After landing at Santiago Airport (SCL), also known as Nuevo Pudahuel or Arturo Merino Benítez Airport, there are two means of transport to the city centre of Santiago, taxi and bus. A Santiago Airport Taxi ride usually takes around 25 minutes under normal traffic conditions and the prices can range from €16 (12,000 CLP) to €40 (30,000 CLP) depending on the taxi provider, the time and the type of taxi you choose; metered or fixed. There are two bus lines running to central Santiago stations. The travel time of the buses ranges from 35 minutes to 45 minutes depending on the traffic. Both the Centropuerto and the TurBus bus ticket cost €2.5 (1,900 CLP) for a single journey and €4.5 (3,400 CLP) for a return journey. Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Santiago at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.
How to get from Santiago Airport to the city centre by taxi
There are two taxi options to choose from when travelling from Santiago Airport to the city centre. The Airport has introduced Vía Controlada, which is a controlled taxi booking and pick-up system established at the airport in order to help visitors avoid scams. You have two options, regular black-and-yellow metered taxis, and blue touristic fixed-fare taxis. Both options run 24/7. A Santiago Airport Taxi ride usually takes around 25 minutes and the fare is approximately €25 (19,000 CLP) under normal traffic during daytime.
Taxi fare from Santiago Airport to city centre
Under normal traffic, a ride from Santiago Airport to the city centre of Santiago will cost around €25 (19,000 CLP). Prices will vary according to the time of day, traffic and your final destination. The fare can amount up to €40 (30,000 CLP) if the roads are busy.
Taking a taxi from Santiago Airport to the city centre of Santiago is definitely the safest and fastest travel method compared to public transportation. Moreover, you get the privacy of your belongings and drop off at your exact desired destination. Always be sure to travel with an authorised taxi provider by using the Vía Controlada system at the airport.
Editor’s Note
Beware of the persistent Santiago Airport unauthorized drivers trying to negotiate a ride and always travel with an official provider. There have been cases of people being followed around the airport by drivers who are not authorised to operate at the airport. It is recommended that you avoid speaking with them altogether.
Useful Tips
You can always choose not to officially request a taxi, but it is recommended that you do so in order to be aware of the fare before travelling.
It is suggested to hire an official taxi using the airport service, in order to get a fixed fare and avoid getting scammed by unauthorised taxi drivers.
Especially, if your Spanish is not good, you will risk paying more if you attempt to negotiate a fare when not using the fixed fare service provided by Vía Controlada.
Always have smaller peso banknotes and coins available for payment, as many taxi drivers will not accept large notes.
How to get from Santiago Airport to the city centre by bus
There are two 24/7 buses connecting Santiago Airport to the city centre, the TurBus and the Centropuerto. TurBus terminates at the Santiago Central Station, Terminal San Borja, passing by city centre metro and bus stations, and runs every 20 minutes from 05:00 to 00:00 and every 60 minutes during the night. A single ticket costs €2.5 (1,900 CLP) and a return ticket costs €4.5 (3,400 CLP). Centropuerto terminates at Los Héroes, following the same route with TurBus, and runs every 10 minutes from 06:00 to 23:30 and every 30 minutes during the night service.
How much are the buses from Santiago Airport to the city centre?
All single bus tickets regardless of the network cost €2.5 (1,900 CLP). Similarly, return tickets cost €4.5 (3,400 CLP). You can buy the tickets from the desks on the first level of the Airport Public Hall, both for Centropuerto and TurBus. You can also buy tickets directly from the driver when you board.
Cost
€2.5
Trip Duration
40 Min.
Waiting time can significantly vary depending on the time of the day when you begin your journey.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
Both buses run on a 24/7 basis, everyday of the year.
Where do I get them from?
TurBus operates at the third level - Gate 3 and Centropuerto operates at the first level - Gate 6.
Convenience
Although buses are much cheaper than taxis, that's their only advantage. Carrying large luggage can be quite a challenge and there have been cases of mishandled luggage during bus journeys. Also, if you arrive during the night, you may have to wait up to 60 minutes for a service that will not take you directly to your destination, which can be challenging during the night.
Luggage space can be significantly limited after the arrival of international flights, when heavy luggage is being carried. Be sure you can safely and securely store your luggage before boarding.
Useful Tips
Remember, you need to have Chilean pesos (CLP) in order to buy the tickets.
If you take luggage items on board, make sure you keep an eye on them, as there have been cases of lost or stolen items that had been left unattended.
Welcome Pickups transfer
Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line
If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Santiago. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.
Do you usually tip taxi drivers in Santiago, Chile?
You are not required to tip taxi drivers in Santiago or any other place in Chile. You are welcome to round up the fare if you wish though.
How much is a taxi from Santiago Airport to downtown?
The average fare from Santiago Airport to city centre locations is €25 (19,000 CLP).
Is there a metro station at Santiago Airport (SCL)?
No, the Santiago metro network does not reach the airport, but you can use it after reaching the city centre by bus or taxi, to be transferred to your final destination.
Save the article for later or share it with friends
