer distances, they are now less commonly used outside Chile's Central Valley; the Empresa de los Ferrocarriles del Estado (EFE) service from Santiago to Chillán is the only route likely to attract tourists, along with occasional tourist trains to coastal resorts or nearby wine regions.

Biking is perfect for urban adventures and wilderness trails

Santiago is among the most bike-friendly cities in Latin America, featuring an extensive network of ciclovias (bike lanes) for easy navigation. There are several bike-sharing programs available, with Bike Itaú being the most popular. Other cities with vibrant cycling cultures include Viña del Mar, Concepción, Temuco, and Puerto Varas.

Many travelers come to Chile for multi-day cycling journeys through the picturesque Lake District or along the Carretera Austral in Central Chile. Bring or rent a sturdy bici todo terreno (mountain bike) or touring bike with robust tires. Be prepared for varying weather; rain is frequent from Temuco south, while northern routes from Santiago can lack water sources. Always carry food and sufficient drinking water for long rides.

Chilean drivers are generally considerate, but on narrow two-lane roads without shoulders, cars can pose a significant risk. In Patagonia, ferries typically charge a fee for bicycles; alternatively, you can transport your bike by bus to skip lengthy rides. While most towns have bike repair shops, it’s wise to carry spare inner tubes and a repair kit for emergencies, especially in remote areas like the Carretera Austral where support infrastructure is limited.

A rental car provides countless opportunities for adventure in Chile

To truly uncover the wildest parts of Chile, renting a car is essential. Most highways and backroads are well-kept, but in rural areas of the Andes, the Altiplano, or Northern Patagonia, expect unpaved and bumpy roads. It's wise to carry extra fuel on the Altiplano, and be prepared for flat tires along the Carretera Austral (always ensure your spare is in good shape).

Car rental prices in Chile are typically higher than in North America or Europe, especially for automatic vehicles; manual transmissions are more prevalent and generally less expensive. Fuel prices also trend towards the higher side, and substantial tolls on the Pan-American Highway (and across Greater Santiago) can accumulate quickly. While some rental companies accept local driving licenses, others may require an International Driving Permit.

If you're looking to venture beyond the capital, it's advisable to rent a car upon arrival rather than driving from Santiago. Keep in mind that most rental agencies prohibit crossing into Argentina, Peru, or Bolivia.

Travel long distances in Chile by air

While you might wish to avoid flying for environmental concerns, air travel can significantly reduce travel time on long journeys, such as from Santiago to southern Chile. LATAM is the leading airline in Chile, offering an extensive network of domestic flights and top-notch service. Newer low-cost airlines like Sky Airline and JetSmart also service many routes and may offer fares that are only slightly more than bus tickets on popular paths.

However, make sure to check the fare details, as the lowest prices usually include only a single personal item, like a small backpack. All Chilean commercial airlines have strong safety records, so you can choose based on schedules and prices.

Generally, most regional capitals in Chile have their own airports, except those near Santiago, which depend on Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport as their main gateway. If you can be flexible, flying into busier airports like Puerto Montt (to the south) or Calama (to the north) may yield cheaper fares and more convenient flight options.

Discover Chile's southern islands via boat

In southern Chile, navigating by boat can often be more enjoyable and simpler than by land. Popular ferry routes through the fjords include journeys from Puerto Montt to Puerto Natales, Puerto Yungay to Puerto Natales, and Punta Arenas to Puerto Williams—all showcasing stunning landscapes along the way. Ferries also connect offshore islands like Chiloé and the various islands of Tierra del Fuego to the mainland.

Numerous ferry operators in Northern Patagonia facilitate travel across the border into Argentina. You might consider the scenic ferry ride from Petrohué (close to Puerto Varas) to San Carlos de Bariloche, or the adventurous journey from Villa O’Higgins (at the end of the Carretera Austral) to Candelario Mancilla, which opens up hiking opportunities to El Chaltén.

When driving the Carretera Austral, you'll need to plan your trip around the ferry schedules at La Arena, Hornopirén, and Caleta Yungay. Fortunately, fares for both vehicles and pedestrians are quite affordable.

Traveling with accessibility in mind in Chile

While Chile's infrastructure isn't the most accommodating for travelers with disabilities, a passionate group of activists is working to improve accessibility. Access ramps are rare outside major cities, although current legislation mandates that new public buildings must be accessible. Adapted hotel rooms are scarce, but larger hotels typically have elevators.

In Santiago, the Metro and some newer buses feature access ramps and designated spaces for wheelchairs, and certain crosswalks are equipped with audible signals for the visually impaired. However, those using wheelchairs may find navigating Chile's narrow and poorly maintained sidewalks challenging.

One of the leading tour operators for travelers with disabilities, Wheel the World, is based in Chile and offers tours throughout the country. For additional resources, visit Dinogo Planet’s Accessible Travel Online Resources.